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180 perhaps, one exception." We see that he has the right conception of the relation of our press to the people.

Col. Wilson is the oldest Afro-American newspaper man now living in Virginia, and his writings, full of sound judgment and precious experience, ought to be well accepted by the youth of our race. Our subject makes use of the following words in The Day, which plainly show the severe troubles the Afro-American press has been, and is now, subjected to. "The Negro press, with a few exceptions, has for quite a period been under fire—a galling fire, such as no press, not excepting the press of Old Ireland, has had to confront."

The Colonel is active and aggressive, a bold writer, an astute thinker, and an ornament to Virginia's journalism.

John H. Williamson first saw the light of day, October 3, 1844, at Covington, Ga., his parents being James and Williamson, the property of Gen. John N. Williamson. Upon the death of their master, his parents moved with their mistress to Louisburg, N. C., this now being the home of our subject.

At an early period he longed to be able to read, and so began to study. To prevent him from learning, his mistress hired him out. The white people said in those days, as they say now, sometimes—"It is a dangerous thing for a negro to read." He succeeded, however, in his effort.

He held responsible positions during the Reconstruction period. He has spent most of his time in legislative halls and at the editorial desk, contributing to the success of the race, both by word and pen. In 1867 he was appointed register for Franklin County by Gen. Sickles, and was elected