"Although most African Americans did not own property, Cato McIntire, late of York, now of Wells, had purchased 30 acres of land from Nicholas West in 1788. West had married Kezia McIntire of York. The McIntires had freed other slaves/servants and undoubtedly had freed Cato as well." - Shelley, p. 154. Shelley cites her source as York Deed 51:98.

"In 1806 'Cato, husbandman, sold to Simon Littlefield, a minor, 30 acres of property described as being three rods westerly from the highway leading to Tatnick, and on the east and west sides of a brook beside the land of said Simon for $300.' The deed also stated that 'until delivery hereof I am lawful owner of said premises.' Cato made his mark and witnesses were Jeremiah Hubbard and James Littlefield, Jr. It appears that Cato had rights to the property for his lifetime." - Shelley, p. 154. Shelley cites her source: York Deed 75:99.

"Details of African American life were noted in diaries. Joshua Gray wrote that Cato Mackentire (McIntire) died 28 March 1814. Joshua made Cato's coffin the next day as he frequently did for neighbors and friends. Joshua also noted that on 30 April 1820 he 'saw old Sharper die.' Joshua often stayed with ill and dying neighbors, as was the custom of the time. Joshua never mentioned race." - Shelley, pp. 153-154.

Bibliography:

My Name is Wells - by Hope M. Shelley (2002)

Joshua Gray's diary