Lydia Gibson Snow Tucker

c. 1842–1938. barnwell, south carolina

Lydia Gibson Snow Tucker was born around 1842 in Williamsburg County, South Carolina, to Paro and Kate Gibson. A witness to nearly a century of local history, Lydia was the widow of Douglas Tucker. She passed away in Andrews, South Carolina, on July 11, 1938, at the age of 96, and was laid to rest at the Mill Pond burial site.

  • Father: Paro Gibson

    Mother: Kate Gibson

    Spouse: Douglas Tucker

  • Full Name: Lydia Gibson Snow Tucker

    Sex: Female

    Color or Race: Negro

    Marital Status: Widow

    Date of Birth: c. 1842

    Age: 96 years

    Birthplace: Williamsburg Co., S.C.

    Place of Death: Andrews, Williamsburg Co., S.C.

    Date of Death: July 11, 1938

    Cause of Death: "Old age" (no doctor in months)

    Occupation: Listed as "War time slave"

    Father: Paro Gibson

    Mother's Maiden Name: Kate Gibson

    Spouse: Douglas Tucker

    Informant: Melvyn Snow

    Place of Burial: Mill Pond

    Date Filed: August 10, 1938

  • The death record lists the cause of death as "old age," with the added notation that she had not been under the care of a doctor for months.

    This is consistent with the era's documentation practices for elderly individuals who passed away from natural decline. In rural Williamsburg County, this lack of medical attendance was a standard reality for many who lived into their late nineties, relying instead on family and community support during their final years.

  • A Life Remembered Occupation: "War time slave."

    The inclusion of the occupation "war time slave" on Lydia’s death certificate is an extraordinary archival detail. Given her age of 96 at her passing in 1938, Lydia lived through the American Civil War (1861–1865) as a young adult.

    This designation serves as a powerful testament to her journey from the era of enslavement through the turbulent transition to freedom.

    The fact that this specific detail was included by her informant, Melvyn Snow, demonstrates that her experience during that foundational period was a recognized and deeply significant part of her identity. It acts as an informal but vital historical record, ensuring that her survival and resilience were not forgotten by her community.

    Archival Details: Official death registration confirms her parentage and status as a widow. The survival of this document preserves a rare and direct link to the lived experience of formerly enslaved individuals in Williamsburg County.

  • We are actively seeking documentation to complete these records. If you have access to official records, family documents, or photos that could assist in our research, please contact us at ourmahoganyheritage@gmail.com.