The Bowens Family

The Critical Role of Oral History

Willis Johnson, Sr.

Willis Johnson Sr., was the oldest son of Friday Johnson and Catherine Bowens, Caesar Bowens' sister. According to Willis Johnson's granddaughter, Rebecca Campbell, her grandfather "demonstrated self-determination when he walked to Charleston across the Ashley River Bridge." There he purchased property with the money he saved from working on the plantation, and he worked as foundry supervisor for the foundry in Charleston. A successful landlord, he purchased houses on Wharf Street and Concord Street, where Rebecca Campbell was born. The house at 35 Calhoun Street and a second house right next door still remain in the family today.