Kelly, Primus

A faithful Negro slave. Came to nearby Courtney, Grimes County in 1851 with his master, John W. S. West from North Carolina. West was a prominent and wealthy pioneer planter and landowner. At the outbreak of the Civil War, West sent Kelly "to take care" of his three sons-- Robert M., Richard and John Haywood-- who joined the famous Terry's Texas Rangers, where they served with distinction. Kelly was not content "to wait on" his charges but joined them in battle, firing his own musket and cap and ball pistol. Twice Kelly brought to Texas the wounded Richard, twice took him to the front again. After war, bought a small farm near "Marse Robert", raised a large family and prospered. Died in 1890s. The courage and loyalty of Kelly was typical of most Texas Negro slaves. Hundreds "went to war" with their masters. Many operated the farms and ranches of soldiers away at war, producing food, livestock, cotton and clothing for the Confederacy. Others, did outside work to support their master's families. They protected homes from Indians, bandits and deserters and did community guard and patrol duty. At war's end, most slaves, like Primus Kelly, became useful and productive citizens of Texas.

Kelly, Primus is a historical marker in Navasota, Grimes County, dedicated in 1965. It is one of 71 historical markers documented in Grimes County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 202 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 30.2326, -96.0546 near Navasota. The nearest cataloged historic site is Courtney Cemetery (historical marker), about 2.8 miles away. Others within a short drive include Courtney-Cedar Hill, Wheatfall, and West.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5185008592. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.