A more honest, straightforward old man never lived.

by Lisa Y. Henderson

Old Abel Payne‘s house, on the corner of Moore and Orange streets, has been torn down. This house though small and old, was once the residence of Abel Payne, a free colored man, who years ago was held in high esteem by the citizens of our town. A more honest, straightforward old man never lived, and his influence for good among the colored people will long be remembered.

Fayetteville Observer, 11 June 1885.