Description
An Old Slave Dies - - Squire Sweeny, for about 30 years a resident of Tonganoxie, died in Kansas City, Mo., Saturday at an age estimated above 80 years. The body was brought here Sunday for interment.
Some years ago when advancing years had rendered the old man incapable of performing any work he went to the Soldiers Home. For a long time preceding his death he was in the home hospital but about a month ago after be became entirely helpless he was taken to Kansas City by his relatives.
Squire Sweeny was born a slave in Kentucky and was the grandson of his master. He was later taken to Platte County, Missouri, and after obtaining his freedom came to Kansas. He settled just west of town early in the 70’s (1870s). A large family of children and bis wife survive him.
Sweeny enlisted in the Union army and served in Company K, 8th U. S. Heavy Artillery. He was a pensioner.
(Researcher's note: Squire Swaney enlisted at Paducah Kentucky on June 24, 1864, and was mustered in as Private in the 8th US Artillery Heavy, Company K.
On November 13, 1866, Hugh Swaney of Platte County, Missouri, signed claim for compensation #1785 for an enlisted slave Squire Swaney and swore an oath of allegiance before a George W. Belt, Clerk of the Platte County Circuit Court. Swaney claimed he had acquired title "By purchase from the Estate of Benjamin Bean through James Kuykenda1l, Sheriff of Platte County Missouri, on 17 November 1845.")Date(s) of Creation
1/6/1910
