I remember well the conspicuous part he took in the proceedings in the House of Representatives in 1876. Those were times that tried men's souls but Mr. Thomas held his own with the best men in the Democratic party.
Delegate to the State Constitutional Convention.
A very strong character and one of the bright young men of the state.
He was elected to Congress but the Democrats counted him out.
He contested the seat and though the House was Republican and his case a good one, the Chairman of the Committee on Elections, a Republican from Indiana, who was personally antagonistic to him failed to report on the case and Congress adjourned without taking any action.
For one term he was chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means.
He wielded considerable power in legislation.
Was considered the "Beau Brummel" of the House.
Considered the best dressed member in the Senate.
Known to his associates at the "Duke of Marlboro."
Quite a fluent speaker and well versed on all public questions.
On account of his bellicose nature he was given the sobriquet of "Red Hot Jones."
Clerk of the House of Representatives during the whole Reconstruction Period.
Secretary of the State Financial Board, consisting of the Governor, Attorney General, State Treasurer and Comptroller, all white at that time.
Elected Clerk of the City Council of Columbia, S. C., by the unanimous vote of the members.
Resigned that position to accept the position of Private Secretary to Governor Chamberlain.
The best equipped and most brilliant young colored man I ever met.
Sergeant at Arms of the Senate during the whole Reconstruction Period.
A very efficient officer and a man of fine parts.
Sergeant at Arms of the House of Representatives during the whole period.
A very capable man and popular with the members.
There were many colored men who occupied positions of importance in the different countries--positions such as Sheriff, Treasurer, Auditor, Clerk of Court, Commissioner, Coroner and School Commissioner.
I never heard of any of them being removed for incompetency, dereliction of duty or malfeasance.
I regret very much that I cannot give you any information as to whether the men mentioned were free or slaves, as the persons from whom I could have gotten that information have all passed away. Had I received such inquiry eight or ten years ago I could have furnished it as there were several persons then living who, I know, were well posted on that subject.