Whats the occupation??

[Barnesville Blues]

I have a clipping from the 1870 Census from the State of Tennessee. This individual is a man who I think was from Georgia in spit of the fact that the census claims he was born in Tennessee. I think he was the original Jr. 2nd Lieutenant of on of the companies I am researching. He looks to be doing pretty well for himself based on his property values...but what the heck does that say for occupation? I have no idea but would love to get your thoughts...

 

[James B White]

Chancery Cl[er]k, a court clerk

 

[RebelHeart]

James B White nailed it.

Here's a little more info...

Died November 20, 1872 - Mayor of Brownsville at the time of death

One of the oldest businesses in Brownsville, TN

Was a Chancery Court Clerk

 

[Barnesville Blues]

Thank you both...I was kind of wondering if the first word wasn't Chancery or something similar but the last letter of the second word didn't look like a 'k" to me. Plus, he has so much personal property that I never would have guessed he had a government job LOL...didn't figure it would pay that much. Thanks guys.

 

[RebelHeart]

Thank you both...I was kind of wondering if the first word wasn't Chancery or something similar but the last letter of the second word didn't look like a 'k" to me. Plus, he has so much personal property that I never would have guessed he had a government job LOL...didn't figure it would pay that much. Thanks guys.

It was not uncommon for prominent members of society to be offered government jobs or to be given preference for such jobs if they petitioned for such. Also, his actual role may have been a "Collector," which could be abbreviated 'Colt.' He was mayor of the town at the time of his untimely demise (he was only 37 years old), so there seems to have been no limits to his success and popularity at the time.