Three-year-old Isaac Lee died this date, March 8th, in 1849 of Catarrhal Fever and was buried at Bethel Burying Ground. Researching census data it is likely that Isaac was the son of Mary Isaac. His father’s name is not recorded and it is reported that he was physically unable to work. Mary’s occupation was as a “day worker.” They paid $5 a month for their room. They had no other children.
Mary or her spouse were reported to have been previously enslaved and gained their manumission by paying $100. It is possible that Mr. Lee’s disabilities occurred while he was enslaved and that is why the manumission price was so low.
Catarrhal Fever is similar to Influenza – inflammation of mucous membranes, especially of the nose and throat.
The house that the Lees lived in was soon torn down after Issac death and the grand Continental Hotel was build at 9th and Chestnut. It is now known as the Ben Franklin.