Early Life
Knight was born in Jones County, Mississippi, in November 1837. There has been confusion over his age, as his son, Tom Knight, wrote that he was born in 1830, and his grandniece, Ethel Knight, stated he was born in 1829. Both Tom and Ethel Knight suggested Newton's mother, Mason, changed his year of birth to 1833 to protect him from legal repercussions after he killed a slave, though there is no evidence of this. The 1900 census states that Knight was born in November 1837, which is supported by census records from other years.
Newton was a grandson of John "Jackie" Knight (1773–1861), one of Jones County's largest slaveholders. Newton's father, Albert (1799–1862), however, did not own any slaves, and was the only child of Jackie Knight who did not inherit any. Newton, likewise, did not own any slaves. Newton has been described as a staunch Primitive Baptist, and unlike his father and grandfather, did not drink. He was probably taught to read and write by his mother.
Newton Knight married Serena Turner in 1858, and the two established a small farm just across the county line in Jasper County.
Read more about this topic: Newton Knight
Famous quotes containing the words early and/or life:
“Even today . . . experts, usually male, tell women how to be mothers and warn them that they should not have children if they have any intention of leaving their side in their early years. . . . Children dont need parents full-time attendance or attention at any stage of their development. Many people will help take care of their needs, depending on who their parents are and how they chose to fulfill their roles.”
—Stella Chess (20th century)
“I began quite early in life to sense the thrill a girl attains in supplying money to a man.”
—Anita Loos (18941981)