Thomas C. Hussey

A Man of Change

Thomas was a central figure in the Hussey bloodline. All known Hussey descendants trace their lineage through Thomas back to Henry Hussey. Arguably, Thomas's greatest single contribution was that he had eleven children with three wives.

The First 40 Years

Unfortunately, few details survive of his first 40 years of life. In large part this is due to the 1857 fire in the Pitt County courthouse that destroyed most of the court records. Additionally until 1850, the Federal Census only listed the name of the head of household and no other family member names.

Thomas was born in Hyde County but moved to Pitt county with his family at a fairly early age. He married at what would today be considered young at the age of 16 in 1826. In 1830, Thomas owned 8 slaves and it is a reasonable assumption that his main source of income was from the harvesting pine gum for the naval stores industry. Additionally, Thomas probably worked as a shoemaker with his brother who lived next door. But Thomas had an entrepreneurial spirit and appears to have always been on the lookout for an opportunity. For example, in 1839 he bid on and was awarded to carry the US Mail. Weekly he transported the mail from Greenville in Pitt county 23 miles to Hookertown (now named Hookerton) in Greene County and back for $250 a year.

Tarboro

Sometime in the 1840's, Thomas relocated to Tarboro in Hyde County. Here he became a merchant and investor. He operated a retail store selling ready-made footwear and custom-made boots and shoes. The business was a success. So much so that Thomas advertised for 4 more boot men and 2 more shoemakers and promised constant employment. From his shoe store location he invested in other businesses and rented out office space. For example he funded a weights and measures standard certification business.

Thomas inexplicable died without dictating a will. The probate records show a man who was well off financially. They also show a long list of receivables that were owed to him, many of which were long overdue. Whether this shows failed investments or a kind hearted lender, we will never know.