Martha Ann "Patty" Atavis (b. 1816 - d. 1874)
MSA SC 5496-51279
Enslaved, Baltimore, MD
Biography:
Martha Ann Atavis was born a slave circa 1816 in Maryland. Martha or "Patty Ann" as she was often called was the slave of William McCubbin of Baltimore. McCubbin was a small slave owner having two slaves who were both invalids. He owned Patty and another slave girl named Phebe.1 William McCubbin died in 1839 without a will. When his property was appraised Patty was worth $180.2 After McCubbin's death his widow Ruth sold Patty Ann to Dr. John Whitridge of Baltimore, MD for $200. Patty was sent to live at Whitridge's home on Gay Street in Baltimore. The Whitridges later moved to 49 N. Charles Street, although it is not clear whether Patty moved with the family to this location.
Atavis worked as a nurse in the Whitridge family
for 36 years.3 On October 26, 1874, Martha Ann Atavis died
and was buried in the Whitridge family lot at the Green Mount Cemetery
in Baltimore, MD.4 In 1866, Dr. Whitridge wrote his will which
included a bequest of $100 to Patty annually.5 However, Patty
died prior to Dr. Whitridge and was not alive when his will was probated
in 1878.
2. ibid.
3. "Died", Baltimore American and Commercial Advertiser, 28 October 1874, page 1.
4. ibid.
5. BALTIMORE CITY REGISTER OF WILLS (Wills) JHB 45, pg. 574-575.
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