Eleven manuscripts, 1835-1851, of James Robert Ervin (1786-1836), estate papers presumably retained by his brother-in-law, Dr. Thomas Ellerbe Powe (1800-1879), as administrator or executor of Ervin’s estate consist chiefly of receipts for payments from Powe for dry goods, articles of clothing for Ervin’s children, and tobacco and cigars.

Of interest are a receipt, 14 April 1837, for payment of general tax for 1836 and poor and bridge tax for 1837, Chesterfield District, S.C.; a 3 July 1843 receipt for payment to Jeremiah E. Dargan of tuition and wood tax for two quarters; a bill, 11 March-16 October 1845, for medical visits by Dr. Thomas J. Flinn, drugstore purchases, and prior balance from 1844 brought forward, with receipt, 12 January 1846, indicating payment in full; and a list of African-American slaves rented out in 1846, "Negro Hire for 1846," with names of eleven slaves, including five hired to Ervin’s son, Samuel James Ervin.

South Carolina state legislator James Robert Ervin resided at various times in Marlboro and Marion Districts before eventually settling in Cheraw, Chesterfield District, S.C. He represented all three districts in both houses of the legislature. He married first Elizabeth Powe (d. 1832) and second Ann Giles Davis (d. 1835), widow of William Vereen.