Virginia Slaves Freed in Virginia after 1782
VIRGINIA SLAVES FREED AFTER 1782
Note that Michael Nicholls and Lenaye Howard of Utah
State University abstracted the deeds and wills for Dinwiddie, Prince George,
Chesterfield, Charles City, Isle of Wight, Southampton, Surry, and Sussex Counties. They
are included here with their kind permission: http://www.usu.edu/history/faculty/nicholls/manumissions/index.htm
Accomack County
Wills &C. 1784-87, 390-1, September 25, 1787, To all Christian People
to whom these presents shall come, Greeting Know Ye that I George Corbin. . . for divers
good Causes and Considerations me hereunto moving but more Especially from Motives of
Humanity, Justice, and Policy, and as it is Repugnant to Christianity and even common
Honesty to live in Ease and affluence by the Labour of those whom fraud and Violence have
Reduced to Slavery; (altho' sanctifyed by General consent, and supported by the law of the
Land) Have, and by these presents do manumit and set free the following Persons. James,
Betty Senior, Jenny Senior, Joshua, son, Betty Junior Bob, Jarry, Spencer, Levin, Abel,
Peter, Parker, Lithco, Alicia, Hannah, Amey, Esther, Jenny Junior, Sue, Bob, Liddia, and
Will; and that the Identity of the aforesaid persons may in future be better known, and
thereby their Right to freedom firmly secured, I do hereby affix to Each and every one of
them the Sirname of Godfree. Have and I do hereby for myself my heirs, Executors, and
Administrators relinquish all my right or Title of in and unto the Persons aforesaid and
their increase forever . . . ; Reserving only to myself . . . the power of holding the
Young ones who are under lawful age in such manner only as negroes born free. Proved 31
July 1787.
Orders 1790-6, p.125, 22 Februrary 1791, Drummond Welborn deed of
manumission to Anthony Beckett.
Mary Griffin deed of manumission to Cyrus Rosarrous recorded in Accomack
County court [Register of Free Negroes 1785-1863, no. 192].
Robertson Rodgers deed of manumission to Sarah Roseairy recorded in
Accomack County [Register of Free Negroes 1785-1863, no. 90].
BAGWELL,
CHARLES - 26 Aug. 1792 - 24 June 1793 - To son Charles Bagwell the use of the plantation I
bought of James Arbuckle with my two mills for life, & then to be equally divided
between all his children, & should they die before 21 years without issue then the
land on the North side of Little Back Creek, alias Timber Creek, to be div among the
children of my son in law Thomas Evans, namely John, Ned & Thomas, & all the land
on the South side of the said Creek, with my 2 mills, to be divided between the children
of Sally Cropper Mears. To negro Daniel his freedom & 6 acres in Robins Hole
for life. To Esther Carter 1 acres in Robins Hole where she now lives. To Sally
Cropper Mears all the rest of my land in Robins Hole including the land given Daniel after
his deceased, for the term of her natural life, reversion to her son Revil Mears.
Son Charles residual legatee. Son in law Thomas Evans, son Charles Bagwell &
Thomas Evans' 3 sons, John, Ned & Thomas Exrs. Not witnessed. Proved by John Burton
& Edmund Bayly, Jr. (Source: Stratton Nottingham, Wills
and Administrations of Accomack County, Virginia, 1663-1800, p. 399, Heritage
Books, Inc., Bowie, MD 1990 – Abstracted from Accomack Co, VA Wills 1788-1794, p.
751)
Amelia County
John Finney deed of emancipation to Jacob Garatt recorded in Mecklenburg
County on 13 August 1804 [Orders 1803-5, 206]. He lived in Dinwiddie County.
Amherst County
Orders 1784-7, p.244, 1 August 1785, instrument of writing Ann Rose to
Mary Deane one of her female slaves emancipated.
Orders 1790-4, p.496, 21 January 1793, Joshua Shelton deed of emancipation
to his slaves Benjamin, Jane, and Cato.
Orders 1815-20, p.522, 18 November 1819, overseers of the poor bind the
following free Negroes:
Pleasant a boy 17 on 2 February 1814
Rachel a girl 16 on 2 June 1814
Susannah a girl 15 on 8 June 1814
Dolly a girl 11 on 25 April 1814
Sally 9 on 24 December 1813
Susanna 5 on 15 April1 1814
James a boy 3 on 11 December 1814
Suza(?) 12 on 1 March 1814
Nancy 5 on 19 February 1814
Esther 2 on 1 April 1814.
Bedford County
Orders 1795-99, 25 February 1799, Instrument of writing emancipating Patty
a negro woman belonging to Matthew Merchant was acknowledged.
p.339, 24 June 1799, Instrument of writing emancipating Negro slave named
Betty the property of William Williams was acknowledged.
Orders 1799-1803, p.122, 27 October 1800, writing of Emancipation a negro
boy named Fleming Henry was acknowledged by Benjamin Johnson.
p.136, 26 January 1801, Instrument of emancipation certain slaves of
Nicholas Johnson acknowledged.
Orders 1803-6, p.28, 23 August 1803, petition of Lucy a mulattoe setting
forth tht she is entitled to her freedom by Deed of Emancipation from William Early.
Summons issue against John Quarles, guardian of Patsey Jane Early.
p.103, Lucy a free Negro v. Early's administrator. Jury for plaintiff.
Will signed 8 July 1792.
p.314, 25 March 1806, negro boy named Tom, son of Harry formerly liberated
by Abner Earley, be bound by the overseers of the poor to Lemuel Mitchell.
p.327, 29 April 1806, Charles Gwatkins & Thomas Logwood be appointed
guardians for George, Milly, Pleasant, Caleb, Anne, Braxton, Sophia, James, Hannah,
Washington & Flanders, negros under the age of 21 years liberated by Thomas Haynes,
deceased, for the purpose of prosecuting any suit or suits which may be initiated in their
name against the Heirs or next of kin of the said Haynes.
Brunswick County
Orders 1784-88, p.9, 27 September Henry Merritt to sundry slaves.
Orders 1788-92, p.143, Deed of Emacipation Henry Merritt to Sucey, and her
children Harry, Bob, Meriah, Caty, and also Jimmy, Mingo and Peter.
p.171, 22 June 1789, John Seward to sundry slaves.
p.182, 24 August 1789, John Seward to Isaac a Negro slave
p.250, 24 November 1789, Joshua Lucy v. Toby alias Toby Marriott,
dismissed by plaintiff's order.
p.562, 25 July 1791, overseers of the poor bind Charles White a Molatto
according to law, his master not to be compelled to give him any education.
Orders 1792-5, p.117, 22 July 1793, Deed of emancipation Richard Jackson
to Negro man Stephen.
John Seward emancipated Amey on 22 June 1789 as well as Isaac (married
Lucy Valentine), Charles, Moses, Viney [Wynne, Register of Free
Negroes, 10, 11, 13, 25].
Deed Book 14:523, I John Seward declare free Isaac son of Nanny born May
14, 1768 to be free as soon as he shall arrive to the age of 25. August 24, 1789.
Deed Book 15:93, Deed of Emancipation, I Edward Dromgoole do hereby set
free from bondage and the future increase of the females Bet aged 37 to be free 1 Januar
1796, Boatswain 24 to be free 1 January 1792, Adam 19 lasst October to be free 1 January
1797, Daniel aged 17 last November to be free 1 Januar 1797, Austin aged 13 last June free
1 January 1802, Bob aged nine last November free 1 January 1807, Violet aged 7 last
December free 1 January 1805, Fanny aged 5 last March free 1 April 1807, Clarissa aged one
year last August to be free 1 January 1811, Orange born 12 January last free 1 January
1818. 27 June 1791.
Deed Book 15:411, Deed of Emancipation, I Richard Jackson set free one
Negro man Stephen aged 24 to be free 25 December next. 22 July 1793.
Deed Book 15:444, 21 September 1793, Mary Hathcock (probably a free
African American) set free from Bondage one Negro man named Daniel Grain.
Deed Book 16:205, 24 March 1795, I Sarah Myrick do herby declare that I
will not seek to retain in Bondage those slaves emancipated by my deceased husband and do
give up all claim to them and the land and all the corn that is coming to them provided
the Negroes are not kept as slaves by another person.
Deed Book 17:39, 11 March 1797, I Caleb Manning of Brunswick set free from
Bondage the several slaves hereafter mentioned: one Negro man named Roger, one Negro woman
named Sally to be free 25 December next with the future increase.
Orders 1795-8, p.318, 26 June 1797, Deed of Emancipation Caleb Manning to
Roger & Sally. Roger is above 45 years of age.
p.338, 24 July 1797, Thomas Daniel and Daniel a Free negroe (formerly the
property of Owen Myrick, deceased, do work on the road whereof Isaac Williams is surveyor.
Deed Book 17:71, 24 July 1797, I Hubbard Saunders of Brunswick emancipate
and set free Meggy 1 January 1816 together with her future increase of said Negro woman
Meggy to save me and my heirs the increase until they arrive at twenty-one and the males
at twenty-five.
Deed Book 17:89, 1 January 1798, I John Easter emancipate my Negro woman
Lucy and her child Nancy Brown.
Deed Book 18:112, 17 February 1801, I Mary Jones for divers good causes
emancipate all my Negro slaves and their increase named as follows:
Anthony (40), Abednigo (32), James (36), Pheby 40), Nancy (16), Topsail
(14), George (14, John (13), Robeason (10), Abby (6), Daniel (3), Patsy (3), Sarah (1),
Clarissa (30), Ephraim (3), Edmond (1), reserving to myself the service of all those under
twenty-one.
Deed Book 18:113, 17 February 1801, I Benjamin Jones for sundry good
causes emancipate all my negroes & their future increase: Shaderac (46), Nell (35),
Benj (30), Will (28), David (25), Enoss (19), Moses (19), Charles (15, Bob (24), Lewis
(12), Samuel (8), Ned son of Molly (5), Joseph (1), Andrew (3), Moriah (35), Prissy (10),
Polly (8), Judy (3), Molly (33), Hannah (10), Delilah (4), reserving to myself the service
of all under twenty-one until they arrive at twenty-one.
Deed Book 19:27, 1803, Deed emancipation James Rawlings to slave Aggy.
Campbell County
5 September 1782 deed proved for Micajah Teawell's emanciaption of Peter
Hacket.
Know all men by these presents that I Henry Lipscombe of the County of Cumberland and
State of Virginia Do hereby in consideration of faithful services manumit and forever set
free the following negroes who were before the sealing of these presents my slaves to wit.
Becky a woman about the age of thirty four years John about the age of fourteen years
Billy about the age of twelve years Nancy about the age of Eleven years Claibourne about
the age of ten years Kitty about the age of seven years Polly about the age of four years
and Judith about the age of two years and by this my Deed of emancipation I do as fair as
by Law I can bestow on the aforesaid negroes and each of them all the rights priveliges
liberties & immunities of free persons. In testimony whereof I have signed & seald
these presence this twenty fifth day of May one thousand eight hundred and one
Henry was apparently the father of Becky's children. He named them in his will:
This Deed of emancipation from Henry Lipscombe to Becky and others was acknowledged and
ordered to be recorded
Item I give to Nancy, a free woman of colour called Nancy Lipscomb one hundred and
fifty acres of lands lying at the lower end of my tract on Appomattox River known by the
name of Moody= s old tract (the land here given
lying on the Powhatan side) also four Negro slaves named Gilbert, Nancy, Abner and Lucy
all of which said land & negroes I give to the said Nancy & to her heirs forever.
Item I give to Kitty, a free woman of colour called Kitty Lipscomb the piece of land on
which she now lives containing forty four & a 1/4 acres (being a part of Burton= s old tract) also about twenty acres to be taken off
of Moody= s old tract lying adjoining the said
44-1/4 acres, this to begin at the mouth of the ditch called the River ditch & run to
a red oak & maple on the ditch between Ben Hatcher=
s land and Moody= s old tract (the sd oak
standing on Moody= s old tract and the maple on
the opposite side of said ditch on Ben Hatcher=
s side) also two Negro slaves, named Hall and Charles all of which said land and negroes I
give to the said Kitty and to her heirs forever.
Item I give to Billy, a free man of colour called Billy Lipscomb one-half of the
balance of Moody= s old tract not before given
also eight negro slaves, named Tom, George, Amy, Aby, Betsey, Paton, Lizy and Susan all of
which said land and negroes I give to the said Billy and to his heirs forever ...
Item I give to Sally, a free woman of colour called Sally Lipscomb the remaining half
of the balance of Moody= s old tract not before
given also two negro slaves named Judy and Mary all of which said land and negroes I give
to the said Sally and to her heirs forever ...
Item I give to Polly a free woman of colour called Polly Lipscomb one negro slave named
Matilda which said negro I give to the said Polly & to her heirs forever ...
Item I give to Judy, a free woman of colour called Judy Lipscomb forty-four & 1/4
acres of land which I lately purchased of Robert Henderson to whose deed to me reference
is now made for a more particular description of said land / also seven negro slaves named
Hanabal, Billy, Will [?], Charity, Patrick, Daniel, and Caesar. Also eighteen hundred
dollars due from Robert Henderson to me in three equal annual payments that is on the
twentyeth Dec 1827, 1828 1829 as per said Henderson=
s bond all of which said land negroes & money I give to the said Judy & to her
heirs forever ...
Item I give to Frank, a free boy of colour (son of Judy before named) two negroes named
Anarchy and Albert which said negroes I give to the said Frank forever ...
Item I give to James, a free boy of colour (son of Nancy before named) one Negro named
Armistead which said negro I give to the sd James forever ...
Item I give to Judy (before named) all my stock of every description, plantation
utensils, household and kitchen furniture which I have now on the place called Ford= s old tavern [?] (which place I have lately sold to
Robert Henderson) all of which I give to the said Judy forever ...
Item I give to Billy, Nancy, & Sally (all before named) all my stock of every
description now on the land the said Billy lives on (Moody= s old tract) to be equally divided amongst the said
Billy, Nancy, & Sally all of which I give to them forever ...
Item I give to Billy (before named) all my plantation tools household and kitchen
furniture which is now on the plantation on which the said Billy lives (Moody= s old tract) all of which I give to the sd Billy
forever ...
Item my will and desire is that the land and negroes belonging to the plantation called
Moody= s old tract on which Billy (before named)
and herein called Billy Lipscomb) now lives shall remain together undivided at least one
year from and after the close of the present year for the purpose of making a crop which
crop when made to go to the payment of the debts against me and those debts against the
before named Billy called Billy Lipscomb so that the whole of the debts now standing due
from either myself or the said Billy shall be paid before the division of said property...
Lastly I constitute and appoint my friend Hezekiah Ford my whole and sole Executor to
this my last will and testament ratifying & confirming the same and I desire that my
Executor may not be held to security for the performance of his duty as I have full and
complete confidence that he will do strict justice according to the tenor of this my last
will and testament In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 8th
day of September 1825. proved 26 September 1825. For more information on this family
contact Sally Phillips at oakst@erols.com
Charles City County
Deed Book 4, 1789-1802,
p.150, 19 December 1793, Charles Binns to his negro man Will, 35 years of age.
p.375, 17 day 1st month 1798, John Crew manumits negro girl Betty Thomas 9
years on 3d day 7th month last.
Deed Book 6, 1816-24, p.351, 20 April 1820, Whereas I Jesse Willis a free
man of colour have purchased my wife Letty Willis of Henry Dick of Caroline County to she
belongs as a slave the sum of $100 and being desirous to emancipate her.
Michael Nicholls and Lenaye Howard:
Charles City County Deed Book 4 1789-1802
LVA Reel #2 has index
p. 33–Samuel Hargrave of Chas City from mature deliberation and
conviction of my own mind being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right of all
mankind and being desirous of doing to others as I would be done by and having 5 Negroes
frees Jane aged abt 34, Nancy aged abt 22, William aged abt 13, Sary aged abt 13, Aggy
aged abt 8–males at 21 and females at 18 for minors–20 Jan 1791–rec 20 Jan
1791
p. 56–Thomas Lee Shippen sets free Negro slave named John Green aged
44 yrs–17 Nov 91–rec 17 Nov 1791
p. 57–articles of agreement between Thomas Lee Shippen of
Philadelphia and his slave John Green whereby Green agrees to serve for 7 years from date
of articles as a hostler and Shippen agrees to find him in his dwelling house, sufficient
meat, drink, washing and lodging and if Green is not willing to serve beyond the seven
years to give 6 months notice–17 Nov 91–rec same– Green signs with mark
p. 60–overseers of poor bind John Elliot orphan of Jane to George
Hubbard until 21 to be wheelwright, teach to read and write and arithmetic to rule of
three and cause to frequent divine service–26 July 91–rec 17 Nov 91
p. 61–overseers of poor bind Mourning Cumbo orphan of John decd to
George Hubbard until 18 and he is to provide good "wholsom" and competent diet
clothing washing and lodging and all other necessaries as usual and customary for persons
in the like circumstance also to teach the said apprentice to read and write and the art
and mister that girls of that class usually are and shall cause her to frequent divine
worship–26 July 91–rec 17 Nov 91
p. 66–marriage agreement between Abram X Thomas alias Cumbo and Mary
Brown dau of Abram Brown decd–Thomas conveys to Mary her property which consists of
two slaves named Isaac and Jane along with livestock on the condition she marries
him–30 April 91–rec 15 Dec 91
p. 136–overseers of poor bind John Brewer orphan of Henry Brewer to
Wm Bullington to be a taylor–18 July 93–rec same
p. 141–from a sense of its being my duty I [ Benjamin Dancy] do
hereby emancipate and set free the following Negroes reserving the service of those of
them that are under age, the males until 21 and the females till 18–Harry aged 60;
Nanny aged 60; Robert aged 48; Betty aged 55; Pat aged 35; Silvy aged 14; Clarissa aged
12; Hannah aged 9; Lucy aged 8; America aged 7; Lucretia aged 3 months–19 Sept
93–rec same
p. 150–Know all men by these presents that I Charles Binns of Chas
City and Westover Parish being moved by the principles of humanity and the dictates of my
own conscience and do think that all mankind in justice ought to enjoy that inestimable
blessing freedom ..by these presents give and grant unto Will a Negro man my slave aged
abt 35 yrs his perfect liberty and freedom as if he had been born free–19 Dec
93–rec same
p. 163–James Richardson, Samuel Lennard and Thos Binns jr, heirs of
Jefery and Mary Thompson decd having thereby a Negro man named George aged abt 30 yrs
emancipate him–22 Jan 1794–rec 20 Feb 94
p. 211–Samuel Hargrave of Chas City–freedom is natural right and
do unto others–frees four Negroes vizt:Abraham aged abt 28; Edward aged abt 20;
Sampson aged abt 11 and Lucy aged abt 4–minors at 21 if male and 18 if female–15
Jan 95–rec same p. 219–John Bowry of Chas City for divers considerations frees
Negro man Charles [he bought from James Gregory] after the 1 July 97–16 Oct 1794--rec
19 Feb 95
p. 260–Samuel Hargrave of Chas City–freedom is natural right and
do unto others etc–frees Negroes Robert Green aged abt 35; Margeret aged abt 26;
Robert aged abt 21; Tab aged abt 16; Joseph aged abt 5; and Kate aged abt 5
months–the minor males at 21 and females at 18–21 Jan 1796–rec same
p. 295–Mary Leadbetter of Chas City–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negroes Fanney abt 30 yrs old; Samuel aged abt 20; Grace
abt 10; Dixon abt 2 and Matilda abt 1 yr–minor males at 21 and females at 18–25
Jan 1796–rec 28 July 96
p. 328–James Bradley of Chas City frees Negro man James Roberts aged
abt 50-31 Dec 96–rec 16 Feb 1797
p. 372–Hardyman Irby of Chas City having this day purchased a female
slave of Otway Byrd by the name of Eliza and a part of the consideration of which purchase
is that the said slave is to have her freedom at the end of five years from this date
together with all her future increase–so she is to be free in five years unless Irby
dies before then and in that case to be immediately free–23 Nov 1797–rec 18 Jan
1798
p. 375–John Crew, Jr. of Chas City–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees a Negro girl named Betty Thomas who was nine the 3 July
last–when she is 18–17 Jan 98–rec same
p. 436–John Crew [gent] of Chas City frees Negro lad Charles aged 20
yrs on 16 Sept next–17 Sept 98–rec 18 Oct 1798
p. 451– Martha Charles of Chas City–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc– frees Cate, 43; Arther, 27; Parlow?, 23; Mary, 23; Frank, 15;
Moses, 12; Hannah, 10; Peter, 9; John, 6; Lewis, 6; Elijah, 2 months; minor males at 21
and females at 18–15 Jan 1799–rec 17 Jan 1799
p. 500–Robert X Cary of Chas City having under my care a man by name
David Cary aged abt 40 yrs frees him from slavery–24 Jan 1800–rec 20 Feb
1800–witnesses are Jas and Jos Ladd p. 533–Robert Nelson and Wm Nelson, Jr,
legatees under the will of Mrs Elizabeth Nelson in pursuance of her desire do hereby
manumit a boy named Thomas otherwise Thomas Smart son of Nancy who was the property of the
said Elizabeth–31 Dec 1800–rec 15 Jan 1801
p. 548–John Christian of Chas City frees Negro man named Edward
Johnson who formerly belonged to Robert C. Warren of New Kent and at whose death at the
division of his estate fell to my wife who was Mary Warren dau of said Robt C. Warren
which said slave has been for several years past, hired in the City of Richmond where he
now resides–16 April 1801—rec same
p. 565–overseers of poor bind Frederick Oglesby son of Nancy Ogelsby
to Benj Roper to be blacksmith–27 April 99–rec 18 June 1801
Charles City County Deed Book 5
1803-1816 LVA Reel #2 has index
p. 23–I Michael Smith of Chas City do hereby emancipate and set free
my father Benjamin Smith–12 Sept 1803–rec 15 Sept 1803
p. 108–overseers of poor bind Ellyson Carter to Charles Wilson until
21 to be millwright–no mention of education–Carter to get 12$ from Wilson at
majority–19 Sept 1805–rec 17 Oct 05
p. 120–John West of Chas City persuaded that freedom is natural right
and doing unto others having under his care a Negro boy Shadrack born 15 Feb 04 frees him
20 Feb 06–rec same
p. 120–Robert Evans of Chas City persuaded that freedom is natural
right and doing unto others etc–frees Negro woman Amey aged 45 and her son Seth aged
17; and one Negro woman Nelly aged 26 and her two children [not named] when attain lawful
age–7 April 1806–rec 17 April 1806
p. 138–overseers of poor bind Miller Pearman to John Crutchfield
until 21 to be brick layer–no education and Pearman to get 12$ at 21–10 June
1806–rec 17 July 06
p. 405–James Canady of James City for natural love and affection
which I bear to my grandson Walker Cumbo son of Turner Cumbo and Rebecca Cumbo of Chas
City gives him one cow and two calves–19 Dec 1811–rec same
End of Charles City County abstracts
Charles City County Will Book 1789-1808
LVA Film # 8
p. 108–will of William Clarke of Chas City–leaves to wife Ann
land and Lucy, Charles, Jenny and Rhoda–after wife’s death the slaves to be free
as they arrive of lawful age and if Charles should not be of age then his bro Edward
Clarke to have him until is of age of 21- if Jenny and Rhoda not of age then to Benj
Lennard until they arrive at 21–Negro woman Rachel to be sold for the payment of
debts–15 May 1792–rec 16 Aug 1792
p. 184–will of Richardson Walker of Chas City and parish of
Westover–I give to my four slaves, Abigail and her three daughters named Lilly,
Tabitha and Abigail their freedom after my death–I give to the aforesaid Abigail and
her three daughters my whole estate–wants execs to get some place such as they shall
think proper for Abigail and her children to reside on and that they may all live together
in peace and in a Christian like manner–names Benj McWilliams and Boling Cocke as
execs–22 Sept 93–rec 16 Oct 94
p. 204–will of John Benford of Chas City–my will and desire is
that my four Negroes David, Maggy, Jacob and Kate may have their freedom and be intitled
to all the estate they may hereafter acquire–12 Feb 1780-rec 19 Feb 1795–[note
1780 date]
p. 205–will of David Wilkinson of Chas City–desires his two
Negro men viz Sampson and Daniel should have their freedom and not serve in slavery to no
person after my death–2 Sept 85–rec 19 Feb 95
p. 215–will of Joseph Bradley of Chas City–leaves Negro man
Charles to two of his children Nancy and Williamson Bradley for ten years and then to be
free–lends Negro woman Easter to dau Mary for ten years and then to be free–28
Feb 95–rec 16 July 95
p. 469–will of Ann Shields Minge of Chas City and parish of
Westover–item my common clothes I desire should be given to such of the Negroes as my
dear Momma should think proper–item I desire that all my Negroes that were left me by
my dear papa should together with their present and future increase to be liberated after
my death by y executors hereafter named–wants a liberal fee given to minister for
preaching funeral sermon "as also the negro’s which bears me to the grave be
rewarded"–appts father, Collier Harrison, Jn Minge and Geo W.H. Minge her
execs–16 July 98–rec 20 Mar 1800–
p. 500–I William Nelson junior of Chas City do hereby manumit and set
free Michael the son of Betty by virtue of my power as his owner and according to an act
of assembly in that case made and provided given under my hand and seal this 16 June
1800–rec 19 June 1800–clerk calls this a deed of manumission
p. 605–will of Thos Ballard of Chas City and Westover
parish–having an old Negro man slave named George who has been a faithful servant I
desire and hereby give him the said Negro slave his freedom after my death in a perfect
and just meaning of liberation and in as full and perfect manner as any law could
authorise me–13 Aug 1804–rec 20 Sept 1804
p. 633–will of William B. Christian of Chas City–leaves slaves
to wife and niece–it is my will and desire that my Negro woman named Mourning should
be emancipated and set at liberty–21 Aug 1805–rec 17 Oct 1805
p. 668–will of James Ladd of Chas City–mentions shoe and boot
making business known by name of Joseph Ladd and Co–wills plantation lands etc to
heirs–then says my will and desire is that Robin Davy & Billy miners and Black
Boys under my care should be educated at the expence of my estate at the discression of my
exec ..so as not to amount to less than 12 months schooling each—these three might be
free black boys apprenticed to him by court or parents?–6 July 1806–rec 21 Nov
1806–Will Book 2, 1808-24 p. 69–estate pays Jas D. Ladd for boarding and
schooling Davy 5 months and paid Robt Crew for boarding Davy to go to school to Benj Crew
acct–Jas D. Ladd id’d as treasurer of the yearly meeting so probably Quaker--
Charles City County Will Book
No. 2 1808-1824
LVA Film #8
p. 18–will of David Roper of Chas City–leaves specific slaves to
particular heirs–my desire is that my Man Fill and his wife live or continue with my
son John Roper, but not as slaves, but to do moderate labour, and should they live to
become chargeable in the Judgment of my execs then in that case, they shall be maintained
out of my estate–15 April 1808–rec 21 July 1808
p. 20–will of Anthony Tucker Dixon–I hereby emancipate liberate
and set free forever a little girl living with my friend Saml Tyler called Patty daughter
of Molly, to whom I devise a legacy of two hundred pounds to be raised from the debts due
me: to be paid to S. Tyler, Esq as soon as collection can be made and applied by him
towards her maintenance and education in the way he may judge best–28 Feby
1794–rec 18 Aug 1808
p. 444–will of Philip J. Lightfoot–my will and desire is that my
faithful servant Corneleus shall at my death be free and entirely released from
bondage–16 June 1819–rec 15 July 1819
p. 463–will of Major [x] Cole of Chas City–to my brother Squire
Ambler and to my brother in law Justice Minge (emancipated Negroes) I give and bequeath my
wife Elizabeth Cole to be disposed of as they may think proper–gives his wife all his
property–21 April 1820–rec 15 June 1820
to page 500 and Dec 1821
Charlotte County
Orders 1792-4, p.129b, 7 October 1793, Emancipation from Edward Keeling to
Nancy a negro woman.
Deed Book 7, 1793-1797, p. 146, Deed of Emancipation Nelson Colvert to the
following Negro slaves: Chloe a woman, Rachel, Milbrey. 5 October 1795
Deed Book 8, 1797-1800, Emancipation William Bouldin to negro woman
Charlotte. 11 October 1799.
Deed Book 9, 1801-3, p.1, Emancipation of Reuben by Patrick Henry at the
time of his death possessed of a Mulatto man named Reubin by his last will set free two
slaves. signed Dorothea widow of said Patrick Henry.
Will Book 2, 1791-1805, p.21, James Tarpley...my Negro woman Fann shall be
free 1 January 1800...boy Daniel 1809. proved 6 February 1792.
WB 2:73, 4 June 1795, my man Roger who has faithfully served me many years
should after my decease have his ? to go where he pleases.
WB 2:94-5, Richard Elliott to son Robert Elliott remainder of lands on
north side of Stiles Creek with following Negroes: Billy Chavus, Abrum, Charles, Billy
Merit and their increase. 2 November 1796, proved 5 December 1796.
WB 2:124a, inventory of Richard Elliott...Slaves:Billy Brown 90 pounds,
Billy Merit 90 pounds, Jack Stark 100 pounds, Billy Chavis 50 pounds.
DB 8, 1797-1800, pp. 150-1, Suckey Chavus of Charlotte County for the
natural love and affection to my daughter Sally Chavus whom I purchased of Thomas Read
Junior for 40 pounds do emancipate her...no longer to be considered a slave. 31 January
1799. Sucky x Chavus.
DB 8:202, William Bouldin to negro woman Charlotte and Clovey. 11 October
1799.
Chesterfield County
From Nicholls and Howard:
Chesterfield County Deed Book 9
1779-1783 LVA Reel # 3 No index
no manumissions found in this book
Chesterfield County Deed Book 10 1781-1785
LVA Reel # 3 no index
no manumissions found in this book
p. 366–2 July 84 deed from Wm Hickman to Leonard Cheatham and Arthur
Moody deacons or elders of Baptist church half an acre where Baptist church
stands–rec July 84
end of reel 3
Chesterfield County Deed Book 11 1779-1791
LVA Reel #4 has index
p. 351–10 Jan 1788–Know all men by these presents that I Henry
Featherstone of the county of Chesterfield and parish of Dale do believe that God created
all men equally Free I hereby gradually Emancipate and sett free the following men and
women and children–
Bedey Aba to be free Feb 1, 1788 Sam Aba to be free Jan 1 1789 Peter Aba
to be free Jan 1 1790 Jenny Aba to be free Nov 10 1796 Tom Aba to be free Feb 20 1797 Agga
Aba to be free Mar 15 1799 Rose Aba to be free Mar 20 1802 Lucy Aba to be free Oct 15 1804
Dyner Aba to be free Oct 20 1806 Isaac Aba to be free Apr 10 1808 Jacob Aba to be free
July 12 1808 Easter Aba to be free Apr 12 1808 And all that may be born before their
mothers shall arrive to years of freedom shall serve me or my heirs till the years of
twenty one and no longer. I hereby relinquish all rights titles or claim to them or my
heirs or assigns forever to the years aforementioned and not before ...rec Jan court 1788
[Note: not one of Aba names capitalized]
p. 517–11 Feb 1789–know all men by these presents that I Samuel
Landrum of Chesterfield County do believe that all men are by nature equally free and from
a clear conviction of the injustice and criminality of depriving my fellow creatures of
their natural right do hereby emancipate or set free the following men, women and children
viz: Lettice, Essex and William to go out free Dec 25, 1789 Prince to go out free Dec 25,
1790 Ned to go...Dec 25, 1795 David to go...Dec 25, 1797 Annaky to go...Dec 25, 1800
Spencer to go...Dec 25, 1806 Cloe to go....Dec 25, 1808 relinquish all right and title
etc....rec April court 1789
p. 593–10 Sept 89 and the 13
th of our American Independence–Martin
Baker of Chesterfield County do believe that God has created all Men equally free and from
a clear conviction of the injustice and criminality of depriving my fellow creatures of
there Natural Rights do hereby emancipate or set free the following Persons: Amy, Cesar,
Joe, to be free Dec 25, 1789....rec Dec ct 1789–
p. 618–11 Feb 1790–Henry Featherstone of Chesterfield County and
Dale Parish...God created all men equally free emancipates Kitt Abba to be free Feb 14,
1790 Jack Abba .....Feb 14, 1790 Jane Abba....Feb 14, 1790 York Abba....Feb 14, 1790 David
Abba....July 16, 1796 John Abba....June 10, 1798 Will Abba....Feb 15, 1800 Hanner Abba
....Feb 10, 1802 rec Feb court 1790
p. 639–7 April 1790–Jordan Anderson of Chesterfield seeing such
an Insconsistancy betwixt our Declaration of Independence vizt that all men are equally
born free and our Practice in holding a great number of our fellow Men in the most abject
Slavery especially those born since that Declaration and also seeing our Youths supported
thereby instead of becoming useful Members of Society in our Commonwealth are rather
become a mere Nuisance and Scandal thereto observing these things I do hereby gradually
emancipate and set free the following persons vizt York, Lucy, Rachel and her increase,
Tamer, Jack, George, Letice and her Increase, the first day of January after my
wife’s and my Death. Anica, Miley, and Amey and their increase as they come to age
unless that Period arrives before our Deaths then they shall be free at the same time the
others above mentioned after our deaths. Frank and little York to be free at the same time
if of age of twenty one years. Frank was born April 25, 1773; Anica Sept 24, 1774; Milley
Mar 12, 1777; Amey Nov 14, 1779; Little York Oct 23, 1782; Moses July 25, 1787; Salley
Sept 8, 1789 the two last to be free at 21 yrs of age—rec 8 April 1790
p. 689–14 Aug 1790--William McKenzie of Chesterfield for divers good
causes...set free my Negro woman Peggy from further servitude and granting to the said
Peggy her freedom–rec Aug court 1790
p. 714–9 June 1790–John Baker of Chesterfield County..all men by
nature equally free and noting injustice and criminality...sets free: Bob and Daniel 25
Dec 1790 Grace and Amey 25 Dec 1790 Barbra 25 Dec 1790 Tom to go out Dec 1793 Sally to go
out Oct 1796 Betty and Pat to go out Dec 1802 Oliver to go out Nov 1805 Judy to go out
Sept 1806 Hannah to go out Jan 1807 Nann to go out Feb 1808 Peter to go out Dec 1809 Amey
to go out March 1811 rec 9 Sept 1790–
p. 717–9 June 1790–Thomas Bridgewater of Chesterfield...all men
by nature equally free etc...frees: Cesar and Pompay Dec 25, 1790 Will and Unity Dec 25,
1790 Suckey to go out July 1804 Amey to go out July 1806 Sam to go out March 1808 Jem to
out July 1810 rec 9 Sept 1790
p. 742–9 Dec 1790–James Walthall of Chesterfield county for
divers good causes manumits Jack Adam and Judy Adam to go out 1 Jan 1791–rec 9 Dec
1790–
Chesterfield County Deed Book 12
1790-1793
LVA Reel # 4
p. 5–29 Aug 1789–Jn May of Chesterfield sets free Brice and his
wife Suckey, Tom, Sally, Little Suckey as she is generally called, Dinah, little Tom,
Phoebe and James children of little Suckey and Charles, Cloe and little Tom Sally’s
children–rec February court 1791–
p. 228–27 June 1792–Nancy Gibbons of Chesterfield County and
Dale Parish believing that God created all mankind equally free emancipates: Mingo, 45 yrs
old to be free Jan 1, 1793; Mary, 13 yrs old to be free Jan 1, 1800; Billy, 4 yrs old to
be free Jan 1, 809–rec July court 1792–
end of reel #4
Chesterfield County Deed Book 13 1793-1796
LVA Reel # 5 No index
p. 201–22 Jan 1793–Thomas Bridgewater, Reuben Winfree and Jn
Baker believe that all men by nature are equally free....conviction of the injustice and
criminality of depriving our fellow creatures of their natural right emancipate the
following man ie William on 22 Feb 1793–rec September court 1793-
Chesterfield County Deed Book 14
1795-1800
LVA Reel # 5
p. 139–11 Sept 1797–John Heveningham of Chesterfield in
consideration of the sum of 80L to me in hand paid by Samuel Moody for the use and benefit
of a certain Negro man named Holly my property have manumitted and do hereby manumit and
for ever set free the aforesaid Negro man Holly and I hereby covenant to and with the
aforesaid Samuel Moody that I have full power, right and authority to manumit and set free
the said Negro...rec September court 1797 along with receipt for the 80L from Moody–
p. 197–29 Jan 1798–John Bolling of Chesterfield emancipates
mulatto woman Jane aged about 26 yrs at present employed in the family of Samuel Myers in
the city of Richmond–rec February court 1798–
p. 313–5 Dec 1797–David Gooding of Chesterfield for divers good
causes and considerations emancipates Negro man slave Joe, formerly the property of
Collins Gooding–rec October court 1798–
p. 402–11 Feb 1799–John Friend of Chesterfield for divers causes
emancipates one Negro man named Daniel Lewis–rec April court 1799
p. 402–11 Feb 1799–John Friend of Chesterfield for divers causes
emancipates on Negro man named John Lewis–rec April court 1799–
p. 541–25 Dec 1799–John Stratton of Chesterfield rents to Kitt
[a free Negroe] 313 acres for seven years starting 1 Jan 1800–for $20
annually–signed John Stratton and Kit X Abey–rec Jan court 1800–
end of reel #5
Chesterfield County Deed Book 15 1800-1802
LVA Reel # 6
p. 28–9 Jan 1800–John Heveningham of Chesterfield in
consideration of 37L pd by Robert Pollock for and in behalf of my Negro woman slave named
Fanney emancipate her–rec January court 1800 along with receipt for 37L from Robt
Pollock–
p. 190–2 Feb 1801–Lucy Bland Poythress of Chesterfield for
divers good causes emancipates Kate, Cresse [dau of sd Kate] Harriett [dau of sd Cresse]
and John –son of the said Cresse—rec February court 1801–
p. 218–10 April 1801–Benjamin X Plummer of Chesterfield, town of
Manchester frees a certain man slave known by the name of John Plummer whom I purchased of
Moses Treadway and also a certain woman slave named Mary whom I purchased of Robt Boyd and
Reuben the child of Mary which said John, Mary and Reuben are all at present living in the
town of Manchester–rec April court 1801–
Chesterfield County Deed Book 16
1802-1805
LVA Reel # 6
p. 148–27 Nov 1802–William Ball of Chesterfield for and in
consideration of the faithful services done and performed by Luke the stage driver and
divers other considerations me thereunto moving frees him–to all intents and purposes
as if he had been born of free persons he being at this time about 40 yrs of age–rec
December court 1802–
p. 387–28 July 1803–Cornelius Buck of Manchester for divers good
causes and $100 frees Negro woman Patty–rec 12 Feb 1804–does not ID who paid--
p. 391–10 Nov 1803–Thomas Goode of Manchester in Chesterfield
County for good causes manumits George a mulatto man about 27 yrs old–rec 13 Feb
1804–deed of purchase recorded on page 387 dated 10 Nov 1803 where Goode paid $500 to
Zachariah Brooks of Manchester who had bought George from John and Jesse Jordon–rec
13 Feb 1803–
end of reel # 6
Chesterfield County Deed Book 17 1805-1808
LVA Reel # 7
p. 94 – 8 July 05 – Benjamin Branch, executor of John Barker
– of the County of Dinwiddie, acting executor of John Barker, deceased, a copy of
whose Testament and last will is hereunto annexed, do hereby acknowledge that I have
received from Becky (Cuffie’s wife) the Negroe woman slave in my said Testator’s
will mentioned, and from her husband (a free man of color) the said Cuffie, compensation
for sixty two pounds ten shillings, given (as appears by the will aforesaid) for the said
Becky by her late master the said John Barker deceased. In consideration whereof, and in
obedience to and in execution of the will of my said Testator, I the said Branch executor
as aforesaid, have emancipated, manumitted, and set free, and by these presents do manumit
emancipate and set free the said Becky, wife of the said Cuffie hereby pronouncing and
declaring the said Becky to be no longer a slave, but to be to all intents and purposes as
free as if she had been freeborn, and had never been in slavery or bondage – rec 8
July 05. See Will Book 4, 1785-1800 p. 407 below.
p. 130 – 4 Dec 04 – Martha Turpin – Whereas it was my
intention in purchasing a Negroe woman named Anica, at the sale of the slaves belonging to
the estate of the late Daniel M’Callum, to liberate and legally set her free, so soon
as her services should have reimbursed me in one half of her purchase money. I do
therefore hereby acknowledge to have received from her said services the said stipulated
sum and henceforward am desirous that she the said woman named Anica may be considered as
a free woman to all intents and purposes – rec 14 Oct 05
p. 172 – 5 Feb 06 – Alexander Banks – of town of Manchester
and county of Chesterfield, for diverse good causes and considerations appearing to my
satisfaction, but more particularly for and in consideration of the true, faithful, and
honest manner in which the seven following slaves have conducted and demeaned themselves
towards me; to wit, Nancy, sometimes called Nancy Fraction, a black girl about the age of
twenty one years, Tom, a mulatto boy the son of Nancy aged about five years and a half,
George, a mulatto boy also the son of Nancy, aged about two years and half, James, a
mulatto boy also the son of Nancy aged about six months, Bob a mulatto boy aged about
twenty years, Jack also a mulatto boy aged about eighteen years (which said last mentioned
boys Bob and Jack are brothers and the children of Sally), Robin sometimes called Robin
Kelsey a black man about the age of twenty eight years; I the said Alexander Banks, for
the consideration aforesaid, have and by these presents do emancipate and forever set free
the aforesaid Nancy Fraction, Tom, George, James, Bob, Jack, and Robin Kelsey, and hereby
release all my right, interest, and claim to them, to be each and severally from hence
forth and forever free, and to enjoy their liberty and freedom in the same full and
perfect manner as if they were each of them had never been slaves – rec 10 Feb 06
– margin note: 11 March 06 original sent to Mr. Banks by Mr. R. B. Goode. See Will
Book 6, 1802-08 p. 471 below.
p. 172 – 8 Feb 06 – Alexander Banks, administrator of Thomas
Banks – late of the town of Manchester in the county of Chesterfield, for diverse
good causes and considerations appearing to my satisfaction, but more particularly for and
in consideration of a wish and desire fully to comply with the last Will and Testament of
the aforesaid Thomas Banks, I the said Alexander Banks his administrator with the will
annexed, have, and by these presents do emancipate and forever set free a mulatto man by
the name of Damon, aged about six and twenty years, and do hereby release unto the
aforesaid mulatto man Damon all the rights, title, interest, and claim accruing to me in
my individual capacity, or as administrator of the aforesaid Thomas Banks, fully and
perfectly to enjoy his liberty and freedom in the same manner as if he had never been a
slave – rec 10 Feb 06 – margin note: 11 March 06 the original sent to Mr. Banks
by Mr. R. B.Goode. See Will Book 5, 1800-02 p. 271 below.
p. 218 – 14 April 06 – Samuel S. Goodson for self and William G.
Goodson – of Chesterfield County, witnesseth that the subscribers hereto for the
special value and regard they bear towards a Negroe man slave named or called James
Wallace (once the property of Ann G. C. Goodson deceased and now by descent the property
of the undersigned) they do hereby manumit, emancipate, and discharge from their control
the said named James Wallace, of the age of forty five years or upwards, and they do
hereby for themselves and heirs grant unto and confer upon James Wallace all the rights
and privileges that can be conferred upon or granted unto any free Negroe or man of color,
according to the laws and usages of this Commonwealth – rec 14 April 06
p. 224 – 12 April 06 – William Trabue – of Chesterfield
County, do hereby manumit, set free from slavery my Negroe man slave named Achilles –
rec 14 April 06 – margin note: 9 Feb 07 original delivered to William Trabue per
order from Achilles
p. 224 – 27 Dec 05 – William Trabue – of Chesterfield
County, do hereby manumit, set free from slavery my Negroe woman slave named Silvey,
bought at Charles Logan’s sale, that is, to be free by a decree of the High County of
Chancery and Court of Appeals for the time that the said negroe woman has to serve –
rec 14 April 06
p. 225 – 8 Nov 05 – Abram S. Wooldridge, acting executor of late
Robert Wooldridge – of Chesterfield County, by virtue of his last Will and testament,
have…liberated, manumitted, emancipated, and forever set free a certain Negroe woman,
hitherto a slave named Aggy, the property of the said Robert Wooldridge deceased –
rec 10 April 06. See Will Book 6, 1802-08 p. 262 below.
p. 299 – 7 Feb 06 – George McCredie – of the town of
Manchester, county of Chesterfield, and state of Virginia, for good causes and
considerations, me thereunto moving, have manumitted, emancipated, and forever set free,
five slaves to me at this time belonging that is to say, Betsey, a girl aged fourteen
years, and her two sisters, Polley aged about eleven, and Adlie, aged about seven years,
Suckey a woman aged about twenty two years, and Nancy her daughter, about one year old;
and I the said George McCredie do hereby declare the before named Betsey, Polley, Adlie,
Suckey, and Nancy and each of them to be from henceforth and forever free, in as full and
effectual a manner as they and each of them had been born free – rec 13 Oct 06.
p. 299–29 Nov 1805–Ezekiel Jackson of Chesterfield for divers
good causes...as well as for $300 to me pd emancipates Negroe woman Polley and her female
child by the name of AnnaLiza–rec 8 Sept 1806 and 13 Oct 06–marginal note: 7
June 1810–original delivd to Phil Cogbill–
p. 650–19 May 1808–received of George a free man of color
formerly the property of Richard Howlett now called George Howlett L100 for a Negro woman
named Elcie and her child named Martha which was the property of Peter F. Archer and sold
by me this day to satisfy an execution in favour of Francis Lewis from Powhatan County
Court against said Archer which property was purchased by said George–rec 11 July
1808–signed J.R Bradley DS for Archd Walthall, shff. See Will Book 8, 1813-18 p. 646
below for Howlett's will.
Chesterfield County Deed Book 18
1808-1811
LVA Reel #7 No index
no manumissions found in this book
Chesterfield County Deed Book 19 1811-1814
LVA Reel #8 No index
p. 11–11 Dec 1810-sale of 22+ acres from John Sasseen and wife Nancy
to Mourning Logan a free woman of color–$171.50–rec 13 May 1811??
p. 107–whereas Thos Batte decd of Chesterfield County in his last
will devised to his dau Margaret Walthall (wife of Marla Walthall) sundry property during
her life and at decd to her children, that during the said Margaret’s life while the
said property was under the controul of the said Marla Walthall that three or four years
before the death of said Margaret his wife he permitted a Negro man named Ned Pleasents
belonging to the said Margaret and her children to go to the Town of Alexandria District
of Columbia (where his said Negroes wife then lived) and remain untill the death of said
Margaret the court of Chesterfield County appointed me Henry Walthall Guardian to the
children of said Margaret, and having gone to said Town of Alexandria DC to bring the said
Negro to this County again the said Negro expressed great unwillingness to return and
leave his wife & believing that if brought to this county he would not stay, be
troublesome to me, and expensive to the children by frequent running away and probable an
entire loss to said children, under the above circumstances and believing it to be for the
benefit of sd children I disposed of him ....sells Ned, described as a Negro man of the
age of thirty three or four years, for $400 to Thos Laurason of Alexandria in bill of sale
6 Aug 1811–rec 9 Sept 1811
p. 164–Jn Trabue exec of Thos Trabue, decd acc to his will
apprentices Rodrick a mulatto boy to Hezekiah Eubank until he is 21 to learn to be a boot
and shoemaker–Eubank not to remove from counties of Henrico or Chesterfield–7
Dec 1811–rec 9 Dec 1811. See DB 21 p. 716 below for manumission; p. 732 for deed for
land; Will Book 6, 1802-08 p. 411 for will; Will Book 7, 1808-13 p. 578 for estate account
involving Roderick. See too Chesterfield County Legislative Petitions, 20 Dec 1815 for
petition from Roderick to remain in the state. He had been refused admittance to
Tennessee. Includes statement of his successful completion of apprenticeship and of his
trip to Tennessee where denied residence. Petition tabled.
Chesterfield County Deed Book 20
1814-1816
LVA Reel # 8 has an index
p. 481–deed of trust–30 July 1814–Samuel Smith a free Negro
of Chesterfield is indebted to Daniel Hudson for $102.04–to secure payment by Lawson
Burfoot sells in trust to Burfoot a Negro boy named Sam–if Smith does not pay Hudson
by 25 Dec 1814 then Burfoot can expose to sale at public auction after giving 10 days
notice–rec 15 Mar 1815– no manumissions found in this book
Chesterfield County Deed Book 21
1814-1817
LVA Reel # 9 has an index
p. 716–18 Sept 1816–John Trabue the only and acting executor of
Thos E. Trabue decd in the county of Chesterfield for and in consideration of the
directions and mandates of my testator Thos E. Trabue decd as well as for and in
consideration of the sum of one hundred pounds bequeathed me by the said Trabue in his
last will and testament for and in consideration of my solely acting as his exec in
sustaining the trouble as such and in obedience to his said will and desire as expressed
in his ..will entered of record in the County court of Chesterfield on the 13 April 1807
hath manumitted, emancipated and set free the said Negro boy Roderick in said will
etc...rec 29 Nov 1817–margin note:18 Mar 1818 the original delivered to Roderick
Trabue--
p. 732–15 Nov 1817–Jn Trabue exec of Thos E. Trabue fulfilling
the will of TT dated 23 July 1806 and recorded 13 April 07 noting that freedom after 1806
requires leaving state requires his exec to convey Roderick (alias Roderick Trabue) at the
expence of the estate to the Cumberland settlement in the state of Tennessee and to render
the situation of the said Roderick when emancipated more comfortable and eligible TT gave
him 100acres lying and being in the Mero?? District and Sumpter County–so this deed
for 1$ gives him the tract–if Roderick had died before 21 the tract would have passed
to brothers Jn and Jacob Trabue and sister Polly Depp–Roderick survives –rec 8
Dec 1817 for purpose of certifying deed to be recorded in Sumpter Co. TN–
Chesterfield County Deed Book 22
1817-1819
LVA Reel # 9 has an index
p. 12–15 July 1817–James Clarke of Powhatan, agent on behalf of
the proprietors of the town of Swansborough sells to Edward B. Edwards a man of colour for
[blank] dollars a lot on ss of Turnpike road containing one acre along with a slip of land
adj which makes it lot #1–rec 8 Dec 1817–
p. 17- 15 July 1817–dittto to Edward Wilkinson a man of colour-$34.39
lot 12–rec 8 Dec 1817
p. 336–9 Aug 1818–Philip Turpin and Martha Turpin of
Chesterfield in consideration of faithful industrious, honest and meritorious services
rendered us by the following Negroes, to wit, Billy, Daniel, Simon, Robert and nanny as
also David and his wife Lizzy with their children Frances, William and Alex as well as for
divers other good causes and considerations do emancipate and set free.....and it is our
natural wish that they may be permitted to remain in the state of Virginia, should they
prefer doing so, unmolested and uninjured, it being our determination that they should
henceforth forever hereafter be discharged from bondage:–rec 10 Aug 1818
End of deed book abstracts
Orders 1796-1799, p.359, December 1797,
Overseers of the Poor in district no. 2 bind Betty, Elijah, Jammey(?) and Tom children of
Unity a free negro woman to Thomas Bridgewater.
Culpeper County
Minutes 1798-1802, p.149, 22 November 1799, Will C. Williams's deed of
Emancipation to Negro Mary Sanders & child Rebecca, said Mary not likely to become
chargeable, said Williams to keep child Rebecca until 18 years.
p.318, 18 May 1801, Deed of Emancipation Moses Green to James Triplett a
negro man slave.
Minutes 1802-3, p.23, June 1802, Catherine Williamson's deed of
Emancipation to Negroes Daniel & Adliey(?) which is also in her last will.
p.27, 22 June 1802, Deed of Emancipation James Williams to Negro Cyrus.
p.73, 20 September 1802, Overseers of the poor bind Sophia a negro girl
lately emancipated by the will of Catherine Williamson to James Garriott.
p.74, ditto Judith to George Shaver(?).
p.132, December 1802, Overseers of the poor bind North a Mulatto boy or
free negro (who was bound to Budd Haywood who has since departed this life) to James
Inskeep.
Minutes 1803-5, p.106, November 1803, Deed of Emancipatin Samuel Slaughter
to his negro man slave George.
p.130, John Hackley by his last will directed the following slaves
emancipated: Billy, Frankey, Isaac, Fielding, Gabriel, James, and William. Billy, Manley
& Lydia are over 21 and under 45. Isaac, Philip, Sally, Charles, James, Rachel,
Fielding & Gabriel are the males under the age of 21 and the females under 18, they be
bound out by the overseers of the poor.
p..133, 17 January 1804, Deed of Emancipation Lucy Green to negroe man
Charles certified to the County of Alexandria in the District of Columbia.
p.138, February 1804, Deed of Emancipation James Dickenson to his negro
woman slave Elizabeth and her son Thomas Brown.
p.140, 20 February 1804, overseers of the poor bind Philip a free boy
belonging to the estate of John Hackley to Isaac Cowgill to be a blacksmith.
p.142, overseers of the poor take from the possessin of Frankey Jones a
malatto free girl named Liddy & bind her to Jonas Pratt.
p.245, 15 October 1804, overseers of the poor bind Judith Miles Mulatto
child to Josiah Pratt.
Cumberland County
Orders 1792-7, p.302, March 1795, Emancipation of James a free Negro by
Nathan Ayres of Buckingham County recorded in county court 8 March 1784.
p.338, 27 July 1795, William Randolph to negroe Rebecca.
p.570, 27 September 1796, Emancipation of Thomas Randolph to Polly
Stevens.
Dinwiddie
From Nicholls and Howard:
Dinwiddie County Wills 1758-1799 LVA
Reel # 57
individual wills–not a will book -hence no pagination
22 Jan 1798–will of Noah Brown of Dinwiddie County–lends Negro
girl Beck and Negro boy
Dick to wife–my desire is that my Negroe woman Sarah be liberated
according to law after the
expiration of ten years from the date of these presents–returned
April court 1799
Essex County
James Mann emancipated his daughter Sukey by deed [Register of Free
Negroes 1810-43, 36, no.91].
Orders 1797-99, p.79, 22 August 1797, On motion of John Livingston a
Mulatto man in the possession of Humphrey B. Brooke and William Andrews, administrators of
Muscoe Livingston, deceased, for leave to sue in forma pauperis in order to obtain his
freedom. James Webb is assigned as counsel for that purpose.
p.299, It appearing that Lewis Jones a Negro fellow and to be the bearer
hereof is free and ought to be suffered to go at large.
p.326, 24 May 1798, On the motion of Martiller, Phillis, John, Nancy &
Tom & Martiller Bowing, Nancy McGiven, William McGiven, Colston McGiven, Annett
McGiven, Patrick McGiven, Phillis Richards, Thomas Richards, Dinah Richards, Henry
Richards, Peter Richards, Descendants of the said Martilla, Phillis & Nancy who are in
the possession of Henry B. Brooks & William Andrews, administrators of Muscoe
Livingston, deceased, stating that the said Martilla, Phillis John, Nancy & Tom came
into this Country in the year 1783 and that they are therefore free by the Laws of
Virginia. Summons issue. Jury...plaintiffs are entitled to their freedom...accordingly
freed.
p.339, 18 June 1798, appraisal of estate of Muscoe Livingston recorded.
p.419, 17 September 1798, Deed of Emancipation Mark Andrews to his servant
James Bailor.
Fairfax County
Minutes 1800-1801, p.50, July 1800, Deed of Emancipation Thomas Fairfax to
Negro Robin
p.85, 18 September 1800, Deed of Emancipation Ann Smith to Negro Roger.
p.109, December 1800, Deed of Emancipation Martha Washington to Sundry
Negroes as per schedule annexed was proved.
Minutes 1801, p.180, June 1801, William Bullin committed to theis County
by warrant on suspicion of being a runaway slave...was born free.
p.181, Sally Woodland committed to the Goal on suspicion of being a
runaway is a free woman.
p.197, July 1801, Ludwell Lee to Negro Henrietta & her two children
Rachel & William Henry.
Fauquier County
Minutes 1784-6, p.67, 25 October 1784, churchwardens of Hamilton Parish
bind Sam a Mulattoe to Joseph George.
p.68, Churchwardens of Leeds Parish bind Milly & Will Love Mulattos to
John Seaton.
Minutes 1795-7, p.3, Oct 1795, Deed of Emancipation Baldwin Coppage to
Sooke a negro.
Frederick County
Orders 1781-4, p.48, overseers of the poor bind Louvenia Pinton a free
negro aged five years last May to Benjamin Johnston to learn him to read and cypher.
p.570, 7 September 1784, overseers of the poor bind Erasmus son of a free
negroe to Girard Briscoe to learn to read write & cypher.
1785-6, p.9, 7 March 1786, John Hite and Negroe Fanny and Negroe Janey
manumission.
p.306, 6 December 1786, Instrument of writing Mary Wood to Negroes Jude,
Lucy, Dido, Charles & Sally.
Orders 1788-9, p.148, 2 September 1788, Margaret Lewis base born Mulatto
child aged 3 years last April bound to James Johnston.
p.327, April 1789, Instrument of Writing Alexander White to Negro Winney.
p.406, June 1789, Instrument of writing emancipation of Negroe Mimy from
Thomas Bryan Martin, Esq.
Orders 1789-91, p.377, September 1790, overseers of teh poor bind Janey a
free Negroe aged about 14 years to Daniel Norton to learn to read & write.
p.385, October 1790, overseers of the poor bind Margaret a free negroe
aged 6 the 1 October and Cate a free negroe aged 9 the 30 June last to Isaac Lance(?).
p.479, December 1790, overseers of the poor bind John a Molatto child aged
2 to George Rice.
Orders 1791-2, p.62, April 1791, Winne a Mulatto bound to George Murray.
Will Book 5, part 1, 16-19, William Jolliffe of County of Frederick,
...wife Elizabeth my two Negroes Jean and Ruth till they arrive to the age of eighteen
years...to be set free and at liberty from Bondage in their good behaviour and not
otherwise be under care of trustees appointed by the Monthly Meeting. 15 first month 1769.
Proved 24 January 1770.
Will Book 5, part 2, 668, 3rd day fifth month 1779, Elizabeth Joliffe
(widow) authorize my friends Rees Cdwallader and David Ross to take care of a Negro woman
and a girl that came of her Body in hiring her out and applying the mone for her use in
purchasing things necessary for her and the child which is named Ruth, to be bound out
until she may arrive to the age of 18 years and that she may in said time learn to read
and that at the age of 18 she the said Ruth be totally free as her Mother is only to be
under the care and management of the said Rees Cadwallader and David Ross if then living
otherwise persons as the Monthly Meeting my cause to appoint for the Management of both
the sd Negroes. signed. Proved 2 September 1783.
Personal Property Tax List 1782-1802, frame 805
1801, Carter's Free Negroes: free "white" tithes/ slaves 16/
slaves 12-16/ horses
Samuel Weldon 1-, Samuel Hackney 1001, James Roberson 1001, Thomas
Roberson 1001, James Thompson 1001, John Gumby 18001, John Johnson 1001, Moses Wilson 1-,
Edward Taylor 1-, Samuel Brutus 1001, William Griggs 1-, Simon Allen 1001, Charles Harris
1001, Anthony Harris 2004, Oliver Roberson 1010, Sampson Roberson 10001, Nelson Jones
1001, Nelson Gumby 1-, Samuel Weldon 1-
1802, frame 827, A List of free Negroes ande Molattoes within the district
of William Kircheval:
Silas Long, Free man, living with Hannah Cooper
Fanny, free woman, living with Thomas Berry
Kitty, free woman, lving iwth Joseph King
Bob, free man, shoemaker, living with Thos. Stribbling
Jack, free man, living with Marryana Noble
Sarah, free woman, living with Lawrence Lewis
Moses Graham & Flora his wife living with John Rhodes
George Wilson & Fillis his wife on Blue Ridge
William Grier, by trade a carpenter
Elliott Row living with James Larue
James Punch living with Tarlton F. Webb
Adam living on Mannor land, a farmer
Harry, Black Smith by trade
Nancy a Mollattoe living in Battle Town
Clary a Mollattoe living with Hannah Cooper
Lymas, Daniel Cooper, Cyrus & Lydia } liviing with William Jolli__
Betsy Fenton a spinner.
Goochland County
Deed Book 13, 1779-1784
page 246, I Thomas Pleasants, Junr., of Goochland County being fully persuaded that
freedom is the natural right of all Mankind and that it is my duty to do unto others as I
would desire to be done in the like situation, and having under my care twenty Negroes of
the following names and ages; vizt: Bridget about seventy, Ben forty-six, Cupid forty-one,
Roger thirty-three, Frank thirty-five, Charles twenty-nine, Miles thirty-five, Jobass
thirty-one, Jack twenty-two, Maria fifty, Aggy forty-four, Judith thirty-nine, Fanny
forty-one, Cloe thirty-seven, Phillis thirty-one, Sylvia twenty-nine, Patience
twenty-three, Balinda thirty, Avarilla thirty-one, Daphne, thirty-six...and having
thirty-nine Negroes now in their minority of the following names and ages; vizt.: Roger
seventeen, David sixteen, David fifteen, Ned fourteen, Gale seven, Jack nine, Sam six,
Frederick four, Jacob twelve, Bob ten, James Eleven, Lewis eleven, Juba thirteen, Dick
eleven, Jo Cooper twelve, Nancy sixteen, Clarissa fourteen, Bridget ten, Dick nine, Jane
seven, Louise three, Peggy seventeen, Aggy eight, Nancy five, Lucy three, George 1-3/4,
Molly 1-1/2, Ovid 1/2, Fanny 1/2 and everyone of them hereby emancipated and set free when
they shall arrive of lawful age, the males twenty-one and the females eighteen. 21 10th
Month 1782. Thomas Pleasants. recorded 21 Oct 1782.
pages 247-8, I Thomas Pleasants, Junr., of Goochland being fully persuaded that freedom
is the natural right of all mankind ant that it is my duty to do unto others as I should
desire to be done by in the like situation and having under my care a Negro woman named
Betty aged forty-two years I hereby emancipate and set free the said Negro woman. 19 10th
Month 1782, recorded 21 October 1792.
I Mary Youngblood of the county of Goochland being fully persuaded that freedom is the
natural right of all mankind and that is tis my duty to do unto others as I would desire
to be done by in the like situation and having under my care seven Negroes whom I have
heretofore held as slaves Parrot aged about forty, Sophia twenty eight, Sall Cooper twenty
three, Sarah forty five, Ovid twenty five, Dinah twenty two, Arthur twenty one they being
given me by my mother Mary Pleasants (devised by her late husband Thomas Pleasants of
Henrico County) by deed of gift of 8 Seventh Month called July 14 July 1781. 21 October
1781. recorded 21 October 1781.
p.250, I Benjamin Walker of Goochland County being fully persuaded that freedom is the
natural right of all mankind and that it is my duty to do unto others as I would desire to
be don by in the like situation and having under my care three Negores whom I have
heretofore held as slaves Lewis 35, Lydia 36, Jane 19. I hereby emancipate and set free
all and every one of the above named slaves and also having six Negroes now in their
minority Frank 17, Phillis 10, Isham 9, Jacob 5, Nancy 3, Silvia 2 weeks, etc.
p.257, I James Hunnicutt of Goochland County being fully persuaded that freedom is the
natural right of all mankind and that it is my duty to do unto others as I would desire to
be done by in the like situation and having under my care five Negroes whom I have
heretofore held as slaves; Vizt.: Nathan Freeman (30), Peter Still (29), Robin Still (24),
Lettice James (33), Patt Still (29), I hereby emancipate and set free all and every one
also Negroes now in their minority Edith James 13, David James 10, who I likewise
emancipate yet I believe it right for me to reserve the prerogative of acting as guardian
over them until the males arrive at 21 and females 18. Edith 21 October 1787. David
21 October 1793.
pp. 259-60, I Strangeman Hutchings being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural
right of all mankind and that it is my duty to do unto others as I would desire to be done
in the like situation, emancipate seven Negroes I have heretofore held as slaves Jemme
Scott 36, Joe Scott 34, Hannah Scott 32, Lucy Scott 28, Tab Prior 23, Judith Scott 18 and
having also five Negroes in their minority George Scott 17, Isham Scott 15, King Scott 14,
Stephen Scott 12, Bob Scott 9, the females at 18, the males at 21. 21 October 1782.
p.260, I Mary Pleasants of the county of Goochland being fully persuaded that freedom
is the natural right of all mankind....emancipate Cato 70, Dick 48, Biddy 65, Judy 60, 19
October 1782, proved 21 October 1782.
Deed Book 14, 1784-1788
p.44, I Thomas Taurman of Goochland County being fully persuaded that freedom is the
natural right of all mankind and that it is my duty to do unto others as I should desire
to be done in the like situation and having under my care a Negro man slave who I have
hither held as a slave named Sam about fifty years of age I hereby emancipate him 10 July
1784.
p.182, I Thomas Hutchins of Goochland county from a mature, deliberate consideration
and being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right of all mankind and being
willing to fulfill the injunction of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ by doing to others
as I would they do unto me do declare that having under my cear (sic) a Negro girl named
Agga Scott (11 years old) for myself and my heirs release unto the said Agga Scott all my
right tittle and claim or pretention of claim after she arrive to the age of 18 which will
be 1792. 23 second month 1785.
Deed Book 15, 1788-1791
p.263, I Joseph Pleasants of Goochland County believing that all men are by nature
equally free and being in possession of sundry Negroes do therefore manumit and release
all my right and title to the following Negroes. To wit, Jude (42), Fanny (35), Silvia Sr.
(33) Silvia Jr. (20), Lewis (11), Charlotte (8), Andrew (6), Jack (4), Winney (4), Sall
(2), Dick (1), Isaac (1), Nanny (1). Lewis, Andrew, Jack, Dick and Isaac to be free so
soon as they arrive to the age of twenty one. Charlotte, Winny, Sall and Nanny at the age
of eighteen. 8th day 12th month 1788. Proved 15 December 1788 further proved by James
Hunnicutt 20 July 1789.
Deed Book 16, 1791-1795
p.147, I Roger Cooper (Blacksmith) of the County of Goochland having a rightful
property in a Negro woman by the name Clarissa about twenty four years who I solmeny
entered into marriage with several years ago, and now I have by the said Clarissa several
children to wit Agnes aged five years old 22 July next and John Cooper aged two the 21
December last. For the love and affection I have for my aforesaid wife and children, I do
hereby emancipate them.... 12 February 1793.
p.244, I George Webb do hereby emancipate and set free a Mulattoe woman named Betty at
present my slave. 16 December 1793.
p252, I Paul Meatchum for divers causes and considerations have and do by these
presents liberate and emancipate my negro man Harry and do vest him with all the rights,
privileges and immunities of a free born citizen. 22 August 1793.
p.287, I Thomas Massie of the county of Goochland emancipate my man slave named James
alias James Barrett. 21 April 1794.
p.288, I Ursula Mosby of the county of Goochland believing that all men have an equal
and just right to freedom and having in my possession the following slaves, to wit Brisco
(35) Sam (34), Abram (25), Henry (23) Barlet (16), Fanny (15), Hanna (13), Amey (12),
Dicey (11), Jack (11), Rhoda (8), Beck (8), Moses (7), David (4-5), Frank (4), Jordan (9)
and Isaac (4 months) the males at age twenty one and the females at age eighteen. 12 sixth
month 1794. Ursula x Mosby 16 June 1794.
p.416, I Elizabeth Tucker Pleasants of Goochland having in my possession a negro boy
named Cupid Dean aged fourteen years and believing that all mankind have a natural,
inherent right to freedom, I do hereby emancipate and set free the aforesaid Cupid Dean
when he shall arrive to the age of twenty one. 20th second month 1794.
p.446, I Titus Freeman of Goochland County (a "free Negroe" taxable from 1783
to 1796) for good consideration me thereto moving do voluntarily and freely manumit my
negro woman slave Molly alias Molly Freeman. 15 July 1795. Titus x Freeman.
Orders 1791-4, p.432-3, 15 January 1794, Examination of Bridget Cooper, a free negro,
charged with murdering her bastard child 23 December last.... Cloe the mother of the
prisoner...Clarissa a sister of the prisoner. Witnesses to appear in Richmond: Becca
Cooper, Nancy Cooper and Janey Watkins (free negroes).
Orders 1795-7, p.52, 20 April 1795, Overseers of the Poor bind the following negro
children of Nancy Cooper: Sally (7), Sam (5), Pegg (3) and Allen (1) to Thomas Pleasants.
p.121, 20 July 1795, Overseers of the poor bind Betty, daughter of Phillis one of the
negroes set free by Benjamin Watkins, to Sally Watkins.
p.165, 21 September 1795, the Last will of Tucker Woodson, deceased, is presented in
Court. Then Mary Pollock and Margaret Payne made oath that the testator declared the 18
May 1795 that the children of Milley by the names of Jack and Suckey, born slaves...should
be free at his death.
p.185, Overseers of the Poor bind John and Joe children of Sylvia; Nancy, Diana and
Becky children of Daphne Cooper; Sally and Catherine children of Averilla Cooper. Royall
and Benjamin children of Clarissa Cooper, and Sall child of Aggy Cooper, all being free
negro children to Thomas Pleasants.
p.281, May 18, 1796, Overseers of the poor bind Sarah, Sam, Peggy and Allen, children
of Nancy, all free negroes to Thomas Pleasants.
Greensville County
Thomas Stewart (a free African American) left a 14 October 1790
Greensville County will leaving his slaves Solomon and Anaky to his wife Crecy, directing
that they be treated well and freed after six years [WB 1:181-3]. Solomon Scott registered
as a free Negro in Greensville County on 12 March 1807 [Register of Free Negroes, no. 18].
From the Register of Free Negroes at the Greensville County courthouse:
July 13, 1807, Wyatt Stewart, black complexion, 25, recovered his freedom
of Pleasant Hunnicutt of Sussex County, 5'7" high. no.11
8 March 1807, Will Pelham, dark complexion, 28, set free by Peter Pelham.
5'9-1/4" high. no. 15.
28 April 1807, David Taylor emancipated by the last will of John Taylor of
Southampton County, 33 last January, 5'5". no. 19
9 July 1812, James alias James Thweatt, emancipated by last will of David
Thweatt, dark complexion, about 30, 5' high. no. 22
9 July 1812, Judith wife of James Thweatt, emancipated by Michael Malone
of Sussex County, Va., dark complexion, 5'2", 35 years of age. no. 23.
30 December 1812, Jinny Miller emancipated by John Mason, dark complexion,
48, 5'1". no. 24
30 December 1812, Hannah Thweatt, emancipated by Rebecca Thweatt, dark
complexion, about 40, 4'10-1/2". no. 26
14 December 1813, Doctor alias Doctor Mabry, dark complexion, 70,
5'1-1/2", emancipated by last will of Nathaniel Mabry. no. 34.
2 January 1814, Thomas, alias Thomas Maclin, emancipated by John Mason,
deceased, black complexion, 21 last March, 5'3". no.35.
4 January 1817, Harry alias Harry Mabry, emancipated by the last will of
Nathaniel Mabry, light brown complexion, 27, 5'9". no. 62.
21 April 1817, David alias David Mabry, emancipated by the last will of
Nathaniel Mabry, black complexion, 25 last March, 5'9-1/2. no. 64.
11 March 1818, Cherry alias Cherry Gardner (daughter of free Lucy
emancipated by Peter Pelham), born free, dark complexion, 18 the 11 March 1818. 5'3".
no. 68.
Moses, alias Moses Pelham, black complexion, 5'5-1/2", 21 14 April
1819. no.70.
14 December 1819, Amy alias Amy Mabry emancipated by Elizabeth Mabry, 40,
5'3", yellow complexion. no.72.
13 December 1820, Judy Graves, emancipated by Richard Graves of Dinwiddie
County, dark complexion, 45, 5'2-3/4" high. no.78
25 July 1821, John alias John Batts, son of Judah emancipated by Lewis
Grigg (of Greensville), black complexion, 25, 5'7-3/8", a blacksmith. no.91.
25 July 1821, Judah alias Judah Batts, son of Judah emancipated by Lewis
Grigg (of Greensville), black complexion, 21, 5'1-5/8". no.92.
4 September 1821, Moses, son of Hannah Thweatt, emancipated by the last
will of David Thweatt, light dark complexion, 28, 5'3-7/8" a planter. no. 93
11 September 1824, Wyatt Hunnicutt, recovered his freedom of Pleasant
Hunnicutt of Sussex County, 42, 5'8-1/2" in shoes, dark complexion, a coachman.
no.116
11 June 1825, Fed alias Fed Mabry emancipated by the last will of
Nathaniel Mabry, light dark complexion, 34, 5'7-1/4", planter and sawyer. no. 150.
Halifax County
Pleas 1779-83, p.372, 19 December 1782, On motion of Thomas Hope his
Negroe boy slave Glasgow Hope is forever made free.
p.405, 19 September 1783, Bill of freedom William Echols to Solomon his
slave.
Pleas 1783-6, 17 February 1785, Rev. William P. Martin by billl
emancipated Lucy Banger. She married Peter Wilson.
p. 243, Charles Kennon emancipation to Thomas Good and sundry of his
slaves by February 1785 bill of freedom.
Reuben Ragland to Cain his slave.
p.314, 16 March 1786, Bill of freedom from James Wimbush to William
Fergusson.
Pleas 1786-88, p.107, Emancipation Willis Stegall to Negro Amey.
Pleas 1788-9, p.82, 26 January 1789, Bill of emancipation Landrom Hawkins
to sundry slaves.
Pleas 1792-5, p.561, September 1794, Bill of Emancipation John Bowrum to
James, Louisa and Sillar.
Pleas 1795-6, p.97, 26 December 1796, emancipation from Rachel Anderson to
a certain slave by the late will of John Anderson.
Pleas 1796-8
p.227, 26 June 1797, bill of emancipation, Henry B. Kerby to Amey Squire
his slave.
p.375, 22 January 1798, Bill of emancipation James Le Grand to his slave
Clarissa Martin.
p.475, July 1798, Bill of emancipation Richard A. Holland to his negroe
slave Tom.
Thomas Beech by his Halifax County will emancipated Sam Beech sometime
before
29 March 1803 when Sam registered: aged forty-five...black colour
[Register of Free Negroes 1802-31, no.19]. He married Salley Talbott.
Henrico County
Joseph Mayo, Jr. Esquire, left a 27 May 1780 Henrico County will by which he
emancipated his slaves which numbered about one hundred and fifty. He died 24 May 1785,
but his will was not proved until November 1791. At the time he wrote his will it was not
legal to manumit slaves other than for special services rendered (such as aborting a slave
revolt), and the emancipation required approval of the General Assembly. So Mayo wrote,
"It is my most earnest request that the gentlemen who shall be named and appointed
executors of this my last will, petition the general assembly for leave to set free all
and every one of the slaves of which I may die possessed on account of their services to
me whilst alive, and I intreat my said executors to leave nothing undone which may be
requisite for obtaining the manumission of the said slaves..."
His slaves over the age of 16 years and from 12-16 years were listed as
taxables in his Mecklenburg County estate in 1783:
Slaves aged 16 and over: Fortune, Will, Jack, Bristol, Jeffrey, Sci, Doll,
Ciller, Pompey, Sue, Linder. Slaves 12-16 years of age: Jude, Moll, Fanney,
Rose, Harry, Ned, Jacob, Mercer, Less? Left?, Cuffie, Patience, Phillis,
Daniel, Joseph, Jupiter, Charles, Cuffey, Tiller, James, Amy, Mingo, Jeaney,
Tom, John.
in 1784:
Slaves aged 16 and over: Fortin, Will, Jack, Bristol, Jeffry, Berry, Cye,
Doll, Sinster?, Siller Sue. Slaves 12-16 years of age: Judy, Molly, Fanny,
Rose, Henry, Nell, Hutchins, Marh, Scipio, Cuffy, Patience, Phillis, Daniel,
Will, Amy, Mingo, James, Jenny, Tom, Affey, Tiller, Joseph, Cupit, Charles,
Gilbert, Peter, Jacob
and in 1786:
Slaves aged 16 and over: Fortin, Will, Jack, Brister, Pompey, Jeffrey,
Cyfax, Sue, Doll, Siller, Linder, Jude, Ame, Jacob, Tiller. Slaves 12-16
years of age: Moll, Fanny, Rose, Ned, Hany, Fortin, Mingo, James, Jinny,
Tom, Affa, Meria, Sipio, Cuffe, Patience, Philis, Daniel, Quominer, Joseph,
Jupiter, Charles, Gilbert, Peter [PPTL, 1782-1805, frames 43, 80, 162].
His emancipated slaves Jamey, Jubiter, Charles and Tom were in Mecklenburg
County, Virginia, on 14 December 1789 when the court ordered the overseers
of the poor to bind them to Benjamin Morton of Halifax County, Virginia,
"with the exception that from the peculiar situation of these people that
learning them to read, wright and the performance of arithmatick be
dispensed with" [Orders 1787-92, 461]. See more of the Mayo family on
http://www.freeafricanamericans.com/Mason-Month.htm
Joseph Mayo also had over 60 taxable slaves in Henrico County:
Personal Property Tax List 1782-1814, frame 32,
Joseph Mayo's list for 1783: Scipio, Tom, York, Cuff, Bob, Pope, Rose, Will, Phoebe,
Sarah, Judy, Easter, Grace, Sukey, Martin, Moll, Patience, Lucy, Scipio, Sezar, Frank,
Hannah, Nancy, Arramina, Judy, Betty, Archer, Molly, Tom, Salley, Polly, Homer, Wilcher,
Mary, William, Abraham, Peyton, Randolph, R(?)ichard Lee, Matthias, Jamey, Savory, Henry,
Jamesy, Davy, Cupid, Dudder, David, Lucy, Kallister, Tamer, Dilsey, Jamey, Billy, Lucy,
Dick, Milly, Frankey, Matt, Charles, etc.
Here are some emancipations mentioned in the order books for Henrico County which will
be replaced by the actual emancipations when they become available:
Orders 1781-4, page 104, 7 October 1782, Samuel Parsons to nine of his Negroes.
Robert Pleasants, John Crew, James Ladd, and Gerald Ellison to a Negro man slave named
Dick Joles late the property of Joshua Sterrs.p.114
p.114, 4 November 1782, Thomas Johnson to a mulatoe woman slave commonly called Rebecca
Jackson. Deed Book 2:312, 30 June 1796. I Rebecca Jackson of the City of Richmond for 5
shillings paid by my slave Toby commonly called Toby Jackson emanicpate him and my son
David Jackson..
p.118, Robert Pleasants to 78 of his Negro slaves to wit, Richard Red, Phillis,
Benjamin, Agnes, George, Judy, Samuel Red (married Mrs. Polly Scott),
Effee, Jacob, Titus, Philip Gardner, Diley, Lucy, Jack Carter, Toney, Agnes, York, Moses,
Sarah, Eley, Old Benjamin, Mingo, Titus, Tobias, Isaac, Rose, Lucy, Patty, Chloe, Effee,
Gabriel, Mourning, Harry, Biddy, Dukey, Sukey, little Sukey, Jamey, Cuffee, Hannah,
Daniel, William, Terence, Milly, Cesar, Nathan, Joseph, Tabby, Dinah, Isaac, Winny, Minty,
Sterling, Lydia, Rachel, Sammy of Cloe, Polly, York, Billy, Kate, Fanny, Mingo, Aggy, Ben,
Judy, Joseph, Sarah, Jessie, Tom, Ned, Peter, Mariah, Beck, Ned, Sally, James, and Moses.
(This is in Deed Book 1, p.42: Robert Pleasants to sundry slaves Richard Red about 40, his
wife Phillis, Benjamin 30 his wife Agnes 26, George 60, Philip Gardiner 45, Diley 23, Lucy
30, Jack Carter 35, Toney 50 Agnes his wife 60, York 55, Titus of Goochland County 45,
Tobias 30, Isaac 25, Rose 29, Lucy of Goochland County 24, Paty 22, Cloe 18, ..... long
list of the remainder in minority. 31 August 1782.
p.149, 6 January 1783, William Binford to 18 of his Negro slaves to wit George, Joseph,
David, Paty, Janey, young Janey, Betty, Sally, Amey, Rachel, Milly, Fanny, Judith, Nelly,
Dilcey, Amos, Abraham, and Isaac.
p. 534, 3 May 1784, Robert Pleasants and Samuel Pleasants to 12 slaves, vizt: Carpenter
Will, Nat, Cesar, Fanny, Aggy, Sam, Sharper, Biddy, Judy, Stephen, Biddy, and Meriah late
the property of John and Jonathan Pleasants, dec.
p.525, 8 April 1784, Mary Jackson who is detained in slavery by Martin Hawkins of this
county is allowed to sue in forma pauperis.
Orders 1784-7, p.386, 2 January 1786, Edmund Randolph, Esq. to a Negro man named Robert
Cowley. Robert Goode to a Negro man named Abraham.
p.568, 4 September 1786, Caley Burcker to Negroe man slave Peter Robinson.
Orders 1787-9, p.51, 4 June 1787, Isaac Younghusband to his Negro woman Kitty.
p.346, 7 July 1788, John Orr to Isaac Wood a Negroe (married Abby Scott).
p.348, John Roper to Spy? a Negro slave.
Orders 1789-91, p.67, 8 August 1789, William DuVal to his Negro slave man William
Anthony.
p.83, 5 October 1789, Elizabeth Pleasants to slave Ned commonly called Ned Deane.
p.129, 7 December 1789, Samuel Arnold to slave Kesiah (aged 49, DB 3:136)
p.139, 4 January 1790, Isaac Wood to slave Nelly commonly called Nelly Wood (his wife).
(DB 3:157),
p.415, 3 January 1791, John Lyne to a Negroe woman slave Phillis.
p.422, 7 February 1791, William Binford to his negroe man slave Titus (DB 3:378).
Edward West to Sundry slaves.
p.556, 6 June 1791, Harrison Radcliffe to his two slaves Lydia and Hannah Patrick.
p.584, 3 August 1791, William Duncan to his negro woman and child Felix.
Orders 1791-4, p.52, 6 December 1791, Deed of Emancipation Harry Cooper to his slave
Nanny. Harry Cooper to his slave Salley.
p.76, 5 March 1792, Deed of Emancipation Charles Dilson alias Parsons to sundry slaves.
DB 3:570, Dilson of the City of Richmond to negro woman Janny 28 and her children Charles
4, Judith, my beloved wife and child.
p.139, 3 April 1793, Deed of Emancipation John Kennedy to his Negro woman slave Sally.
p.150, 7 May 1793, William Fraser to his slave Polly Burgess, Junr.
Jean Southall to her slave Charlotte Boush.
p.156, Deed of Emancipation Andrew Frayser to Peggy Bass.
p.165, 9 May 1792, Deed of Emancipation Harthorne & Lindley to their slave Harry.
p.204, 4 June 1792, Deed of Emancipation William Willis to slaves Moses Wilson and
Richard Willis. (DB 4:16, William Willis to his two negro men Moses Wilson 36 and Richard
Willis 33.
p.216, 2 July 1792, Deed of Emancipation Sarah Rawlings to her slave George called
George Lewis.
p.217, Deed of Emancipation Will McKenzie, executor of Jacob Rubsamen, decd., to Dolly
and her child Nanny late the property of the decedent.
p.226, 3 July 1792, Deed of Emancipation David Ross to Christopher McPherson.
p.304, 7 November 1792, Deed of Emancipation William McKenzie, ececutor of Jacob
Rubsamon to negro woman slave Patt.
p.321, 3 December 1792, Deed of Emancipation Thomas Gilliat to his Mulatto girl slave
Nancy.
Deed of Emancipation Alexander Baine to his mulatto woman slave Salley.
p.323, Deed of emancipation Alexander Baine to his negro woman slave Lydia.
p.,324, Deed of emancipation Caleb Trueblood to his negroe boy slave Benjamin.
p.343, 7 January 1793, Deed of Emancipation Alexander Baine to his mulatto woman
Salley. (DB 4:122, to a Mulatto woman named Sally who formerly belonged to Lewelling Epps
of Charles City County. 6 April 1791).
p.514, 3 June 1793, Deed of Emancipation Samuel Tinsley to his slaves Betty, Polly,
Sarah, Nancy and John. DB 4:212, Anne Meriwether to Samuel Tinsley five Negroes Betty,
Polly, Nanny, Sarah & Jack for 120 pounds.Samuel Tinsley emancipation to ditto. 12
February 1790.
p.608, 7 October 1793, Deed of emancipation Humphrey Nichols to his negro woman Grace.
615, Nathaniel Pope to his slave Diana and her daughter Sally.
p.666, 2 December 1793, Deed of emancipation James Wood to his four slaves Ben, Ned,
Tom, and Penelope. DB 4:332, James Wood to slaves Ben 32, Ned 28, Sam 22, Penelope 32. 3
December 1793.
p.724, 7 July 1793, John Dandridge to his slave Nancy called Lyons Nancy and her child
Maria.
Orders 1794-6, p.168, 5 January 1795, Nathaniel Reynolds to his slave Catherine or Caty
Burnham and David her son and Caty her daughter.
Abraham Skipworth to his slaves Cloe Maria. (DB 4:165).
p.184, 6 January 1795, James Runnels to his slave Fanny Runnels.
p.371, 5 May 1795, Deed of Emancipation James Redford to George Redford, a black
freeman. DB 4:585, James Redford of Henrico for 33 pounds by George Redford (a black
freeman) of the City of Richmond one negro slave Aggy. 4 May 1795.
p.397, Deed of Emancipatioin John Mayo to his negro man Peter Hankins.
p.497, 5 October 1795, Deed of Emancipation Jackson Frayser to his slave Richard.
p.586, 8 December 1795, Deed of Emancipation Nelly Wood to her daughter Janette.
p.596, Deed of Emancipation Thomas Gibson to his slave Lucy.
Deed Book 4, 1792-1796, p.645, I Jackson Frayser of Henrico County have received of
Richard a Negro man I purchased from Peter Sharp 10 pounds in full for his emancipation. 4
April 1795.
p.692, I Nelly Wood of Richmond for the natural love I have for my daughter Janette
Wood set free and emancipate her. 21 December 1795.
Orders 1796-8, 2 May 1796, p.53, Deed of Emancipation Samuel John Sykes to his slave
Easter.
p.90, 1 August 1796, Deed of Emancipation Alexander to his slave Louisa.
p.145, 5 September 1796, Deed of emancipation Miller Hart & co. to their negro
slave Peggy.
p.146, John Lawson to his slave Judy Kapper.
p.213, 5 December 1796, John H. Breazeal to his negro woman slave Lucy Smith.
p.214, John Marshall to his slave Peter.
p.233, 6 February 1797, William DuVal to his negro woman slave Sylvia and his slave
Nanny.
deed of emancipation William DuVal to Anne Brown.
William DuVal to George Blair.
George Wythe to his man slave Ben
George Wythe to his man slave James.
p.241, 7 February 1797, George DuVal to his slave George
p.244, Deed of Emancipation John H. Breazeal to his negro man Elick Price.
p.246, Mary Anne Robertson to her negro woman slave Nancy.
p.324, 5 June 1797, Samuel paine to his negro man Daniel commonly called Daniel Cooper.
p.428, 4 September 1797, William S. Smith to his negro man slave Peter.
p.440, Robert Sydnor to his negro woman slave Judy.
Orders 1798-9, p.119, 2 July 1798, Frederick Leigh Claiborne to his negro woman slave
Delphia.
p.133, Aaron Lucas to his negro man named Dick Key.
p.248 Gervas Storrs to his mulatto slave Jacob.
p.345, 4 February 1799, James Meredith to his slave Alice or Ailcey.
p.358, 5 February 1799, Robert Pleasants to his three slaves Moses, Nat and James.
p.444, 1 April 1799, Thomas Mann Randolph to his slave Betty.
p.520, 3 June 1799, Thomas Hooper to his slave Jerry.
p.521, Daniel Trueheart to his slave Hannah.
p.557, 1 July 1799, David M. Randolph to his slave William Davis.
Land Tax List Upper District of Henrico County 1802:
William Jones's land in pursuance of his will is divided among his Negroes as follows:
Jesse 13 acres, Sampson 29 acres, Reuben 32 acres, Stephen 32 acres, Isaac 32 acres, Roger
32 acres, Harry 12-1/2 acres, Bobb 12-1/2 acres, Moses 12-1/2 acres, Joe 12-1/2 acres,
Joshua 9-1/2 acres, Pegg 13 acres, Wilson 13 acres, Sam 13 acres, Saminy 13 acres, Phillis
29 acres, Biddy 32 acres, Patty 32 acres, George 32 acres, Nanny 12-1/2 acres, Fleny?
12-1/2 acres, Daniel 12-1/2 acres, Sheppard 12-1/2 acres, Peter 12-1/2 acres, Sally 9-1/2
acres, Edy 9-1/2 acres, Simon 9-1/2 acres, Nelson 9-1/2 acres, Dicy 9-1/2 acres, Lucy
9-1/2 acres, David 9-1/2 acres, Jenny 9-1/2 acres.
Deed Book 5, 1796-1800, 71, Campbell to Louisa emancipation.
p.126 Brazeal to Smith emancipation.
p.197 Duval to Lydia emancipation.
p.198, Duval to Nanny emancipation. Duval to Brown emancipation.
p.200 Duvall to Blair emancipation.
p.222, Duval to Goerge emancipation.
p.227 Brazeal to Price emancipation.
p.383, I Claiborn Evans (a free African American) proprietor of Negro woman named
Aggy by virtue of a bill from James Shepherd of the City of Richmond emancipate her. 18
December 1797. proved 21 December 1797. Claiborn x Evans.
p.491 Claiborn to Delphia emancipation.
p.569. Robert Pleasants to Moses, Nat and James. 13 day 1st month 1799.
p.587, Hooper to Jerry emancipation.
p.675, Joseph Price to a mulatto man commonly called Isaac Price about 25 years of age.
6 January 1800.
p.679, Brazeal to Jack Thomas emancipation.
p.711, Eggleston to sundry slaves emancipation.
Deed Book 6, 1800-1803
p.100, Curle to Dick Lewis emancipation.
p.159, Foster to Nancy White emancipation.
p.442, Barnett to Hampshire emancipation.
Deed Book 6, 1800-1803, p.243, Foster to Nancy White emancipation.
p.440, list of slaves possessed by William Jones at the time of his death and
emancipated. Names and birth dates. 27 slaves 7 February 1803.
Deed Book 7, page 264, 5 August 1805, Ann Berry (a free African American) to her negro
slave called Adam Floyd lately the property of Isaac Winston who sold him to the said Ann
Berry 13 July court last for good causes has emancipated him.
p.443, James Wood emancipation to Anna Butler. 5 April 1806.
p.462, Robert Anderson for valuereceived by me set free my mulatto slave Nancy
(commonly called Nancy Bird) with her infant boy called Henry Anglo Americanus. 3 June
1805.
Isle of Wight County
Thomas Newby freed his slaves Peter (30), Joe (40) on 4 February 1783, Jacob (32)
and another Jacob to be free in March 1800 [DB 15:116].
Peter Newby was a "free Negro" taxable in Sussex County in 1784; Joseph Newby
was a "F.N." taxable there in 1804; Jacob Newby was a F.N. taxable there in 1805
and 1806 [PPTL 1782-1812, frames 114, 627, 639, 667].
Isaac, Joe, Milly, Edy, Zilpha, Charlotte, Sally, Judy, and Amelia Newby were counted
as "free Negroes" in the 1813 tax list for Isle of Wight County [Waldrep, 1813
Tax List]. Peter Newby and wife Nanny were FN's listed in Southampton County in 1813.
In Dinwiddie County James Newby, a cooper, and wife Polly lived near Exeter Mill, Joseph
Newby was a cooper, and Jonus Newby lived on Robert Hunnicutts land in 1813 [PPTL].
See Nicholls and Howard's abstract of the deeds:
Isle of Wight County Deed Book 15,
1782-1786
LVA Reel # 9
p. 116–Thos Newby of I of W having under my care 19 Negroes [only 18
named] whom I have heretofore held as slaves of the following names and ages, viz: Dick,
54; Esther, 56; Cate 45; Rose, 45; Hannah, 40; Sarah, 31; Zelphia, 25; Nann, 19; Patt, 18;
Lydie, 20; Judith, 23; Joe, 40; Sam, 36; Jacob, 32; Peter, 30; Jim, 29; Lewis, 22; Ned,
21; being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right of all man kind and that it is
my duty to do unto others as I would be done by in the like situation.....and also having
17 Negroes now in their minority frees the males at 21 and the females at 18 vizt:
Rosannah in Feb 86; Lydia in Oct 92; Gilly in Aug 93; Jacob in Jan 93; David in Jan 91;
Isaac in Nov 87; John Robertson in Jan 90; Sarah in Jan 88; Jacob in Mar 1800; Hardy in
May 99; Kate in May 99; Cherry in Mar 98; Bob in June 1802; Charles? In June 1800; Lucy in
Jan 95; Cain in June 1801; Joe in Dec 1803; 4 Feb 83–rec 6 Feb 83
p. 118–Courtney X Hollowell of I of W being fully persuaded that
freedom is the natural right and duty unto others etc frees Negro man Titus aged
24–also frees Negro boy Micah aged abt 3 yrs old but reserves right of guardianship
until 21 yrs old–so free on 25 Dec 1800–23 Dec 82–rec 6 Feb 83
p. 119–William Hollowell of I of W being fully persuaded that freedom
is natural right and duty to others etc–frees Negro girl Huldah when she turns 18 in
Dec 1788–21 Dec 82–rec 6 Feb 83
p. 120–Scott Hollowell of I of W fully persuaded that freedom is
natural right and duty to others etc–frees Negro Gideon aged 26; Negro girl Betsey
when turns 18 in May 1795–retains guardianship over her–21 Dec 82–rec 6 Feb
83–
p. 122–Joseph Hill of I of W after mature deliberation and agreeable
to our Bill of Rights am fully persuaded that freedom is natural right and no law moral or
divine gives me a just right or property in ..any of my fellow creatures....and having
under my care 4 Negroes whom I have heretofore held as slaves vizt Dick, 50; Isaac 41;
Amey, 35; Jinney 25 (and Randolph aged 34 who belongs to my mother her life) frees them
and also having 7 now in their minority frees males at 21 and females at 18 reserving
guardianship–viz: Lucy in July 86; Nanny in Jan 87; Anakah in Sept 88; Moses in Sept
93; Nanny Jr in Sept 92; Pegg in Dec 98; Siller in Dec 1800 –6 Mar 1783–rec 6
Mar 83 –signed by wife Martha Hill, too
p. 124–John Pretlow of I of W fully persuaded that freedom is natural
right and duty unto others etc frees Betty, 46; James, 23; Robin, 21 yrs and 2
months–also 5 now in their minority reserving guardianship until males 21 and females
18 viz: Hannah in July 92; Joseph in Mar 85; Sampson on 1 Nov 87; Jane on 13 Dec 86; Peggy
on 15 Oct 95;—25 Aug 82–rec 6 Mar 83
p. 126–Robert Johnson of I of W fully persuaded freedom is natural
right and duty unto others etc frees Will, 34; Skipper, 24; Patience, 21; and frees when
males are 21 and females 18 reserving guardianship for Negroes Benn who was 20 on 15 Oct
82; Selah abt 11 on 1 June 82; Cate who was 8 on 23 Feb 82; Pompy aged 4 on 30 May 82,
Willis who was 2 on 8 June 82; Mike was born 5 Aug 82–22 Oct 82–rec 6 Mar
83–
p. 128–Elijah Johnson of I of W fully persuaded freedom is natural
right and duty unto others frees 2 viz: Negro girl Cydee aged abt 14 and Sarah aged abt 13
when they are 18 reserving guardianship–Cyddy to be free in 1786 and Sarah in
1787–18 Sept 82–rec 6 Mar 83
p. 129–Robert Johnson, Jr. of I of W–freedom is natural right
and duty unto others–frees Negro girl Rachel aged 17 when she is 18 on 30 Mar
1783–18 Sept 82–rec 6 Mar 83
p. 130–Martha Lawrence of I of W has two Negroes has held as slaves
viz Doll 28 and Isaac 21, frees them fully persuaded that freedom is natural right and
duty unto others etc–plus those in their minority viz; males at 21 and females at 18
reserving guardianship on Cherry in Jan 89; Sampson in Jan 93; Siah in Dec 92; Hannah in
Dec 95; Courtney in Nov 98; Patience in Dec 1800; –2 Oct 82–rec 6 Mar 83–
p. 132–John Denson of I of W fully persuaded that freedom is natural
right and duty unto others etc–frees Negro woman Rose aged 48–and John now in
his minority aged 6 20 Dec 82 frees him reserving guardianship until he is 18–6 Mar
83–rec 6 Mar 83
p. 133–Joseph Johnson of I of W fully persuaded that freedom is
natural right and duty unto others etc–frees Negro girl Cate aged 14 when she is 18
on 30 June 86–18 Sept 82–rec 6 Mar 83
p. 135–William Scott of I of W having under his care 14 Negroes whom
he has held as slaves viz: Sampson, 58; Dorcas, 53; Joe, 46; Hannah 50; Cate, 47; Nell,
30; Treasey, 28; Sam, 35; Harry 34; Moses, 35; Chaunce, 27; Joan, 24; Tom, 21; Moses, 21
and 14 in their minority when males are 21 and females 18 reserving guardianship over viz:
Dick 19 21 last Aug; Mina, 17 on 18 Mar 82; Sarah, 16; Nancy 14 on 13 Dec 82; Pleasant 11
on 16 Feb 82; Benn, 11 27 July 82; James, 9 on 1 Jan 82; Jacob 9 20 Dec 82; Isaac 7, 15
Mar 82; Aaron 5, 15 Mar 82; Cate 2, 23 Mar 82; David 1, 20 Sept 82; Sucky 1, 20 Nov 82;
Edah 1, 28 Dec 82;–5 Nov 82–rec 6 Mar 83
p. 136–Matthew Jordan, Jr of I of W fully persuaded that freedom is
natural right and duty to others etc frees Judith aged 46 and three in their minority
reserving guardianship on males until 21 and females until 18: Thomas in June 94; Nancy in
Jan 9? [in crack] Fanny in Aug 98–13 Sept 82–rec 6 Mar 83
p. 148–Sarah Hollowell, Scott Hollowell, William Hollowell and
Courtney Hollowell of I of W fully pursuaded that freedom is natural right and doing unto
others etc freed Negroes Hagar, 56; Stephen 46; Dinah 33; Sampson 26 and Negro boy Amos
aged 1 when he is 21 on 12 Nov 1802 reserving guardianship etc–23 Dec 82–rec 3
April 83
p. 150–Jacob Randolph of I of W fully persuaded that freedom is
natural right and duty to others etc frees Negroes Dempsey 36; Harry, 22; Judah, 31;
Hagar, 33 infirm; Mourning, 31; and 9 in their minority when males are 21 and females 18
retaining guardianship on Simon, 14; Juba, 11; Amey, 8; Jinney, 9; Benn 3 ½; David, 5;
Kinchen, 3; Judy, 1 ½; Harry, 3: 11 Sept 82–rec 3 April 1783
p. 161--Sussex County–this day came before me one of the JP of
commonwealth of Va Richard Andrews and made oath that Jacob and Peter Negro men belonging
to Thomas Newby of I of W are sound in body and mind and that they exceed 21 and do not
exceed 40 yrs of age-given under my hand this 27 June 83–Peter Jones–a
certificate of the ages of Jacob and Peter freed by T. Newby–certificate recorded 4
Aug 83–
p. 456–Lazarus Johnson of I of W fully persuaded that freedom is
natural right and duty to others etc–frees Negro woman Violet aged 39–and 6 in
their minority reserving guardianship–Phebe will be of age 178[crack] ; China will be
18 on 30 Mar 90; Beck will be 18 on 15 Feb 93; Jonas will be 21 on 15 May 98; Judy will be
18 on 19 April 98; Rose will be 18 on 9 Feb 1800 –23 April 83–rec 4 Nov 84
p. 459–Aaron Cornwall of I of W fully persuaded that freedom is
natural right and duty to others etc–frees Negro Syrus aged abt 40–5 Jan
85–rec 6 Jan 85–
p. 520–Robert Watkins of I of W has two Negroes under his care frees
Easter aged 37 next April and Jack who is 11 on 28 Oct 85 when he is 21–26 Mar
85–rec 2 June 85
p. 606 and 605 missing–on page 606 is the end of a deed of
manumission by Lydia Jordan recorded 1 Dec 85 and dated Nov 85–no day–frees
Esther and four in their minority–ie Betty born 8 Aug 76; Dennis born 24 May 79;
Lewis born 5 Oct 81; and Rachel born 21 Feb 84–when they turn 21 if male and 18 if
female–deed proved upon affirmationof Thos Newby and Richd Jordan ie Quakers–
p. 606–Jeremiah Outland of I of W convinced freedom is natural right
etc frees Dick aged 28 and Pat aged 43–also Negro boy named Paul born 2 Dec 70 when
he turns 21–also affirmed by Newby and Jordan–1 Nov 85–rec 1 Dec 85
p. 616–Josiah Jordan of I of W persuaded that freedom is natural
right and duty to others etc frees 10 Negroes viz: Tom abt 68; Kitt abt 50; Tom 47; James
35; Tom Creek 47; Dick 40; Kitt 31?; Mingo 36; Hannah 48; Delph 35 and in their minority
Lewis 15; Bob 13; Charlotte 6; Peter 2 when males 21 and females 18–Thos Newby and
Peter Randolph affirm–24 Oct 85–rec 2 Feb 86
p. 647–Josiah Cook of I of W fully persuaded that freedom is natural
right and duty to others etc frees Negroes Samuel 26; Juday 45, Eady abt 6 and Lemuel aged
abt 2–3 May 86–rec 6 July 86–
Isle of Wight County Virginia
Deed Book 16, 1786-1793
LVA Reel #9
p. 51–Jacob Randolph and Joseph Pretlow of Nansemond County fully
persuaded that freedom is natural right of all mankind and duty unto others etc-frees
Negro Nero abt 60 yrs of age–23 May 87–rec 7 June 1787
p. 242–John Pope of I of W–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc–frees Simon aged abt 60; Pheby aged abt 30 and Doll aged abt
21–plus those in their minority viz Scotland a boy born 24 April 73; Bob born the 3
Jan 85 and Harrison born 14 Feb 87 reserving guardianship until they are 21–5 April
90–rec 6 April 1790
p. 282–Robert Watkins of I of W–freedom is natural right and do
unto others etc–frees Negro man Jonas aged abt 41 and Negro woman Beck aged abt
40–also 8 others in their minority when males reach 21 and females 18 viz: Hannah
born Sept 73; James born 28 Mar 76; Natt born 25 April 79; Nancy born 25 April 81; Diver
born 15 Nov 83; Jacob born 26 Mar 86; Sam born 15 Dec 89; and Tom born 6 Feb 90–2 Aug
90–rec 6 Sept 1790
p. 313–Matthew Jordan of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc-frees Negro man Benn aged 35–Negro girl Rose aged 19 when she
turns 21–7 Feb 91–rec same
p. 313–Prudence X Clark of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others–frees three Negroes–ie Daphney aged 22; Rose aged 42; and
Sarah aged 3 yrs–21 April 90–rec 7 Feb 1791
p. 314–Laurence Baker of I of W has in his possession a Negro woman
named Celia aged abt 42 whom I purchased of James Wills esq sheriff of I of W at the
public sale of the estate of Richard Wrenn to satisfy Thos Wrenn’s exec–now in
consideration of L12.1.0 current money of Va to me paid by the said Celia and which was
furnished by the said Celia at the aforesaid sale being the purchase money paid for her
frees her–3 Feb 91–rec 7 Feb 1791
p. 320–James Jordan of I of W–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc–frees 9 Negroes viz: Siller abt 44; Courtney, 40; Harry, 23; Ben, 22;
Tom, 14; Ben, 12, Sall, 7; Chaney, 2; Hannah, 1 yr–the latter 5 when reach lawful
age–5 Mar 91–rec 5 April 1791
p. 321–James Hunter of I of W–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc–frees 7 Negroes viz Jack, 60; Isaac, 39; Edy, 26; Pleasant 6; Isaac,
4; Tom, 2; Amy, 1 yr the latter 4 when reach lawful age–25 Feb 91–rec 5 April
1791
p. 345–Thomas Carrell and Polly Uzzell of I of W–freedom is
natural right and doing unto others–frees Rose aged abt 23 yrs–nd except
1791–rec 5? June 1791
Isle of Wight Deed Book 17
1791-1796
LVA Reel # 10
p. 3–John Gwaltney of I of W–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc–frees 5 Negro slaves viz: Hannah a woman abt 29; and her four
children to wit Cherry a girl abt 8; Dempsey a boy abt 6; Pleasant a boy abt 4; John a boy
abt 2 weeks old –18 July 91–rec 5 Sept 1791
p. 13–David Jones of I of W–freedom is natural right–having
4 Negroes in his possession frees Nanny, 26 yrs, and when reach 21: James, 9: Phill, 3;
Lewis, 5 months old–3 Oct 91–rec same
p. 48–Thomas X Hollowell and Mary Hollowell of I of W–freedom is
natural right and doing unto others etc–frees 2 Negroes viz Moses aged 30 and Jonah
aged 26 and two in their minority when they turn 21; viz Amos to be free 1 Jan 1803 and
Nathan the 1 Jan 1807–3 Mar 92–rec 3 April 1792
p. 63–Wm Hollowell late of I of W in last will gave his wife Sarah
the use of certain slaves to wit Stephen, Dinah and Sampson during her life and at her
death to pass to his six children via Scott, Wm, Courtney, Thomas, Sarah and Mary
Hollowell–Scott, William and Courtney have relinquished their claim to the slaves so
Thomas X Hollowell, Stephen Peebles, husband of Sarah and Mary Hollowell believing that
freedom is natural right free Stephen, Dinah and Sampson together with their increase via
Nancy and Dinah–8 May 92–rec 4 June 92
p. 92–David Bradley of I of W agreeable to Bill of Rights and freedom
is natural right and doing unto others etc–frees Negroes Frank, 46 yrs old; Dick, 47;
and Abby 24; and at age 21 Salley in May 1800–3 Sept 92–rec same
p. 103–Willis Jones of I of W–from his conscience and holy
scripture that freedom is natural right frees Negro woman Jenny Black and her two children
namely Cherry Black and Levy Black as soon as the two children reach 21–1 Oct
92–rec same
p 113–Peter X Fagan, Sr of I of W having lately purchased a woman by
the name of Harriett (otherwise called Harriett Johnson) of one Henry Adams of Sohampton,
which said woman has been hitherto held as a slave and was purchased by the aforesaid
Adams of Jn Taylor, Sr of Sohampton by whom she was bought of the sheriff of Surry under
an execution issued on a judgment obtained against the exec of the late Col. Rich Kello,
decd the said woman having been formerly the property of Col Rich Kello, aforesaid and by
him given to his daughter Mary who intermarried with Mr Wm Cock of Surry in the possession
of whose administrators the said Harriet was at the time of levying the execution before
mentioned–so Fagan having purchased her with the express intention of setting her
free and for divers other causes me thereunto moving frees her–4 Jan 93–rec 7
Jan 1793–
p. 153–William James of I of W–agreeable to Bill of Rights,
freedom is natural right and doing unto others etc–frees Negro woman Chloe, 39 yrs
old and William when 21 on 25 Dec 1798 and Peter who will be 21 on Dec 20, 1802–1
July 93–rec same
p. 157–Lamuel X Hicks of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro girl Amy abt 11 yrs of age when of lawful age in
1803–2 Sept 93–rec same
p. 158–Celia X Bowcock of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc frees Negro man Cyrus aged abt 45 she purchased from Laurence Baker,
esq–3 Sept 93–rec same
p. 180–Thomas Uzzell Sr of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees 8 Negroes viz:Keter aged 60; Pegg, abt 30; Jemima aged
20; Isham abt 14; Lewis abt 6; Rhoda abt 3, Milla aged abt 1 yr and Sarah aged abt 9
months–those in their minority at lawful age–6 Jan 94–rec 3 Feb 1794
p. 202–John Outland, Jr of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc frees Negro woman Dorcas aged 39 and Negro man Dick aged 25–23
Aug 94–rec 1 Sept 94
p 210–We the subscribers having a lawful right to Kate aged abt 50,
Pomppy [sic] aged abt 36 and Lucy aged abt 34 frees them now and Negro boy Mills, now 1 yr
and 6 months when he is 21. Moses Harris, Frederick Hall, Ann Best, Josiah Cook, Jospeh
Barrow, Jn Barrow, sr, Martha X Barrow, Jn Barrow, jr, Jn Vick, Eroda Barrow, Charlton
Hall–28 Dec 91–rec 7 July1794–Thos Newby and Lemuel Eley affirm the
signatures–
p. 226–Shemuel Godwin of I of W–freedom is natural right and do
unto others etc–frees Negro woman Pegg aged abt 40 yrs–6 Oct 1794–rec same
p. 273–Francis Young of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro man Nat aged abt 35 yrs–13 April 1795–rec
1 June 1795
p. 289–Simmons Gwaltney of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro man Daniel aged abt 54 yrs–1 June 95–rec
6 July 1795–followed by Gwaltney and James Gwaltney’s 200L bond that Daniel
won’t become chargable to the said county--
p. 310–Mary Baker of I of W–agreeable to Bill of Rights, freedom
is natural right–frees Negro woman Frank aged 24 at her death and relinquish all
right to property and her posterity–frees Negro girl named Milly Simpson when she
will be 18 on 15 Dec 1807; and Negro boy Moses Moseley when he is 21 on 29 Dec
1812–appts friend David Bradley his guardian–7 Sept 95–rec
same
Isle of Wight County Deed Book 18 1796-1802
LVA Reel # 10
p. 10–William Hollowell and Susanna his wife of I of W–freedom
is natural right and doing unto others etc–frees 7 Negroes–viz: Aggatha, 42;
Aggy, 42; Fillis, 23; and Ephraim, 7 on 1 Jan 1810; Daniel, 5 on 1 Jan 1812; Polly, 1 on 1
Jan 1813; and Luoreesy, 8 months, on 1 Jan 1814–13 Jan 1796–rec 1 Feb 1796
p. 50–Isaac Hall of I of W–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc–frees Dick–no age etc given–20 Oct 95–rec 5 Sept 1796
p. 70–Abraham Johnson and John Denson of I of W–freedom is
natural right and doing unto others–frees Negro boy named Harry now in his minority
and will be 21 in Dec 1796–23 Nov 1793–rec 3 Oct 1796
p. 117–John Johnson of I of W–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc–frees Negro boy named Ned aged 17 sometime in this past year when he
is 21–19 Dec 1796–rec 6 Feb 97
p. 119–James Gwaltney of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro man Peter aged abt 44–2 July 96–rec 6 Feb
1797
p. 128–Mills Wills of I of W–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc–frees Negro man Kitt aged abt 35–4 April 97–rec same
p. 224–Penelope Watkins of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others–frees Negro girl Martha aged 17 and Negro boy aged 4 but
unnamed–when reach lawful ages–16 Dec 97–rec 1 Jan 1798
p. 251–Matthew Jordan of I of W–freedom is natural
right–frees Negro woman Amey aged abt 25 and Negro boy Harrison abt 4 yrs old when he
is 21–2 April 98–rec same
p. 273–George Benn of I of W–Bill of rights, freedom as natural
right and doing unto others etc–frees 8 Negroes–Coffee aged abt 50; Dick aged
41; Moses aged 29; Judy aged 56; Christian aged 17 7 Jan 98 in Jan 1802; Tom aged 15 in
Aug 98 in Aug 1803; Andrew aged 14 in Mar 98 in Mar 1805; and Amy aged 5 in Jan 98 in Jan
1814–22 May 98–rec 4 June 1798
p. 304–Phillip X Bowzer of I of W–freedom is natural right and
do unto others etc–frees Negro woman Sarah aged 50–Sept 97–rec 3 Sept 1798
p. 307–William Blunt of I of W-freedom is natural right and do unto
others etc–frees Negro woman Sall aged abt 30–and when they reach majority two
males her sons ie Randolph who will be 21 on 1 April 1819 and Charles now abt 2 months old
who will be 21 in June 1821–3 Sept 98–rec same
p. 308–Hannah X Green of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro man Jack Lancaster aged abt 36–1 Oct
98–rec same–on page 306 Hannah Green buys from John X Wombwell of Sohampton Co
for 50L current Negro man Jack on 3 Jan 98
p. 351–John Joyner of I of W–Bill of Rights, freedom is natural
right and doing unto others etc–frees 5 Negroes to wit Dick aged 26, Yarrow aged 25,
Jenny aged 27, Aggy aged 25 and Beck aged 25. And 11 Negroes now in minority when they are
apparently 25 yrs old viz: Sam in 1811; George in 1813; Lucy in 1811; Sall in 1815;
Charles in 1818; Simon in 1820; Charlotte in 1822; Conny in 1815; Harrison in 1817; Moses
in 1820 and Hulday in 1824– 4 Feb 1799–rec 5 Feb 1799
p. 366–Robert Lawrence of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees 3 Negroes–Dinah aged 40; Jane aged 18 and Rachel
aged 35–also 8 young Negroes when reach lawful age ie David aged 17; Jane aged 13;
Phillis aged 13; Samuel aged 11; Chaney aged 6; Henry aged 4; Anne aged 2 yrs and Nathan
aged 11 1/2 yrs [months?]–1 April 1799–rec same
p. 383–Thomas Hall of I of W-Bill of Rights, freedom is natural right
and doing unto others etc–frees Negro Ned Mears aged abt 40–2 Feb 99–rec 3
June 1799
p. 388–Joseph Chapman of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro woman Prudence -no age given–Aug 1798–rec
2 Sept 99
p. 414–James Morrison of I of W–consideration of Bill of Rights,
freedom is natural right and doing unto others etc–frees Coffee aged abt 43 a
bricklayer by trade-20 Mar 1800–rec 7 April 1800
p. 492–James X Bowzer of I of W–deliberation of Bill of Rights,
freedom is natural right and doing unto others etc–frees Negro Bridget aged abt 57
whom I bought of Priscilla West–5 Sept 1800–rec 6 Oct 1800--
p. 497–Robert Laurence of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees 3 Negroes viz: Randall aged 21, Sarah aged 19, Winney
aged 11–agreeable to act of assembly of 1782–5 Jan 1801–rec same
p. 502–Mallory Todd hereby emancipates a Negro man slave called
Sussex whom he purchased at a sale of estate of Wm Daviss, decd–1 Dec 1800–ack
and ordered rec same
p. 502–Mallory Todd emancipates a Negro man slave named Toby
purchased at estate sale of Wm Davis, decd—1 Dec 1800–ack and ordered rec same
p. 529–Selah X Godwin of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro man Lewis aged 30–7 Jan 01–rec 3 Feb 1801
p. 530–Selah X Godwin of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro man named Miles aged 40–7 Jan 1801–rec 3
Feb 1801
p. 557–Coffee X Wilkinson of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees a Negro man he bought of Mills Wills by the name of Jesse
commonly called Ram Jesse–6 April 1801–rec same
p. 565–Selah X Godwin of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negroes Dolly aged 23 and James aged 15–23 Mar
1801–rec 6 April 1801
p. 566–Selah X Godwin of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negroes Ann aged 45 and Kie aged 43–23 Mar
1801–rec 6 April 1801
p. 596–Joseph Duck of I of W–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc–frees Negro Sam aged abt 30–20 April 1801–rec 6 July 1801
p. 617–Robert Laurence of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro man George aged 35–5 Oct 1801–rec same
p. 618–Josiah Godwin of I of W–freedom is natural right and
slavery is repugnant to republican principles–frees Negro Jack aged abt 15–1 Oct
1801–rec 5 Oct 1801
p. 637–Robert Laurence of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro Isaac aged 16–when lawful ie according to act
of 1782–4 Jan 1802–rec same
Isle of Wight County Deed Book
19 1802-1805
LVA Reel # 11
p. 33–Robert Laurence of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro Sam aged 26–4 Jan 1802–rec same
p 92–Mary X Wail of I of W–all men by nature equally
free–frees Negro man Peter–4 May 1803–rec 6 June 1803
p. 120–Jacob Butler of I of W–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc–frees Negro woman Cate aged 41–31 Dec 1802–rec 4 July 1803
p. 165–John Pope of I of W frees Negro Huldy aged 13–5 Dec
1803–rec same
p. 196–John Parker, Jr of I of W–bill of rights, freedom is
natural right and doing unto others etc frees Negro woman Peggy Blair aged abt 27–17
Dec 1803–rec 2 Jan 1804
p. 265–James Gwaltney, Simmons Gwaltney and John Gwaltney all of I of
W–freedom is natural right and doing unto others free Negro man named Benjamin abt 37
yrs old–24 Dec 1803–rec 2 July 1804
p. 293–Andrew Woodley of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro man Tim aged 57 whom I purchased of Robert
Tynes–5 Aug 1804–rec same
p. 294–Know all men by these presents that I Isham Jordan of I of W
hath sold unto Wm Stewart (mulatto) one female slave named Meriah aged abt 2 yrs for the
consideration sum of 90$–6 Aug 1804–rec 3 Sept 1804
p. 294–William X Stewart of I of W–bill of rights, freedom is
natural right and doing unto others etc frees Negro girl Meriah when she will be 18 in
September 1819, whom I bought of Isham Jordan–3 Sept 1804–rec 1 Oct 1804
p. 321–deed from Prince X (alias Tynes) to Thomas Jordan of a tract
he inherited from his former master Timothy Tynes in his will–18 Oct 1804–rec 3
Dec 1804
p. 325–Port X Davis of I of W–bill of rights–freedom is
natural right and doing unto others etc–frees one Negro girl named Zeney whom he
purchased from Everett Gay of this county–3 Dec 1804–rec same
p. 328–John Babb and wife Betsey–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc free Negro man Harry–7 Jan 1805–rec same
p. 329–Simmons Gwaltney of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others frees Negro man Richard aged 35–4 Jan 1805–rec 7 Jan 1805
Isle of Wight County Deed Book
20 1805-1808
LVA Reel # 11
p. 21–Ephraim X Tynes, free Negro sells 18.5 acres to Jn Chapman-4
May 05–rec 3 June 05
p. 35–Sam X Tynes free Negro sells Wm Crocker for 450$ 100a it being
the tract left to Sam by will of Timothy Tynes–rec 3 June 05
p. 88–Port X Davis of I of W–freedom is natural right and do
unto others frees Negro girl Hannah aged abt 20 and her child Patience aged abt
2–[id’d as FN in index]–2 Sept 05–rec same
p. 89–Mills Wills Sr of Nansemond sells to Peggy Tynes of I of W one
Negro child the only child of said Peggy Tynes by the name of Lucy Blair in consideration
of 70L–7 Feb 05–rec 2 Sept 05
p. 89–Peggy X Tynes of I of W–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc–frees Negro child named Lucy Blair aged abt 14–9 July
05–rec 2 Sept 1805
p. 95–Randolph X Tynes of I of W sells for 135$ to Selah Atkins a
tract–4 Oct 05–rec 7 Oct 1805
p. 96–Willis X Barlow of I of W—for sundry principles
emancipates his faithful servant Negro Jenny White–7 June 05–rec 7 Oct 1805
p. 98–11 July 1805–Sarah X Tynes of I of W for 51L sells to Jn
Chapman a tract of 60 acres–rec 7 Oct 1805
p. 102–Esther Taylor, Smithfield in VA–from motives of Justice
and benevolence emancipates her slave called Nancy a mulatto woman of about 34 yrs of
age–7 Oct 1805–
p. 103–Esther Taylor, Smithfield in Va –ditto–frees slave
called Jack a boy of about 16–7 Oct 1805
p. 103–Esther Taylor, Smithfield in Va–ditto–frees slave
called Peggy a girl abt 14–7 Oct 1805
p. 119–14 Sept 1805–Hannah X Tynes of I of W and
"colony" of VA–sells to Abel Garrison of same–for 15L–tract of 12
acres–rec 2 Dec 1805
p. 126–Robt Jordan of I of W sells to Negro Port Davis for 90L Negro
wench and child Hannah and Patience–see p. 88 above–5 Feb 1805–rec 5 Jan
1806
p. 133–25 June 1805–Prince X alias Tynes of I of W sells to
James Barlow Sr of same for 32$ US a tract of 5 acres–rec 6 Jan 1806
p. 142–30 Nov 1805–Peter X Branch, free Negro and wife Amey of I
of W sells to Benj Stringfield for 80$ a tract of 80 acres–rec 6 Jan 06
p. 143–25 June 1805–Prince X alias Tynes of I of W and James
Barlow Sr for 190$ a tract of 38 acres–rec 6 Jan 1806
p. 158–Sirus X Baker of I of W–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others frees 2 Negroes ie Linda and child Celia–3 Feb 06–rec 3 Feb
1806 [id’d as FN in index]
p. 166-- Robert Laurence of I of W–freeom is natural right and doing
unto others etc–frees Negro woman Sobrina aged 50 yrs; Negro woman named Hannah aged
18 and one Negro girl named Sophia aged 2 yrs and one Negro boy named John aged 6
months–3 Mar 1806–rec 7 April 1806
p. 166–4 Oct 05–Ephraim X Tynes [free Negro] sells to Jn Chapman
for 25$ a tract of 5 acres–rec 7 April 1806
p. 169–James X Pretlow of I of W–bill of rights, freedom is
natural right and doing unto others etc frees two Negroes Hannah abt 38 and James abt
6–8 April 06–rec same[id’d as FN in index]
p. 170–Jack X Hening of I of W–bill of rights, freedom is
natural right and doing unto others etc frees Negro man named Jack–8 April
1806–rec same [id’d as FN in index]
p. 177–Randal Reynolds of I of W being in possession of a Negro woman
by name of Violet who was given him by Samuel Floyd in his last will recorded in I of
W–it was said Floyd’s wish to free her and so he does—31 Jan 1806–rec
8 April 1806
p. 192–Jesse X Branch of I of W–freedom is natural
right–frees Negro woman named Chloe–3 Mar 1806–rec 2 June 1806
p. 231–13 May 06–Dick X Tynes (free Negro) sells to Richard
Jones also of I of W for 6L a tract of 4 acres–rec 1 Dec 1806
p. 246–18 Dec 1806–John Tynes of I of W and Beck otherwise
called Rebecah X Tynes for 10$ sells her 800 acres on James River commonly known as Drews
upon trust–left by Timothy Tynes-after death of Jn Tynes, Rebecah Tynes to convey to
any child or children of him but if he leaves none living then to be conveyed to Sucky
Brown, Iris Drake, Nancy Delines and Caty Cox-rec 5 Jan 1807-
p. 248–deed involving Dick Hunger and Hannah Tynes, free Negroes of I
of W and Abel Garrison
p. 509–Everitt Gay of I of W–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc frees Negro man Anderson aged abt 20; Charlotte a girl aged abt 9; Roda a
girl aged abt 7 and Rose a girl aged abt 5 yrs old–27 Mar 1806–rec 8 April 1806
partly proved and fully on 7 Mar 1808--
Isle of Wight County Deed Book
21 1809-1812
LVA Reel # 12
no deeds of manumission/emancipation listed in index
p. 2–8 April 1808–Dick Unge and Hannah Tynes of I of W for
3.12.0 sells to Abel Garrison of same a tract of 4 acres–both Unge and Tynes sign
with mark–rec 5 Dec 1808
p. 3–8 April 08–Hannah Tynes of I of W sells to Abel Garrison
for 7.10.0 a tract of 6 acres–rec 5 Dec 08–
p. 173–12 Nov 1809–Ephraim X Tynes (FN) of I of W for $55 sells
to John Chapman of same a tract of 11 acres–rec 7 May 1810
p. 232–10 May 1810–George Applewhaite of I of Wight sells to
Betty Hollowell (FN) for $200 a tract of 40 acres adj land once belonging to Timothy
Tynes, decd–rec 4 June 1810
p. 238–15 Sept 1810–Philip Edwards and Rebekah his wife of I of
W sell to Randall Allmond (FN) for $120–a tract of 42 acres–rec 1 Oct 1810
p. 261–24 Dec 1810–Richard W. Byrd admin of James Johnston, decd
for 80L sells to Betty Hollowell a free woman of colour, Scotland late the slave of the
said James Johnston–rec 7 Jan 1811
p. 421–1 Jan 1812-Josiah Holleman and wife Nancy of I of W sell to
Charles Hill (FN in index) of same for $200 a tract of 30 acres–adj Hill’s own
land–rec 6 Jan 1812
p. 460–23 July 1810–Tim X Tynes free Negro of I of W sells for
$150 to Andrew Woodley of same a tract of 100 acres with reference to will of Timothy
Tynes–rec 2 June 1812
Isle of Wight County Deed Book
22 1813-1817
LVA Reel # 12
p. 36–5 Feb 1813–Ephraim X Tynes (FN) of I of W for $60 sells to
John Chapman of same a tract of 12 acres–rec 7 June 1813
p. 39–22 Oct 1812–David Tynes son of Benjamin Tynes of I of W
sells to Andrew Woodley of same for 400$ the tract Timothy Tynes late of said county left
by his last will and testament to be occupied by Beck late of Allen Cockes estate and all
her children during their lives and thence to the said David Tynes son of Benj containing
150 acres–to take effect at the death of Beck and her children–rec 7 June 1813
p. 47–12 June1813–Rebecca alias Rebecca Tynes, Nancy alias Nancy
Delines, Susan alias Susan Tynes, Catharine alias Catharine Cocke, Iris alias Iris Drake
and John Tynes sell for 800$ to James Wilson all the claim they have by virture of the
will of Timothy Tynes to the 150a left to Beck and children to occ for life–which
then goes to David Tynes son of Benj–see above–rec 2 Aug 1813–all but John
sign with mark
p. 121–31 January 1814–David Tynes and wife Sally of Newport
Parish in I of W sells to Betty Holloway FN woman of same–for $76 a tract David got
from Timothy Tynes via will of 9.5 acres–rec 7 Feb 1814
End of I of Wight Deed Book abstracts
Isle of Wight County Will Book 9
1779-1785
LVA Reel # 26
p. 152–will of Thomas Scott–First, I give all Negro slaves that
are called my property their intire freedom forever from all persons
whatsoever–leaves to his bro Jn Scott the use and labor of Negro Mingo until he comes
to the age of 21 yrs and Negro Martha and Roday until they come to the age of
18–wants bro Jn Scott to maintain my maid Huldy as long as she lives–2 Oct
1780–rec 6 Feb 1783–proved by affirmation of Wm Hollowell and Ann Coffield
p. 305–will of James Derring–leaves 6 slaves together with my
Negro woman Milley and my Negro boy Joe who went to the enemy if he should be fortunate
enough to regain them...14 Jan 84–rec 3 Mar 85
Isle of Wight County Will Book
10 1785-1796
LVA Reel # 26
p. 1–will of Matthew Jordan Sr of I of W–to son Richard tract
and use of Negro girl named Patience until she turns 21 and then to be free acc to act of
1782–to dau Mary Jordan the use of one Negro boy named Jacob until he turns 21 then
to be free–to dau Sarah Jordan the use of four Negroes namely Tom, Bob, Lock and
Huldah until they turn 21 and then to be free–I give to all my Negroes which are not
otherwise provided for in this writing their freedom according to 1782 Act of
Assembly–11 May 85–rec 6 October 1785–affirmation of Thos Newby and Robt
Marshall
p. 89–will of Robert Johnson of parish if Newport and I of
W–leaves the two acres of land for the use of out meeting house to the society of
people called Quakers–8 Dec 87–rec 3 Jan 88
p. 119–will of John Pretlow of I of Wight–Ann Bailey to continue
to live with my wife as she now does and to do so after decease of wife until she
marries–leaves to his wife, bro Samuel Pretlow and friends Thos Newby and Armiger
Bailey in trust all his Negroes for the following purpose viz inasmuch as he is persuaded
that freedom is the natural right of all people and that it is[not] my will to deprive any
thereof after they may arrive to age of maturity I am desirous as far as in me lies and
the law of the land will allow that they may be made to enjoy that inestimable blessing in
common with other people–so directs trustees that they allow every one of my Negroes
together with such as may be hereafter born to them the full enjoyment of liberty and
their labour from the time they may arrive to the age of 21 years and in order the better
to fit them for freedom I desire they may be learnt to read and instructed as much as may
be in the principles of religiono and morality and in case of the death of all or either
of my said trustees I request and desire the monthly meeting of Friends called Quakers
held near the Western Branch of Nansemond River may nominate and appoint others–all
rest and residue of my estate after the decease of my wife and give and bequeath to the
said Mary Pretlow and Ann Bailey dau of Trial Bailey and Mary Bailey dau of Armiger Bailey
–17 Nov 1770–note date–rec 4 Dec 1788–Edmund Westray affirms will as
witness
p. 146–will of George Gordon of Smithfield–provides for payment
of small debts etc–gives to Dr. David Dick personal items and chair and harness and 8
unused shirts in consideration of his esteem–for the faithful services performed to
me by my servant Jesse it is my will and desire that he may be Emancipated and that my
exec may take such steps as the law directs for that purpose-also leaves him my horses and
all my wearing apparrel and what necessaries I have towards housekeeping that is not
otherwise directed in the will–Geo Purdie names exec–19 May 89–rec 4 June
90 [prob should be 1789]
p. 163–will of William X Watkins of I of W-leaves 8 slaves to a
grandson–I give and bequeath unto the remainder part of my Negroes, Old Jemmy, his
wife Patt, their son Natt, Dick and Ned to all of them their time and liberty during this
life–28 June 1786–rec 3 Dec 89
p. 201–will of William X Parker–leaves no slaves to heirs–I
give and bequeath unto my Negro Fan and Negro Ben their freedom at my decease unto them
their heirs and assigns forever–23 Jan 1791–rec 4 April 91
p. 211–will of Mills Herring of I of W–wife gets her
thirds–dau gets lands and settlements and all his Negroes except Nat and Judy and it
is my desire they be free at my death–22 Jan 1791–rec 7 Feb 1791
p. 242–will of William Grace–leaves to wife Sally Grace during
her natural life the use of slaves Edy, Huldy, Peter, Derry, Peg, tom and one-half of Patt
and after her decease the above mentioned Negroes should have their freedom agreeable to
an act of assembly made for that purpose–14 Sept 1792–rec 3 Dec 1792
p. 279–will of William James of I of W–after his wife’s
decease the estate to be divided between his 2 daus–it is furthermore my will and
desire that my Negro boy Will should be hired out until he arrives to the age of 21 at
which time he is to go free----it is also my desire that my wife should keep my Negro boy
Peter until he is 21 yrs old if she thinks proper–no mention of freeing Peter at that
point–perhaps understood–2 Feb 1794–rec 8 April 94
p. 306–will of Isham Pitt of I of W–my will and desire is that
after my decease all my Negroes to wit Jack, Peter, Nanny, Sarah, Pattt and Coffee may be
free and enjoy their freedom as tho they had been born free and that forever–no
date–rec 2 Dec 1794–
p. 347–will of Jacob Edwards of I of W–lends Negro boy Dick to
his wife Rebekah till he shall come to age of 23 yrs and then he shall go free–31 Mar
1795–rec 6 July 95
p. 387–will of Pompy X Benn–gives plantation he lives on and
personal property to his brother Miner Denson–28 Dec 89–rec1 Feb 96–will
proved by oath of Robert Glover and affirmation of Scott Hollowell–is this a will of
a free man of color?
Isle of Wight County Will Book
11 1794-1802
LVA Reel # 27
p.19–will of William Hodsdon of I of W–will and desire is that
my Negro girl named Venus should have her liberty agreeable to an Act of Assembly made for
that purpose–26 Nov 95–rec 2 Jan 97
p. 92–will of Rix Laurence of I of W–wants personal estate
exlusive of Negroes sold to pay debts–gives Negroes to his dau to her and her heirs
excepting Harrison. I give Harrison his freedom at my death, the above Negroes I desire
shall be set free if my dau dies before she be of age–will proved by affirmation of
Hester Whitfield...18 July 1797–rec 5 Feb 98–none named except Harrison
p. 140–will of Elizabeth Harrison of I of W–will and desire is
that my Negro man David should have his freedom agreeable to act of assembly–31 July
98–rec 1 Oct 98
p. 171–will of David Blaney–after servant Aaron has served his
wife for two years to be free–leaves a Negro boy named George to James Payne son of
Benjamin Payne–has a brother in Marblehead, Mass–nd–rec 4 Feb 99
p. 176–will of Polly Cutchin of I of W–Negro man Tom to be hired
out for 4 yrs to pay debts and support sister Sally Pitt Cutchin and then execs to free
him, but if sister should die then Tom to be freed immediately–after decease Negro
woman named Rachel be liberated and set free–12 Nov 98–rec 4 Feb 99
p. 211–will of Thomas Smith of I of W–mentions Jesse Gordon (a
free Negro) as living on plantation adjacent to some of the land he is leaving his
heirs–also a corner of Timothy Tynes land–17 April 99–rec 2 Sept 99
p. 234–Richard Gibson (commonly called preaching Dick) of the county
of I of W being very sick and weak in body but I believe of sound mind, informed this day
that it was his will and desire that Judy and Rachel (his sisters) each of them should
have a cow and that all the rest of his estate should be divided between his wife and
children. And further it was his will and desire that George Benn and Randall Reynolds
should manage his estate for him. This in substance was committed to writing within three
hours after it was told me this 12 day of January 1800. Witness George
Benn–noncupative will presented in ct on 4 Feb 1800–Benn refuses admin and
liberty reserved for Reynolds to undertake–is this a will of a free person of color?
p.421–will of Sampson Barlow of I of W–lends to wife all my
Negroes namely Abram, Randolph, David and Feby for life and at her death to be lawfully
free–30 May 1801–rec 6 July 1801
p. 587–will of Timothy Tynes–all of my slaves of every
description to wit: Prince, Bob, George, Peter, Jacob, great James, little James, Dick,
Silver, Chaney, Nancy, Bathea?, Conny, Phillis, Fanny, Lily, Sukey, Nancy, little Phillis,
Harry, Patience, Isham, Harriott, Davy, Linda, Dolphin, Aaron, Isaac, Beckey, Betsey,
Moses, Cherry, great Charles, little Charles, Robin, Grace, Sam, Lewis, Kitt, Godfry,
Jack, Beck, Venus, Caty, John, Iris, Charles, Daniel, Ephraim, Fanny, Rose, Freeman, Lidy,
Rhoda, Joe, Sirus, Nanny, Soukey, Harry, Jesse, Dick, Mary, Jude, Pricilla, Nancy, Willis,
Benn, Asia, Sarah, Hannah, Dick unge? [is one person], Tim, Randall, Ned, Tom, Talus,
Gambo, Sall, Daughny, Aggy, Bob, and Ally together with their increase including
Nancy’s child and all other of my slaves that are not herein mentioned to be fully
and freely liberated from all Slavery and stand discharged from slavery and bondage to
enjoy all the priviledges that Free Negroes are entitled to by the laws and regulations?
of the state of Virginia that part of my River land call’d Bennett’s shall be
occupied by Beck (which formerly belonged to Allen Cocks estate) and all her children
during their lives and after the death of them all the said land shall revert to David
Tynes son of Benj Tynes dec’d –I give to John and Iris children of Beck the sum
of 400L to be equally divided –also one feather bed and furniture and 5 head of
cattle and John to get bay colt at the river plantation–gives to Sukey the dau of
Nancy 250L to her and her heirs forever–gives to Beck of A. Cocks estate 150L–my
river plantation formerly Drews be given to John, son of Beck to him and heirs forever and
he shall have all the stock of every description on the place, formerly Drews–gives
to Prince a servant liberated by my will, a plantation which my Father Robt Tynes
purchased of James Jones to him and heirs forever–gives to Tim a servant liberated in
will 100 acres of land being part of the tract my father purchased of Rascow–gives to
Sam 100 acres of same tract and it is understood to them and their heirs forever–to
Dick unge 100 acres of land of the tract he now lives on to him and his heirs
forever–gives balance of this tract to be equally divided amongst the Negroes
liberated by me living on the said plantation with dick unge and the stock to be equally
divided amongst Dick unge and others on the said planation and also plantation
utensils–give to niece Sally Tynes Purdie the whole of that tract formerly the
property of Timothy Tynes decd now known by name of Harry’s –gives the whole of
the tract he now lives on known at Tynes’s Store to David Tynes–gives to little
Charles my plantation known by name of Toby’s together with stock on it and also the
stock at Harry’s and where I now live to him and his heirs–my plantation
formerly Charles Chapmans be given to little Charles to him and his heirs forever–9
May 1802–rec 7 June 1802–exec’s post 20,000$ bond
p. 703–will of Benjamin Bailey a free Negro man of I of W–leaves
all estate to wife Lucy during her natural life–but if she marries to get only
thirds–of other 2/3'ds 20 shillings to go to dau Patience, and 20s to my dau Winfred
the balance to be divided among my eight children namely Ellick, Perlina, Aaron, Isaac,
Ben, Cate, Patience, Winfred and at death of wife the estate to be divided among the eight
children or the survivors of them–2 June1802–rec 4 Oct 1802–Simmons
Gwaltney is exc–posts 500$ bond
p. 722–will of Joseph Crocker–desires that my Negro woman Edy
and her child Lucy be Emancipated–gives to bro Wm Crocker’s son John one Negro
girl Doll and leaves rest of estate to bro Wm Crocker–25 Mar 1803–rec 5 April 03
p. 723–will of Lawrence Baker of I of W–wants funeral service to
be conducted in way of the church he was bred etc–disinherits Catharine Haynes and
her son William and wants them to receive no property of his whatsoever–names William
Byrd and Richard Byrd formely of Chas City County but now of Suffolk and Gloucester to be
execs of his will which is that they are to manage his estate for the advantage of Mary
Simpson a Molatto formerly my slave now free until she comes of age and capable of taking
care of herself then she is to get the whole of his estate of what kind so ever–in
case her liberty should be in danger or anything else her good may require, Byrds to take
care of–if he gains title to a tract of land in a suit pending in Ct of Appeals in
Richmond, it is to be sold for the benefit of his securities John Goodrich and Thos
Smith–wants Jn Goodrich to settle accounts for what he took from him "during my
insane state"–if Mary Simpson die without issue be the same lawful or unlawfull
he leaves whole estate to the people call’d Quakers to be used by them for the
purpose of purchasing and liberating slaves and the preference be given to those who were
my property–I would it were in my power to entirely banish that excreable
practice–leaves a variety of personal momentos, portraits, a coat of arms, etc to
various relatives–I beg what friends I have if any to shew all friendship they owed
me to my poor remaining domesticks Abram, Britt and Edy and to Mary Simpson and to Moses
Mosely and to all my poor lsave who were mine my heart yearns for all my domesticks my
Children–10 July 1801–rec 5 Oct 03–Richard W. Byrd refuses exec–Wm
Mallory undertakes admin and posts 1000$ bond–
p. 749–will of William Hollowell of I of W–lends to sister
Courtney Hollowell the use of Negro boy Ephriam until he is 21–lends to sister Mary
Hollowell a Negro girl Lucreacy until she is 18–leaves 5L each to Ephraim and
Lucreacy when they come of age mentioned to be paid out of estate–15 April
03–rec 6 June 03–is this an unstated manumission for Ephraim and
Lucreacy–no further provision made in the will as to their disposition
p. 775–will of William Johnston of I of W–leaves 10 slaves to
his niece and one to his nephew–emancipates Negro woman Peg to enjoy all the
priviledges that free Negroes are entitled to by the laws of Va–19 April
1803–rec 5 Oct 03
Isle of Wight County Will Book
12 1804-1808
LVA Reel # 27
p. 2–will of Charles Tynes jr (Free Negro) of Newport Parish and I of
W–gives to wife Peggy Tynes formerly Peggy Blair who was emancipated by John Parker
one half of my plantation where I now live whereon my dwelling house stands and one half
of orchard, 100L in cash to be collected from Col James Johnston exor of Timothy Tynes,
decd left me in his will and one half of my stock etc–to David Tynes my cousin son of
my sister Nancy the other half of the plantation–is my will and desire that my uncle
Charles Tynes, Sr shall build himself a house on sd half of David Tynes tract and that he
Charles and wife is to live on it during their said lives to be used by them and David
when he comes of age to him and his heirs forever–gives to uncle Charles Tynes, Sr 5L
cash–to uncle Sam Tynes 10L cash–to sister Jinny Tynes 10L cash–to sister
Nancy Tynes 10L cash–rest of estate to be divided between his wife and
David–names Andrew Woodley exec–28 Jan 1804–rec 6 Feb 04–
p. 103–will of William Pinner–leaves 18 slaves to bros and
family members –emancipates three Negro women, Sarah, Sue and Rose–10 Jan
1805–rec 3 June 1805–inventory on p. 120 lists 21 slaves including Sarah at 1L;
Sue at 5L and Rose at 30L--
p. 144–will of Joseph Parker of I of W and Newport
Parish–bequeaths to Negro man Lewis his time and freedom forever–leaves wife
Negro woman Edy and her 6 children–18 Jan 1800–rec 7 Oct 1805
p. 160–will of Josiah Godwin of I of W–leaves several slaves to
several family members–I give unto my servant Charles Crews (my servant who has been
faithful and honest in serving me, and is one of the most correct Men of his Colour I have
ever seen) $100, one cow and calf, one sow and piggs and my wearing apparel of every
kind–Crews is not left to anybody–16 Oct 1805–rec
2 Dec 1805–p. 161--21 Oct 05–a noncupative coda leaves his books
to Dr Thos W. Borland and that Charles Crews, a black man that has lived with him for some
years should have his mare, bridle and saddle–rec 2 Dec 05
p. 196–will of Esther Taylor of Smithfield–gives lot #30 in
Smithfield to Nancy Blair and Peggy Blair [dau of Nancy] whom I have emancipated this
present year, to them and their heirs forever–lot #34 to be sold and out of money
arising from this Nancy Blair to get $100 and Peggy to get $100–remainder of money to
various nieces and nephew–gives Peggy Blair a two year old heifer and to Nancy Blair
one bed the same I formerly gave her use of and is now in her possession–12 Nov
1805–rec 8 April 06
p. 264–will of Bartlett Godwin of I of W–heirs are mother,
nephew and neice–lends use of Negro boy Aberdeen at his mother’s decease to
niece and to her lawful heirs of her body but if none then Aberdeen to be
liberated–31 Mar 01–rec 2 Feb 1807
p. 472–will of Robert Lawrence of I of W–has plantation in
Northampton Co. NC on which he formerly lived–the slaves in N. Carolina at present my
property I emancipate on their arriving at lawful age–17 Feb 1801–rec 7 Dec 1807
p. 498–estate inventory of Benjamin Bailey free Negro 4 Nov
02–totals 64.1.7 ½ worth of hhd goods etc–rec 1 Aug 1808–followed by
estate acct p. 499-500-
p. 518–est act of Major Timothy Tynes 1802–>7 Mar
1803–pd Wm Blount for Negro Daphney’s coffin
Mar 1804–pd Robin Bingo ( a slave of John Stols) for supporting his
wife and Nancys children liberated by T. Tynes viz Linda 5 yrs old, Dolphin 3 and Nelly 2
for the year 1803 28 Dec 04–pd Capt Andrew Woodley for supporting Roses 3 children
the year 1804
Isle of Wight County Will Book
13 1809-1815
LVA Reel # 28
p. 72–will of Thomas Jones a free man of colour in I of
Wight–mentions wife Martha Jones–dau Polly Roberts wife of Edwin
Roberts–dau Elizabeth Jones–Edwin Roberts’ three daus ie Martha, Mary and
Elizabeth–Martha Allmond wife of Randall Allmond gets 40$–16 Mar 1809–rec 1
Jan 1810–leaving land to heirs and hhd items
p. 91–will of Celia Godwin of I of W–among others legacies
leaves to Negro woman Nancy Scott Godwin who was formerly my property one bed and
furniture and one young cow and to James Godwin a Negro man formerly my property before I
liberated him one bed and furniture and 4 head of cattle, one mare, one looking glass and
flaged chars and two tables–balance of estate to be equally divided betwen Nancy and
James –5 Oct 1809–rec 7 May 1810
p. 242–will of Hanner Tynes (alias) Unger wife of Richard Unger free
Negro–leaves all she has or might inherit from any source to her husband Richard
Unger–3 Oct 1806?–rec 6 July 1812
p. 275–will of William Jenkins of I of W–it is my desire that
Randol Wilson a free Negro should retain full and free proportion of the piece of land on
which he now resides during his natural life–nd–rec 7 Dec 1812
p. 277–will of William Jordan of I of W–leaves property in I of
W and in Pasquotank Co NC to various heirs–my will and desire that the Negroes that I
have lent to Samuel Jones and my dau Elizabeth his wife shall remain in his, her or their
and Lemuels possession and for their or either of their uses until the time shall arrive
in some way pointed out by my friends that the said Negroes hereby lent with their
increase my enjoy their liberty and be set free, it is my will and desire that the said
Negroes with their increase may be set at liberty as soon as in the estimation of my
friend or the friends of humanity–son Watson P. Jordan gets home plantation after
death of mother and land in NC and use of labor of slaves in NC who are to be freed when
possible along with Joe and Sally who were brought from NC-obligates estate to pay to
maintaining or defending the rights of his slaves–also says slaves could enjoy
freedom in any other part of the world and the slaves to receive a copy of the will as it
pertains to them–28 May 1809–a codocil of 23 April 1810 basically says that the
slaves in NC and Joe and Sally after his death to be delivered in trust to Yearly Meeting
(Quakers) in NC for the purposes of establishing their emancipation–rec 7 Dec 1812
p. 344–will of George Benn of I of W–among legacies to
others–I give and bequeath unto Christian a Negro woman I liberated the sume of 100$
for her former services–I give and bequeath unto Cofffee a Negro man whom I liberated
the sum of 50$–gives land near where the Methodist church stands for camp meetings to
Methodists officials–it is my will and desire that my Negroes which I liberated in
this county shall not be sold or be subject to any claim or pretention of claim that might
be brought against my estate but if any there should be my landed property should be
subject thereto–wants his sister Louisa Cunningham to have care and management of a
small Negro boy named Merritt untill he shall arrive to lawful age at which time entitled
to his freedom–30 Oct 1813–rec 6 Dec 1813
p. 440–will of Parker Hawkins of I of W–leaves various slaves to
several heirs–I give my boy Nat his liberty and my horse provided he will leave the
state within 6 months of my death-if he will not quit the state I give him the liberty of
choosing a master whoever he may be, I give that to him and his heirs forever–19 Aug
1814–rec 6 Feb 1815
Isle of Wight County Wills 14
1815-1817
LVA Reel # 28
p. 141–will of Thomas Norsworthy of I of W–Item: the Black
children to wit Wiley, Isaac, Willis, Rebeccah, Rhoda I lend to my wife until of lawful
age and it is my desire that my wife should have the use and liekewise of the offspring of
the females until they become of lawful age and it is my will that the above mentioned
Black Persons together with the offspring of the females should one and all be free as
they arrive at lawful age–10 Aug 1815–rec 4 Nov 1816–one of witnesses is
Thos Fanning who affirms–wife is named extrx but refuses the admin of estate
p. 230–will of Nancy Bracy of I of W–leaves to Polly Cornwell
one Negro boy named Aaron until he is 21 and then to be free but if he cannot by the laws
of this state and he don’t chuse to go to a free state he must remain with Polly and
her heirs forever–leaves to Eliza Cornwell Negro boy Jacob with same
provisions–leaves to Sally M. Moody Negro girl Tempy with same provisions–leaves
to Kitty Moody Negro girl Mary under same provisions–I give to my man Bob to be hired
out two years and the money to be used for raising Aaron and Jacob and then he is to be
for the balance of his life free from slavery–16 Oct 1816–rec 4 Nov 1816
p. 294–will of Mary Underwood of I of W–leaves a slave girl to
an heir–will and desire that my Negro Man Mingo should be liberated at my
death–9 Mar 1817–rec 5 May 1817
p. 295–will of Joseph Roberts a free man of color –wife Zelpha a
free woman of color gets all of his chattel estate and he lends to her the land and
plantation where he now lives and after her death to go to Matthew Jordan if the latter
does not demand the money he owes him from his wife and assists in supporting his
wife–4 April 1817–rec 5 May 1817
end of Isle of Wight abstracts
King William County
Record Book 3, Deeds, etc., 1793-1800, p.260, I Byrd Chamberlayn for dvers good casuses
have emancipated a certain Mulatto girl slave known by the name of Ann __(damaged)
Coleman. 25 April 1797.
p.483, Know all men by these presents that I Byrd Chamberlayne have qualified to the
will of William Dandridge, Esquire, deced., of __ June 1800 said Dandridge emancipated and
set free Diana or Anna the slave of said Dandridge. ditto Tom 23 June 1800.
p.484, ditto Jack and his wife nancy. ditto Aggy. 23 June 1800.
Loudoun County
Orders 1788-90, p.281, 13 September 1788, Deed of emancipation John Alexander Binns to
Negro Harry.
p.337, 8 February 1780, John Alexander Binns to Hanna a Negro child.
to Milly a Negro child.
p.346, 9 February 1790, William Osborne to William Dimmer? Negro slave.
Orders 1791-2,
p.76, 14 February 1791, Deed of emancipation from Levin Powell, Gent., to his Negroes
Fortune, Peter, Jesse, Phill, Scilla, Scipio, George, Rachel, Phebe, Ralph, Gabriel,
Oliver, Lichie, and Abraham proved 15 February 1791.
p.124, 12 December 1791, Deed of Emancipation Jason Clapham to Mary Negro. Overseers of
the Poor bind Mary Negro to James Moore.
p.128, Overseers of the Poor bind Charles a free Mulatto aged eight to Thomas Moore.
Overseers of the Poor bind Stephen a free Negro to James McCormick.
13 February, Deed of Emancipation George Emery to Negroes Jack, Sarah, Catherine and
Carsa(?).
Orders 1792-4, p.27, 14 January 1793, Deed of Emancipation William Osburn to Hannah
Dimmer.
p.97, 9 April 1793, Overseers of the Poor of Shelburn Parish bind George a free negroe
aged 10 years, Dilley a free Negroe aged 5 years & ten months, Hannah a free negroe
aged 3 years & 10 months, Andrew aged 11 months to Tobias Clapham.
p.102, 9 April 1793, Deed of Emancipation Joseph Moxly to Penelope a Negroe.
p.282, 14 October 1793, Deed of Emancipation Susanna P. Binns to negro Sybel and
Charles.
p.381, 13 April 1794, Deed of Emancipation John Alexander Binns to negro child called
Frank acknowledged.
Orders 1794-6, p.324, 8 February 1796, Deed of Emancipation John Mudd to Negroe Ned
acknowledged.
p.369, 12 April 1796, Deed of Emancipation John Mason to Negroe Jeremiah Moore.
p.441, 11 July 1796, Deed of Emancipation Stephen T. Mason to Negroes Bett, Samuel
& Abraham was acknowledged.
p.446, Deed of Emancipation Charles Binns, Jr., to Negroe Suckey acknowledged.
p.475, 12 September 1796, overseers of the poor bind Suckey a free negroe aged 6 years
the 1 June last to Susanna Pearson Binns.
p.476, overseers of the poor bind Charles a free negroe aged 3 the 1 April last to
Simon A. Binns.
p.565, 16 October 1796, overseers of the poor bind black Daniel aged 12 December
next to John Schooley.
Orders 1796-8, p.57, February 13, 1797, Deed of Emancipation Joseph Lane to Negroe
Phill over 45 years of age and Judah his wife proved.
p.124, 12 June 1797, Deed of Emancipation Reuben Triplett to Negroe Cyrus.
p.155, 10 July 1797, Overseers of the Poor bind Sophia a free negroe aged 4 years 1
February last to Casper Eckhart.
p.266, 12 December 1797, Venus a free Negroe aged 11 years bound to George Brown.
Orders 1798-9, p.118, 10 July 1798, Negro Clem indenture to William Jeans.
p.190, 11 September 1798, Abraham vs. Phillips, Eshter Phillips being summoned to
answer why she detains Abraham in her service not appearing, attachment issue.
Orders 1799-1800, p.4, 13 May 1799, Deed of Emancipation William Serjeant to Negroes
Jacob & Rachel.
p.53, 12 August 1799, Deed of Emancipation Joseph Moxley to Negroe Samuel Lucas.
p.226, 13 January 1800, Deed of Emancipation George Graham to Negro Dorsey.
p.278, 14 April 1800, Deed of Emancipation William Carr and negroe man named Lewis.
p.295, Deed of Emancipation Samuel Murrey to Negroes Sarah & Phillis.
p.341, 13 June 1800, Deed of Emancipation Hugh Douglass to Negroe Molly.
Louisa County
Orders 1792-7, p.122, 13 October 1794, Deed of emancipation from John Poindexter to Sam
and others.
The following from Janice Abercrombie's book Free Blacks of Louisa County, Virginia:
DB G:487, I David Crenshaw from a clear conviction of the impropriety of slavery do
seet free the following slaves and their issue, only desire the guardian care of those
under age until become of age, Roger, Cate, Cain, London shall go out the 25th December
1795. Sukey the 25 December 1802, Sally 25 December 1803, Jack the 25 December 1802,
Delpha 25 December 1805, Veney 25 December 1808, Winey 25 December 1809, Dice 25 December
1809, Stephen at the age of 21, Isaac ditto, Charles ditto.2 August 1794.
DB J:88, I Betty Duke from a clear conviction of the impropriety of slavery do set free
the following slaves to wit Celia and her youngest child Mary and their future increase
forever. 18 November 1800.
DB K:191, I Betty Duke from a clear conviction of the impropriety of slavery as well as
for the sum of 400 pounds lawful money of Virginia to me in hand paid do hereby liberate
and set free a Negro man named Kit. 9 December 1805.
Deed Book J:46, I John Poindexter, Jr., have this day purchased of David Bullock
trustee of James Dabney a Negro girl named Frankey, deeded by Thomas Meriwether to him and
being principled against hereditary slavery do hereby emancipate the said Negro Frankey
and her increase to be free the 25 December 1829 and should she have any increse, her male
cildren to be free at 25 and her female at 18. 13 August 1800.
DB J:389, I John Poindexter, Jr., have this day purchased of Benjamin C. West one
yellow Negro boy named James which said James he purchased of Walter C. Chisholm who said
Walter purchased of James Jones and be it further known that because I value and
prize the rights of man I do hereby emancipate the said James when he shall arrive at the
age of 31 which will happen on 24 April 1821. 12 July 1802.
J:390, I John Poindexter being convinced of the injustice and impropriety of slavery
and being also convinced that the practice of slave holding is in direct opposition to and
violation that hold precpet delivered from the lips of the Lord Jesus Christ himself.
Therefore as ye would tht men should do unto you so do ye also unto them emancipate Daniel
a Negro boy purchased of Henry Toler of Westmoreland County in the state of Virginiato be
free 1 January 1820. 20 February 1802.
Will Book 3:206, I John Boswell of Fredericksville in the county of Louisa....(leaves
slaves to his heirs)... Lucy Captain and her child Nancy I do set free, a yellow boy James
and his mother Luce I do set free. I give to the said James the tract I bought of John
Goodman and desire my executors to give the said James a horse and saddle with nine pounds
and a cow and calf and a tolerable education. And William Captain I do give the land
purchased of Thos. Gibbins if he does not redeem it. proved 9 June 1788.
WB 3:212, I James Johnson....It is my will and desire that after the death or marriage
of my wife that all my Negroes shall have their right to freedom when they arrive to
lawful age. 21st day of 2nd month 1785. recorded 18 December 1788.
WB 3:331, I Christopher Wood to my wife Sarah Wood all my estate and at her death all
my slave I am now possessed of shall have their freedom, they and their increase forever.
The tract of land whereon I now live lying both sides of Harris Creek I give to my
slaves at my wife's death. January 1790. recorded 11 October 1790.
WB 3:605, I Thomas Johnson (minor) desire that my house maid known by the name of Betty
Kenney be entitled to her freedom and I do hereby set her and her youngest child Rebecca
free and do lend the said Betty fifty acres of land during her life and give the said
Betty a horse worth ten pounds, likewise her choice of two cows and calves, four head of
sheep, two sows and pigs and my executors give the said Betty annually out of my estate
eight pounds. I give the said Betty's child Rebecca, Nancy's child Nanny and her increase
to her and her heirs forever.13 March 1795. proved 14 September 1795.
Lunenburg County
No manumissions in deeds to 1790.
Orders 1796-99, p.243, 8 June 1797, overseers of the poor bind Jack son of Phoebe a
free Negroe, and Patience to Sally and Jeremiah Morgan.
p.255, 10 August 1797, James a free Negroe alias James Newly v. John Moon Trespass. not
guilty.
p.367, 11 October 1798, Deed of emancipation Mathew Dance to Jack.
Orders 1799-1801, p.128, 8 January 1801, indenture of emancipation from Poulterry to
Aggy Scott a dark mulatto woman slave.
Orders 1802-5, 37, 9 September 1802, overseers of the poor bind Sarah and Phillis
children of Phoebe a free negroe to Jeremiah Morgan.
p.168, 11 October 1804, deed of emancipation John Taylor to Fanny and May two slaves.
Mecklenburg County
Deed Book 6, 1779-1786, page 256, dated 12 October 1782
I Thomas Durham Madkins being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right of all
mankind...Negroes whom I have held..
Hannah aged 36
and also having several Negroes now in their minority vizt:
Charles b. 10 day 10 month 1765
Dick b. 15 10th month 1766
Bett b. 7 day 7 month 1768
Beck born 17th day 1st month 1771
Peg born 15th day 9th month 1773
Jacob born 9th day second month 1776
Ben born 25th day 5th month 1778
Ann born 11th day 3rd month 1779
I reserve perogative of acting as guardian over them until the males reach 21 and
females 18.
p.306, I James Williams free Negro woman Sarah aged 35 the 12th day 8th month 1783.
wit. Hezekiah Tabor.
Deed Book 8, p.246-7, 3rd day 11 Month 1792, I Thomas Durham Madkins being fully
persuaded that freedom is the natural right...emancipate two Negroes vizt. Squire ageed 23
and Maria aged about 13 or 14 years. proved 10 December 1792.
Deed Book 10, p.25, I Joseph Quinichet for certain reasons free ony yellow woman called
Melinda purchased of the estate of Doctor William Hepburn deceased. 5 January 1797.
Middlesex County
Orders 1789-94, p.462, 25 March 1793, ordered clerk grant Sam (a Molatto formerly the
slave of Elizabeth Keade) a certificate of his freedom.
Orders 1799-1803, p.23, 22 April 1799, Deed of Emancipation Richard Corbin to his slave
Bristow Ben and Daphne further proved.
p.241, 22 December 1800, Deed of Emancipation Overton Cosby to his Negroes Jane Hearn,
George, Nancy Lightfoot Berry & her child Overton Cosley Berry and Carthagena Hearn.
Nansemond County
Watson, Nansemond County Clerks' Fee Books, 29, deed of emancipation from
Thomas Bowser to (his wife?) Nancy.
Norfolk County
Orders 1790-3, p.91b, 17 September 1792, deed of emancipation Travis Tucker to slaves
Cloe, Penelope, Kitty, Polly, Penelope and Nanny.
Northumberland County
Record Book 12, 1782-1785, p.34, Inventory of John Easton, deceased, one Mulatto Girl
Nanny apprentice - 20 pounds.
Orders 1796-7, p.15, 15 March 1796, David otherwise called David Gaskins v. Catesby
Jones, Trespass, assault and battery and false imprisonment.
p.55, 10 August 1796, Jury...plaintiff is not a slave.
Contributed by Nicole Gauthier:
George REDMAN (son of John REDMAN & Cassie)
was born a slave. He was freed by the Last Will of Caleb REDMAN. He registered in
Northumberland County on 13 February 1815: negro man, about 38 years, 5'8" [1803-1850
Register of Free Negroes #86]. He and his wife Mary left a large number of descendants in
Loudoun County.
Petersburg
Edward Stewart emancipated his wife Sally sometime before 9 June 1810 when she
registered as a free Negro [Register of Free Negroes 1794-1819, no.589].
Deed Book 1, 1784-1790,
p.22, I Gressett Davis...being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right of all
Men, agreable to the Declaration of the Bill of Rights; upon which I conceived our present
happy Constitution Established, and whereas I have under my care one Negro Man whom I have
heretofore held as a slave named Ishmael, about thirty five years old, emancipate and set
free. 3 November 1784, proved samed date.
p.203, This is to certify that we the Subscribers were present and disired by Mr.
Andrew Johnston that he had given his servant Becky her perfect and entire freedom. 4 May
1785. proved 7 June 1786.
p.270, I Robt. Bolling of County of Dinwiddie emancipate and set free a certain woman
slave Betty. 4 July 1786. proved 6 Dec 1786.
p.303, I Robert Bolling emancipate a certain woman slae Terresa. 4 July 1786.
proved 4 April 1787.
I do hereby acknowledge to have received from Mrs. Mary Bolling of Dinwiddie the sum of
seventy pounds in full for my Negro woman Terrissa. 7 December 1786. William Armistead.
p.361, I Joseph Harding do believe that God created all men equally free,, I hereby
gradually emancipate & sete free the following persons (vizt.) Lett, to be free the
first day of May 1788, Robbin the first day of January 1792, Hannah 1 January 1808. 2
April 1788, proved dame date.
p.433, I Stith Parham of the town of Petersburg being deeply conscious of the
impropriety of Negro Slavery, and having inb my possession Sundry persons whom I have for
sometime held in a State of Slavery do by these presents emancipate the said slaves in the
following manner, agreeable to an act of the General Assembly. Gilly (a woman) to have her
liberty immediately, Billy (a boy) in the year 1797, Clarissa (a girl) 1799, Cate in 1803,
Mary in 1805 and George in 1807. 7 January 1789. proved 1 April 1789.
Deed Book 2, 1790-1801
p.36, I Robert Evans of Dinwiddie from mature Consideration, and the Conviction of my
own mind, being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural Right of all Men; and that no
Law moral or Divine hath given me a right to or property in the persons of my fellow
Creatures; Do therefore declare that having under my care a Negro Man named Paul aged
about thirty five years, I do...release unto him all my Right, Interest and claim...as to
his person. 5 July 1790. proved same date.
I John Bell have this day set free and emancipate a female child slave named Nancy of
22 months which child is the issue of the body of a Woman slave named Nance the property
of William Knox of this town. 5 July 1790. proved same date.
p.84, I have in my possession a Negro woman named Lucy and whereas I believe all men by
nature has an unaleanable right to liberty, I do hereby fully emancipate and set free said
woman. Gressett Davis. 3 January 1791. proved same date.
p.116, I George Rowlett of Amelia County for fifty pounds paid to me in hand or secured
to be apid deliver unto Betty Call of Dinwiddie County one Negro man by the name of London
& son of the said Betty Call to hold to the said Betty Call as her own property
forever. 8 January 1790. proved 6 June 1791.
p.120, at the special request and desire of my dear deceased wife, I emancipate my
woman slave Nance aged about 23 of a dark yellow colour. I also do manumit a mulatto
female child, daughter of the aforesaid woman Nance aged about eighteen months and named
Clara. William Knox. 4 July 1791. proved same date.
p.126, Whereas I have in my possession a mulatto girl named Pheby (being the same I
purchased of William Randolph, Esq., of Charles City County as by our agreement dated 4th
August 1788) as also a Mullatto child, her son named George seven months old. I manumit
and set free the said Pheby and her son George. _ August 1791. proved 1 August 1791.
p.148, I Francis Brown of Dinwiddie County being fully persuaded that freedom is the
natural right of all mankind and that it is my duty to do to others as I would desire to
be done unto in the like situation, and having under my care a Negro man named Jacob whom
I heretofore held as a slave. I hereby emancipate. 2nd day 11 month 1791. proved 7
November 1791.
p.157, I Graham Bell of Dinwiddie have emancipated the following
persons: Molly, Graham, Peyton, Kidder and Beverly. proved 2 January 1792.
I Anne Murray sell unto Graham Bell for eighty pounds current money
four slaves: Molly, Graham, Peyton and Kidder.22 September 1789. proved 2 January 1792.
p.164, I Richard Garrettson do set free from bondage my Negro slaves: Ben shall have
his freedom 25 December 1794, Violet shall have her freedom 25 December 1798, and Fanny 25
December 1801, and all their future increase shall have their freedom when they arrive to
the age of twenty one. 6 February 1792. proved same date.
171, I Joseph Harding believe that God created all Men equally free. I do hereby
emancipate and set free the following persons: Limehouse a man; Ploughman a man and Sena a
woman. 5 March 1792. proved same date.
I John Dickins of the City of Philadelphia, Minister of the Gospel, for six pence
lawful money of Pennsylvania to me in hand paid by Joseph Harding Merchant of Petersburg
sell one Negro Man by the name of Plowman, one Negro man named Limehouse with one Negro
woman named Senah now in the possession of my agent John Clayton of Halifax County, North
Carolina. 8 November 1791. proved 5 March 1792.
p.174, 5 December 1791, I Lucy ____ do emanciapte my Negro girl slave Nancy and her
future increase which said Negro girl I lately purchased of the Rev. William Harrison.
Lucy x Arbuckle. proved 5 March 1792.
November 15, 1791, Received of Mr. Lewis Lancier thrity pouinds, four shillings part of
33 pounds 2 shillings for a Negro girl called nancy Daughter of a free Negro woman called
Lucy which said Lucy has purchased the girl. 16 January 1792, Then received the balance in
full for Negro girl Nancy. William Harrison.
p.202, I Edmund Jones from a firm belief that freedom is the natural Birth right of
every man and that slavery is repugnant to the laws of God as well as civil society--do
hereby emancipate the following Negro slaves: Sarah, a Negro woman, two Negro men Roger
and Charles. One Negro girl named Lyddia and one Negro boy named Frederick. Sarah, Roger
and Charles are entirely freed by these presents. Lyddia being ten years old may go out
free at twenty-one, 1 January 1803. Frederick I suppose about eight years old, to go out
free at like ate of twenty one, 1 January 1805. 8 May 1792. proved 6 August 1792.
p.271, I George Morison...have emancipated and set free a Negro man called Will and a
Negro Boy called Joe. 1 July 1793. proved same date.
p.287, I Joseph Harding believe that God Created all Men Equally free. I do hereby
Emancipate a Negro woman by the name Ede. 7 January 1793. proved 2 December 1793.
p.322, I Joseph Harding do believe that God created alll Men equally free. I do hereby
emancipate Joan a woman. 7 April 1794. proved 2 June 1794.
p.348, I Nathaniel Lee do believe that God Created all Men equally free. I do hereby
Emancipate one Negro man slave named America. 10 August 1794. proved 6 Oct 1794.
p.358, I Joseph Harding do believe that God created all Men equally free. I do hereby
emancipate a Negro Man Salve by name John Brown. 2 February 1795. proved same date.
p.374, We John Grammer and William Shanks...Emancipate Negro man Slave by the name
Plenty. 16 April 1795. proved 1 June 1795.
p.379, 18 February 1795, indenture between John Shore to Teresa, Daughter of Betty Call
for 30 pounds sold one lot of land in that part of Petersburg commonly called New
Blandford, number 66.
p.381, We Freeman & Brown Merchants...believing it is a hardship to keep any person
in bondage, tho it may appear Legal to do so...we Emancipate a Negro woman named Nelly
White. 12 March 1795. proved 1 June 1795.
p.383, It is hereby mutually agreed between Joseph Cary Commander of the Beaufort of
Virginia, N. America, on the one part and Andrew Cantor King at the Isles Delos, Africa,
on the other part. The sd Andrew Cantor doth hereby grant permission to the boy Nimrod
Numidicus to absent himself from his dominions & poucore(?) a voyage with sd
Cary to America with the view of obtaining the Language of that Country as well as the
manners Customs &c of the white people, the sd Boy Nimrod has likewise
permission to bind himself to sd Cary for a Term, not exceeding seven years,
provided the sd Cary become obligated to furnish sd Boy with good
wholesome meat drink & wearing apparel & causes him to be instructed in the art of
reading, writing & figures sufficient to keep a trade book. 14 June 1791. proved 6
July 1795.
p.390, I Duncan Rose have Emancipated a Negro woman commonly called Molly formerly my
property and the property of Duncan Rose, deceased. 6 July 1795. proved same date.
p.397, I Arthur Cook of the County of Dinwiddie do believe that God created all Men
equally Free, I do hereby Emancipate one Black Man by name Sippue (whom I bought at the
sale of Mr. Robert Donald, deceased.19 August 1794. proved 6 October 1795.
p.406, I Nathan Richardson have Emancipated a Negro woman called Sylvia, before the
execution of this Deed of Emancipation my property and formerly property of Edward Ker,
Jr. 5 October 1795. proved 4 January 1796.
p.418, I Archibald Middlemast of Dinwiddie being possessed of a Negro man slave named
Gambo, a shoe and bootmaker, for 200 dollars, Emancipate. 24 December 1794. proved 1
February 1796.
p.479, 2 January 1797, I Nathaniel Eustis have Emancipated a Negro Man named Robert
Roberts aged about seventy years formerly the property of Simon Fraser deceased and
purchased by me at public sale in February last from Robert Mailtand attorney for trustee
of the estate of said Fraser. proved 2 January 1797.
p.479, I John Plenty Emancipate a Negro woman Polina and her son Abram which I
purchased of Robert Cocke, the said Negro woman Polina to have her Freedom from this day
forward...and the said Boy Abram in case of my death is to serve his mother until he
arrive to the age of twenty-one. 2 January 1797. Note, Abram will be twenty one years old
on the 15 May 1815. John x Plenty. proved same date.
p.480, I Erasmus Gill for Robert Cocke in and for 35 pouinds in hand sold unto John
Plenty a Negro woman named Polina, the wife of the said Plenty, whith her child Abram.20
November 1795. proved 20 November 1795.
p.509, I Joseph Harding do believe that God Created all Men equally Free, I do hereby
Emancipate and free the following persons, Vizt.; Susannah a Woman and her five children
Daniel a Boy, Betsy a girl, Ceasar a Boy, Susannah a Girl, and Lucy a girl. 4 September
1797. proved same date.
p.520, I Samuel Myers do declare I did purchase of David Maitland, trustee on the
estate of Simon Fraser deceased according to his bill of sale granted to me, dated the 4
January 1796 a Mulatto woman Alice, about the age of forty two years. I do for myself
release the said Alice all my right, claim interests or pretensions of claim whatsoever as
to her person. 20 April 1796. proved 2 October 1797.
p.527, I John Lee having a Negro man slae late the property of Thomas Fletcher now
deceased who I purchased at the sale of the Estate of said Fletcher by the name of Ezekiel
or Ezekiel Wiggins do Emancipate the said Ezekiel Wiggins (being about thirty five years
old) to have and enjoy his freedom. 3 February 1798. proved 6 February 1798.
p.543, I Alexander Morton by virtue of a decree of the Court of Dinwiddie County to me
directed and in Consideration of 40 pounds current money to me paid have sold William
Prentice a negro man named Sam, commonly called Sam Walker, aged about twenty five years,
formerly the property of Nathaniel Eustice. 1 March 1798.
I William Prentice do hereby Emancipate the within named Negro man Sam Walker. 5 March
1798. proved ame date.
p.559, I Nathaniel Lee of the County of Nottoway do believe that God Created all men
equally free--I do hereby Emancipate the following persons: Molly a woman and Lucy and
John children of said Maolly. 8 January 1798. proved 4 June 1798.
p.560, I George Blick, Jr., of Dinwiddie County do believe that God created all Men
equally Free. I therefore do hereby set free my Negro man called Prince Kelly. 5 June
1798. proved 4 June 1798.
p.565, I Israel Ducourdray having in my possession and as my property
a certain Mulatto woman (my wife) formerly called Sucky Ellis and her two children, to
wit, Israel and Alexander, formerly held as slaves and which said Sucky and her children I
purchased of Charles Duncan of Chesterfield County as per bill of sale to me dated 7
November last...Emancipate...said Sucky and her children...the said Sucky being my wife
and the two children aforesaid considered as my children. 2 July 1798. proved same date.
p.581, I Abby Smith, a free Negro woman of the town of Petersburg, purchased of Henry
Randolph, Esq., of the County of Nottoway a Mulatto boy slave named Baldy (being my own
son) agreeable to a bill of sale executed by the said Harrison to me bearing date 1 April
1798, and whereas also considering liberty to be natural and unalienable right of man, and
for and in consideration of the natural love and affection I bear my said son Have
emancipated... 4 February 1799. proved same date.
p.605, I James Dunlop for divers good reasons manumit and Liberate in Conformity to the
Act of Assembly in tht case provided a Negro woman slave named Jenny purchased by me from
Catlett Campbell. 27 July 1798. 2 September 1799.
p.623, I Charles Duncan of Chesterfield County have sold and delivered unto Israel
Ducourdray a Negro woman by the name Sucky Ellis together with her two children for 90
pounds. 7 November 1797. proved 2 December 1799.
p.626, I Thomas Gordon do send greeting. Whereas John Green late of the said town now
deceased by his last will, dated at Edinburgh the 24 April 1797, did manumit and set free
his Negro woman slave named Sukey. As attorney for the estate manumit the said Negro
woman. 9 October 1799. proved 2 December 1799.
p.629, Whereas Stephen Gilbert late of the Town of Petersburg did by his last will and
testament direct, "that my Negro man Neptune may be emancipated...after his paying 30
pounds." Since the said Neptune hath paid the sum of thirty pounds have
emancipated...adjudged between thirty five and forty years of age. 6 January 1800. proved
same date.
p.638, It being the particular wish of MRs. Lucy Angus that my slave Frank as a just
reward for her faithful services be emancipated I do hereby acknowledge her to be intitled
to all the privileges of a free woman. 28 September 1798. proved 6 January 1800.
p.657, I William Barr do hereby emancipate my Negro woman named Jeany Pottter bought of
Nicholas Stanback. 15 February 1800. proved 7 April 1800.
p.664, I William Maclure acting partner of the House of Miller Hart & Co. of London
Merchants...believing it is a Hardship to keep any person in Bondage tho it may appear
legal so to do agreeable to law respecting negroes in the state of Virginia where I now
live... emancipate and set free a negro woman by the name of Betsey about 18 and of a
yellowish complectionbought by David Anderson from Littleberry Hardiman of Charles City
and transferred by David Anderson to the said Miller Hart & Co. to be free from this
day forward. 18 March 1800. proved 7 April 1800.
p.665, Ditto a negroe woman by the name of Nancy of a yellowish complection aged about
twenty together with her female child Peggy about three years to be free from Bondage from
this day forward. 18 March 1800. proved 7 April 1800.
p.665, Ditto a Negro Man by the name of Bartlett of a dark complection aged about
twenty nine years bought by William Hart & Co. from James Gregory of Charles City
County...free from this day forward. 18 March 1800. proved 7 April 1800.
p.667, I Edmund Harrison of the County of Amelia for reasons appearing to me adequate
and sufficient have emancipated a mulatto woman formerly the property of Jerman Baker,
Esq., deceased, aged about forty three years and commonly called Betsy Ampey and
also her daughter likewise a mulatto about fourteen years of age called Maria. ___ October
1799. proved 7 April 1800.
p.684, This indenture made the 28 February 1800 between John Plenty a black man and
John Grammer. Whereas the said John Plenty stands justly indebted to the said John Grammer
the several sums sete forth in four several bonds to wit: 2 January 1797 30 pounds,
discharged on payment of 15 pounds. One bond 11 January 1798 40 pounds to be discharged on
payment of 20 pounds. One bond 1 January 1799 with William Gillies his security penalty of
40 pounds & conditioned to be discharged by payment of twenty pounds. And one other
bond bearing the date of these presents for 54 pounds to be discharged by the payment of
27 pounds, and the siad John Plenty being desirous to secure the said John Grammer the
said several sums and interest ...sell and convey to the aid Grammer one Negro Man by the
name of Isaac upon the conditioin...about the age of 23 years purchased by the said John
of Robert Cocke...after 1 March 1801. proved 7 July 1800.
p.696, I John Gilbert Peniston hereby emancipate a certain mulatto boy about five years
old and known by the name of Kinchen alias Christopher (whom I have bought of Eldridge
Clark in the State of North Carolina)...reserve to myself guardianship until he reaches
the age of twenty one. 10 June 1800. proved 7 July 1800.
p.701, Whereas I have in my possession a negro man called London which I purchased of
George Rowlett...I do emancipate and set free the said London. Betty x Call. 18 August
1800. proved 1 September 1800.
p.704, I Littleberry Wilcox of the County of Halifax in the state of North Carolina in
consideration of services already performed by Gabriel Cox a negro man and at present my
property have emancipated the aid negro man aged about five and forty years, formerly the
property of my father Major Wilcox of Charles City County & raised by him. 14 October
1799. proved 2 September 1800.
p.704, I Allen Cocke of the County of Surry emancipate my negro man slave Thomas King.
18 July 1800. proved 2 September 1800.
p.709, I Edward Jeffers in consideration of the faithful services of my slave Kate and
other considerations emancipate the said slave. 3 September 1800. proved same date.
p.712, I George Buchanan Doth believe that all men are born free. I hereby Emancipate
my negro woman named Betty Leath and her son Mathew a sucking child. 6 October 1800.
proved same date.
p.712, I William Douglas Merchant do send greeting: Whereas a mulatto woman named Molly
otherwise called Molly Giles and her future increase were held by Catherine Trezvant
formerly Catherine Wyatt, widow of Hubbard Wyatt, deceased, late of Prince George County
in the said state as Dower slaves. And whereas Humphrey Richards, dec., late of the town
of Petersburg did purchase in the year 1784 and obtain a proper release of the right,
property and interest which the said Catharine Tresvant had in her the said Molly Giles
and her future increase. And whereas I the said William Douglas per deed bearing date 16
April 1796 of record in Petersburg District Court did purchase all the right property and
interest which he the said Humphrey had in the said Molly Giles and her two female
children, Lucinda and Patience, and her future increase. And whereas I the said William
Douglas by deed bearing date 2 September 1800 of record in Petersburg purchased of John
Wyatt the son of the said Humphrey Wyatt the reversionary right property and interest in
the said slaves Molly Giles and her four children Lucinda, Patience, Douglas and
Mary...considering Liberty to be the natural right of Mankind...entirely emancipated. 2
October 1800. proved 6 October 1800.
p.736, 26 November 1799, Henry Morris of the County of Gloster and Jonathan Curtis
of Petersburg $200 for a 1/2 acre lot in the part of Petersburg called Pocohontas, no. 65.
proved 6 April 1801.
p.737, I Polly Spruce Emancipate a mulatto man by the name of Richard
White. 1 March 1801. proved 6 April 1801.
Pittsylvania County
Orders 1787-91, p.281, 20 July 1789, Christopher Johnson one of the executors of
Charles Mooreman, late of the county of Louisa, deceased, exhibited here in Court twenty
eight deeds bearing date 28 May 1778 under the hand of the late Mooreman for the
Emancipation of certain slaves the property of the said Mooreman.
Personal Property Tax List 1788, frame 412, Joseph Smith free Negroe.
Orders 1787-91, p.462, 21 March 1791, a writing purporting the Emancipation of Carolina
a Negro Woman belonging to Ann Mc Daniel proved.
Orders 1791-4, p.406, writing purporting the Emancipation of Biddey and Juda, two
Mulattoe slaves belonging to Armstead Shelton acknowledged by the said Armstead.
Personal Property Tax List 1796-7, frames 742, 767: Dansey free Negroe.
Personal Property Tax List 1797, frame 767: Free Nicholas.
Orders 1798-1801, p.42, list of male tithables to work on th road at Waller Guilds to
Batchelder Hall: ...Free Negro Will...
p.135, 15 July 1799, Deed of Emancipation John Terry to Catherine Stephens and Lucretia
Stephens.
Powhatan County
Deeds 1777-92, 486, Philip Gatch deed of emancipation, 18 December 1788, to Hannah,
Sarah, Jenny, and Frances 25 December 1788. Milley 25 December 1789, David 25 December
1798, Nancy 25 December 1800. Phebe 25 December 1803.
p.537, 3d day 8th month 1789, Jonathan Pleasants deed of emancipation to Ben (19),
Jacob (17), Selah (15). recorded 15 October 1789.
Deed Book 1792-1800, p.214, Thomas Harris emancipate Rachel(27), and two children
Wilson (3) and Judith (1).
p.215, 17 October 1795, I Thomas Wilson set free Lucinda a small mulatto girl daughter
of Hannah about 5 years old.
Orders 1791-4, p.87, 16 March 1792, Peter F. Archer emancipate Lewis a male slave.
p. 277, 18 July 1793, George Smith emancipates slaves Phil and Moll.
Orders 1794-8, p.221, 21 April 1796, Thomas Harris to a small mulatto girl named
Lucinda and to three negores Rachel and her two children Wilson and Judith.
p.347, 21 June 1797, John Harris, Jr., to Nancey a negro woman.
p.442, 23 February 1798, Bennett Maxey to negro slave Cyrus and Belinder.
Gage Smith to negro slaves Edward, Martha, Rachel, Julia, Isaac, John, Jenny, James,
Jacob, Anna, and Fanny
Horatio Massey to a Negro slave Hannor.
Elisha Muxey to a negro slave Richard.
Orders 1798-1802, p.365, 1 July 1800, Josiah Thompson to a negro woman slave Rose.
p.379, 18 March 1801, Samuel Marshall to negro Dinah.
p.409, 17 April 1801, Jack Bows a negro lad in the possession of Robert Craig who
perceives he is in the sale of the estate of Charles Logan is entitled to his freedom by
virtue of a decree of the High Court of Chancery pursuant to the will of John Pleasants,
decd.
Orders 1802-4, p.320, 22 July 1803, deed of emancipation from Elizabeth Hickman (a free
African American) to her husband Tim former ly the property of Littleberry Mosby.
Prince George County
Orders 1811-4, deed of emancipation John Poythress to Nanny Booker.
Abstracts by Nicholls and Howard:
Prince George County Deed Book 1787-1792 LVA Reel# 3 (Contains Wills)
p. 123 – 11 Feb 88 – Augustin Heath – of Prince George
County after full and deliberate consideration (and agreeable to our Bill of Rights) am
fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right…that no law, moral or divine hath
given me a just right, or property, in the persons of any of my fellow creatures and
desirous to fulfill the injunction of our Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ …do unto
others…Do hereby set free from bondage the following Negroes vizt. Seila, Sarah,
James on [17 May 96], Betty [27 Oct. 95], Henry [23 June 02], Charles [21 Dec 05],
Alexander [5 April 06] – as several of the above named Negroes are yet in their
nonage, I desire to have the care guardianship and instruction of the said children till
they arrive at full age – rec 12 Feb 88
p. 124 – 12 Feb 88 – Sarah X Gary – of Prince George
County, after full and deliberate consideration…Bill of Rights…freedom is the
natural right…fulfill the injunction…do hereby set free from bondage too Negro
girls Amey (15 yrs) on [15 May 93], Leddy (11 months) [15 Jan 07] – rec 12 Feb 88
p. 125 – 6 Dec 87 – Barnaby Nixon – of Prince George County
being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right…do unto others…having
under my care Negroes of the following names and ages Jimme aged about 23 yrs, Jacob abt
26 yrs I do therefore emancipate and set free the said Negroes – and having also
under my care Negroes now in their minority of the following names and ages vizt Moses (16
yrs) [15 Aug 92], Mille (8 yrs) [5 May 97], Polly (3 yrs) [25 May 05] whom I also hereby
emancipate and set free, yet I believe it right for me to act as a guardian over them
until the male arrive to the age of twenty one years and the females to the age of
eighteen years – rec 12 Feb 88
p. 126 – 11 Dec 87 – William Hunnicutt – of Prince George
County being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right…do unto
others…having under my care Negroes of the following names and ages vizt David (32
yrs), Judy (20 yrs), Grace (22 yrs) I do therefore emancipate and set free the above said
Negroes And having also a Negro now in its minority named Theo [?] Colman [10 Dec 08] whom
I also hereby emancipate and set free, yet I believe it right for me to act as guardian
over him until he may arrive to the age of twenty one years – rec 12 Feb 88
127 – 10 Dec 87 – William Simmons – of Prince George County
being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right…do unto others…having
under my care a negro named Phebe (43 yrs) I do therefore emancipate and set free the
above said Negro – and having also Negroes now in their minority of the following
names and ages vizt Ned [24 July 88] and Murry [1 Oct 99] whom I also hereby emancipate
and set free, yet I believe it right for me to act as guardian over them until the males
arrive to the age of twenty one and the females to the age of eighteen years of age –
rec 12 Feb 88
p. 130 – 5 Dec 87 – John Hunnicutt – of Prince George
County being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right…do unto
others…having under my care Negroes of the following names and ages vizt Pat (55
yrs), Cate (35 yrs) I do therefore emancipate and 2 set free the said Negroes – And
having also Negroes now in their minority of the following names and ages vizt. London (
abt 19 yrs 10 months) [last day of Feb 89], Silvey (9 yrs) [8 Nov 96], Selah (8 yrs) [1
Jan 97] whom I also emancipate and set free, yet I believe it right for me to act as a
guardian...males twenty one…females eighteen –rec 12 Feb 88
p. 226 – 10 March 89 – John Bland – of Prince Goerge County
being desirous of emancipating the following slaves vizt Sally (27 yrs), John (11 yrs) [10
Nov 98], Polly (9 yrs) [28 Dec 97], Nancy (4 yrs) [18 Oct 02], Ailsy (2 yrs) [17 March 05]
I do therefore emancipate and set free the said slaves…as the four last mentioned are
in their minority, I do agree to act as guardian for them until they arrive at an age to
act for themselves…males twenty one…females eighteen – rec 13 March 89
p. 258 – Will of Joseph Williams – of good health and sound mind
– give to my said loving wife a Negro girl named Anaky and a Negro child named Fanny
at her own disposal, I also lend to my wife three Negroes to wit Toby, Phill, and Judy
during her life – I leave my Negro fellow Jack to be sold to the highest bidder and
the money from the sale to be applied to the payment of my debts – I also give my
brother William Williams my two negroes Phil and Judy after the decease of my wife –
It is my will and desire that my negro fellow Toby after the decease of my wife should be
free from the claim of any person and it is also my decree that he should have 30 acres of
land convenient to fire wood during life, it is also my will and desire that if he should
be incapable of maintaining himself that he should be supported out of my estate – 9
June 87 – rec 9 June 89
p. 265 –Will of Edward Avery – of the County of Prince George
– gives 20 slaves to heirs – my will and desire is that Charlotte the daughter
of my Negro woman Hannah and Jane the daughter of my Negro woman Suckey be hereby
emancipated and set free at my decease – 18 Aug 84 – rec 9 June 89
p. 368 – 29 May 90 – Patty Woodlief – of Prince George
County after full and deliberate consideration…freedom is the natural
right…fulfill the injunction…do hereby set free from bondage the following
Negroes vizt. Lucy [16 Nov 91] and Captain [24 April 00]...but as the above mentioned
Negroes are yet in their nonage I wish to see to the guardianship and instruction of the
said Negroes till they arrive at full age – rec 18 June90
p. 371 – 8 June 90 – Henry Alley – of Prince George County
after full and deliberate consideration…bill of rights…natural
right…fulfill the injunction…do hereby set free from bondage three Negroes,
named Jinny (10 yrs) [16 June 01] Peter (6 yrs) [13 Dec 05], Phebe (2 yrs) [March 09]
– I desire to have the care guardianship and instruction –rec 8 June 90
p. 417 – Will of William Simmons – of Prince George County
– I leave one Negroe girl named Tamer under the care of my loving wife Huldah Simmons
till she arrives to the 3 age of eighteen years [note no other provision involving
Tamer}– Nov 89 – rec 14 Sept 90
p. 440 – 14 Dec 90 – James Cureton & Susanna Heath – of
Prince George County believing that all men by nature equally free, therefore we do
emancipate and set free Moll (42 yrs), Amey (41 yrs), Stephen (33 yrs), Major (26 yrs),
Ned (47 yrs), Bess (65 yrs), Mingo (39 yrs), Lydia (16 yrs), Jeray (10 yrs), Nead (10
yrs), Ben (6 yrs), Humphrey (4 yrs), Susannah (8 yrs) when males reach twenty one and
females reach eighteen – rec 14 Dec 90
p. 444 – 14 Dec 90 – John Wesbrook – of Prince George
County believing that all men by nature equally free, therefore do emancipate and set free
Lucy (35 yrs), Gabe (5 yrs), Mary (2 yrs) the above slaves I relinquish all right little
more than being guardian for Gabe till he comes to the age of twenty one years, Mary till
she comes to the age of eighteen years – rec 14 Dec 90
p. 521 – 10 May 91 – Boyce Gary – of Prince George County
believing that all men are by nature and of right out to be free do by this instrument of
writing emancipate and set free my Negro man Francis aged abt 43 yrs and woman Cis abt 35
yrs – 13 May 91
p. 525 –will of Richard Stewart Senior – of Prince George County
– Leaves 7 slaves to his wife, 5 to his daughter Ann, and 5 to his daughter Jane,
along with Fanny – Fanny the daughter of Isabell until she shall arrive to the age of
eighteen or twenty one years after that period it is my particular desire that she the
said Fanny shall have her freedom – 1790 – rec 14 June 91
p. 539 – 14 Nov 90 – Stephen Peebles – of Prince George
County do hereby emancipate and set free one Negro man named Aron (27 yrs) and also having
under my care one Negro girl named Hager (7 yrs) who I do also emancipate and set free
after she arrives to the age of eighteen years, I also relinquish my right in the
following Negroes viz Stephen, Dinah, Samson, Nancy, and little Dinah – rec 14 June
91
p. 541 – 11 Jan 91 – Jesse Hunnicutt – of Prince George
County being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right…do unto others…I
have heretofore held as slaves of the following names and ages viz Isom (29 yrs) and Tom
(23 yrs old) I do therefore emancipate and set free the said Negroes, and having also a
Negro now in her minority named Winney (11 yrs) [25 Nov 98] whom I do also hereby
emancipate and set free yet I believe it right for me to act as guardian over her until
she arrive to the age of eighteen years – rec 14 June 91
p. 652 – 8 June 90 - Agness Chappell – of Prince George County
being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right…do unto others…having
under my care Negroes of the following names David Buck aged 35 yrs and Harry Buck aged 21
yrs I do therefore emancipate and set free the said Negroes, and having several Negroes
now in their minority of the following names to wit London Daingerfield (8 yrs) Riller (7
yrs), Jesse 4 Colenell (4 yrs 7 months), Sarah (15 yrs) whom I also emancipate and set
free…act as a guardian – 11 Jan 91
p. 691 – 17 March 92– Thomas Chappell, John Chappell, Benjamin
Chappell, and Agness Chappell of Prince George County and Aquila Binford of Dinwiddie
County – being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right…do unto
others…under our care one Negro of the following name Charles Rivers aged 22 yrs, we
do therefore emancipate and set free the said Negro – rec 10 July 92
Richmond City Hustings Court
Orders 1787-92, p.469, 28 December 1789, Emancipation Thomas Keene and James Warrington
to their slave Abraham Skipwith.
Deed Book 1:388, 28 December 1789, James Warrington and Thomas Keene, Merchants of the
City of Richmond for forty pounds paid by our slave Abraham emancipate him, commonly
called Abraham Skipwith.
Deed Book 2
page 3, 19 January 1792, I John Lester...for 48 pounds paid by my negro man slave
George commonly called George Radford aged about 37, manumit and set free the said George.
page 121, I Peter Robertson for 5 shillings paid by my slave Betty and in consideration
of filial affection emancipate said Betty. (made his mark) 10 October 1787, proved
15 April 1794.
p.123, I Samuel Couch from mature and deliberate consideration and the conclusion of my
own mind being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right of all mankind and that
no law moral or divine has given me a just right to, or property in the person of my
fellow creatures, and have under my care thirteen negroes, set free the said twelve
negroes to wit: Squire, Robin, Brunswick, Stephen, Orange, George, Barney, Fanny and Pat
and four children Silla (19), Pleasant (6), Charlotte (4), Betty (2 months). 1 day
of 1st month 1794. proved 9 June 1794.
p.174, I Hannah Loyal Jones emancipate a negro man slave named Dick. 23 December 1794,
proved 13 April 1795.
p.176, I John Lyne, owner of a negro woman slave named Jenny in consideration of her
faithful service and 6 shillings, emancipate her. 14 April 1795, proved 14 April 1795.
p.183, I David Lambert being possessed of a negro woman slave named Rose Duckingfield,
aged about forty four to whom I am desirous of giving freedom, therefore for one
dollar emancipate said woman. I the said Pharis Duckingfield have set my hand and seal the
10 November 1794. signed David Lambert. proved 8 June 1795 by David Lambert.
p.184, I John Orr for and in consideration of the long and faithful service of my negro
woman Grace emancipate her. 6 February 1795, proved 8 June 1795.
p.213, I Benjamin Harrison, Jr., for the gratification of my will and pleasure have
emancipated my negro girl slave Fanny, daughter of Amelia. 10 November 1795, proved 14
NovI the said Pharis Duckingfieldember 1795.
p.213, For 55 pounds paid by my mulatto woman slave Amey Halestock set
free the said woman. David Lambert. 14 December 1795. proved same date.
p.218, I Polly Bee for the natural love and affection I bear to my niece Sally Carter
purchased by me of Rev. James Henderson of the City of Williamsburg, aged about fourteen,
do herbey emancipate said Sally. 8 February 1796. proved same date.
p.237, I Samuel McGraw emancipate my slave Grace. 11 April 1796.
p.258, I John McEnery for one dollar paid by my negro woman slave Sylvia (about
24) emancipate her. 1 January 1796. proved 13 June 1796.
p.282-3, I John Lyne owner of a yellow woman called Fanny Johnson now living with
George H. Clay of this city, on account of faithful services and 1 dollar emancipate and
ser her free. 3 July 1795. N.B. Fanny Johnson was delivered of a daughter some where about
the twenty third of July 1795 and is now called Sally Johnson. proved 12 December 1796.
p.283, I Robert Warren of New Kent County have manumitted my negro woman Mary commonly
called Mary Johnson. 10 December 1796. proved 12 December 1796.
p.300, I Samuel Pleasants, Jr., bieng fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right
of all mankind and that it is my duty to do to others, as I would desire to be done by in
the like situation, and having in my possession four negroes of the following names and
ages vizt. Sam (27), Jane (26), Richard a mulatto boy (10), and Polly a negro girl (1 the
15 February last), who I do hereby emancipate...8 January 1797, proved same date.
p.355, I Sally Pearson...negro woman Sally for 25 pounds paid by said Sally emancipate
her. 14 August 1797. 11 September 1797.
p.376, Whereas Anne Cowper daughter of a slave named Peg paid me 38 pounds for her
freedom in March 1795, I William DuVal then executed a deed for her emancipation. 11
December 1797. proved same date.
p.377, I Julius B. Dandridge for 65 pounds in hand paid by my mulatto man slave John
aged about 30 years set free the said slave.29 March 1797. proved 11 Dec 1797.
p.387, We Andrew Hosie of the County of Powhatan and James Carney of the City of
Richmond owners of one Affrican negro born slave named Syphax supposed to be about forty
five years old emancipate him for the sum of 45 pouinds. 10 February 1798. proved 12
February 1798.
p.415, I William Haydon have manumitted one negro woman Phillis. 5 May 1798, proved 14
May 1798.
p.416, I William R. Fleming of Goochland County this day granted and confirmed that
Fanny a mulatto woman slave lately purchased of George Webb in consideration of her
honesty, fidelity and good conduct...granted her liberty to enjoy... 1 December 1797,
proved 14 May 1798.
p.435, Solomon Raphael and Kitty Jacobs for 60 pounds paid by Thomas Moule emanicpate
one negro woman named Sylvia about 38 and her child Nelly about 7 months old. 1 May 1798.
proved 9 July 1798.
p.443, James Bennett for 65 pounds paid by my negro woman named Nan aged about twenty
two emancipate and set free the said negro woman. 4 September 1798, proved 10 September
1798.
p.444, Charles Higbee for 1 dollar by my negro man named Ned aged about 40, emancipate
and set free. 4 September 1798, 10 September 1798.
p.444, Charles Higbee for 1 dollar set free negro woman Patty about 40. 4 September
1798, proved 10 September 1798.
p.445, John Lester for 65 pounds by my negro man slave James Cole emancipate and set
free. 5 July 1798, proved 10 September 1798.
452-3, John Lyne in consideration of the honest and faithful service rendered to me by
my negro woman Nancy a female slave that I purchased of John Ambler, Esq., of James City
through his manager J. Richardson, which said Negro woman Nancy I adjudge 30-32 years old,
emancipate. 26 September 1798, proved 8 October 1798.
p.454, I John Murrel of Lynchburg having under my care a negro woman named Diana in
consideration of 75 pounds paid by said Diana emancipate and set free. 27 March 1797.
Proved 8 October 1798.
p.479, Patrick Macmara emancipate my mulatto woman Amey whom I lately purchased of
Andreew Ronald, Esq., of the said City, 10 June 1798. proved 14 January 1799.
p.517, John Mills of Henrico County for 13 pounds emancipate my negro woman slave namd
Stalia I bought from the executors of the late Alexander Campbell, decd. 10 May 1798,
proved 11 February 1799.
pp.523-4, Hezekiah L. Wight, for 45 pounds paid by my negro man slave Peter sometimes
called Peter Roper about 25 years of age, purchased by me of Jesse Roper...do emancipate
him. 16 January 1799. proved 11 February 1799.
pp. 525-33, will of John Lyne... I give to all my slaves full and absolute freedom from
slavery except for one slave Simon (whom I purchased of Mr. Eldridge Harris) who is a
shoemaker to him I give his freedom at the expiration of 8 years. The extreme fidelity and
honesty, care and attention which my negro woman Eve hath displayed since she became my
slave...one bed and its furniture whereon she commonly sleeps, four iron pots, 2 jugs, 1
pitcher, a cupboard, trunk, etc., the far better part of these things she brought with her
when she became my slave...$150 annually for her use. Executors to convert the lumber
house into a good convenient, commodious dwelling house for her during her natural life.
To my negro man George Quigley for and during his natural life my lot in the City of
Richmond wheron he and his wife Mary now live with all the improvements thereon. To my
negro man Tom and my negro woman Daphney and Hannah each $20, a young sow, an iron pot,
residual of flowls divided equally among them. I request my executors to divide fairly
among all such as are now my slaves, but before such division shall take place, I burden
my said residuary estate with the education of all my slaves now under the age of eighteen
in reading and writing and arethmetic and the expense of binding them otu to such trades
as they shall chose. 13 January 1799. Proved 11 February 1799.
p.545, I Frederick Argyle for 45 pounds paid to me by my negro woman slave Sarah
emancipate her 8 March 1799. proved 8 April 1799.
p.560, Lyne's Executors to George Guickley. I William Lyne, executor of John Lyne who
did give all his slaves freedom the instant of his death, was possessed of a yellow man
George Quickley, about 32 years old...Said George Quickley is the bearer hereof. 25 March
1799. proved 8 April 1799.
p.561, Ditto to Lewis a black man about 50 years old. 25 March 1799. proved 8 April
1799.
p.562, Ditto to Kitt a black man about 34. same dates.
p.564, Ditto to George Loudon a black man about 38. same dates.
p.565, Ditto to Tom a black man about 33 . same dates.
p.566, Ditto to Joe a black man about 50. same dates.
p.568, I George Radford of the county of Henrico for in consideration of the fidelity
and good behaviour of a certain negro woman Mary at present my slave whom I purchased of
Joel Botham of Henrico, set free. 13 May 1799, proved 10 June 1799.
p.576, Isaiah Isaacs for 1 dollar paid by my negro woman Lucy aged about 40 emancipate
her. 11 May 1799. proved 10 June 1799.
p.578, Whereas our father by deed of emancipation hath sometime liberated a negro woman
Nan about 23 years, but it is doubted whether under a deed of trust executed 7 October
1791 to David Clopton and Job Clarke for the benefit of Rebecca Bennett our
mother...we do hereby emancipate and seet free said woman Nan and her child Agnes aged two
years. 24 May 1799. 10 June 1799.
p.588, I Benjamin Duval in consideration of the fidelity and good behaviour of a
certain negro woman Lydia now my slave who I purchased of Alexander Campbell, deceased, in
his lifetime...emancipate 5 February 1799, proved 10 June 1799.
p.600, Thomas G. Langley for good cause emancipate my mulatto boy slave named Robert
now seven years old being the same boy I bought of William Nimmo of the city of Richmond
on the 14 December 1795. 18 September 1798. proved 12 August 1798.
p.601, Patty Coley of Henrico County for love and affection I have for my negro man Sam
(my husband) do emancipate. 10 October 1799. Patty x Cole. proved 15 October 1799.
p.627, Richard Bowler for 40 pounds paid by my negro woman slave Molley who I lately
purchased of Samuel Ege...emancipate her. 29 Nov 1797, proved 9 Dec 1799.
p.627, I William DuVal for 25 pounds current money paid by Dedier Colin bind out unto
the said Dedier Colina negro girl named Amey the daughter of Violet which negro girl
is my property for the special purpose hereafter to be expressed, to wit, she the said
Amey is to serve the said Didier Colin until she arrives to the age of 25 (she being 12
& five months old). If the said Amey shall have child or children during servitude and
before she arrives to 25, the males shall serve to the age of 21 and the females to 18.
Said Amey and her issue if any to be treated humanely, taught to read. Amey to be free at
25. 9 October 1799, proved 10 December 1799.
Deeds 3, 1799-1803
p.24, John Leslie for 65 pounds for the purpose of emancipating her received of Edward
Marriott as the vaule of my negro woman Winney aged 25. 9 February 1800. 10 February 1800.
p.43, George Nicolson emancipate my negro man slave named John commonly called John Man
about 30 lately the property of Doct. Robert Nicolson of York, conveyed to me by the
administrator of the said Robert, deceased, by bill of 29 August last. 14 January 1800. 13
March 1800.
p.77, Simon Gillett of the City of Richmond for divers good causes
have set free from slavery a negro woman by the name of Kitty purchased by me of John
Wilkerson of the County of Southampton, agent of Eve Norflet of the same county. 12
February 1799. Simon x Gillett. 12 May 1800.
p.95, Archibald Blair have emancipated my mulatto slave named James (for value
received) of the age of 2 years. 3 November 1799. 9 June 1800.
p.116, William Nimmo, merchant, for divers good causes emancipate a certain mulatto
girl slave named Sally aged eight or thereabouts now my property and living in my family.
10 November 1798. 8 September 1800.
p.118, Richard Bowler emancipate a negro slave of mine named Judith about 16. 8
September 1800. proved same date.
p.131, Coltilde Miller Leslie widow of Philip Marchand, deceased, late inhabitante of
Artibonite in Hispaniola and Philip Marchand his only son, knowing it always was the
intentition of the said deceased to emancipate his negro man Pierre Paul as a reward for
his fidelity and good services and moreover wishing to comply with the law of the French
Republic of which we are subjects, do hereby emancipate him. 10 September 1800. proved 11
November 1800.
p.132, Harry Thompson for 1 dollar emancipate a certian negro woman slae named Sally
which negro woman was purchased by me of Mr. John Prentis late of the city of Richmond,
deceased, about the age of 38 . 12 November 1800. proved same date.
p.133, I William DuVal manumit set free and discharge from slavery the following
slaves, Virgin and Mary I do immediately set frr and Nancy the child of Mary when she
arrives to the age of twenty six years. Tenah a femal slaves I do set free and she is to
serve me thirteen years which said negroes Virgini, Mary and Tenah are children of Nancy
Brown who I have set free. I do manumit and set free the following slaves as they
respectively arrive to the age of twenty six years, to wit, James, Kitty, Molly and
Maria.... children of Sylvia Thomas who I have already emancipated. I do also manumit
Edmund, America, Charles, and Katy as soon as they respectively arrive to the age of
twenty six years which said last above mentioned children are the issue of Grace Pottie
who I have already emancipated. The true intent of this deed of emancipation is that the
said persons I have by these presents set free are to serve me until the age of twenty
six, the said Virgin and Mary excepted and the remainder to be treated as apprentices. 1
November 1800. 8 Dece 1800.
p.135, I do manumit and set free a negro woman Sally from this time and forever. 29
July 1800. William DuVal. proved 8 Dec 1800.
p.138, John Cringan do emancipate and set free the following slaves: Molly a woman
about 35, Bob and Minnis children of said Molly, being the slaves which were conveyed by
John Forbes to me by his bill of sale dated 3 December last. 9 January 1801. proved 12
January 1801.
p.153, I Benjamin DuVal in consideration of 100 dollars in hand paid by Anthony Shelton
do hereby emacipate and set free a negro girl naemed Mary Anne daughter to said Anthony
which said Girl Mary Anne I bought of Alexander Campbell deceased in his lifetime. 22
August 1800. proved 12 January 1801.
p.173, In consideration of the long and faithful services rendered to me by my negro
woman slave called Dinah, I have thought propert to emancipate and set her free. 21
November 1800. proved 9 Feb 1801.
p.174, We Charlotte Dickson and John Dickson of the county of James City being fully
persuaded that freedom is the natural right of all mankind, and believing ti to be our
duty to do to others as one would desire they should do unto us, in the like situation,
and having in our possession a negro woman named Sall, we do hereby emancipate the above
negro Sally.19 December 1800. 13 January 1801.
p.177, We Thomas Nicolson, Andrew Nicolson and Charles Copeland set free a negro woman
named Phillis belonging to the estate of Robert Nicolson, late of Williamsburg, deceased.
9 February 1801. proved same date.
p.209, I Elizabeth Galt for 70 pounds have emancipated a negro woman named Charlotte
formerly my property. 13 April 1801. proved same date.
p.216, I James Strange emancipate a certain negro man slave named James otherwise
called James Barrick aged about fifty eight years now my property and living in my family.
7 April 1801. proved 13 April 1801.
p.242-3, I Rachel Whitaker for one dollar paid by my mulatto woman slave Nancy
otherwise called Nancy Hamilton about twenty eight years of age, emancipaater her. 26 May
1801. proved 8 June 1801.
p.360, I Edmund Webster emancipate my negro woman named Rebecca formerly the property
of Adam Craig. 1 November 1801. proved 14 Dec 1801.
p.407, James Abbott will...wife Nancy my whole estate...Should all my children depart
this life before my beloved wife Nancy Abbott, my will is that all negroes of which she
shall die possessed of may immediateley receive their full liberty. 13 September 1798.
proved 13 April 1802.
p.428, I Richard Bowler being possessed of a negro man slave named Jesse whom I
purchased from John W. Willis decesaed as will appear by a bill of sale from the said
willis to me duly proved in Hustings Court, for 250 dollars to me in hand paid, manumit
the said Jesse. 16 June 1802. proved 12 July 1802.
pp.437-8, 8 June 1802 between Benjamin Mosby and Tilla a negro woman. Whereas the said
Tilla has heretofore been a slave, and the property of Benjamin Mosby...grant full and
entire freedom. proved 12 July 1802.
p.479, I William G. Payne do liberate one mulatto girl Judah commonly called by the
name Judah Bentley now in the City of Richmond and County of Henrico. 15 November 1802.
proved 13 December 1802.
p.480, I james Miller of the City of London for divers good causes and considerations
have emancipated Polly Bee and Lydia Bee two mulatto women slaves to me belonging, now
residing in Richmond and who were sometime ago purchased by me of John Blair, Esq., of the
City of Williamsburg. And I do emancipate each and every of the children male and female
of the said Polly Bee and Lydia Bee, they being also slaves and my property. 4 May 1802.
proved in London same day. proved in Richmond 13 December 1802.
p.532, Received seventy five dollars of a free negro woman named Betty Hambleton in
full payment for a negro girl called Betsey Grymes about three year old. 18 April 1803.
proved 13 June 1803.
p.533, we Didier Collin and Prosser & Moncure emancipate a negro woman slave named
Venus she being the same woman slave which was sold to us by Gilbert Ricks of Albemarle.
13 May 1803. proved 13 June 1803.
p.588, I Marks Vandewall emancipate my slave Eda aged thirty six years 12 September
1803, proved 10 Oct 1803.
Shenandoah County
Minutes 1774-80, p.19, 28 September 1776, the Court being informed that Jackson Allen
of this County has s___ __ of his Negroes free, ordered that he be summoned to appear at
the next court to shew cause why they should ot be sold according to an act of assembly in
that case made and provided.
Orders 1781-4, p.215, 26 June 1783, Charles Burns, executor of the will of Barbara
Zagan emancipates a Negro man Dick.
Southampton County
http://www.usu.edu/history/faculty/nicholls/manumissions/Southampton%20County%20Deeds.pdf
http://www.usu.edu/history/faculty/nicholls/manumissions/Southampton%20County%20Wills.pdf
Orders 1778-84, p.255, 13 February 1783, instrument of writing Mary Hargrave
emancipates 10 slaves Cupid, Cudjoe, Lucy, etc.
Orders 1784-9, p.353, 14 February 1787, deed of emancipation Robert Husk to Hannah,
Bede, Phebe and Rhody.
p.442, 9 October 1788, deed of emancipation robert Ricks to sundry slaves.
p.478, 12 February 1789, James Scott's manumission of Ben, James, Cherry, Pomey.
Meriam Scott manumission of Robin, Cornwall, Venus, Celia and Rachel.
Minutes 1786-90, 9 July 1789, William Williams his deed of emancipation to Harry.
11 September 1789, L. Vick emancipation to Rose.
8 October 1789, Edwin Davis emancipation of four slaves.
James Johnston emancipation of Ned.
Deed of emancipation from Benjamin Drew dated 20 December 1792 to Anna who married
Peter Fagan, Jr.
Orders 1793-9, p.10, April 1793, Mary Joyner's emancipation of Jim.
p.49, 10 October 1793, Miriam Scott and others emancipation proved.
p.91, 12 June 1794, overseers of the poor bind Elizabeth daughter of Isabell a Negro
emancipated by Philip Davis.
p.92, Holland Browne emancipates sundry slaves.
p.216, 15 April 1796, Ann Ricks emancipates sundry slaves.
Meliscent Ricks emancipates sundry slaves.
p.220, 9 June 1796, overseers of the poor of Nottoway Parish bind Ben a free born Black
child of Jenny who was emancipated by Jordan Denson.
p.276, 20 June 1796, Pyland Travis emancipates negro boy slave Robert.
p.378, 21 August 1798, Jacob Hillard free Negro emancipated by W. Lane be exempt from
taxes during his disability to labour.
Minutes 1799-1803,
p.87, 20 January 1800, E. Porter's deed of emancipation to Tryal.
p.114, 18 August 1800, overseers of the poor of the upper district of St. Luke's bind
Nancy child of Olive formerly the property of Henry Turner, deceased.
p.147, Benjamin Jordan Deed of Emancipation to sundry slaves.
p.164, 20 April 1801, Williamson to Jack deed of emancipation.
Benj. Whtifield deed for the emancipation of Dick.
p.195, 15 November 1802, deed of emancipation from Peter Fagan to a
member of his family.
p.211, 21 September 1801, overseers of the poor bind Bob, Bet, Kate and Isham young
negroes emancipated by Benjamin Whitfield.
p222, 19 October 1801, overseers of the poor of the lower district of St. Luke's bind
Vinia Whitfield, Jonas Whitfield, Sally Artis, Silvey Whitfield and Sydney Whitfield poor
children of Easter Whitfield.
p.260, 19 April 1802, Whitfield to Jonas and Jack deed of emancipation.
18 October 1802, Gee to Lizza emancipation. She is under age, he give bond for her
support.
Minutes 1804-7, 158, 21 April 1806 Faithy Hurst emancipated
(her husband?) London Williams.
Abstracts by Nicholls and Howard:
Southampton County Deed Book 6
1782-1787
LVA Reel # 3
p. 81–Jordan Denson of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others frees Tom a Negro man abt 23; Rachel a woman abt 20 and Jinny a woman
abt 20–and two in their minority viz: Treasey a girl born 23 Feb 1778 when 18 and Sam
born 25 June 1780 when 21–27 Aug 1782–rec 14 Nov 82
p. 82–Christian Denson and Jordan Denson of Sohampton–freedom is
natural right and doing unto others frees Negro man Pompey near abt 35 yrs old–and in
their minority viz Aggy a girl born in Aug 1778; Cherry a girl born 28 May 1780 and
Zilphah a girl born in Jan 1782 when they are 18 reserving guardianship–10 Sept
1782–rec 14 Nov 1782–affirmed by Lemuel Jones
p. 83–Sally Denson of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others–frees Negroes Minor aged abt 37 and Phillis aged abt 18–and in
their minority Andrew a boy born 21 June 1779 when 18; and Nancy a girl born 18 Dec 1781
when 18–reserving guardianship–11 Sept 1782–rec 14 Nov 1782–proved by
affirmation of Lemuel Jones and Samuel Eley
p. 84–Joseph Denson of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others–frees David born in the "seventeenth" month 1766 when he
is 21, reserving guardianship–10 Sept 1782–rec 14 Nov 1782
p. 85–Lemuel Jones of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others-frees Negroes Tom aged 48; Fancy aged 39; Nann aged 60; Sampson aged 22
and Siller aged 22–and in their minority Emanuel born Aug 1762; Cresay a girl Dec
1766; James a boy born 6 Nov 1776; Sampson a boy born in Aug 1780–reserves
guardianship until 18 and 21–13 Aug 1782–rec 14 Nov 1782
p. 86–James Stanton of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Nanny aged abt 33–and seven Negroes now in their
minority viz: Lucey aged abt 16 on 18 Dec 83; Siah aged abt 14 on 7 April 86; Tom abt 12
on 3 Aug 91; Sam abt 9 on 15 Jan 94; Moses abt 7 on 22 Aug 96; Davey abt 4 on 30 May 99
and Kate abt 2 on 19 Dec 98 when males 21 and females 18 and reserving
guardianship–13 Aug 82–rec 14 Nov 1782–proved by affirmation of Sampson
Stanton and Richard Wrenn
p. 87–Jacob Vick, Sr of Sohampton-- freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negroes Pompy aged abt 50 and another Pompey
distinguished by the name of Meherring abt 55 yrs old–12 Oct 1782–rec 14 Nov
1782–proved by affirmation of Samuel Jones, and Jordan Denson
p. 88–Sampson Stanton of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro Jim aged abt 18 but reserves guardianship until
21–ie on 1 Jan 1785–13 Aug 1782–rec 2 Nov 1782
p. 89–William Butler of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negroes Phillis aged abt 31; Ned aged abt 27; Jinny aged
abt 25; Jimmey aged abt 23; and three in their minority viz: Sam aged abt 13 free in 1790
; Billey aged abt 6 in 97; and Linder aged abt 4 in 96-- reserving guardianship until 21
and 18–8 Oct 1782–rec 14 Nov 1782–proved by affirmation of Samson Stanton
and Richard Wrenn
p. 91–Thomas Pretlow Sr of Sohampton–having under my care a
number of Negroes which I have set free about 9 yrs since and have acted as guardian to
them to keep them from being sold at public sale which the law required–now law is
changed "to tolerate them and those that have a mind to set them free"–so
declares them free in court viz: Sarah 66 yrs old last January; Sam Diggs 65 yrs on 21
June last; John Hornes 52 on 26 May last; Dick Freeman 49 on 4 Feb last; Charles Hill 40
on 23 Nov last ie 1782; Daniel Jeffray 40 on 28 Mar last; William Mingo 37 on 20 Jan last;
Fanny Diggs 37 on 20 Jan last; Nanny Green 35 on 7 June last; James Green 28 yrs old;
Hannah Green 19 on 1 Sept last; Silvia Diggs 19 on 17 Sept last; Patty Diggs 17 in April
last; Sam Diggs 12 on 20 Dec 1781; Joseph Diggs 11 on 8 Aug last; Ellick Green 4; Celah
Green 2 yrs old; George Diggs 3 ½ yrs old; Charlotte Diggs 1 ½ yrs old–29 Nov
1782–rec 14 Nov 82–note discrepancy in date of deed and date of
recording–Pretlow uses number of month ie deed is signed on 29 of eleventh month of
1782–
p. 92–Elizabeth Eley of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro Rose aged 37 and in their minority viz: David born
10 May 78; Venus a girl born 1 April 69; and Judah a girl born 1 April 1771–reserves
guardianship until 21 and 18–8 Sept 1782–rec 14 Nov 1782–proved by
affirmation of Thomas Ricks and Jordan Denson
p. 93–Richard Ricks of Sohampton –freeedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro man Jack aged abt 25 and Negro woman Sarah aged abt
28–and Negro girl China abt 10 when she is 18–reserving guardianship–15
Sept 82–rec 12 Dec 1782
p. 94–Anne Ricks of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc–frees Negro woman Joan aged 25 on 19 March last, in one year–27
Sept 82–rec 12 Dec 82–affirmed by Thos and Robt Ricks
p. 95–Martha Smith of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees six Negroes viz: Hannah abt 60; Mill abt 40; Yellow Dick
abt 35; Benn abt 23; Siah abt 21–and ten
in their minority viz: Sam age 19 on 31 Dec 84; Dave aged 17 on 31 Dec 86;
Bob aged 15 on 31 Dec 88; Mike aged 14 on 31 Dec 89; Anica aged 12 on 31 Dec 88; Natt aged
10 on 31 Dec 93; Charles aged 8 on 31 Dec 95; Joe aged 6 on 31 Dec 97; Hannah/Harry aged 3
on 31 Dec 1800; Willis 7 mos on 31 Dec 1802–3 Aug 1782–rec 12 Dec 1782–[it
is Hannah in one place and Harry in another–since it is 21 yrs from birth it must be
Harry]--affirmed by Thos Pretlow Jr and Joshua Bailey
p. 97–Milisent Ricks of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc-frees 3 Negro woman Sarah abt 26 yrs and four in their minority
reserving guardianship for Hagar abt 7; Jacob , 4 yrs old on 26 of June last; Patience 2
sometime in April last; Patty abt 1–when males 21 and females 18–27 Sept
1782–rec 12 Dec 1782–proved by affirmation of Robt Ricks and Thos Ricks
p. 98–Mary Ricks of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc–frees Negro woman Judy aged 27 yrs and 6 mos–and 5 in their
minority viz: Venus a Negro girl abt 10; David aged 8 the 25 Dec next; Lucreasey 6 on 12
April last; Isaac 3 sometime in Dec next; Amey 1 yr the 27 Mar next–reserving
guardianship until males 21 and females 18–27 Sept 82–rec 12 Dec 82–proved
by affirmation of Robt Ricks and Thos Ricks
p. 99–Elizabeth Denson and Anne Denson of Sohampton–freedom is
natural right and doing unto others etc–frees Negro woman Abb aged abt 25 and 2 in
their minority viz: girl Esther aged abt 4 when 18 and a boy named Daniel abt 2 when his
is 21-- 1 Dec 1782–rec 12 Dec 1782–proved by affirmation of Thos Draper and
Ephraim Draper
p. 116–Lemuel Jones of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc frees Negro Ned aged abt 46 and Negro Patt aged abt 46–10 Feb
1783–rec 13 Feb 1783
p. 116–Jeremiah Draper of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro girl Jinny aged abt 17 when she is 18–2 Feb
1783–rec 13 Feb 1783
p. 117–Mary Hargrave of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negroes Cupit aged abt 50, Cudger aged abt 24 and Lucy
aged abt 32–and 7 in their minority viz: Abraham aged 17 in Mayl next; Essex aged 11
in April next; Ned aged 9 in June next; James aged 7 in Oct next; Peter aged 5 in May
next; Silver aged 3 in Aug next; Sampson aged 1 in Aug next reserving guardianship until
21 and 18 etc–10 Feb 83–rec 13 Feb 83–proved by affirmation of Lemuel Jones
and Jeremiah Draper
p. 122–Richard Wrenn of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees three Negroes viz: Sam aged abt 61; Roger abt 24; Tinner
aged abt 25–10 April 83–rec same
p. 208–David Barrow of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
golden rule etc and mentions legislation–frees Negro man Ben Blackhead abt 23 yrs of
aged and a Negro woman named Lucrecia Blackhead of abt 18–declares them free Citizens
of the State–10 Feb 1784–rec 11 Mar 1784
p. 235–Philip Davis of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Sier? aged abt 20; Izabell aged abt 18 and reserving
guardianship for Ellick aged abt 12, to be free in May 1793; Peter aged abt 4 to be free
in June 1801; Ben aged abt 2 to be free in April 1803; Lydia aged abt 1 to be free in
April 1801–10 May 84–rec 10 June 1784
p. 237–Joel Davis of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees two Negroes Dinah aged abt 40–note deed says two but
only Dinah named–10 June 1784–rec same
p. 252–William Peterson of Northampton, NC for faithful service
received from Negro slave London who for sometime past hath removed himself with my
permission into the county of Southampton, VA and become an inhabitant of–frees
him–13 May 1784–rec 8 July 84
p. 355–Thomas Ricks of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees two Negroes while reserving guardianship etc viz: Jacob
aged 20 the 11 June next and Judy aged 3 the 1 Dec next–10 Feb 85–rec same
p. 368–Joseph Ricks of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others and having Negroes left him by Robt Ricks decd of Sohampton frees Hannah
abt35; Bess, 22; Peter born March 1771; Fagains? born 2 April 76; Jane born Nov 1781 and
Moses born 15 Jan 1784–reserving guardianship etc–19 Feb 85–rec 10 Mar
85–proved by affirmation of Thos and Robert Ricks
p. 369–Richard Ricks of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees while reserving guardianship for Negroes Jacob abt 54;
Patience 19, Beck born 21 Dec 1768; Amos born 14 May 74; Tillar born 18 Dec 75; Nancy born
9 Jan 85–19 Feb 85–rec 10 Mar 85
p. 379–Joseph Bishop of Sohampton–frees while reserving
guardianship etc–Negro man Dick aged abt 42; Negro woman Violet abt 26; Negro boy
James aged 6 in April 85; girl Fanny aged 4 on 1 June 85; boy Dick aged 1 on 1 June
85–no statement of reason–10 Mar 85–rec 10 Feb {sic} 1785–prob should
be March court
p. 402–Howell Myrick of Sohampton–after mature deliberation of
Bill of Rights [VA], freedom is natural right and doing unto others at injunction of Jesus
Christ etc–frees Negroes Samuel aged 25; Thomas, 30; Frank, 25; Hardy, 23; Lucy, 23;
Violet, 25; Jack on 8 Mar 179?; Lettice on 8 Mar 1795; Rachell on 8 Mar 96; Anthony on 8
Mar 02; Willis on 8 Mar 03; Polly on 8 Mar 02 and Cherry on 8 Mar 01–10 May
85–rec 12 May 85–
p. 455–Henry Davis of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negroes Sam aged 28; Brister aged 26 both on 1 Jan 88;
and Kate aged 18 on day of acknowledgment of this deed–11 Aug 85–rec 8 Sept 85
p. 456–John Johnson of Sothampton–citing act of assembly and
freedom is natural right of all mankind and quoting golden rule frees Negro woman Milley
aged abt 23 or 24–7 Sept 85–rec 8 Sept 85
p. 534–William Butler of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees and reserves guardianship over Violet aged 14 yrs and 8
mos; Molly aged abt 13 yrs and 2 mos; and Riter [girl] aged abt 5 yrs and 4 mos; Daniel
aged abt 7 yrs and 6 mos until Violet is free on 10 Aug 90; Molly on 9 Oct 91; Riter on 10
Dec 98 and Daniel on 10 Feb 1800–12 Aug 86–rec 14 Sept 86
p. 684–Joshua Vick of Sohampton–frees Negro man Luke abt 40 yrs
of age–9 Jan 87–rec 14 June 1787
Southampton County Deed Book 7
1787-1793
LVA Reel # 3
p. 41–Toomer X Joyner of Sohampton–act of assembly, freedom is
natural right and golden rule–frees Negro man Sam Black abt 40–13 Dec
87–rec same
p. 59–Robert X Husk of Sohampton–empowered by act of
assembly–frees Hannah aged 33; Bede, 7; Phebe, 4; Rhody, 2 in conformity of act of
assembly–1 Feb 88–rec 14 Feb 88
p. 64–Henry Jones of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc frees two Negro slaves viz James Freedom abt 18 and George Liberty
abt 18, both at age 21–13 Dec 87–rec 14 Feb 88
p. 65–Giles Johnson of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and do
unto others etc frees James and Dick Blackskin, James abt 38 and Dick abt 23–13 Dec
87–rec 14 Feb 88
p. 140–Robert Ricks of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees and reserves guardianship over minors, viz: Fan abt 40;
Jacob abt 38; James, 33 the 10 April last; Tony born in April 76; Lewis born Feb 81;
Daniel born Jan 84; Clotilda born May 86; until 21 or 18–9 Oct 88–rec same
p. 164–Thomas Lane of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Ede abt 31; Ave abt 21; Ned abt 14 and Lemuel abt 13 and
half month, the latter two when 21–11 Dec 88–rec same
p. 190–Benjamin Beal, Jr of Sohampton–freedom is natural right
and doing unto others etc–frees Negro man Mingo agd abt 27–12 Feb 89–rec
same
p. 191–James Scott of Sohampton–doing unto others–frees
Negro man Pompey aged abt 60; Ben aged abt 30; Sam born in Feb 72 and Cherry born Oct 84
with guardianship reserved over minors–12 Feb 89–rec same
p. 191–Miriam Scott of Sohampton frees Negro man Robin aged abt 79;
boy Cromwell born March 70 when of legal age; woman Venas abt 57; woman Celia aged abt 18;
and girl Rachel born in Nov 75 when of legal age–12 Feb 89–rec same–proved
by oaths of two
p. 196–Benjamin Whitefield of Sohampton–freedom is natural right
and doing unto others etc–frees Jane aged abt 67; Peter, 41; Kate, 41; Nanney, 36;
Ned, 27; Milley, 23; Hannah, 21; Easter, 19; Patte, 18: and 17 in their minority viz:
Seamor 20; Sampson, 14; Ephraim, 12; Abram, 10; Sharper, 8; Charles 8; Amy 12; Kate 6;
Jane 5; Natt 4; Crecy 3; Milley 2; Micah 1; Chany 1; Olive 11 mos; Hardy 11 mos; Crecy 6
mo; when 21 or 18–12 Feb 89–rec 13 Feb 89
p. 231–William Williams of Sohampton–after full deliberation of
our bill of rights, freedom is natural right and doing unto others as Jesus Christ
enjoined–frees Negro man Harry who will be
21 in Aug 1789 when he is of full age–3 Sept 88–rec 9 July 89
p. 256–Dolphin Drew of Sohampton–freedom is natural right
–frees Negro man Nicodemus aged 42–10 Sept 89–rec 11 Sept 89
p. 257–Lewis Vick, Pilgrim Vick, Joshua Vick, Sarah X Vick, Giles
Vick, and Piety Vick free Negro woman Rose aged abt 50 and Simon aged abt 30–27 Jan
89–rec 11 Sept 89
p. 266–Thomas Lane and Lucy his wife–freedom is natural right
and doing unto others frees Negroes Sam abt 36; Will abt the same age; Jacob abt 36 or 37;
and Frank abt 27 –?Oct 89–rec 8 Oct 89
p. 275–Edwin Davis of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro woman Mely abt 25 and in their minority–Timpy
a girl born 25 Dec 82; Brittan a boy born 21 Mar 85; Fanney a girl born 15 Nov
87–reserving guardianship until 21 and 18–17 Mar 89–rec 8 Oct 89
p. 275–Philip Davis of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
going unto others etc frees Negroes Charles aged 41 and James aged 32–9 Sept
89–rec 8 Oct 89
p. 276–Sarah Pond of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro woman Mourning aged abt 20–9 Sept 89–rec
8 Oct 89
p. 279–James X Jones of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro man Nead aged abt 50–10 June 89–followed
by bond of Jones and Sampson Stanton with overseers of poor that Ned will not become
chargeable–8 Oct 89–both rec 8 Oct 89
p. 339–Arthur Whitehead of Sohampton–full conviction of the
odious impropriety of slavery frees Judith, Natt, Prissey, Jordan, Abby, Jacob, the three
last in their minority so retains guardianship over them until 21–9 April 90–rec
8 April 90–note dates would be out of order
p. 359–Bailey Branch of Sohampton–conscious of injustice of
depriving my fellow creatures of their natural right from God frees Negroes Peter on 1 Jan
91, Jesse on 30 Dec 91 and Silvy on 30 Dec 1807–13 May 90–rec 11 June 90
p. 382–Joseph X Powel of Sohampton–impropriety of depriving
fellow creatures of that blessing liberty frees Jinney in 1 Jan 91; Lidde on 1 Jan 91;
Primus on [ditto] 98; Phillis on ditto 99; Willis 1 Jan 04; Alfred on 1 Jan 10; Elijay on
1 Jan 12 –nd–rec 8 July 90
p. 430–whereas Mathew Vick Sr late of Sohampton died possessed of
....then follows some of the provisions of a will of 26 Sept 88–wife Sarah Vick,
convinced of impropriety of slavery frees Negroes Sharper, Patience and Mason (Simon and
Peter being dead)–9 Dec 90–rec 10 Dec 1790
p. 454–Jordan Judkins of Sohampton–freedom is natural right
frees Negroes Diner aged abt 46 and Ben abt 26 and in their minority when 21 or 18: Silvy
aged abt 16; and Isaac abt 5 yrs–19 Jan 90–rec 9 April 90–seems out of
order with other documents
p. 465–James X Wright of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others frees Negro man Zack aged abt 25–10 Feb 91–rec same
p. 465–Edwin Gray of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees mulatto man George Whitefield formerly the property of
Geo Kerr dec’d–10 Feb 91–rec same
p. 469–Anne Scott of Sohampton–freedom is the natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negroes Will aged 59; Jo a man aged 29; Billy a boy born
abt the last of July 81; Miles a boy born in April 86; Sue a woman abt 45; Treasya or
Treesy a girl born 10 July 73–Billy, Miles and Treesy when they reach legal
age–13 Jan 91–rec 10 Feb 91
p. 530–Benjamin Drew of Sohampton–with authority of act of
assembly frees mulatto woman Ariana aged abt 23 and her child Kizzea abt 3 yrs old–9
June 91–rec same
p. 643–Edmund Turner of Sohampton–for divers motives frees Negro
man Simon–14 June 92–rec same
p. 745–Benjamin Drew of Sohampton–with authority of act of
assembly frees Negro girl named Anna abt 6 or 7 yrs old–20 Dec 92–rec 10 Jan 93
p. 797–Mary X Joyner of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro man Jim abt 36–10 Feb 91–rec 12 April 93
Southampton County Deed Book 8
1793-1798
LVA Reel # 4
p. 13–Josiah West Cathon of Sohampton–freedom is natural right
and doing unto others etc–frees Negroes Will abt 45; Calah abt 20 and Pleasant abt
18–and two in their minority when come of age viz Phereby 15 on 1 Aug 95 and Patt 11
on 1 Feb 99–reserving guardianship–2 Feb 93–rec 12 Feb 93–proved by
affirmation of Lemuel Eley and Jn Rawls being people called Quakers
p. 25-- Meriam Scot and James Scott of Sohampton and Joseph Pretlow of
Nansemond–free Negroes Cary a man aged 24; Edy a woman aged 26; Mourning a girl aged
15; Patty a girl aged 4; Sucky a girl aged 2yrs and 6mos; Lucy a girl aged 1 year–15
July 93–rec 10 Oct 93–affirmed by Jordan Denson and Lemuel Jones
p. 87–Holland Brown of Sothampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro woman Hannah aged 55; Lucy aged 35 now and Negro
woman Rhoda on 18 Aug 94 and boy Toby on 12 Dec 96 and Judah on 17 Feb 05–22 Oct
91–rec 12 June 94–witnesses swear and "ordered to be recorded except as to
the negro woman Hannah she being over the age of forty five years."
p. 167–Richard Ricks of Sohampton was possessed of sundry slaves and
did in his last will and
testament of 2 Sept 1778 devise to Thos Ricks, Robt Ricks, Richard Ricks,
Joseph Ricks, Mary Ricks, Milisent Ricks and Ann Ricks sundry slaves and being divided Sam
7 yrs old fell to Thos
Ricks–so he frees Sam because naturally entitled to freedom and by
virtue of act of assembly–reserving guardianship–notes that said slave is still
considered to be an asset for the payment of the debts of Richard Ricks–11 Feb
95–rec 12 Feb 95–affirmed by Samuel Ricks and Robt Ricks Jr–
p. 269–under identical provisions to the previous entry p.
167–Mary Ricks frees Dick who was 15 on 1 Dec 95? reserving guardianship and
liability for debts–10 Dec 95–rec 15 April 96
p. 269–under identical provisions to the previous two entries, pp 167
and 269–Ann Ricks frees Jenny born 19 Sept 78; David born 1 June 88–reserving
guardianship etc–10 Dec 95–rec 15 April 96
p. 270–under identical provisions to the previous three entries, pp
167 and 269–Milisent Ricks frees Tom Buck born 23 April 74; Sarah the 8 Nov 92
reserving guardianship over Sarah –10 Dec 95–rec 15 April 96
p. 299–articles of agreement between Benjamin Drew and Abraham other
wise known by the name of Abraham X Browne 11 Feb 96–Abraham in consideration of 5s
to him in hand paid agrees to serve the above named Benj Drew as a slave for and during
the term of 50 yrs and he the said Abraham doth by these presents relinquish and forever
make over to him the said Benj Drew all the right and liberty and freedom for and during
the aforesaid term of fifty years upon this express condition however that he the said
Benj Drew is not to sell one Negro woman by name Agg and the present wife of the sd
Abraham to Carolina nor the two children which she now has and supposed to be the children
of him the said Abraham Browne And the said Benj Drew doth further agree that in case he
should die or that he should sell the aforesaid Agg or her two children then the sd
Abraham Browne is to be totally free to all intents and purposes as although [sic] this
writing had never existed–Thos Davis, Peter Butts, John Dennen and Elias X Love
witness and Butts swears to–rec 15 July 96
p. 480–Ryland Travis of Sothampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Robert abt 5 yrs old–9 Jan 97–rec 17 July
97–proved by oaths of two witnesses
p. 676–John Norfleet of Sohampton–for divers good causes frees
Negro man called Aaron abt 42 yrs old–28 May 98–rec 20 Aug 98
Southampton County Deed Book 9
1798-1802
LVA Reel # 4
p. 104–Joseph X Phillips of Sohampton–freedom is natural right
and doing unto others etc–frees Negro Peter abt 38 yrs–19 Jan 99–rec 19 Aug
99
p. 157–Thomas Porter of Sohampton frees man Tryall aged 51
yrs–20 Jan 1800–rec same
p. 214–James Simmons of Sohampton–for divers considerations
frees Negro man Dick formerly the property of Howel Edmonds and purchased by Simmons of
his administrator–21 April 1800
rec same
p. 343–Benjamin Barnes of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negroes Toney aged abt 28 and George aged abt 27–and
Moses aged 13 yrs and 11 mos reserving guardianship until 23 Jan 1808 when he will be
free–15 Dec 1800–rec 20 Jan 01–note that this deed starts with Benj Barnes
but is signed by Benj Jordan who is also credited with acknowledging it
p. 379–Richard Williamson of Sothampton–pleased with his
faithful services and good behaviour frees Negro man Jack aged between 45 and 50–14
Mar 1801–rec 20 April 02 [sic] 1801
p. 382–Benjamin Whitfield of Sohampton–frees Negro boy Dick aged
14 reserving guardianship until 21–13 Dec 1800–rec 20 April 01
p. 405–John Jackson Sr of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro Jim aged abt 37–16 or 18 May 1801–rec 18
May 01
p. 583–Benjamin Whitfield fo Sohampton–believes it is their
right to be free and he has power to free –so frees two Negroes viz Jonas, 21 and
Jack, 15 reserving guardianship over Jack until he is 21–19 April 02–rec same
p. 633–James Gee of Sohampton–believing that all mankind are
equally free–frees Negro girl
Lizza–18 Oct 02–rec same–on page 630 Gee bought Lizza from
Henry Crittenden of Northampton, NC for his friendship and one dollar –15 Oct
02–rec 18 Oct 02
Southampton County Deed Book 10
1802-1805
LVA Reel # 5
p. 115–Cromwell X Scott of Sohampton–freedom is natural right of
all mankind–frees Negro boy named Nathan Scott born 17 Feb 1800–reserves
guardianship until 21–13 April 03–rec 19 July 03–
p. 178–Richard Williamson of Sohampton–deliberation of bill of
rights and freedom is natural right and doing unto others frees Negro Dinah abt 40 yrs of
age–17 Oct 03–rec same
p. 183–Benjamin Jordan of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc frees Negro woman Patience aged 27–17 Oct 03–rec
same–affirmed by Jn Knox and Isaac M. Knox
p. 210–James Washington of Sohampton–deliberation of bill of
rights, freedom is natural right and doing unto others etc-frees Negro James–17 Oct
03–rec same
p 251–John Urquhart on 20 Feb 1804 frees mulatto slave named
Jim–rec same
p. 519–Mary X Nursley of Sohampton–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc frees Negro girl called Milly tuker abt 8 yrs reserving guardianship
until 18 on 1 Oct 1815–15 July 05–rec same–
Southampton County Deed Book 11
1805-09
LVA Reel # 5
p. 46–Whereas a certain person of color called and known by the name
of John Honesty formerly the property of Sarah English of N.C. Was some 5 or 6 months ago
brought before the court of Sohampton and tried under an act of the gen assembly entitled
an act to reduce into one several acts concerning slaves, free negroes and mulattoes
passed 17 Dec 92 as a slave permitted to go at large and hire himself and contrary to the
26th section of the said act and whereas the
said court of Sohampton that the rights of the said Sarah English in and to the said John
sould be sold at public auction at the court house the next succeeding court day after
passing said Decrees which was accordingly done and Jesse Browne became the purchaser and
whereas the said John Honesty after being so purchased by the sd Jesse Browne instituted a
suit in the District Court of Suffolk (in forma pauperis) for his freedom according to the
act of the gen assembly entitled an act to reduce into one the several acts concerning
slave, free negroes, and mulattoes and for other purposes passed the 25 Dec 1795 first and
second sections alledging that he was brought from N.C. to Va and kept 12 mos which
entitled an act to reduce into one the second acts concerning slaves, free negroes, and
mulattoes passed the 17 Dec 1792, Now know all men by these presents that the said Jesse
Browne for and in consideration of sundry good services rendered to him by the said John
and for Divers other good causes thereunto moving him hath this day emancipated and set
free and forever given up unto the said John Honesty all right and claim etc etc–5
Sept 05–rec ? Jan 1806
p. 48–Thomas Vaughan of Sohampton–for divers good causes frees
Negro man Kit aged 50 and a Negro girl Fanny abt 9 yrs of age–14 Feb 06–rec 17
Feb [written over Jan] 06
p. 76–James Folk of Sohampton–for divers good causes frees Negro
man Toney–30 April 06–rec 19 May 06
p. 160–James Gee of Sohampton–all mankind by nature equally
free–frees Negro woman Ursey aged abt 35–17 April 06–rec 15 April
06–followed on page 161 with purchase by Gee of Ursey from James Bradley for divers
good causes and 5 shillings–28 Feb 06–rec 15 April 06
p. 163–Faithy X Hurst of Sohampton–mankind are by nature equally
free–frees Negro man London aged abt 50–20 Apirl 06–rec 15 April
06–note date of deed follows date of court p. 164–Benjamin Jordan of
Sohampton–freedom is natural right and doing unto others frees Negro man Silas aged
22–20 April 06–rec 15 April 06
Southampton County Deed Book 12
1808-1812
LVA Reel # 6
note: many of the pages of this book are illegible–index does not
identify nature of documents
no deeds of manumission observed
Southampton County Deed Book 13 1812-1814
LVA Reel # 6
p. 10–Jemimah X Hunt of Sohampton for the many good offices rendered
me by my man Stephen as wall as the natural affection I bear to him frees him– nd
March 1812—rec nd March 1812 -his mark
p. 311–17 Jan 1813–overseers of poor for Nottoway Parish and
Southampton Co bind Anthony Browne son of Milley Browne a free Negro to Arnold W. Ricks to
be brought up as a planter or farmer until he is 21–gets a new suit of apparel at end
of apprenticeship–no age given
Southampton County Deed Book 14
1814-1816
LVA Reel # 6
p. 351–John Foster of Sohampton for divers good causes and
considerations manumits and sets free Daniel a Negro man–20 Nov 1815–rec same
end of reel and book
Southampton County Deed Book 15 1816-1818
LVA Reel # 7
p. 128–Benjamin Jordan of Sohampton believing it my duty to do unto
others as I would be done by–emancipates Negro man Willis aged abt 30–16 Aug
1816–rec 16 Sept 1816
p. 162–?? Nov 1816--Henry Walsh and wife Sophia for $30 sell to
Hannah Ricks a free woman of colour now the wife of Craven a Negro man belonging to
Lazarus Cobb, 5 acres on north side of Nottoway River–is same land purchased by Walsh
from Penny Parker 1 July 1816–rec 29 Nov 1816
p. 267–Osmin Ricks of Sohampton–doing unto others as I would be
done by frees Negro man Caesar aged abt 40 and Negro man named Robin aged abt 30
yrs–25 June 1817–rec same in clerks office and entered into ct proceedings 21
July 1817
p. 268–Osmin Ricks of Sohampton–doing unto others etc–frees
Negro man Moses abt 25 yrs–12 July 1817–rec in clerks office 12 June 1817 and
into ct proceedings 21 July 1817
Southampton County Deed Book 16
1818-1820
LVA Reel # 7
p. 137–James Jackson of Sohampton believing it injust for one human
being to enslave another and deprive him against his will of the profits of his labor have
manumitted Pat a Negro woman abt 40 ys of dark complection and her seven children viz
William a boy abt 16 mulatto, Tom a boy about 14 mulatto; Chloe Matilda a girl abt 12
mulatto; Peter a boy abt 9 mulatto; Willis a boy abt the age of 7 mulatto; Dick a boy abt
the age of 5 mulatto; and Eliza a girl abt the age of 2 mulatto–17 Nov 1818–rec
in court proceedings 16 Nov 1818–note way dates work here
p. 141–John Faircloth of Sothampton–for divers good causes frees
Peter a mulatto boy abt 5 sometimes called Peter Faircloth–16 Nov 1818–rec same
p. 221–Patty X Evans a free woman of colour of Sohampton–has
purchased of William Bryant of Sohampton a black man named Bryant and in consideration of
natural love and blessings of freedom frees her husband Bryant–20 January
1819–rec clerks office 15 Feb 1819 and in ct proceedings 15 Mar 1819
p. 290–Samuel Jones of Sohampton believing that personal slavery is
inconsistent with the principles of equity and justice frees black man Davy Harvy–no
age given–20 June 1819–rec in clerks office 21 June 1819 and in ct proceedings
19 July 1819
p. 302–Samuel Jones of Sohampton–same statement–frees 24 yr
old black man named James Harvy–14 Aug 1819–rec 16 Aug 1819
end of Southampton County Deed abstracts
Southampton County Will Book 4 1783-97
LVA Reel #17
p. 33–will of Martha Smith-- gives Negro Mill the use of the house
she lives in with ground sufficient for cotton, potatoes etc–18 Aug 83–rec 11
Sept 83–execs are Abidan and Joshua Bailey who affirm--
p. 46 – Robert Lundy – of Southampton county – gives 27
Negroes to heirs – I lend to my sister Elizabeth Hoof during her natural life [my
old?] Negro Rachel and at her death my desire is that she be set free and if she should by
age or infirmities become so as not to be able to get her living by labour, then my two
sons William and James and my daughter Elizabeth shall maintain her jointly so that she
may not suffer. It is my will and desire that my Negro Jenny be set free and she is hereby
at? my death manumitted accordingly with her increase my executors shall apply to court
for a certificate – 1 May 83 – rec 9 Oct 83
p. 253 - Thomas X Holt of Southampton County – gives two slaves to
heirs – My desire is that my Negro woman Hannah may have her liberty to live where
she pleases amongst my children without controle and in case she should be unable to
maintain herself to be maintained out of my estate – sells four Negroes – 29 Dec
86–rec 11 April 87
p. 285 – Matthew x Vick Senior – of Southampton County – I
lend to my loving wife Sarah Vick during her natural life the use and labour of my Negro
wench Patience and her children Mason and Peter and after her death I give the said Negro
wench Patience and all of her increase to my daughters Milly Porter, Winny Porter, Lydia
Vaughan, and Isabel Vick to be equally divided between them to them and to their heirs and
assigns forever hoping that each of my said daughters will find within themselves the
liberty of conscience to set the said Negro wench Patience at her own liberty and
discharge her from the service of any person whatsoever before she arrives at ta period of
life too late to make provision for her future support and all of her increase as they may
arrive to the age of twenty five years –leave under direction of execs the labour of
my two Negro fellows Sharper and Simon either for them to be employed on the plantation
whereon I now live or to be hired out for the best price that can be got for them from
those whom they may choose to live with until their labor shall together with what part of
my estate I have directed to be sold and my now outstanding debts be full enough and
sufficient to pay and discharge all my just debts and the legacies herein contained and as
soon as that may happen that my said Negroes Sharper and Simon immediately be set at
liberty and discharged from the service of any person whatsoever and enjoy the benefit of
freedom forever afterwards in the same manner as if they had been naturally born
free– 26 Sept 88 – rec 9 Oct 88
p. 336 –I Negro X Tom (formerly the property of Lemuel Jones of
Sohampton) leaves to wife Fanney after the payment of just debts all estate–26 Oct
87–rec 8 Oct 89–Lemuel Jones is witness and Edmund Johnson named exec
p. 356 – Jean X Browne – of Southampton County – Whereas I
am in possession of two negroes (whom I have heretofore held as slaves) of the following
names (to wit) Windser and Abram I do by virtue of the act of assembly in that case made
and provided manumit and set them free and I hereby release all my right title and claim
that I might have to the above named Negroes as slaves – 5 Sept 89 – rec 14 Jan
90
p. 437 - Etheldred Taylor – of Southampton county – gives five
slaves to heirs – My will and desire is that Eastser’s child called Cherry be
when old enough bound to some good industrious woman till she is old enough to be
emancipated and then set free – 20 Feb 91 – rec 14 July 91
p. 452 – Thomas Davis – of Southampton County – gives First
I give and bequeath to Henry Davis Senior My well beloved uncle two Negroe girls in North
Carolina in Northampton County Hanna and Lettice providedly after my death he bring each
of the two said girls Hannah and Lettice in Virginia give each of them nine months
schooling and manumit them at the age of twenty one years of age. Hannah was born July
1777 and Lettice was born December 1781 and will be free in 1802, Hannah in 1798 –
will not dated--rec 13 Oct 91
p. 471 - Henry Turner – of Southampton County – leaves L500 to
children including one not yet born-- my Negroes Peter, Abraham, Antony, Jesse, Isham,
Tom, Venus, Olive, Jude, and Patt my will and desire is that they shall all be free people
in this our land and my Negroes Jack in Northampton he shall pay my estate sixty pounds
with the discount of this years hire – has stores in NC and VA--13 Dec 91 – rec
8 March 92
p. 503 – Moses X Phillips – of Southampton County – My
Negro man Mingo having served me faithfully and honestly I hereby manumit and set him free
and I give him the shoemakers and coopers tools which has now works with – gives one
Negro girl Aggey to Mary Cocke the wife of Wm of Surry–1 Nov 91 codicil says Cocke
dead so Aggey and dau Betty given to friend S Kello – 30 Sept 89 – rec 13 July
92
p. 687 – James McNeil – of Southampton County – My will and
desire is that my Negroe woman slave named Molly should from and after my decease have and
enjoy her full liberty of freedom and also such rights and privileges of citizen as free
Negroes may enjoy by the laws of this state existing at my death and I request my
Executors particularly to execute my said above mentioned will directing the said
emancipation that the same may be properly and fully effectuated as I shall herein direct
the bulk of my estate to my nephew Alexander McNeil my desire is that the said Alexander
should give such bond or bonds as may be required by the court of Southampton or any other
court upon the full execution of my will directing the said emancipation of my said slave
Molly according to act of assembly in such case made and provided or pursuant to such laws
as may be existing and in force at the time of my death and the said Alexander should do
all other act or acts legally required for the said emancipation and if my said nephew
Alexander McNeil should refuse to give such bonds or do such other acts as may be legally
requisite to effectuate the said emancipation then I bequeath one hundred pounds to two of
my Executors, vizt, Tho Edmunds and Charles Taylor herin after named in order to secure
and indemnify them against all expense which may accrue for the emancipation of the said
Molly or for other expenses respecting the same which may thereafter accrue and on such
failure of my said nephew I request my said Executors Thomas Edmunds and Charles Taylor to
give bond and do such other acts as my be requisite for the full emancipation of the slave
according to law and if the said Tho Edmunds and Charles Taylor should be at no expense
for the emancipation or for the maintenance of the said Molly if she should hereafter come
upon the parish then I devise over the said hundred pounds to my said nephew Alexander
McNeil his exors admors or the remainder of the said hundred pounds to my said nephew
after deducting such sums as my said executors Thomas Edmunds and Charles Taylor may be
forced to expend by reason of said bonds and said emancipation –Molly not to be sold
for debt until all the rest of my estate should be exhausted– 9 Oct 94 – rec 11
June 95
p. 701 – Mary [W mark] Whitehead – of Southampton county –
gives 2 slaves to heirs – I leave my two Negro men Anthony and London to be hired out
two years each of them after my death and the money arising therefrom to be applied to the
use of my daughter Elizabeth Newby and then tis my will desire they should be set free if
the law will admit of it. I leave my Negro girl called Joan to my daughter Elizabeth Newby
till she arrives to the age of eighteen years and then to be set free if the law will
admit of it. I also leave to my daughter Polly Cotton my Negro girl called Pat till she
arrives to the age of eighteen and then to be set free if the law will admit of it I give
my negroe woman called Beck her freedom after my death. If the law will not admit the
above named Negroes to be set free Anthony London and Pat and Joan I leave them and their
increase to be equally divided between my three daughters – leaves another slave each
to daus Eliz and Polly 19 July 95 – rec 10 Sept 95
p. 712 – Olive X Browne – of Southampton county – Whereas I
am in possession of sundry Negroes whom I heretofore held as slaves of the following names
to wit., Toney, Mourning, Ben, Molly, Amos??, Toney, Sam, Jacob, Burwell, William, Sarah,
Amy, and Liddy, I do by virtue of the act of assembly in that case made and provided
manumit and set them free and I hereby release all right, title, and claim that I might
have to the above named Negroes as slaves, and it is further my will and desire that if
any of the female Negroes above named should have increase after the present date such
child or children shall enjoy there full freedom in the same manner as the others and
whereas some of the above Negroes are now under the age of twenty one years and may be so
at the time of my death it is my will that my friend Thomas Lain have the service and
labour of such negroes until they arrive to the said age of twenty one both those named
above and such as may be born after the date of this my last will and testament – 9
Oct 94– rec 10 Dec 95
p. 725 – Ann Myrick – of Southampton County – leaves two
Negroes to heirs – my will and desire is that my old servant Bird shall have his
freedom at my death. I also give him one sorrel filly – 18 Feb 95 – rec 11 Feb
96
Southampton County Will Book 5
1797-1804
LVA Reel #17
p. 3 – Ann X Edmunds – of Southampton County – I give my
Negro man by the name of Juber his freedom – 31 Oct 94 – rec 21 Aug 97
p. 33 – Henry Davis – of Southampton County – I give unto
my two Negro girls named Hannah and Lethea their freedom after they become twenty one
years of age to be enjoyed by them agreeable to an act of assembly for the manumission of
slaves. I give unto my Negro Sam the use of twenty acres of land during his natural life
bounded by the deep branch, Richard Blows line then down the horse pen branch to the
beginning - 12 Oct 97 – rec 11 April 98
p. 97 – Charles Nicholson – of Southampton County – From a
thorough Conviction that Slavery and Oppression are inconsistent with the Will of the God
of Justice and Mercy, I hereby emancipate the following Negroes to wit., Daphne, Lettice,
Cain, Stuart, Alek, Sharper, Judith, Amy, and all other Negroes to whom I have or may
hereafter have any right. All the balance of any estate I give to my Father of which he
will the within named Daphne a comfortable maintenance during life, except that, I give
all the within named Negroes a legacy of ten pounds each – 27 Aug 98 – rec 17
Dec 98
p. 101 – Howell Myrick – of Southampton County – I desire
what of the black people that falls to me may be liberated and those that remain under age
shall serve until they arrive to the age of twenty one years – 15 May 98 – rec
17 Dec 98
p. 171 – John Meglamre – of Southampton County – gives
eight slaves to heirs – my will is that my Negro man Cuper shall be free at the death
of my wife – 15 May 97 – rec 20 Jan 00
p. 187 – John Wilkinson – of Southampton County – my
executor has full power to make sale of any of my slaves which I have not set free should
they behave amiss – my Negro woman Liddy and her children Peggy and Eve is to be set
free and be maintained out of my estate until Nathaniel Wilkinson comes of age. My will
and desire is also for Peggy and Eve to have four hundred dollars each out of my estate
before it is divided – 11 June 99 – rec 21 April 00
p. 224 – Thomas Wood – of Southampton County – I lend unto
my beloved wife my Negroes Roger, Will, Stephen, and Avey during her natural life and at
her death it is my will and desire that my Negro man Roger for his faithful services and
for his fidelity and attachment to me shall have his freedom and that the others shall be
sold with the increase – for the faithful services and for his fidelity and
attachment to me I give my negro man Roger his freedom at the death of my wife which I
desire he may thereafter enjoy as long as he lives – 9 Dec 00 – rec 19 Jan 01
p. 251 – Benjamin Ruffen – of Southampton County – gives
five slaves to heirs – it is my will and desire that all my Negroes may be sold after
my death except such as are herein excepted – It is my will and desire that my Negro
man Tom in consideration of his long and faithful services may have his freedom after my
death. It is my will and desire that my Negro man York may have his freedom after my death
– wants no one to wear black on my account and wants no sermon at his funeral--12 Jan
01 – rec 20 April 01
p. 278 – Joseph Powell – of Southampton County – My further
will and desire is that the Negroes not free at my decease, to be hired out until they are
free and the money arising to be equally divided amongst my sons…and my daughters
– 25 Sept 00 – rec 20 July 01
p. 354 – Mary X Bedingfield –of Surry County – First if
provided I leave an heir or heirs and that should live to arrive at the age of twenty one
years if a son or eighteen if a daughter I give to him or her which ever it may be my
Negro woman Patte and her child Eliza with all my other estate of every kind to him or her
as it may be and his or her heirs forever. But if I leave no such heir or that should die
under the age above mentioned, I leave my Negro woman Patte to be free that no person
under me may claim any right or property to her person or property that she may hereafter
acquire but that she may fully enjoy her freedom. I also give her five dollars cash to be
raised out of my estate. And provided she shall have a child or children and I leave no
heir that shall arrive to the age or ages above mentioned then the child or children that
she the said Patte may hereafter have I leave to be free at the usual age of people free
born. I leave my Negro girl Eliza to Martha Atkinson wife of Robert until she arrive to
the age of eighteen years provided I leave no such heir as above mentioned and then under
the same provisors I leave her the said Eliza to be free that no person under me may have
any claim to her person or property but that she may fully enjoy her freedom – 14
June 00 Memo: if Martha Atkinson should not live until Eliza left to her doth arrive to 18
yrs my desire is that her daughter Ann Hart should have her until she comes of age- rec 18
Oct 02
p. 498 – Bartholomew X Boone– of Southampton County – It is
my will and desire that my Negro man Abram should have his freedom and my will and desire
is that if either of the above legatees at all interrupts the said Negro man Abram in his
freedom that he or they shall be disinherited and have nothing of the above legacies but
that it shall fall to the Commonwealth –
22 Feb 04–rec 21 May 04
Southampton County Will Book 6 1804-1810
LVA Reel #18
p. 313–will of John Taylor of Sohampton–I give unto my wife
Sarah Taylor all the Negroes I now own and the increase of them which I got [at] the death
of Col Thos Williamson–I emancipate all the Negroes now in my possession owned prior
to my marriage with my present wife–7 Jan 1805–rec 17 Mar 1806–
p. 380–will of Samuel Edmunds of Sohampton-gives to his wife Betsy
Edmunds the Negroes Amey and her children Winney, Amos, Phill, Ziba and Jonas to her and
her heirs forever–lends to his wife the remainder of his Negroes of all kinds young
and old during her natural life and at her death my express desire is that if the laws of
the land will admit of it that they be liberated as they arrive at the age of 25 yrs and
that the young Negroes do serve my nephews Etheldred Edmunds, Daniel Myrick and John
Nicholson until they arrive at the aforesaid age of 25 and then be liberated, but in case
the laws are not altered and the said Negroes cannot be liberated without being subject to
be taken up by the Overseers of the Poor and sold then my desire is that they be divided
equally among my relations hereafter named–then follows 12 heirs named–if wife
Betsy fails to make distribution of the above Negroes at her disposal then to bee freed if
possible unless law not changed and in that case to be added to group and distributed
along with rest to his heirs–if that happens wants Negroes divided along family lines
as much as possible–leaves $200 as token of esteem to be divided among Negroes Cesar,
Fegan, Hark, Ben, Natt, Jim, Charles, Stephen, Ned and Bob–25 July 1806–rec 21
Sept 1807– Inventory taken 9 Nov 1809–p.488–lists slaves Caesar at $300;
Fagan 400; Herculas 333.33; Ben 400; Nat 400; Jim 400; Charles 400; Stephen 333.33; Ned
250; Bob 400; Tom 350; Jesse 100; Abram 300; Peter 300; Patience 100; Cate and her
grandson Ely 150; Lydia and her son Aaron 320; Hester 200; Beck and her son Frank 320;
Cynthia 300; Phillis 300; Amy 283; Dorcas 283; Agness 150; Isaac 200; Arthur 200; Nelson
200; Edy 150; Daniel 150; Moses 120; Alfred 120; Patrick 100; Jack 80; Amy and child
Prissy 300; Winney 180; Amos 150; Philip 150; Zeba 80; Jonas 60–ret 18 Jan 1808-p.
711 begins estate account which notes the delivery of slaves to widow agreeable to will on
28 Nov 1807–on 19 Feb 1810 the $200 left to slaves pd to N. Sebrell–[Nicholas
Sebrell appears to be son-in-law–see his will in WB 7 p. 17]
p. 388–will of William Bradshaw of Sohampton–at my death my
Negro woman Sarah shall have her freedom and have the liberty of her house where she now
lives during her life viz if the law will allow her to be free if not I give her to my
within named dau Lucy to her and her heirs forever–23 April 1807–rec 18 May
07–
p. 405–will of Joseph Ruffin of Sohampton–has property in NC
too–leaves numerous slaves to various heirs–emancipates Negro man
Charles–26 Jan 1806–rec 16 March 1807
p. 479–will of Edmund Tyler of Sohampton–gives to four daughters
the following Negroes to wit: Manny, Citney, Willis and Luisa to be equally divided
according to value upon this particular condition that they do not them to be transported
as one of the family and case they do so my will and desire is that they shall be
free’d by my executor hereafter named–10 May 1803–rec 18 Jan 1808–not
clear the meaning of his phrasing
p. 654–will of William Westbrook of Sohampton– after my decease
my will and desire is that my yellow woman slave Charlotte and her child Martha may be
manumitted and orders a list of provisions given her along with 20 acres to be set off
which he gives to her–and a log house 16x12 to be built for her on the 20
acres–8 Nov 1801–rec Dec 1804–note that this and other documents not always
in perfect chronological order–no one will administer estate so put into hands of
sheriff–other slaves willed to relatives along with land etcp.
700–estate of Howell Myrick dec’d in acct with Robert Mabry late
sheriff admr–includes charge to the estate of 2.10.0 for expences to Petersburg
looking for Negroes belonging to the estate–ca 1807 or 1808–rec Dec 1809
Southampton County Will Book 7
1810-1815
LVA Reel # 18
note: first 130 pages or so of this book very faint and difficult to read
p. 280–inv of estate of Hannah Francis taken 2 July 1804 by John
Williams (FN) admr–ret 16 Aug 1813
p. 416–will of James Blow of Sohampton–I lend unto Fanny a
Mulatto girl born the property of Maj. Thos Vaughan and was emancipated by the said Thos
Vaughan which is on record, all the lands that I am possessed of, also one feather bed and
furniture. I also lend the above mentioned Fanny my Negro man Jim Hubbard and Phill, my
desire is that Jim and Hubbard shall have 5L per year each during life and Phill $5 per
year during life–my desire is that my Negro woman Peggy shall be sold along with the
rest of estate and the sum used to pay debts and any balance lent to Fanny–if Fanny
should die with an heir or heirs then the above goes to them but if she dies without heirs
then legacy goes to Geo Vaughan, son of Thos Vaughan, Jr–8 Nov 1814–rec Jan
1815–est inv appears in Will Book 8 p. 401-02–James valued at $600, Hubbard at
600, Phill at 300 and woman Peg at $240–Will Book 8, 461 begins estate
account–includes payments to Phil and Hubbard but apparently not to James–in
1817 estate receives from state auditors office a draft on the state treasurer for 770$
for value of Hubbard–was he executed for a crime?
Southampton County Will Book 8
1815-1819
LVA Reel # 19
p.18–will of Sally Newsum–leaves slaves to different
heirs–will and desire is that Negro woman Anneky be left to herself if the laws of
the state will admit of it if not that she have the liberty of choosing who she will live
with–22 Aug 1812–rec 17 July 1814
p. 346–will of Benjamin Whitfield of Sohampton–22 Nov
1814–leaves 20 acres to David Day a black man as I raised...to be laid off to him by
my execs at the place where he now lives to the best advantage to sure his labor as he has
done as 20 acres of land seems not sufficient for a man of industry it is my will he may
be indulged to buy more as much as 5 or 6 years at 5 dollars an acre to be as conveniently
as possible to his 20 acres–leaves to Aron Day a black boy now living with him in his
minority 20 acres of land lying between Jonas Cosby’s land and David Days to be laid
off in same manner as his brother David’s by execs–there remains 3 black men as
I rasied to wit John Vick, and Richard Taylor in the state of Ohio and Exum Vick with
me...gives each $100–elsewhere in will leaves $500 to Huldah Sears wife of Paul Sears
of Pr. George for the use of her religious travels–leaves 278 acres to be divided
among 11 others but none of them identified as black–rec 20 Oct 1817
p. 343–will of Drewry Cotton of Sohampton–will and desire that
Negro man Jim and Negro woman Rose should be emancipated if the law at the time of my
death sould permit them to be emancipated and remain in this state, but if they cannot be
legally emancipated and permitted to remain in this state of Virginia aforesaid then and
in that case I give them and their increase to my friend Benjamin Branch to him and his
heirs forever–gives to Branch Negro boy Jerry, Negro girl Lucinda, Negro girl Julia
and Negro girl Betsey–2 Mar 1818–rec 18 May 1818 –in Will Book 9, 1819-26
p. 50 estate inventory taken 21 July 1818 lists Negro man James at $700; woman Rose at
400; boy Jesse at 500; girl Lucinda at 200 and girl Betsey at 100–no Julia
listed–rec 21 Feb 1820
end of book
Surry County
Surry County Wills, etc Deeds No. 11
1778-1783
LVA Reel #7
p. 235–will of Samuel Pretlow of Surry–leaves wife Kezia
plantation in NC and no claim to any Va property–to son Samuel plantation SP lives on
and the labor of my Negroes Robin, Judy, Isaac and Amy until they become free agreeable to
the manumissions I have given under my hand and seal–gives son Benjamin land bought
from Wm Hamlin, my lot in Petersburg and 50acres, reserved out of land sold to Samuel
Webb-also labor of four Negroes Betty, George, Sam and Billy until they become
free–to dau Ann150L specie and labor of John, Sally, Lecretia and Nelson until they
become free–to dau Mary 150L specie and labor of Moses, Joe, Tom and Tabb until they
become free–to dau Jane 150L specie and labor of Lucy, Stephen, Charlotte and Peg
until they become free–witnesses Edward Stabler Jos G. Bailey and execs Thos Pretlow
and Anselm Bailey affirm–14 Nov 81–rec 23 April 82–p. 270 inv of
Pretlow’s estate lists 28 slaves and appraisers note on p. 273 that the Negroes
mentioned in this inventory having been emancipated by Samuel Pretlow before his decease
we think they cannot properly be deemed a part of his estate save what may arise for the
labour of nineteen of the young Negroes who have some time to serve, nor do we coment to
their being inserted in the inventory–25 June 82
p. 285–Samuel Bailey of Surry–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others frees Natt aged abt 65; Harry abt 60; York abt 60;Hagar abt 55; Bett abt 51;
Judy abt 43; Casear abt 38; Metto? abt 34; Lucy abt 31; Jasper abt 25; Jenny abt 25;
Doctor abt 22; Hannah abt 22; Joan abt 24; Annaky abt 20; Selah abt 18 and Lyddy abt 18;
and having 27 in their minority, reserving guardianship until males are 21 and females are
18 frees Fanny abt 16 on 20 May 84; Charles abt 15 on 8 May 88; Milly abt 14 on 19 Nov 86;
Effy abt 13 on 2 Nov 87; Tillar abt 13 on 1 Dec 87; Edy abt 12 on 1 Oct 88 ; Rose abt 11
on 30 Nov 89; Tom abt 10 on 25 Feb 93; Sue abt 10 on 28 May 90; Sam abt 10 on 30 Nov 93;
Cate abt 10 on 20 Dec 90; Cherry abt 8 on 30 Nov 92; Bridget abt 8 on 30 Dec 92; Aaron abt
7 on 18 Dec 96; Isaac abt 6 on 20 Nov 97; Parrot abt 6 on 26 Nov 97; Nedd abt 6 on 10 Dec
97; Delphy abt 4 on 6 Dec 96; Bett abt 4 on 15 Dec 96; Natt abt 3 on 8 Dec 1800; John abt
3 on 18 Dec 1800; Beck abt 2 on 12 Oct 98; Silvy abt 1 on 10 June 99; Jacob abt 1 on 15
Aug 02; Judy abt 5 mos on 9 Feb 00; Mike abt 4 mo on 16 Mar 03; and Charlotte abt 4 mos on
28 Mar 00–15 July 1782–rec 27 Aug 82
p. 287–Anselm Bailey of Surry–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc frees Ben abt 42; Lucy abt 40; Silva abt 30; Bett abt 28;dinah abt 24;
Ellie abt 21; Pollina abt 18. Having 21 in their minority reserves guardianship etc frees
Aaron on 1 Jan 86, Isaac on 1 Jan 88, Priss on 1 Jan 85, Jim son of Lidia on 1 Jan 88, Ben
on 1 Jan 90, Frank on 1 Jan 87, Cate on 1 Jan 90, Moses on 1 Jan 95, Jesse on 1 Jan 96,
Tamer on 1 Jan 93, Mourning on 1 Jan 94, Linn on 1 Jan 97, Patience on 1 Jan 94, Angee on
1 Jan 95, Crecia on 1 Jan 96, Jim son of Bett on 1 Jan 99, Esther on 1 Jan 97, Willis on 1
Jan 1800, Rachael on 1 Jan 99, Michael and Exum both on 1 Jan 1802–22 Aug
1782–rec 27 Aug 1782
p. 288–Richard Rowell of Surry–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc frees Sam 56; Sarah 55; Henry 48; James 37; young Sam 32; Moses 30;
Herculas 27; Amey 25; Edith 19–and having 7 others in their minority reserving
guardianship etc frees Jacob 20 on 15 Jan 83; Salgal 16 on 18 Mar 85; Dafney 13 on 10 July
87; Tiller 11 on 12 Dec 89; Trecy 5 on 20 Sept 95; Charlotte 2 on 19 Aug 98; Daniel 1 on
22 Dec 1802–26 Aug 1782–rec 27 Aug 1782
p. 289–Robert Hargrave of Surry–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Jeffry aged abt 60; James abt 50; Sarah abt 48–and
reserving guardianship etc frees Roger on 1 Jan 1785 and Nann 1 Jan 89–22 Aug
1782–rec 27 Aug 82
p. 290–Hartwell Hargrave of Surry–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc frees Negro man Arco aged abt 46–2 Aug 82–rec 27 Aug 82
p. 291–Celia Hargrave of Surry–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Lucy aged about 25–and 5 in their minority reserving
guardianship etc–Moses on 1 Jan 92; Esther on 1 Jan 92; Sarah on 1 Jan 95; Daphny on
1 Jan 97 and Peyton on 1 Jan 1803–22 Aug 1782–rec 27 Aug 1782
p. 292–Mary Hargrave of Surry–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc–frees Negro woman Fanny and 3 in their minority reserving
guardianship–Tom on 1 Jan 87; Ben on 1 Jan 1801; and Stewart on 1 Jan 03–22 Aug
1782–rec 27 Aug 82
p. 348–will of Daniel Pond of Surry–gives his wife Mary the
authority to free his Negro woman Venus and her increase at any time she thinks
fit–28 July 82–rec 25 Feb 83
Surry County Deed Book 12
1783-1787
LVA Reel #18
p. 19–Benjamin Spratley of Surry fully persuaded that freedom is the
natural right and doing unto others frees 11 Negroes viz: Will aged 34; Natt, 27; Lucy,
37; Betty, 26; Simon, 15 [17 Feb 1789]; Jane, 11[ 17 Aug 90]; Mary, 8[ Jan 93]; Sally, 5[
Mar 96]; Cuffy, 6 [1 July 98]; Annaky, 3[ in 98]; and Judy, 6 mo[ in May 1801]–for
those in minority, reserves guardianship until males 21 and females 18–not all have
specific dates–28 Oct 1783–rec 25 Nov 1783
p. 69–Agatha Cornwell of Surry–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro girl named Edy abt 14 yrs old and reserving
guardianship until 18 which will be 1 Aug 1788–22 Nov 1784–rec 23 Nov 1784
p. 147–Matthew White of Perquimons County, NC–freedom is natural
right and doing unto others etc–frees Negro man Moses abt 20 yrs old–witnesses
are Aron Cornwell who affirms and Benjamin White who swears–30 Nov 1784–rec 22
Nov 1785
p. 228–John Warren Jr of Surry–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others etc–frees Negro boy Philip aged 2 years 12 April last when he is
21-24 Oct 1786–rec same
p. 240–Benjamin White of Perquimons Co NC–freedom is natural
right and doing unto others–frees Negro man Caesar aged abt 23 –22 Dec
1786–rec 27 Feb 1787–affirmed by Aaron Cornwell and Jacob White
p. 240–Jacob White of Perquimons Co, NC–freedom is natural right
and doing unto others etc frees Negro man Isaac aged abt 26–22 Dec 1786–rec 27
Feb 1787–affirmed by Aaron Cornwell
242–Robert Ryland gave me his bond for the sum of 11 pounds and for
the clothes and taxes of my Negro fellow Abraham for the year 1785, which bond I have
mislaid. Sworn to before F. Hubard. The above sworn to before me James Southall–At a
court held for Surry County 27 Feb 1787 the within certificate of F. Hubard and certified
by James Southall a Magistrate of the City of Williamsburg was presented in court by
Robert Ryland and on his motion it is ordered to be recorded. Received June 5th 1786 of Mr Robert Ryland by the hands of Mr John
Pettway 11 pounds for the hire of my Negro fellow Abraham hired to the said Ryland for
1785–F. Hubard
Surry County Deed Book 13
1788-1792
LVA Reel #18
p. 58–Anselm and Hannah Hargrave manumit and set free from bondage
our 7 Negroes vizt: Sarah aged 55; Henry aged 50; Kate aged 45; Patt aged 16; Venus aged
14; Aaron aged 12 and Kate aged 10. Aaron at 21 and Patt, Venus and Kate at 18–23
June 1788–rec 27 Jan 1789–Joseph Bailey and Richard Wren two of the witnesses
affirm
p. 66–Mary Ryland the elder and Mary Ryland the younger (of Richard
Ryland, dec’d) of Surry–freedom is natural right and doing unto others
etc–frees Negro woman named Rachel aged 36 last August–and two girls in their
minority viz Lucy aged 12 next August and Nancy aged 10 yrs next September when they turn
18–17 Jan 89–rec 28 April 89–and Robt Ryland came into court and entered
security that Lucy and Nancy would not become chargeable to the parish
p. 104–Mary Ryland widow of William, and Thomas Parfield Ryland her
son, all of Surry–freedom is natural right and doing unto others frees Negro man
Randolph aged abt 25 yrs–22 June 88–rec 23 June 89
p. 162–Mary Judkins of Surry persuaded that freedom is natural right
and doing unto others etc frees 2 Negroes, Hannah aged 43 and Anyky aged 20–and three
in their minority viz Tom who will be 21 in March 1804; Fec who will be 21 in April 1807
and Betty who will be 18 in January 1807–27 Oct 89–rec 22 Dec 1789
p. 163–Charity Smith of Surry–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc frees Negro woman 21 yrs old last July and Negro girl Sarah when 18 on 15
Mar 1805–24 Sept 89–rec 22 Dec 1789
p. 166–George Gardner of Surry after deliberate consideration of the
practice of slavery concludes that it is altogether contrary to the Laws of nature, reason
and religion; and an unlawful infringement of the natural rights of all mankind and as the
civil laws allow me the liberty..frees Rachell of full age; Molly in 1792, David in 1798;
Margaret in 1799, and Isham in 1808 who are under age–26 Jan 1790–rec same
p. 200–James Judkins of Surry frees Negro Ben abt 38–23 Feb
1790–rec 22 June 1790
p. 200–James Judkins of Surry frees Negro Lucy abt 28–23 Feb
1790–rec 22 June 1790
p. 201–James Judkins of Surry frees Negro Tiller [female] 23 Feb
90–rec 22 June 1790
p. 202–James Judkins of Surry frees Negro boy David aged abt
13–when 21–reserves guardianship--23 Feb 90–rec 22 June 1790
p. 266–Thomas Clary of Surry–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc frees Ben aged 20 yrs–when 21 in May 1789–26 May 88–rec 26
April 91
Surry County Deeds No.1
1792-1799
LVA Reel # 19
p. 4–John Davis, Sr of Surry–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc-frees Negro man Mingo aged abt 65 yrs–22 June 92–rec 26 June 92
p. 9–Henry Moring of Surry–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc–frees Negro man Bob Rivers abt 41 or 42 yrs of age–which I
bought at public auction and have had in my possession for 20 yrs–10 July 92–rec
24 July 92
p. 235–I Richard Mackie formerly of Nansemond County Virginia now in
Glasgow being at present in sickness of body but of sound mind and memory having long
resolved to reward with freedom my two faithful slaves vizt: James a seaman or waterman
and Nelly a woman house servant, both of which slaves I brought from Africa when I
followed that inhuman trade ( of which I now declare my detestation) and who afterwards
serve me in New York and in several voyages and whom I left in the neighborhood of Cabin
Point in Virginia near four years ago. Therefore I do now give the said James and Nelly
their freedom and declare them free persons, I also declare any children the said Nelly
may have born to be free......appts Thomas Peter, Jn Alexander or Robt Kennon to be
atty’s to accomplish the recording of this in any county court–11 Dec
1793–presented in court by Thomas Peter, gent–and rec 27 Jan 1795
p. 267—William Ruffin of Surry in consideration of the good services
heretofore rendered me by my Negro man Cuffy alias Isaac and for divers other good causes
frees him–24 April 1795–rec 29 April 1795
p. 347–John Warren of Surry–freedom is natural right so
emancipates Pleasant aged abt 30; Joe and Dick abt 28 yrs old; and Jesse aged 22; and 6 in
their minority viz; Effy, Tempy, Dick, Judah, Nat and Amy when males 21 and females are
18–31 Dec 95–rec 23 Feb 1796
p. 373–Thomas Clary of Surry–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others etc-frees Negro man Moses aged 28–28 May 1796–rec 28 June 96
p. 464–Nancy X Eaton of Surry –freedom is natural right so frees
Negro man Jacob aged 54 yrs–23 Feb 1797–rec 28 Feb 97
Surry County Deeds No.2
1799-1804
LVA Reel # 19
p. 1–Mary X Alexander of Surry–freedom is natural right-frees
Lucy abt 48; George abt 46; Daphney abt 29; Bob abt 29; Qually abt 26; Dick abt 22; and
Little Dick abt 22; and those in minority, reserving guardianship ie Jenny on 15 Feb 1800;
Sam on 20 Oct 06; Mima on 5 Jan 07; Lucy on 5 Jan 07; Nancy on 9 Aug 07; Moses on 4 Jan
13; Lizza on 10 July 12; Allen on 1 Dec 18; and George on 18 Feb 1820–ie males at 21
and females at 18–28 Jan 1800–rec same
p. 10–Christopher S. Morings of Surry frees Amy abt 31 to be free on
this 22 April 1800 and Gray who is abt 2 yrs old to be free at 21 yrs of age–22 April
1800–rec same
p. 119–Anaca X Bailey of Surry–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others–frees Negro man Mike aged abt 36–27 Oct 1800–rec 24 Feb
1801
p. 129–Thomas Peter frees Negrom man Anthony aged abt 36 yrs
old–24 Feb 1801–rec same
p. 191–Whereas Richard Cocke Jr late of Surry dec’d did by his
last will and testament among other things direct that the woman Becca and her son Robert
Kennon which I have bought of John H. Cocke paid 100L as per receipt shall be free
immediately and whereas the said John H. Cocke who was at that time in his infancy has
since attained the age of 21 and has by deed bearing date 26 Oct 01 released all right
etc–so William Taliaferro admin of will of Richard Cocke frees said woman Becky and
her child Robert Kennon–27 Oct 1801–rec same
p. 489–William Edwards of Surry for and in consideration of the many
faithfull services rendered by Betty one of my female slaves and in order to reward
her..do emancipate her–no age given–25 April 1804-rec same
p. 490–James Bell of Surry–freedom is natural right and doing
unto others frees Negro man Scipio–25 April 1804–rec same
p. 511–Whereas John Wilson by his last will gave unto Elvire Wilson
his wife the use and labor of all his Negroes during her natural life and after her death
that all of them should be free–and whereas Elvire is willing and desirous to
liberate and set free at this time one of the Negroes ie Bob–so does so–24 July
1804–rec same
Surry County Deeds No. 3 1804-1811
LVA
Reel #20
p. 16–Laodicea X Edwards of Surry–freedom is natural
right–frees Negro Bruton aged 30–26 Feb 1805–rec same
p. 26–John Holt of Surry for divers good causes frees after 1 Jan
1811 Negro man Lemas, supposed to be 24 yrs of age–26 Feb 1805–rec same
p. 67–Elvire Wilson who received slaves for life from husband John in
his will who are to be freed after her death, frees Negro woman Sue, one of the aforesaid
slaves–23 July 1805–rec same
p. 73–John Moring of Surry sets free "a parcel of Negroes as
they come to age and time hereafter to be mentioned;" Hannah, Patrick, Cherry, Jordan
and Charlotte to be free without day; Isabell to 22 be free 1 Nov 1807; Carter to be free
16 Aug 12; Polly to be free 1 April 14; Burwell to be free 10 April 22; Maria to be free
25 Dec 22; Willis to be free 11 April 1824–23 July 05–rec same–note says
Examined and delivered or sent to Wm A Graham of Hillsboro, NC atty for Polly alias Polly
Bailey one of the grantees per his letter filed this 3 July 1840?
p. 127–Thomas Peter frees Charles, alias Charles Sebrell a dark
mulatto aged at 36 yrs, 5'8" high, the said Charles being purchased by TP from Mr
Nathaniel Sebrell a per bill of sale of this date–25 Feb 1806–rec
same–clerks note says deed of emancipation from Thomas Peter, gent to Negro man
Charles alias Charles Sebrell
p. 128–Josiah Wilson of Surry from mature deliberation and
consideration frees Negro girl Linder aged abt 6–it is his wish to keep the said
Negro girl Linder while she arrives to the age of 18 or married–25 Feb 1806–rec
same
p. 130–whereas Etheldred Lancaster, decd late of Norfolk County being
possessed in his lifetime of a Negro man slave named Abel did sometime before the death
agree to emancipate the said Abel he paying to the said Lancaster the sum of 40L, a part
of which sum was actually paid before the death of Lancaster, his heirs had ack receipt
and now willing that the contract be complied with have on receiving the balance
transferred all their right, title and claim to the said Abel to me John White of Surry to
be by me emancipated–so does–Abel is aged from the information White can get abt
43 yrs old–24 Feb 1806–rec 25 Feb 1806
p. 137–Sarah Nicholas of Surry–for good conduct and other good
considerations frees Negro woman Phillis or Phillis Ruffin–7 Jan 1806–rec 22
April 1806
p. 141–Henry Gray of Surry for divers good causes frees Negro woman
slave Priscilla aged abt 41–22 April 1806–rec same
p. 632–Fanny X James of Surry for divers good causes frees Negro man
Toney aged abt 50 yrs and who I purchased from Samuel Hargrave by bill of sale dated 26
Nov 1801–26 Feb 1811–rec 7
Surry County Deeds No. 4 1811-1815
LVA
Reel #20
no deeds of manumission in index and a scan of the film found none
Surry County Deeds No. 5 1815-1818
LVA
Reel #21
p. 361–whereas Richard Cocke Jr late of the county of Surry decd did
by his last will and testament bearing date 4 Oct 1800 and duly recorded directed that the
whole of my estate real and personal except what I give away should be kept together under
the direction of my execs heretofore named for the support and education of Robert Kennon
until the said Robt Kennon shall attain the age of 21 yrs or until his death whichever
shall first happen, if the latter it is my desire that my execs do emancipate and set free
all my Negroes above the age of 21 (males) or 18 (females) and others when they reach
majorities; but if the said Robt Kennon should live to attain the age of 21 then I desire
the Negroes may be freed in the same manner except said Robt Kennon shou’d keep the
young ones until they arrive to the ages first for their freedom by me and no
longer–and since Wm Taliaferro, one of the execs has lately died and the admin of
estate of Richard Cocke has been granted to Eliza Hartwell Taliaferro of Caroline County
and since Robt Kennon has lately ie on 8 April turned 21, she frees the slaves all above
the age of 21 viz: Beck, Aggy, Paul, Caesar and Simon all of which have been in Surry
since death of Richard Cocke–29 April 1817–rec 7 May 1817
p. 538–Samuel Pretlow of Surry–freedom is natural right and
doing unto others frees Negro girl named Amey abt 13–guardian until 18–13 Nov
1781[yes 1781]–rec Nov 23, 1818–the witnesses Edmd Stabler and Jos G. Bailey
being dead, Archibald Davis and Robt S. Bailey deposed that Bailey’s signature is
his–
End of Surry County Deed Book Abstracts
Surry County Will Book No. 12 1783-1792
LVA Reel 3
p. 20 – James Davis – of Surry County – gives 5 slaves to
heirs, leaves one to his widowed daughter-in-law until marriage or death, then directs
that she be sold, and sells two – it is my further will and desire that my executors
shall sell all my Negroes at private sale, allowing them the liberty of choosing their own
Masters – My will and desire is that my Negro wench Lucy may be set free agreeable to
the Laws of Virginia by my executors – 9 Dec 83 – rec 24 Feb 84 – inventory
p. 42 lists 8 slaves including a Lucy
p. 206 – John X Cheatham – of Surry County – I give and
bequeath to my loving wife Martha Cheatham my two Negroes Sue and Sall, to be by her set
free or otherwise disposed of as she may at any time think fit. Being convinced that
freedom is the natural right of all mankind, on which account I am much distressed in mind
respecting the slaves I now possess, and in order to provide for their future releasement
as far as at this time appears practicable, I do hereby vest full power and authority in
my wife Martha Cheatham and my two sons James Cheatham and Stephen Cheatham for either of
them and in case of the death of the other at any time hereafter to set free or to divide
them and their future increase, except the above named Sue and Sall, among my children or
such of my children as they may think fit, but that none of them, my said slaves, shall be
on any account sold at any time hereafter – 30 March 88 – rec 27 Jan 89 –
inventory p. 305 lists 17 slaves
p. 301 – Samuel Bidgood – I desire that all the rest and residue
of my estate be sold for twelve months credit and after my just debts is paid I give the
rest of my estate to my daughter Polly Wren Bidgood to her and her heirs forever and it is
my will and desire that if my daughter Polly Wren Bidgood should die before she comes to
lawful age or marry that my Negro Sam shall be free and that Elizabeth Gray Supo should
heir the whole of my estate – 10 March 91 – rec 27 Sept. 91
p. 319 – James Gilchrest – if case my sister has left no child,
I give the above mentioned to my boy Billy Buck, the white son of servant Fanny, except 25
pounds to Dew Graham – I give and bequeath to my black smith Jack his freedom after
being hired out three years after the first of January 1790 with bond and approved
security which hire I give to my boy Billy Buck, at the same time if Jack don’t think
fit to accept offer he shall continue as slave for life, if he chooses to be a freeman I
give him the set of smith tools that is with him and five pounds to buy him provision to
live on the first year. Let Jack have choice of master yearly but not to hire himself. I
give to my boy Billy Buck his freedom after my death it also my desire that the same Billy
Buck shall be put to school after he is old enough to be taught to have as good an English
education as can be got in Virginia, but I rather would have him sent home to Glasgow to
be taught there as he will have a sufficient fortune to support him. I give and bequeath
to my servant Fanny her freedom immediately after my death is known, also I give Fanny
twenty five in cash to begin to keep house with after her freedom. I give and bequeath to
my faithful servant Sarah her freedom after the first of January 1790, I also give her the
year hire with Mr. Thomas Peter which is 5 pounds payable on the first of January next. I
give and bequeath to all the rest of Fanny’s children, to say Nancy, Glasgow, Jenny,
Charlotte, their freedom after they are the age of twenty one years, but to be hired out
till that time to people that will do justice by them, let them have always choice of a
master, except Glasgow, which is not to be free till Billy Buck is twenty one years old.
Of the above hire money, I give to my boy Billy Buck. I give and bequeath to my boy Billy
Buck the Negroes following, vizt, blacksmiths Charles and Ben to be hired out till my boy
Billy Buck is 21 years of age at which they are to have their freedom, and five pounds
cash to be paid them the 1st of January
following after Billy is of age, which will be 19 years after the third day of April last.
If they don’t think proper to accept my offer, they shall be slaves for life. The
hire money of Charles and Ben I give to my boy Billy Buck. Let the above Negroes have
choice of a master during their servitude. Take bonds with approved security from year to
year, but not to let them hire themselves. I give my Negro boy Lewis to my boy Billy Buck
but to be hired out till Billy comes of age, the boy to be left in Fanny and Sarah’s
care till he is able to be hired out. The only Negro belonging to me not mentioned, which
is not fit for anything but to be a slave, named Sal, I desire her to be sold on long
credit, but to have choice of a master with bond and approved security which bond I give
to my boy Billy Buck. I give and bequeath to my Billy Buck all bonds and accounts due me
or maybe due me on the 1st day of January 1790
to be applied to his use also my furniture in my room to say 6 table silver spoons, 5 tea
ditto, one bed and furniture, one desk and bookcase, 2 tables, and 6 chairs to be put in
the care of his mother Fanny except the silver spoons with my silver watch and gold seal
which Mr. Thomas Peter or his lady Mrs. Peter will be kind enough to take care of for him
till he comes of age. But on a second thought concerning my boy Billy Buck, if school
masters here in Virginia don’t do justice by him in his schooling, Mr. Thomas Peter
or his lady shall please to send him to Glasgow or any other place in Scotland where
justice will be done him in his education which I leave this boy entirely in their care to
do by him as they think fit but I wish him to be sent home to Scotland by that time he is
12 years old to finish his education, if his estate will afford it. Mr. Peter will please
to send him to the college of Glasgow. I wish him to be taught church music also and
dancing. Mr. Thomas Peter or his lady will please to have him boarded in creditable house
or where he may learn something…I give to my servant Fanny to be delivered to her
after my death my bed, also may be delivered to Fanny with a pair of good bed blankets
– 15 May 89 – (continued) since my return from Britain I bought a piece of land
from David Putnee, which if no other will is made, I give part of it, say 80 acres, to
Fanny during her natural life, at her death to Billy Buck, to which I give the whole of my
lands which I may die possessed of…also my stock of trade with Mr. Johnson and
profits thereof – my desire that my executors may buy such a piece of land, as that
land Patent, Short, sold Richard, and Shackleford for the use of Fanny and Sarah to be
paid in bond by the same if possible to raise the children on…if any of my Negroes
should refuse to comply with my desire, it is my desire the said Negro or Negroes should
be slaves for life - 14 June 90 – rec 28 Feb 92
p. 331 – George X Gardner – I give unto my daughter Sarah
Gardner the use and care of a Negro girl Margaret which I have manumitted until she shall
arrive at the age of freedom, but if my said daughter should die before the said Margaret
is free my will and desire is that my wife and daughter Elizabeth have the care and
management of her until she arrives to age – 19 Oct 90 –rec Feb 20 92
Surry County Will Book No. 1
1792-1804
LVA Reel 8
p. 1 – Martha X Drew – of Surry County – I give and
bequeath to my son John Drew my two Negroes to wit. Harry and Fanny to him and his heirs
forever, but in case the said John Drew should die before he arrives to the age of twenty
one years or married it is my will and desire that the said Negroes Harry and Fanny should
be emancipated and set free agreeable to the laws now existing – 12 March 92 –
rec 25 Sept 1792
p. 17 – Nicolson Watkins – of the county of Surry and parish of
Southwark – It is my will and desire that my Negro boy Davy shall have his freedom
after he arrives to the age of twenty one years – 14 Dec 90 – rec 22 Jan 93
p. 27 – Mary Revely – of Surry county - I give my Negro man by
the name of Castilio After his serving Thomas Bland this year whom he now lives with his
freedom forever – 31 Jan 93 – rec 26 Feb 93
p. 141 – Robert Pyland – of Surry County – I give and
bequeath to my beloved wife Sally during her natural life my Negro woman Sucky and at her
death to be at her own liberty – 23 Nov 95 – rec 26 April 96
p. 169 – Samuel Bailey – of Surry – I give to my daughter
Margaret Bailey…three young Negroes until they arrive to the age of freedom. –
22 March 96 – rec 27 Sept 96
p. 361 – William Browne – of Surry--I emancipate and set free my
servant Simon and old Gilly The latter I desire may remain on the plantation during her
life and be supported out of my estsate – I give and bequeath to my daughter Sally
during her life the following Negroes, to wit. Woodley, Silvia and her children, namely
Jenny, Rose, Moses, and Sally Ann, Maria, the wife of Simon and her child Mary Ann, and at
the death of my said daughter I emancipate and set free the said Woodley, Silvia, Jenny,
Sally Ann, Maria and her child Mary Ann, and all the future progeny of the said females
and I then give and bequeath the above mentioned boy Moses to William Ruffin son of
Theoderick B Ruffin and his heirs, and the aforesaid girl Rose and such issue as she may
then have to Jane B. Ruffin daughter of the said Theodorick B Ruffin and her heirs
–wants his Negro man Woodley to be kept by Nicholas Faulcon as a hostler or hired out
for that purpose as the said Faulcon may think proper –other provisions for slaves to
be kept together until distributed to William Browne son of Henry Browne late of
Norfolk—also wants Simon to continue at plantation with Faulcon but if latter chooses
not to live there then execs to get some decent and discreet person to live there and for
Simon to continue to assist in taking care of house and furniture and to be paid annually
a compensation equal to his services -- 14 Nov 99 – rec Dec 24 99
p. 447 – Mary X Alexander of Surry– I lend to sister Mourning
Edwards (furniture, a horse, and money)...and after her death what shall then be in being
it is my will and desire that it may be sold by my executors and equally divided among my
nephew and nieces hereafter named, and all 4 the Negroes hereafter named…Negroes
George, Lucy, Bob, Qually, Daphne, Dick, and Dick (commonly called little Dick), also Sam,
Jenny, Mima, Lucy (the younger), Nancy, Moses, and Eliza. It is my will and desire and I
do by this my last will and testament liberate and set free from slavery the following
Negroes, to wit., George (abt 42 yrs), Lucy (abt 44 yrs), Bob (abt 25 yrs), Daphney (abt
25 yrs), Qually (abt 22 yrs), Dick (abt 19 yrs), little Dick (abt 19 yrs), Jenny (abt 15
yrs), Sam (abt 10 yrs), Mima (abt 8 yrs), Nancy (abt 8 yrs), Moses (abt 6 yrs), Lucy (the
younger) (abt 8 yrs), and Eliza (abt 3 yrs) as fully and freely as if they had been born
free – it is my will and desire and I do hereby direct that all that part of my
estate given to the Negroes now under the age of twenty one years to wit Dick, little
Dick, Jenny, Sam, Mima (the younger), Nancy, Moses, and Eliza be retained in the hands of
my executors for the purpose of indemnifying the parish until they shall severally arrive
to such age and on the arrival of each of them to such age my executors shall pay to each
person so aged his or her proportion then remaining in their hands, but in case any of the
aforesaid infant Negroes should die before they arrive to such age in that case my will
and desire is that his or her parts shall be equally divided among the aforesaid – 10
Jan 97 – rec 26 Aug 00
p. 471 – Richard Cocke Jr. – secondly that the woman Becky and
her son Robert Kennon which I have bought of John Hartwell Cocke and paid one hundred
pounds for as per receipt shall be free immediately, then I request that the whole of my
estate real and personal except what I shall particularly give away should be kept
together under the direction of my executor hereafter named for the support and education
of Robert Kennon until the said Robert Kennon shall attain the age of twenty one years or
until his death whichever shall first happen, if the latter it is my desire that my
executors do emancipate or set free all my Negroes above the age of twenty one years the
males and the females above the age of eighteen years, keeping those under such ages until
they arrive to the same, and as they may to be freed in the same manner as the others, but
if the said Robert Kennon should live to attain the age of twenty one years, then I desire
the Negroes may be freed in the same manner except that Robert Kennon should keep the
young ones until they arrive to the ages fixt for their freedom by me and no longer –
4 Oct 00 – rec 24 Feb 01
p. 477 Joel Wall of Surry County –I do emancipate and set free my two
Negroes James and Phillis from all claims of my heirs and successors forever. I do leave
the use of my Negro boy Archer to my loving wife Rebecca until he shall arrive to the age
of twenty on years and the said Archer to be free from my heirs or any other person or
persons whatsoever. My desire is that my executors should emancipate and manumit the above
Negroes according to law – 10 May 99 – rec 24 Feb 01
p. 559 John Wesson of Surry County – At the decease of my wife it is
my will and desire that all the slaves which I now own and their increase may receive
their freedom on the following conditions, and whereas among those there may be some who
from old age or bodily infirmity that will be unable to support themselves, it is my will
and desire that such may receive from my estate so much as is sufficient with their own
honest laborings to keep them sufficiently, this to be determined on by my executor, if
alive or the acting overseers of the poor for Surrry county if he is dead, and all those
that are forty two years old are to receive ten pounds each the first day 5 of January
after my decease for them to begin with and such thereof as is under age that have no
parents living or if living or unwilling or unable to provide for them, shall be bound by
the court until they shall arrive at the age of twenty five years (the Negroes thus bound
are by the masters or mistresses taught to read the bible), but further it is my express
will and desire that if any on or more of the above slave shall be so imprudent and fool
hardy as to act any unlawful or criminal act against their said mistress or any one also,
that if they should escape the halter, that then he she or they shall be sold for and on
account of my estate and to be thereby removed out of this county or state and further
should my wife after my decease desire to emancipate all or any part of the said Negroes
it is my will and desire that she may do so whether old or young ones, but should she do
so, it is to be understood that they are to be emancipated agreeable to this present
clause –leaves some land to the Bishop of the Methodist Episcopal church for the
support of orphan children of Methodists or the poor (no signature) – rec 22 June
NOTE: microfilm of the later pages of this book are very light and not
easily read
Surry County Wills, etc No. 2 1804-1815
LVA Reel # 9
p. 87–will of Robert Jonathan of Surry–gives to his loving wife
Mary her freedom during her natural life and to be emancipated according to law–gives
hhd property etc to wife–to son Robert Jonathan his freedom when he is
21–confirms to him what already given–if Robert dies without heirs then his
estate to be divided among three daus ie Susanna, Hickabeck and Fanny–in case or
should my above named daughters either of them be sold and sent out of the state as far
out of their knowledge, that they are to be deprived of the above gift and those that
remain in this part of the state to receive or be entitled to the same–names friend
Abram Williams and John H. Bell as execs–27 Dec 1805–rec 25 Feb 1806
p. 176–inv of Robert Jonathan’s estate–total value is
L177.9.2 including One Negro woman Mary and child named Bob valued at 75L–inv dated
28 April 1807–rec same
p. 194–estate acct of Robert Jonathan–estate sale produces 107L
plus and some accts collected–after debts paid etc the estate has 12.9.61/2 –no
indication of the sale of Mary or Bob in the estate acct–they seem not to be
included–acct recorded 28 July 07
p. 357–will of Henry Deborix of Surry–bequeaths to Mr. William
Allen’s Negro woman Fanny, whom I have for a wife all my property that I have of
every species after Dr. Wm Cocke’s acct is paid–nominates Richard Shackleford
esq of Pr. George to be his exec–1 June 1810–rec 24 July 1810
p. 498–will of Josiah Wilson of Surry–leaves numerous slaves to
his heirs–sets free a Negro woman by the name of Janny who is of a dark complection
and about 29 yrs of age also one hundred pounds in cash to her and her heirs forever,
provided she takes the advantage of the law of the state–I give and bequeath to Linda
a girl of yellow complection which I emancipated some time past a certain tract of land
containing one hundred and fifty acres more or less which land formerly belonged to
Laurance Baker and was bought by me at sheriff’s sale–I also give to the 6 said
Linda the following Negroes to wit: Ruffin and Ann Margreat to her and her heirs
forever...if Linda should die before she becomes of lawful age or have issue from her body
then my son John to get 100L and son Samuel get 150 acres and son James gets Ruffin and
Ann Margreat–wants above mentioned Janny to have the care of her dau Linda until she
marries or of lawful age–3 Dec 1809–rec 22 Dec 1812–inv appears in Will
Book 3, 23 dated 28 Dec 1812–included are Janny at $200, Ruffin at $250 and Ann
Margaret at $200, all listed together among 32 other slaves–rec 22 May
1815–total value of estate in excess of $24,842
end of book
Surry County Wills etc No. 3 1815-1821
LVA Reel # 9
p. 1–will of Anselm Bailey –leaves land etc to various
individuals–I give to Dinah a free woman of colour $200 to be paid her in ten equal
installments–I give to Silva a free woman of colour $100 to be paid in 5 equal
installments–I give to Anselm Hargrove 50$ [no race mentions] I give to Watson and
Elam two free boys of colour $40 each to be laid out in their educations by John Z
Pretlow–29 Jan 1815–rec 27 Feb 1815
p. 425–will of Walter Faulcon of Surry–has schooner to be sold
named John and Mary–his bricks, scantling etc to be sold for debts and legacies and
rest of estate kept together until the death of Negroe woman Jenny (the cook) and my girl
Matilda Ann Rebecca dau of said Jenny–desires that servant Jenny now my cook shall in
common with her child Matilda Ann Rebecca have the use of my kitchen, small smoak house,
Fowls houses, a garden and yard attached to the kitchen with full liberty to raise what
quantity of poultry she may choose and I do give one particularly request that my said
servant Jenny shall at all times after my death enjoy fully the profits of her own labor
and industry without any inconvenience or hindrance from any person or persons whatever
and more over receive from the profits of my estate annually in the month of January
during her natural life the following allowances to wit 4 barrels good shelled Indian
corn, 1 barrel good flour, 300 pounds well fatted pork, 50 pounds pick’d cotton and
$30 Va money and also the following additional allowances during the time my Girl Matilda
Ann Rebecca may be continued by my exec to remain with the said Jenny, namely 2 barrels
good shelled Indian corn and 300 pounds fatted pork but when ever my exec believe that the
said Jennys has in improper resort of Negroes or other persons visiting her and setting
bad examples for my Girl Matilda AR then at their discretion remove the said Matilda AR
from the care of her mother the said Jenny and provide for the support of the said
girl..until she arrive at age of 15–my said Woman Jenny ( the cook) is always to have
free use of water from the spring, firewood from my plantation to be at full liberty at
all times to go from and return home when ever she may think proper to do so without
hinderance....full liberty to use my Cards and wheels when she may think proper–frees
my little girl Matilda Ann Rebecca after my death and to fully enjoy the profits of her
own labor also gives her the use and labor of one of my Negro Women to be chosen by her
from my estate annually plus food allowance etc–plus use of buildings provided mother
above and that a house be built by estate for her plus use of a horse etc–rest of his
estate to his two sons–2 Nov 1819–rec 28 Feb 1820–
p. 449–will of John Pretlow of Surry–leaves wife $2500 and some
furniture and money to brother and a friend–4th gives to Hannah Warren a woman of
color $50–5th being fully impressed with a sence of duty we owe to the people of
Colour and particularly those immediately under our care I give in trust to my bro Joshua
Pretlow and friends Samuel Jones and james Stanton all of Southampton all the residue of
my estate to be apply’d to the boarding and schooling together with such other
benefits as the Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends of which I am a member
may from time to time direct of sundry children of colour under my care whose names are as
follows to wit: Berry, Abram, Jim, John, Gibert, Hack, Peggy and Livina–after their
education the rest of his estate to be equally divided among the above named children
still living–18 March 1820–rec 26 June 1820
p. 491–will of Robert Crittenden of Surry–frees Negro man
Leonard at his death in consequence of the services which he has rendered him–25 Jan
1821–rec 26 Mar 1821
end of book and end of Surry County will abstracts
Sussex County
From Nicholls and Howard:
SUSSEX COUNTY DEED BOOKS 1782-1818
Sussex County Deed Book F 1779-1786
LVA
reel #3
p. 136–4 July 82–James X Watkins of Sussex being fully persuaded
that freedom is the natural right of all mankind and that it is my duty to do unto others
as I would desire to be done to in the like situation emancipates Negro man Kinchen aged
abt 26 yrs old–rec 17 Oct 82
p.137– 15 Aug 82– Jesse Hargrave of Sussex being fully persuaded
that freedom is the natural right of all mankind and that it is my duty to do unto others
etc emancipates Simon aged abt 25; Tom aged abt 24; Rose aged abt 24–also frees
Stuart aged abt 6 on 1 Jan 1797; Ellick aged abt 3 on 1 Jan 1801, and Jeremiah aged abt 1
on 1 Jan 03 but believing it right to reserve the prerogative of acting as guardian over
them until males are 21 and females 18--rec 17 Oct 82
p. 138–16 Oct 82–Hannah X White of Sussex emancipates Negro man
James abt 24 yrs old persuaded that freedom etc and doing unto others etc–rec 17 Oct
82
p. 138–13 Aug 82–John White, Mary Cornwell and Jacob Cornwell of
Sussex and Thomas Ricks of Southampton fully persuaded that freedom etc and doing unto
others etc emancipate five Negroes viz Janey aged abt 60; Dick abt 55; Sarah abt 50; Judy
abt 35 and Tom abt 21; and 3 Negroes in their minority viz Ned abt 16 on 31 Dec 87; Sellah
abt 7 on 31 Dec 93; and Janey aged abt 1 on 31 Dec 99–rec 17 Oct 82
p. 147–13 Nov 82–Edwin Ellis of Sussex fully persuaded that
freedom etc and doing unto others etc emancipates Negro girl Chloe aged abt 15 yrs old
when 18 on 31 Dec 1784–rec 21 Nov 82
p. 147–4 Aug 82–Nathaniel Briggs and Lydia Briggs of Sussex
persuaded that freedom etc and doing unto others etc emancipates one Negro man named Jack
abt 43 and another Negro man named Robbin abt 42–rec 21 Nov 82
p. 148–7 Aug 82–William Hamlin of Sussex persuaded that freedom
etc and doing unto others etc emancipates two Negroes viz Amey aged 32 and Charles aged
27–and Drury aged 6 mos when 21 on 1 Mar 03–rec 21 Nov 82
p. 149–6 July 82–Edward Stabler and Wyke Hunnicutt as appointees
of the Monthly Meeting of Quakers at Black Water in Surry County acc to will of Gloster
Hunnicutt late of Sussex in his will wanted freed on 1 Jan 82 the following slaves viz
Tom, Joe, Charles, Ben Jenny and her child Charlott–frees them–rec 21 Nov 82
p. 150–4 Aug 82–Robert Hicks and Margaret Hicks of Sussex fully
persuaded that freedom etc and doing unto others etc emancipates a Negro man slave named
Henry abt 26–rec 21 Nov 82
p. 151–4 Aug 82–Nathaniel Briggs of Sussex fully persuaded that
freedom etc and doing unto others etc emancipates seven Negroes viz Sharper aged abt 65;
Sue aged abt 61; Nann aged abt 61; Priss aged abt 46; Jenny aged abt 36; Ruth aged abt 20
and Lucy aged abt 19; and 8 Negroes in their minority, viz; Suckey abt 12 to be free on 31
Dec 88; Hannah aged abt 9 on 31 Dec 91; Fed aged abt 9 on 31 Dec 94; Dinah aged abt 8 on
31 Dec 92; Bolling aged abt 5 on 31 Dec 98; Mealy aged abt 4 on 31 Dec 96; Jesse aged abt
3 on 31 Dec 00; and Jacob aged abt one year on 31 Dec 02–rec 21 Nov 82
p. 152–19 Dec 82--John Marriott of Sussex noting the manumission law
passed in last session of assembly frees James aged 40; Aggy aged 40; Farriby aged 30;
Molly aged 18; Shelly aged 7; Hannah aged 5; Abraham aged 3 and Jenny aged 2–reserves
to himself and heirs the care and direction of those underage until males are 21 and
females are 18–rec 19 Dec 82–marginal note says "__? as to Shelly Nov 26,
95"
p. 165–3 July 82–Thomas Pretlow of Sussex-persuaded that freedom
is natural right etc and doing unto others etc emancipates two Negroes viz Jack aged abt
35 and Susan abt 33 yrs old and 3 Negroes now in their minority viz Betty or Bethy aged
abt 12 on 31 Dec 88; Moses aged abt 10 on 31 Dec 93; and Milly aged abt 3 on 31 Dec
97–rec 20 Mar 83–and p. 166--since Jesse Henley and Anne his wife had a part of
the within named Negroes–relinquish any claims and ratify manumission–12 Feb
83–rec with above
p. 172–18 Sept 82–William Nicholson of Sussex after full and
deliberate consideration and agreeable to the Bill of Rights am fully persuaded that
freedom is the natural right of all mankind and that no Law Morral or Devine hath given me
a just right or property in the persons or person of any of my fellow creatures and
desirous to fullfill the injunction of our lord and saviour Jesus Christ by doing to all
others as I would be done by ...emancipates Negro woman Lucy aged abt 32; Roger aged abt
15 in May 88; John aged abt 11 in Mar 92; Rachel aged abt 9 in Oct 94; Fathea aged abt 6
in Mar 97; Jude abt 4 yrs in Aug 99; and Amy aged abt 2 in Jan 02–reserves
guardianship etc of minors–rec 17 April 83
p. 177–3 July 82–John Cornwall of Sussex fully persuaded that
freedom is natural right etc and doing unto others etc–emancipates Negro man named
Cuffey abt 28 yrs old–rec 15 May 83
p. 182–deed for Ellis’s Preaching House from Wm Ellis to Wm
Nicholson, Caleb Ellis, Emanuel James, Stephen Andrews, David Rogers, Stephen Pepper,
Isaac Ellis, Benj Ellis and Wm Ellis jr permit Jn Wesley to preach etc
p. 220–17 Feb 84--William Nicholson and Mary Nicholson of
Sussex–bill of rights, doing unto others etc–frees from bondage the following
Negroes; Fanny abt 30 yrs of age; Milley abt 28; Peter abt 12 on 10 Jan 93; Jane abt 9 on
10 Feb 96; Anthony abt 7 on 26 May 98; Ephraim abt 4 on 20 Nov 01; Milley jr abt 9 months
on 2 July 04–reserving guardianship etc–rec 19 Feb 84
p. 286–20 May 84–Margaret Heath of Sussex frees my servants Patt
aged 41; Toby aged 10; Richmond aged 8; Peter 6; Bobb 2, Moses aged 2 months; Sarah abt
40, Hannah 12 ½ yrs–rec 20 May 84—marginal note =cop’d as to Richmond 17
Nov 87; Peter 11 Jan 00; Toby 10 Nov 00; Bob 7th May
03; Moses 26 May 05
p. 292–15 July 84–Stith Parham of Sussex persuaded that freedom
is natural right etc and doing unto others etc–frees 4 Negroes viz Simon aged 34;
Cesar 22 yrs; Nanny 40; Tabb 37; and 6 in their minority viz: Fanny aged 16 on 3 Sept 85;
Fanny 15 in Oct 86; Nathan 11 in Aug 94; Nanny 8 in Mar 94; Matt 5 in Nov 99; and Fredrick
2 in Sept 03–reserving guardianship etc–rec
15 July 84 p. 343–nd 1784–Drury Lane of Sussex fully
persuaded that freedom is natural right and doing unto others etc–freed Negro woman
Cate aged abt 42–rec 16 Dec 84
p. 397–6 Mar 85–Howel Chappell of Sussex -bill of rights,
freedom natural right etc and doing unto others frees Negroes Patt, Charles, Hanniball,
Abram, Christopher, Sall, Tabb, Harbert, Peter, Liddey, Roger–guardianship for
Christopher until 31 Dec 85; Sall 12 Dec 85; Roger 4 Aug 91; Tabb 24 Jan 90; Harbert 30
April 97; Peter 5 June 00; Liddy 4 Aug 00–rec 21 April 85–marginal note=
delv’d Roger a copy 30 May 92; Abram a copy 13 Jan 94
p. 404–18 May 85–Erasmus Gill of Dinwiddie County fully
persuaded freedom is natural right etc frees servant girl Sally abt 18 and her child
Charlotte abt 2 months old–rec 16 June 85
p. 434–20 July 85–Benjamin Evans of Sussex fully persuaded that
freedom is natural right etc and doing unto others–frees 4 Negroes viz: Patt aged 44
yrs; Tom aged 24; Isaac aged 22; Edee aged 15–rec 21 July 85
p. 468–nd Aug 85–Lettice Hargrave of Sussex fully persuaded that
freedom is natural right and doing unto others etc–frees two Negroes viz: Roger aged
38 and Rachall aged 19–rec 17 Nov 85
End of Book
Sussex County Deed Book G 1786-1792
LVA
Reel #3
p. 58 - 20 Jan 87 - I Simon X - of Sussex being convinced that Liberty is
the undoubted Right of all Mankind and having in my possession one Negroe Woman named
Hannah (no age given) which I bought of Mr. Timothy Rives of Prince George County whom I
have ever since held in slavery - emancipate her agreeable to act of assembly - rec 17 May
87
p. 123 - 14 Dec 87 - Thomas Wren - of Sussex being fully persuaded that
freedom is the natural right of all men agreeable to the Declaration of the Bill of Rights
- sets free Ned, Sambo, Aggy, Dicy, Isabel, Andrew, Lucy, Ginney (no ages given) - rec 20
Dec 87
p. 124 - 19 Sept 87 - William Ellis - of Sussex after mature deliberation
and agreeable to our Bill of Rights am persuaded that no law, moral, or divine gives me a
right to the life and property of my fellow creatures and to fulfill the injunction of our
Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, by doing to all men as I would be done unto - sets free
the following Negroes to wit Thomas (26 yrs), Sarah (23 yrs), Fanny (20 yrs) [10 Aug 88],
Jane (16 yrs) [1 Jan 92], Philip (14 yrs) [3 Jan 94], Randolph (6 yrs) [11 March 02],
Allen (4 yrs) [14 Feb 04], Alexander (2 yrs 3 mo) [22 May 06], Charlotte (2 yrs 1 mo) [14
Nov 06], Edmund (1 yr 10 mo) [17 Feb 07], Anacha (6 mo) [28 June 08] - request and desire
to have the care and instruction of them till they arrive at full age - rec 19 Dec 87
p. 125 - 14 Dec 87 - Henry Moss - of Sussex after full and deliberate
consideration and agreeable to our Bill of Rights am fully persuaded that freedom is the
natural right of all man kind and that no law, moral, or decree hath given me a just right
or property in the person of any of my fellow creatures and desireous to fulfill the
injunction of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ by doing to all others as etc - sets free
from bondage the following Negroes vizt. Peter [1 Jan 88], Ephraim [1 Jan 97], Phill [Jan
98], Becky [1 Jan 88], Dilcy [1 Jan 93], Edmund [1 Jan 07], and Salley [1 Jan 12]- desire
to have their care and guardianship and instruction till they arrive at full - rec 20 Dec
87
p. 133 - 17 Jan 1788 - James Turner - after full and deliberate
consideration and agreeable to our Bill of Rights…am persuaded that Freedom is the
natural right…do hereby set free from bondage the following Negroes vizt. Lewis (25
yrs), Peter (23 yrs), Fanney (17 yrs 25 Dec past) [25 Dec 88], Sissoms (17 yrs 10 June
past) [10 June 91], Ephraim (15 yrs 20 July past) [20 July 93], Sall (12 yrs 20 Dec past)
[20 Dec 93], Jordan (born 1 May past) [1 May 08] - desire to have guardianship and
instruction of said children till they arrive at full age - red 17 Jan 88
p. 139 - 14 Dec 1787 - Charles Hamlin - of Sussex County being fully
persuaded that freedom is the natural right of all mankind and that it is my duty to do
unto others…having under my care 3 Negroes - emancipates Solomon (24 yrs), Isaac (23
yrs), Usse (23 yrs) - and also having 3 Negroes in their minority - Silvy (14 yrs) [1 Dec
91], Howel (8 yrs) [1 Dec 00], Patience (2 yrs) [1 Dec 03] - believe in the right to
reserve the prerogative of acting as guardian - rec 14 Jan 88
p. 140 - 14 Dec 1787 - John Hamlin - of Sussex County being fully
persuaded that freedom is the natural right…my duty to do unto others…having
under my care one Negro slave- frees Lettice (31 yrs) - having also five Negroes now in
their minority - frees Charlotte (11 yrs) [1 Dec 94], Winny (7 yrs) [1 Dec 98], Charles (5
yrs) [1 Dec 03], John (3 yrs) [1 Dec 05], Silas (3 yrs) [1 Dec 05] - rec 17 Jan 88
p. 168 - 9 April 1788 - Jesse Hargrave - of Sussex County being fully
persuaded that freedom is the natural right…do unto others…having under my care
one Negro, sets free - Lydda (13 yrs) [1 Jan 93] - rec 17 April 88
p. 169 - 2 Feb 1787 - William Hamlin - of Sussex County being fully
persuaded that freedom is the natural right…do unto others…having under my care
three Negroes - frees Isbel (about 34 yrs), James (33 yrs), Fan (about 20 yrs) - having
also two Negroes now in their minority - frees Randall (14 yrs) [1 Jan 95], Cellar (12
yrs) [1 Jan 94] - rec 17 April 88
p. 197 - 18 Feb 1788 - Stephen Pepper - of Sussex County after full and
deliberate consideration and agreeable to our bill of rights am fully persuaded that
freedom is the natural right… - sets free Negroe girl Lindy (about 16 yrs) [1 Jan 93]
- rec 19 June 88
p. 198 - 18 June 1788 - Richard Jones - of Sussex being fully persuaded
that freedom is the natural right…frees Hall (no age) - rec 19 June 88
p. 199 - 27 May 1788 - Henry Porch - of Sussex County being fully
persuaded that freedom is the natural right… - freed Phoebe (no age) - rec 19 June 88
p. 215 - 9 Sept 1788 - Thomas Williamson - of Sussex County after full and
deliberate consideration and agreeable to our Bill of Rights…freedom is the natural
right…sets free the following Negroes vizt. Nathan [1 Jan 89], Harris [1 Jan 93],
Anaca [1 Jan 89], Tabby [1 Jan 96], Charles [1 Jan 08] - rec 18 Sept 88
p. 216 - 9 Sept 1788 - John Carter - of Sussex after full and deliberate
consideration…Bill of Rights…freedom is the natural right… - sets free the
following Negroes vizt. Patt [1 Jan 89], Amey [1 Jan 93], Bob [Jan 1 96], Anthony [Jan 1
00], Mot [1 Jan 02], Sam [Jan 1 10], Eldridge [1 Jan 11] - rec 18 Sept 88
p. 231 - 18 Oct 1788 - Markes Stokes, Drury Stokes, Hamlin Stokes Freeman
- know ye that we do manumit and set free Will and Sam, two old and faithful slaves
formerly the property of Cescilla Stokes, as for their faithful and long service to the
said Cescilla she by her last will and testament, though not proved in court we as
legatees under the said will do by these presents agree to liberate and set free and do
hereby declare that they, the said Will and Sam, are hereby liberated, manumitted, and by
us set free to all intents and purposes whatsoever - rec 20 Nov 88
p. 241 - 25 June 1788 - Sarah Hamlin of Sussex manumits and delivers up
all my rights and interests to the four following Negroes, which was left to me by the
will of my deceased husband, vizt. Ned (57 yrs), Aggee (49 Yrs), Dick (48 yrs), Bell (55
yrs) - sets free at 21 yrs old Joe (16 yrs) -[Jesse Hargrave, William Hamlin, Charles
Hamlin and John Hamlin as heirs and legatees of Stephen Hamlin dec’d relinquish their
right etc to above named slaves–14 Dec 88]-- rec 18 Dec 88
p. 252 - 14 Jan 1789 - Benjamin Weathers - of Sussex after full
consideration and agreeable to our Bill of Rights…freedom is the natural right…
- sets free the following Negroe vizt. Jack (no age) - rec 15 Jan 89
p. 260 - 10 Nov 1788 - William Wynne - of Sussex being fully persuaded
that freedom is the natural right… - sets free Billy Scott (about 37 yrs), Judah
Scott (about 21 yrs), Jemima Scott (about 19 yrs), James Scott (about 16 yrs) [3 July 93],
Nathan Scott (about 5 yrs) [1 Jan 04], John Scott (about 2 mo) [14 Sept 09] - rec 5 Feb 89
p. 262 - 15 Jan 1789 - Edward Wootten - of Sussex being fully convinced
that freedom is the natural right of man - sets free and emancipates the following
Negroes: Peter (about 35 yrs), Easter (about 35 yrs),–these two to be freed on 25 Dec
next and not before-- and those in their minority: Jane on1 Jan 91, Charles in Jan 94,
Jack in Jan 96, Maclin in Jan 00, James in Jan 03, Rachel in Jan 04, Dyson in Jan 05, Sam
in Jan 07, Anthony in Jan 09 - rec 5 Feb 89–marginal note: Dec 30 1789 copied as to
Peter and Easter–9 Jan 94 copied as to Peter–17 April 94 cop’d for
Charles–cop’d for Jack Nov 14, 96–cop’d for Maclin 20 March 00--
p. 275 - 12 Dec 1788 - James Briggs - of Sussex being fully persuaded that
freedom is the natural right…. Having under my care two Negroes - frees Nan (19 yrs),
Anthony (9 mo) boy to be free when 21 - rec 15 Jan 89
p. 326 - 13 Aug 1789 - John White - of Sussex - sets free three negroes,
Bob (23 yrs), Roger (17 yrs), Lewis (15 yrs on 3 June last) -Roger and Lewis to be free at
21-- rec 3 Sept 89
p. 336 - 15 Dec 88 - Michael Bailey - of Sussex being convinced that
freedom is the natural right - frees Jeffry, Charles, Harry, Phillis, Lucy, Judah (all
over 21 and under 45), Charles son of Phillis [1 Jan 91], Ben and Sam twins of Phillis [1
Jan 94], Dinah daughter of Phillis [1 Jan 95], Pollenia daughter of Phillis [1 Jan 00],
Moses son of Phillis [1 Jan 00], Miles son of Phillis [1 Jan 03], Martin son of Phillis [1
Jan 05], Gilley daughter of Lucy [1 Jan 96], Lewis son of Lucy [1 Jan 98], Tom son of Lucy
[1 Jan 00], Anaka daughter of Lucy [1 Jan 01], Arko and Ned twins of Lucy [1 Jan 06],
Tiller Daughter of Lucy [1 Jan 07}, Anthony son of Juday [1 Jan 05], Amey daughter of
Judah [1 Jan 08] - rec 3 Sept 89
p. 398 - 4 Feb 1790 - Michael Malone - of Sussex think it wrong and
oppressive to hold Negroes in bondage do therefore hereby mannumitt and set absolute free
the Negroes hereafter mentioned that are in bondage to me in the following manner viz.
Negroe Man James and Floover to be free now, Negro Woman Amey [1 Jan 91], Negro Woman
Jinny [1 Jan 94], Negro Girl Judith [1 Jan 98], Negroe Boy Cuby [1 Jan 99], Negroe Girl
little Amy [1 Jan 03], Negroe Girl Patty [1 Jan 08], Negroe Girl Joan [1 Jan 08] - and
hereby bind myself and my heirs, executors, and administrators and every one of us in the
penal sum of noe hundred pounds current money is each and every one of the said Negroes to
be recovered by them or either of them from such of us as may attempt to deprive them or
either of them of there liberty and freedom - rec 4 Feb 1790
p. 426 - 6 March 1790 - Thomas Hill - to all to whom these presents shall
come, Know ye that I Thomas Hill of Sussex County, being new in the possession of sundry
Negroes of the following names…being fully convinced that freedom is the natural
right…I do by these presents set free and emancipate the following Negroes, namely
Ned, Gaby, Sye, Judith, Amey, Rachel, Pegg, Succa, Pallace, Billy, Amey, Harry, Sall,
Nelson, Patrick, Hannah, Rose, Augustine, Abram, Fed, and James (no ages) - rec 1 April
90–Margin note: Taken out by Thomas Hill 23 Feb 91–cop’d as to Judith 14
April 98--
p. 462 - 2 Sept 1790 - William Baird - of Sussex by authority of act of
assembly emancipates and sets free the following slaves at the following periods vizt.
Aron, Dinah, Rebeka [these three goes out this year], Henry goes out in December 1794,
George goes out December 1800, Dulcey goes out in December 1805, Jeremiah goes out
December 1808, David goes out just two years after Jeremiah and I do hereby according to
the above declaration set them and all that may be born in my house hereafter from any of
them the above named at the certain periods those that may be born at the age the age the
law allows free from me - rec 2 Sept 90–Margin note: cop’d for Henry 25 Dec 94--
p. 484 - 10 Aug 1790 - Thomas Hill - of Sussex being now in possession of
sundry Negroes of the following names which I have heretofore held as slaves and being now
fully convinced that freedom is the natural right of all mankind, I do by these present
emancipate and set free the following Negroes, namely Rebecca, Catharine, Peter, Feggin,
Lucy, Peter, Martha, Charles, Linny, Anthony, Augustine, Selah, Dansy, Ann, Dorotha,
Ziltha, Jane, and Ann (no ages) –some are in their nonage so freed according to
provisions of act of assembly- rec 2 Sept 90–Margin note: Taken out by Thomas Hill--
cop’d for Doratha and Ziltha nd--
p. 508 - 6 Jan 1791 - Wilkins Harper - of Sussex being fully persuaded of
the impropriety and sinfulness of Negro Slavery and having in my possession sundry Negroes
which I have heretofore held as slaves, sets free in the following manner to wit - Jinny
on 1 Jan 1792, Sealey on 1 Jan 1797, Sam on1 Jan 1802, Aaron on 1 Jan 1812, Jimmey on1 Jan
1814-- rec 6 Jan
91–Margin note: sent to Wilkins Harper by hands of Tapley Young, Ben
W Johnson Nov 23, 1795
p. 544 - 8 Jan 1791 - Robert Atkinson of Sussex being fully persuaded that
freedom is the natural right…frees a Negro woman called Tiller aged 19 yrs - rec 3
Feb 91
p. 545 - 18 Sept 90 - Susannah Baird - after full and deliberate
consideration and agreeable to our Bill of Rights am fully persuaded that freedom is the
natural right…and doing unto others etc hereby set free from bondage my Negro man
Cubit –no age-- rec 3 Feb 91
p. 565 - 3 March 1791 - Thomas Hill - of Sussex being now in the
possession of one Negroe of the following name which I have heretofore held as a slave and
being fully convinced that freedom is the natural right - sets free Jeff - and whereas the
above named Niger is aove the age of forty five years I do by these presents emancipate
and set free the said Niger that is over the age of forty five years and to enjoy his
liberty and freedom - rec 2 March 91–margin note: original delivered Tho Hill
p. 617 - 11 Feb 1791 - Mourning Briggs - of Sussex being fully persuaded
that freedom is the natural right - sets free Negro man Luke (22 yrs) - rec 2 June 91
Sussex County Deed Book H
1792-1796
LVA Reel #4
p. 47b–3 April 93--William Nicholson of Sussex after mature
deliberation frees Negro man known by the name of Edward Ricks–no age given–rec
4 April 93
p.127–6 June 92–Elizabeth X Gibbons of Sussex being convinced
that liberty is the birth right of mankind in general & every individual in particular
frees Jack abt 48, Lucy 46 and Cato 3, reserving guardianship over Cato until 21–rec
5 Dec 93
p. 375–nd-Richard Ivey of Sussex knowing freedom is a natural right
and "to fulfill the Golden rule" frees Old Hannah, Nell, Davey, Murrreah, John,
Myma and James the gift of H. Ivey deceased, except Ned who I bought of Teddy
Jarratt–these I manumit from 1 Jan 96 though I retain the right of commanding till
the four last arrive at the age of thirty which shall be as follows: Murreah on 30 Mar 96;
John July 07; Myma Jan 1 1817 and James July 1821, and if the women have any increase they
to stand on the same fotting [sic], the three first are over 45 yrs old but are fully able
to get their own living–rec 1 Oct 95–margin = original delivered to Robert Hines
1 July 01
p. 414–2 Dec 95–Elizabeth Hargrave of Sussex having in
possession one Negro woman named Lucy aged 37 and being willing that she may enjoy the
rights and liberties of mankind, frees her–rec 7 Jan 96
End of Book
Sussex County Deed Book I 1796-1802
LVA
Reel #4 book has no index
p. 32–16 Sept 96–William Hargrave of Sussex believing freedom is
natural right and doing unto others etc–frees Negro Rachel abt 28 yrs old–rec 2
Feb 97
p. 50–15 Oct 96–Ann X Williamson, John and Richard Williamson
and Benjamin Adams of Sussex being convinced that liberty is the birth right of man kind
in general and every individual in particular free George a Negro man–no age
noted--rec 2 Feb 97
p. 86–8 Feb 97–Benjamin Dunn–whereas he has a Negro slave
by the name of Harris in his possession and for divers reasons me thereto moving and for
further consideration of the sum of thirty pounds paid or secured to be paid by the said
Harris do emancipate and set free the said slave from bondage–rec 6 July 97–copy
delv’d Harris in margin
p. 104–6 July 97–Stith Parham of Sussex persuaded that freedom
is natural right etc frees Negro man slave Nick–no age given--rec 6 July 97
p. 241–5 Dec 98–Stith Parham of Sussex convinced that freedom is
natural right of all men frees Negroes Joseph and Peter -no ages given–to enjoy
freedom as fully as the laws of this Commonwealth will admit of–rec 7 Dec 98
End of Book and reel
Sussex County Deed Book J 1802-1806
LVA
Reel # 5 index on page 530 but filmed at beginning of book
p. 7–4 Feb 02--James X Moore of Sussex for divers good causes frees
certain man slave named Tom–rec 1 April 02
p. 164-- 2 Feb 03–Margaret X Heath of Sussex frees my slaves
reserving guardianship to those in their nonage–viz: Sam, Lewis, Amy, Stephen in
April 1810, Betsy in Feb 1813, Patsy [and?], Bonner on 18 Dec 1817 and Polly on 25 Nov
1820–[could be Patsy Bonner]–rec 5 May 03
p. 487–2 April 06–Samuel Cornwell fully persuaded that freedom
is the natural right and doing unto others etc–frees one Negro by name of Jacob Homes
aged abt 50 yrs–rec 3 April 06
End of Book
Sussex County Deed Book K
1806-1810
LVA Reel # 5
no deeds of emancipation listed in index
Sussex County Deed Book L
1810-1815
LVA Reel # 6
p. 236–4 Feb 1813–Nathaniel Holt as exec of John Holt,
dec’d–instructed in JH’s will of 19 May 1810 probated 4 Oct 1810 to secure
act of assembly to free Jacob–NH petitioned assembly in Dec 1811 and law passed 13
Feb 1812 so this frees Jacob–rec 4 Feb 1813
p. 413–28 Jan 1815–Joseph Council of Sussex frees Negro woman
Jenny–rec 2 Feb 1815
End of Book
Sussex County Deed Book M 1815-1820
LVA
Reel #6
p. 307–4 Dec 1817–Joseph Hill of Sussex after full and
deliberate consideration and agreeable to our bill of rights am fully persuaded that
freedom is the natural right of all mankind and that no law human or divine hath given me
a just right or property in any of my fellow creatures and desirous to fulfill the
injunction of our lord and saviour Jesus Christ by doing to all men as I would be done by
frees Harrey aged 25 yr old, likewise one woman named Charlotte 19 yrs old...and their
heirs forever– and two boys in their minority ie Moses 17 when he is 21 and Elias one
yr old when he is 21–rec 2 April 1818
p. 307–15 Jan 1818–Robert Anderson of Sussex–same basic
statement as ante, frees one slave named Juday, 20 yrs old more or less–rec 2 April
1818
p. 322–3 Mar 1818–John Winfield of Sussex for divers good causes
frees Negro man Dick–rec 7 May 1818
End of Book and end of Deed Book abstracts
The first man manumitted, Kinchen, is probably identical to Kinchen Hancock, a
"free Negro" taxable in Sussex County in 1784 [PPTL 1782-1812, frame 113].
Anthony or Ted Jones registered in Sussex County on 6 August 1816: dark, 5'4-1/2"
freed by M. Bailey, 3 September 1789. Ditto for Miles (no last name): dark, 5'6" [DB
G:336].
Luke freed by Mourning Briggs on 11 February 1791 at the age of 22, was probably
identical to Luke Briggs, a F.N. taxable in 1804 [PPTL 1782-1812, frame 622].
Nicholls and Howard:
ABSTRACTS OF MANUMISSIONS IN SUSSEX
COUNTY WILL BOOKS
Sussex County Will Book C 1772-1785
LVA
Reel # 13
p. 427–Glaister Hunnicutt of Sussex–my will and desire is that
the following Negroes should be manumitted on or before the first day of the first month
next 1782 viz: Tom, Joe, Charles, Ben, Jenny and her child Charlott I give the above named
Negroes to the Monthly Meeting of which I am a member to be manumitted by such members of
the said meeting as the meeting shall direct has sons Pleasants and
Glaister–wife–13 April 1781–rec 18 Oct 1781- WB D pp108-114 est
appraisal–no slaves included in value of 1469.18.4–ret 16 Jan 83
Sussex County Will Book D
1782-1789
LVA Reel # 14
p. 4–Lewis Dunn of Sussex and Albemarle Parish–I give and
bequeath Pegey a Molator girl her Freedom. I also give and bequeath and order and ordain
that the above sd Pegey Girl shall have a maintenance in my estate as long as she
liveth–gives rest of estate to Benjamin son of Paty or Martha Gillaim when come of
age–20 Aug 177 [9?]–rec 21 Feb 1782-pp. 183-184–inv of est returned 21 Aug
1783 includes 20 slaves but Pegey not listed –p 330 inv of est –another? 17
slaves–no Pegey--
p. 412–Peter Randolph of Albemarle Parish, Sussex–gives to son
James Randolph two Negroes namely Ellick and Cyrus but that the said Cyrus is to be set
free after my said son James comes of age–leaves other slaves to children and wife
without provision for manumission–2 May 86–rec 20 July 86–
p. 478–John Freeman of Sussex County–to son Charles Freeman lend
him the use of my Negroe girl Dinah untill she arrives to the age of 21 (she was born the
19 Oct 79) then my will is that she should enjoy and have her perfect freedom during her
life. I likewise give unto him the use of a Negroe boy named Ben until he arrives to the
age of 21 yrs and then my will is that the said Ben have his perfect freedom during his
life. The above said Negroe Ben was born in the year 1786 on the last day of
May....provides for son Josiah Freeman and desires that executors may raise the sum of ten
pounds from the labour of my Negroe woman named Dize for my son Josiah and then my will is
that she with all her increase from this time may have and enjoy their perfect freedom
during their life only my will is that if the said Negroe Woman Dize should have a child
or children in the above said time of her servitude of raising the above mentioned sum of
ten pounds that the child or children if any should belong to my son Josiah untill they
arrive to the age of 21 yrs, then to be free during their life–27 Dec 87–rec 17
Jan 1788-
p. 536–Rachel X Alsobrook of Sussex–having in my possession two
Negroes to wit Richard and Margarit it is my desire that the said Negroes be entirely free
and that no person shall lay any claim right or title to them by or under me to
them–leaves other small legacies to people not id’d as family–16 Aug
1788–rec 20 Nov 88-
p. 537–Burrel Green of Albemarle Parish, Sussex–leaves slaves to
variety of heirs and asks that distribution not done through sales–My will and desire
is that my Negro man Joe may be free to act and do for himself and that when he gets
unable to support himself my executors should find him a sufficient support out of my
estate–29 Nov 88–rec 18 Dec 88–
p. 545-Cecelia Stokes of Albemarle Parish, Sussex–My will and desire
is that my two Negroes Will and Sam may be free to act and do for themselves as other free
people—leaves other slaves to children–1783–rec 2 April 89–
p. 551–Martha Hargrave daughter of Joseph Hargrave decd late of Surry
County–It is my will and desire that all my Negroes to wit Jacob, Will, Pegg, Cintha
and China shall be free as soon as they shall respectively arrive the males to the age of
21 and the females to the age of 18 yrs and untill they arrive to such ages it is my will
that they shall be placed with or bound to such persons as will treat them well, and I
give and bequeath to each of them the sum of three pounds to be expended in giving them
suitable education–leaves other items to nieces, nephews, etc–24 March
89–rec 2 July 89–marginal notes= cop’d as to Jacob, 25 Jan 1794, same for
Pegg 17 Nov 1802–
Sussex County Will Book E
1790-1796
LVA Film # 14
p. 75–James Eppes of Sussex–It is my will and desire that all my
Negroes be hired out until all my just debts are paid namely Will, Burwell, Jane, Lucy
then after that it is my will and desire that they be set at Liberty as free Citizens with
such goods and chattels as they shall then possess–has wife, 3 sons and 2
daus–11 Aug 89–rec 3 Feb 1791–
p. 144–Goodwyn Hunt of Sussex–after execs satisfy debts I desire
that my Negroes Anthony and Tom, both carpenters by trade be finally and entirely set at
liberty from me and my heirs forever.
It is my desire that Pegg a Negro girl about 12 yrs of age should remain
under the direction of my exec till she arrives at the age of 21 and then it is my further
desire that she should have her liberty in full as the others, she and her heirs forever.
I desire that the tools which Tom and Anthony labour with should be their undoubted
property after my debts is satisfied. Leaves rest of estate to 1 1exec who is bro Thomas
Hunt–20 July 1792–rec 6 Sept 92–
p. 178–Rebecca X Jones–leaves riding chair to her honored
father–I desire the Negroes now belonging to me may have their freedom and perfect
liberty, when they shall arrive at full age which will happen: Charlotte to be free 29 May
1802; Elmyra? to be free 11 June 07; Mary Anne to be free 20 Feb 04; Agga to be free 11
April 09–and puts them under guardianship of her father Peter Jones for care and
instruction until of age–he is exec, too–14 Jan 92
p. 323–Elizabeth Kerr of Sussex–gives 6 slaves to nieces and
nephew–In consideration of the services and good behaviour of my Negro man Dedan
while my servant, my will is that at my death he shall be liberated and enjoy his freedom
during his life–24 Nov 89–rec 6 Mar 95–
p. 359–William X Woodland of Albemarle Parish, Sussex–My will
and desire is that my two Negroes Rogger and Beck may be free to act and do for themselves
as other free people, and if they should need support my executors may support them out of
my personal estate–leaves 25 or so slaves to heirs–15 Jan 94–rec 6 Aug
95-p. 396–26 slaves listed in inventory but no Rogger or Beck–
Sussex County Will Book F
1796-1806
LVA Reel #15
p. 1 – Elizabeth X Gilliam – of Sussex County – my will and
desire is that my Negro boy Jeremiah aged about nineteen be bound to a blacksmith trade
for four years, and that my Negro girl Patty aged about eighteen be in the service and
under the care of David Barrow for five years each from the date hereof at the expiration
of which term, I do from an inward conviction of the inequity of hereditary slavery hereby
manumit and free them according to the law of this state – gives her interest in
slave Jack to her sister Lucy Gilliam – My will and desire is that all the residue of
my estate of what kind or quality soever be sold and after paying just debts and financial
expenses the money arising therefrom one half I give and bequeath to my sister Sarah
Barrow and the other half I give and bequeath with the interest arising thereon to be
equally divided between the above mentioned Negroes Jeremiah and Patty to be by them
possessed at the end of their years of service – 22 Sept. 1796 – rec. 1 Dec.
1796 – inventory p. 16 no slaves included
p. 31 – Lucy Adkins – of Sussex – leaves negro slaves David
and black Hannah to her brother William Harrison – whereas there is a suit in the
high court of Chancery at present depending between myself and Thomas Adkins of the County
of Sussex respecting the right and title of certain Negro slaves namely Anaka and Fanny
and their increase. Now in case the said suit shall terminate in my favor and the right
and title to the said Negro slaves be fixed and vested in me I give and bequeath to my
brother William Harrison the said Negro slaves Annaka and Fanny to him and his heirs
forever and as to the increase or children the said Annaka and Fanny now have I lend them
all to my brother William Harrison in the following conditions, vizt. All of them that may
be twenty years of age or upwards at the time of my decease I lend to him for the term of
five years from and after my decease and at the expiration of the said term of five years
I leave them and their increase to be emancipated forever and those of the said children
of Annaka and Fanny that may be under the age of twenty years at the time of my decease I
lend to my said brother till they each arrive to the age of twenty five years and as they
arrive to the age of twenty five years I leave them to be emancipated forever, all which
said Negroes I lend to him and his heirs on the before mentioned terms. I lend to my
brother William Harrison the following Negro slaves, namely Sarah, Frank, Milley, Mike,
Joe, Pat, Beck, Jenny, Fanny, Patience, Jemima, George, Washington, and Burrell, all of
them that may be twenty years of age or upwards at the time of my decease for the term of
five years from and after my decease and at the expiration of the said term of five years
I leave them and their increase to be emancipated forever and those of the said negro
slaves that may be under the age of twenty years at the time of my decease I lend to my
said brother till they arrive to the age of twenty five years and then they and their
increase to be emancipated forever, all which said Negro slaves I lend to my said brother
and his heirs on the above mentioned terms. – 26 Sept 1795 – rec. 6 July 1797.
– inventory p. 50 lists 40 slaves
p. 34 – Anderson X Parham – of Sussex – gives 16 slaves to
heirs – it is my will and desire that my Negro man Harbell that I have not devised
yet that he shall be free from bondage at my death and shall act as a free man as long as
he lives – 10 April 1797 – rec. 6 July 1797
p. 79 – Charles Portlock – of Sussex – It is my will and
desire that my four slaves to wit, Dillea, London, Dennis, and Sam shall have their full
and perfect freedom and that the said Sam shall be supported out of my estate – 1
Nov. 1797 – rec. 7 Dec. 1797
p. 91 – Mic[h]ael X Malone – of Albemarle Parish in Sussex
County – I give and bequeath to my son John Pettway Malone…one Negro boy James
until he, the said James, come to the age of twenty one years at which time I hereby set
the said James free to act and do for himself as other free people – I give and
bequeath to my four daughters, Polley, Frances, Rebeckah, and Patsy three Negroes name of
Joan, Patt, and Suky Ward until they arrive to the age of twenty one years at which time I
have set the two first free by deed and when the last, namely Suky Ward comes to the age
of twenty one years I hereby set her free to act do for herself as the free people –
6 March 1797 – rec. 1 Feb. 1798
p. 122 – Michael Bailey – of Sussex – gives 9 slaves to
heirs – having in my possession two Negro men Charles and Isham, it is my will and
desire that Charles shall enjoy his freedom and that he have ten pounds cash given him a
year as long as he is keep in bondage by me that is from the date of this will till it
takes effect and gives him his freedom. It is my will that Isham shall be obliged to keep
the mill and do coopers work as long as my son James keeps the mill in his possession and
repair but shall pay him ten dollars a year for ten years for his services, and then shall
maintain him if unable to labour or my son may emancipate him after my death if he thinks
proper. And having in my possession several Negroes that I have heretofore emancipated in
their nonage it is my will and desire that they remain and work on the plantation for the
joint benefit of my last mentioned four children until they shall respectively arrive of
age – 10 May 1798 – rec. 4 Oct. 1798
p. 132 – Charles Holdsworth – lends one slave to pay off debt,
then gives him to son – my will and desire is that at my death my Negro wench Mary
may be free and should she through age or infirmity be rendered unable to maintain herself
that all my children may join to relieve her. – gives 7 slaves to heirs, rest divided
between children – 26 May 1796 – rec. 3 Jan. 1799
p. 153 – Caleb Ellis – of Sussex – It is my will and desire
that my three Negro men Joe, Jacob, Lewis be hired out two years after my decease at the
discretion of my executors and that the money arising from the hire go to my son Bolin
Ellis and be applied by him to the discharge of the seventy eight pounds mentioned above
and if there be any surplus after the raising of seventy eight pounds arising from their
hire it is my will and desire that such surplus be equally divided between the said
Negroes, Joe, Jacob, and Lewis...If son Bolin refuses to pay 78L to my son Iras then land
to be divided and three men freed the Christmas after my death....After the expiration of
the time above mentioned for the above Negroes to be hired out it is my will and desire
that they be free and at perfect liberty from my heirs, executors, etc.in as full an ample
a manner as if they had been born free. If my decease should be at any period after the 10th day of March in any year of our Lord it is my
desire that all the Negroes and the rest of my property be kept together till the crop is
finished and a division of my estate takes place as shall hereafter be directed and that
the above mentioned Joe, Jacob, and Lewis have all the time after my decease counted in
the two years they are to serve, that they may be allowed out of my estate for their
labour from the time of my death till the end of the year whatever three indifferent
persons shall adjust their services to be worth and that the same go to my son Bolen Ellis
to enable him to comply with the above condition of his holding the land herein mentioned.
It is my will and desire that all the rest of my negroes except Ben that shall have
arrived at the age of twenty five years shall be free at my death and provided it happen
in any year previous to the 10th of March
otherwise that they be free at the end of the year of my decease. It is my will that all
my Negroes that shall be under the age of twenty five years at the time of my decease
shall be free as soon as they shall respectively arrive at the age of twenty five years,
and also that all the children that may be born of any of them before their freedom shall
be free from my heirs as soon as they shall be twenty one years old. It is my will and
desire that all my Negroes under the age of twenty five years be equally divided among my
six children, Ira Ellis, Micajah Ellis, Wyatt Ellis, Bolin Ellis, Patty Ellis, and Anna
Cheatham provided they return to my estate the Negroes they now have or may hereafter have
in their possession as lent from me. But if any of my children shall claim and hold in
slavery any Negro or Negroes that I may have lent them, in that case I desire they shall
have no other part of my estate whatsoever and further, it is my will and desire that none
of my Negroes that shall be under the age of twenty five years be removed or sold out of
the state of Virginia unless the person so removing, or selling them first give a bond
with a sufficient penalty to my executors or the court of Sussex County to see them
forthcoming at the time of their freedom herein mentioned and in case of failing to give
such bond herein required and then removing them they shall forfeit the services of the
Negro or Negroes and the rest of my children shall be entitled thereto. As two of my
Negroes, Ralph and Beck are growing old and as they will enjoy their liberty at so late a
period in life it is possible they may become chargeable to my estate. I therefore
authorize and require my executors to take bond of each legatee to my estate bonding them
each to pay one sixth part of such expenses should any arise previous to their paying, to
them their several proportions of my estate.–4 Jan 99–rec 5 Sept 1799
p. 242 – Elizabeth X Woodland – of Albemarle Parish in Sussex
County – being fully persuaded that freedom is the natural right of all men and
agreeable to the declaration of the bill of rights upon which I conceive our present happy
condition is established and having under my care six Negroes vizt. Joe, Jinnie, Jerry,
Rane, Nancy, and Ellick, it is my will and desire that after my death the said Negroes and
their increase from this date should be free to act and do for themselves as other free
people and whereas by an agreement entered into the 19th
day of October 1795 my sister Sarah Woodland and myself did agree to give up to
Mary Mabry then Mary Woodland the use of four Negroes vizt. Ben, Nell, Simon and Pegge
which were given to us by our dead father William Woodland during her life, it is my will
and desire that at the death of the said Mary Mabry the said Negroes and their increase
from the date should be free to act and do for themselves as other free people – July
1796 – rec. 2 April 1801
p. 263 – Lucey Gilliam – of Parish of Albemarle, County of
Sussex – my will is that my man Joel shall advance or cause to be advanced by hire
the sum of fifty pounds after that I do manumit or free the said Joel. My will is that my
woman Dinah shall be hired so long as to raise the sum of ten pounds after that I do
manumit or free the said Dinah. My will is that my woman Edy should be hired out three
years after then she the said Edy shall be free, and as the said Edy is pregnant my will
is that the child she may bring shall be free. Whereas my man Jack is under incumberance
so my sister Edna claims one third part of the said Jack, my will is that the said Negro
be hired out so long as to pay my sister one third part of his value and after then the
said Jack shall be free and remainder of my estate I leave to be sold – 21 Aug. 1801
– rec. 5 Nov 1801 – inventory p. 268
p. 282 – Levi X Gilliam, Sr – of Albemarle Parish in Sussex
County – My will and desire is that all the rest and residue of my estate of what
kind so ever except my Negro man named Robbin which I hereby liberate and set free, but
desire him may live with my daughter Lucy Wilborne during his life, may be sold and the
money arising from such sale after my just death and funeral expenses are paid I give and
bequeath to my two daughters – 27 Aug. 1801 – rec. 4 Feb. 1802
p. 392 – Margaret X Heath – of Sussex County – Moreover I
leave to him the said Augustin Heath my black girl Rebeccah till she shall arrive at the
age of eighteen years and then for her to go out free. Also I leave him my black boy
Stephen till he shall arrive at the age of twenty five years, and then for him to go out
free. Also I leave him my black girl Betsey till she shall arrive at the age of twenty one
years, then for her to go out free. Also I leave him my Negro man Lewis till he shall work
out his purchase money and then for him to go out free. I leave my daughter, Margaret
Travis my black boy Moses til he shall arrive at the age of twenty one years. I give and
bequeath to my son William Heath…Hannah’s son Billy to him till he arrives at
the age of twenty one years and then for him to go out free. Also leave him my black girl
Patsey Bonner till she arrives at the age of eighteen years then for her to go out free
– I give and bequeath to my daughter Jane Ellis…Bob to her till he arrives to
the age of twenty one years. It is my will and desire that my two Negroes Sam and Amey go
out absolutely free, without any manner of reserve whatsoever. 22 April 1802–rec 1
Mar 1804
p. 395 – Jane X Mason – of Sussex – gives 10 slaves to
heirs – If the following Negro slaves who are now in my possession should be living
at the time of my decease namely Old Peter and Phoebe his wife and Old Hannah I give and
bequeath to each and all of them their freedom from and after my decease during their
natural lives. I also give and bequeath to the said Old Peter and Phoebe his wife two cows
and calves, one sow and pigs, my old mare, twelve barrels of corn and four hogs towards a
support for them and twenty shillings each a year during their natural lives to be paid to
them by my executor out of the residue and remainder of my estate as will be hereafter
mentioned. I also give and bequeath to the said Old Hannah three barrels of corn and two
hogs towards a support for her and twenty shillings a year during her natural life to be
paid by my executor out of the residue and remainder of my estate as will be hereafter
mentioned – 4 Nov. 1803 – rec. 2 March 1802 (a 4 is drawn in lightly with a
completely different type of pen with a question mark)
p. 529 – Stith Parham – of Sussex County – My will and
desire is that my three young Negroes vizt. Ben, Burwell, and Jimmy have their freedom
when they arrive at the age of twenty five years. Gives the claim he has to slaves of the
estate of Collier Hill to Edmund Jones and Hill Jones and leaves 50$ to trustees of
Jones’s Meeting house toward repairing the same – 15 Jan
1806 – rec. 6 Feb. 1806
End of Book
Sussex County Will Book G 1806-1812
LVA
Reel # 15
p. 121–will of John X Owen of Sussex–my will and desire is that
if any of my just debts remain unpaid at the death of my wife Elizabeth that my Negro man
Jacob may remain in slavery so long as may be necessary to raise money for their discharge
and then to enjoy his freedom in as full a manner as possible–19 Jan 1802–rec 4
Feb 1808–
p. 296–will of John Holt of Sussex–give slaves to relatives and
wife–my will and desire is that at my Negro man Jacob has been a good and dutiful
Slave to me and the law of our state does not allow of the freedom of Negroes, it is my
desire that my executor or administrator may petition the assembly of our state to pass a
law for the liberation of said Jacob and if my exors or adminrs should fail to get a law
pased to that effect then my will is that my father Nathaniel Holt should own and hold the
said Jacob as his property–19 May 1810–rec 11 Oct 1810-
Sussex County Will Book H
1813-1818
LVA Reel # 16
p. 58-- will of Aaron X Baird of Sussex–lend to wife Jenny Baird
sometimes called Jenny Eppes all my estate during her natural life. After the death of my
wife I wish my estate to be sold on a credit of twelve months by some persons to be
appointed by order of court and the money arising to be equally divided between my
children viz: Aaron the property of Wm Womack, Isaac, David, Eliza and Anna the property
of Edward Marks and Usley the property of Joshua Young all of Prince [sic] County and
Berekley property of William Whitfield of Sussex County and among such of my said children
as may at the time of death of my wife be living. App’ts wife as exec–13 May
1809–rec 2 Sept 1813
p.124–will of William Gilliam of Sussex–has land in Surry and
lots in Blandford ie Petersburg–it is my will and desire that my negro Girl Decca be
comfortably supported in my Estate for the term of fifteen years from the time of my
decease and she, the said Decca, to have ten dollars a year to be paid to her yearly out
of my estate by my execs–7 Nov 1814–rec 1 Dec 1814–
p. 386–Amos Adams of Albemarle Parish, Sussex–among other things
given or lent to wife Sarah Adams are man Surry and girl Angelina as well as a Negro woman
named Bersheba and her child called Ramy...those last two Negroes "intiled" to
their freedom when they arrive to the age 21 years–5 June 1817–rec 7 Aug 1817
p. 398–will of Benjamin X Chavers–heirs are sister Lucretia
Canady, niece Martha Chavers, nephew Sam Chavers, brother in law John Canaday–27 June
1817–rec 4 Sept 1817
p. 441–will of Drewry Betts of Sussex–after just debts paid
estate to wife Martha–exec is John W. Watkins who is empowered to sell land but not
slaves..."none of my slaves to be sold by any means....it is my will and desire
believing freedom to be the natural right of all mankind that after the death of my wife
all my slaves namely Peter, Will, Nicholas, Judah, Tempy, Silky and such others as may be
found on my estate be emancipated and all their increase as they arrive to the age of 21
yrs, also after the death of my wife it is my will and desire that all that then remains
of my estate of all kinds and qualities be sold and after paying the aforementioned legacy
the balance be divided among my slaves in the following manner viz: three fifths to be
equally divided among the survivors of the before mentioned persons to wit Peter, Will,
Nicholas, Judy, Tempy, and Silky, the other two fifths to be equally divided among the
rest of my slaves that may at that time be found in my estate–4 Jan 1816–rec 2
April 1818–
p. 449–will of Thomas Moore a free black man of Sussex County and
parish of Albemarle–the tract of land whereon I now live at my decease should be
rented out and the profits arising therefrom be applied and given to my beloved wife
Hannah who is in possession of Elizabeth Clanton-yearly during her natural life–it is
my will and desire that Eliza a free black woman who now lives with me should have a part
out of the said land for her a home during her natural life and that John Spain, James
Moore and Henry M. Magee do lay off the said part–it is my will and desire that at
the death of my wife Hannah and the woman Eliza that all the tract of land whereon I now
live should belong to Eliza youngest daughter of Middy to her and her heirs forever after
the death of Hannah and Eliza–gives youngest cow and calf to James Moore–gives
use of other cow and calf to wife Hannah and then to Eliza child Middy–any other left
after debts etc to wife Hannah–12 Oct 1817–rec 2 April 1818
p. 494–will of Thomas Jones of Sussex, mulatto–son Peter Jones
gets 100 acres where TJ lives plus other items–grand son John Jones gets
$20–grand dau Loiza Jones gets $20–all rest to wife–[unnamed]17 Nov
1817–rec 2 July 1818–
p. 534–will of Lewis X Turner (a free Black man) of Sussex–It is
my wish and desire that the woman Aggai which I purchased of Henry Chappell and which I
have had for my beloved wife for many years should be free and clear from the controul of
any person as a slave, but having understood that the Laws of this State will not admit of
Slaves being emancipated and to remain therein for a longer time than twelve months after
such emancipation without the consent of the Legislature thereof I do therefore hereby
direct my executor herein after named to petition the honorable Legislature of this state
for leave for my said wife Aggai...to remain in this state as other free persons of colour
do during her natural life and provided such leave is granted which I pray Almighty God it
may be I do hereby emancipate the said Aggai my wife as aforesaid forever and do lend to
her during her natural or widowhood the land and plantation whereon I now live with all
the improvements thereon also that tract or parcel of Land which I purchased of
Littelberry Turner also all rents or profits that arises from that tract or parcel of Land
which I purchased from Reubin Watkins except that part whereof which I have agreed to sell
to Harrison Judkins a free Negro and also tat part whereof which I shall hereafter dispose
of also all my stock of horses, hogs, sheep and cows except one my work steers, fowl of
every description etc ..also the services of the boy James Wright a free Negro boy untill
he arrives to lawful age which said boy..I had of his parents.....if legislature refuses
then lend her ie Aggai to nephew Wylie Turner, free Negro and requests he treats her
well–and to use the property on her behalf–there is a bargain existing between
Harrison Judkins, free Negro, and myself that I was to let him have 16 acres of the tract
which I purchased of Reubin Mackins at 4$ per acre which is in his possession and surveyed
but I have not made him a title to it nor has he paid any thing for it–Harrison can
withdraw from the offer but if not and pays for it the exec to make him a title for
it-leaves 15 acres of land bought from Reubin Watkins adj the land selling to
Judkins–leaves to bro Scisny? Turner one cow–to sister Salley James the
privilege of living on rest of land bought from Reuben Watkins and on which she now lives
for 12$ annual rent which sum is to be used for the benefit of his wife–with
provisions if rent not paid and if one should die before the other etc–gives 7$ each
to nieces Delitha James, Mishael James and Delia James–proceeds of eventual sale of
land to be divided among children Timpy, Judah, Edmund, Levi, Balaam, Ephraim, Cary and
grandchild Lewis—exec to make title to John Norlton? free Negro which I sold him some
years past–the exec not pay my children their legacies all at once but I wish him to
pay them a few dollars at a time and as they are all slaves he is not to wait until they
are 21 yrs old to pay them but may pay them occasionally as they appear to want it and may
arrive at years of discretion and I direct that he collect the money for them and not to
pay them in bonds or accompts-[5 June 1818?] codicil nominates and ordains Joseph Jonas
and Wm Dobie as execs–11 June 1818–rec 5 Nov 1818–
End of abstract
1826/02/26 Hugh IVEY freed his 27 slaves with a Deed of Emancipation (contributed by
Nicole Gauthier):
"I, Hugh IVEY, of the County of Sussex & State of Virginia
after full & mature deliberation & fully persuaded that freedom is the
birthright of all mankind & that no law human or divine can give or
hath given to me a just & equitable right to the labor or service of any
human being without making to him or her a reasonable or stipulated
compensation therefore & wishing to fulfil in this case at least the
golden rule to do unto others as I would they should do unto me &
having in my care & under my authority the following slaves to wit:
Harry, Jinny, Fanny, Lex, Nelly, Creacy, Lucy, Nancy, Dalilah,
Martha, Hannah, Lilly, John, James, Nancy, Joel, Matthew, Catherine,
Franky, Matilda, Nelly, Hosea, John, Daniel, Jame, Martha, Virginia.
Now know all men by these presents that I, Hugh IVEY, do by these
presents relinquish renounce & forever quit claim to the services &
labor of the aforesaid slaves & the increase of the females for myself
& my heirs & I do for myself & my heirs forever by these presents
declare, order & direct that the aforesaid slaves & the increase of the
females shall be & remain free from the control authority & government
of myself & all persons whatsoever claiming right or title to them
by, from or under me, so far as the said slaves can be free &
act for themselves under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed my seal
this 2nd day of February, 1826.
Signed, sealed & acknowledged in presence of Hugh IVEY (seal).
At a Court held for VA,Sussex-Co the 2nd day of February 1826.
This Deed of Emancipation was acknowledged by Hugh IVEY,
a party thereto to be his act & deed & ordered to be recorded.
Teste: L. LANIER, Clerk [VA,Sussex-Co Deed Book O p416].
---
(Hugh IVEY's mulatto daughter married a REDMAN from the family
I write about.
Hugh IVEY & his former slaves migrated from Virginia as a group
to the more socially tolerant climate of Ohio.
1827-1849 OH,Ross-Co marriages include 11 persons named IVEY -
all of whom had names which appear in the Deed of Emancipation.
All of them are listed as black or mulatto & born in VA in the 1850 census.
3 additional IVEYs, 2 mulattos & 1 black, are listed in the 1850 OH,Ross-Co census,
all born in VA & all named in the Deed of Emancipation).
Westmoreland County
Deeds and Wills 1787-94, p.213, I Robert Carter of Nomony Hall
set free the following slaves: Nathaniel Kenardy, James Reed, George Cooper, Jesse
Johnson, Thomas Walker, Jeremiah Johnson, Primus Johnson, Dinah Cary, Polly Wells, Barbara
Newman and Gabriel Johns. 2 January 1792.
p.239, I Robert Carter set free Joe Reed, Robert Robinson, Anthony Harris, Keziah
Harris, Polly Harrison, and Sarah Timothy Tosspott. 2 January 1792.
p.244, I Robert Carter set free Sarah Brutus, Judith Brutus, Abby Gumby, Sampson
Robinson, James Robinson, Charlotte Newman, Dinah Richards, Aggy Robinson. 2 January 1792.
p.291, I Robert Carter set free the following 30 slaves: John Smith, Samuel Harrison,
Prince Johnson, Samuel Jones, Solomon Dickson, Harry Dicker, Samuel Thomas, Daniel Taylor,
Harry Tuckson, Joseph Brutus, George Jones, Royall Colson, Robbin Spence, Billy Thompson,
Abraham Daniel, Rose Smith, Judith Harrison, Tranox(?) Johnson, Martha Jones, Criss
Newman, Sarah Johnson, Joan Gumby, Sarah Dailey, Betty Newgent, Rebecca Jones, Judith
Wilson, Phillis Jones, Sarah Cooper, John Conway, Betty Daniel. 1 January 1793.
pages 291-2, I Robert Carter set free Willoby Grumby, Jesse Richardson, Daniel Conway,
Thomas Henry, Thomas Cary, Thomas Dailey, James Thomas, Samuel Hackney, William Griggs,
Lucy Henry, Price Dickson, Dilsa Cooper, Mima Wilson, Sarah Johnson, Nelly Richardson,
Bridget Newman, Sally Brutus, Mary Thornton, Sarah Grumby, Sucky Dickson, Eve Henry, Betty
Hubbard of Nomony, Rose Henry. 1 January 1793.
Orders 1790-5, 9 May 1792, p.160. Deed of emancipation from John Brinnon to sundry
slaves.
p.166, Deed of emancipation Alexander Campbell to Negro Ambrose.
p.161?, William Franks deed of emancipation to Frank or Franky.
Orders 1795-7, p.70, 28 March 1796, a deed of emancipation from Anne Smithers to Levina
Johnston.
Db 18, 1787-1794,
p.3, William Flood to a Negro woman Hannah set free at my death.
p.313, Moore Fauntleroy, Gent., The children of slave named Barbary, called Bab,
property of a certain Richard Lee, Esq., Fanny 4, Florinda 2, which children were sold to
me 28 July 1785. 29 July 1785.
York County
Orders 1784-7, p.440, 16 April 1787, letter of emancipation Edward Bates to Peter
Smith.
p.440, 16 April 1787, letter of emancipation Elizabeth Harrison to Lucy and Sarah
Bartlett.
Orders 1788-95, p.36, deed of manumission George Wythe to Negro slave Polly.
p.353, 18 April 1791, Deed of emancipation Mary Stith to slaves Benjamin White and
William White.
p.413, 20 February 1792, deed of emancipation Nathaniel Burwell to his slave Sukey
Parrott.
p.448, 16 April 1792, deed of emancipation Samuel Jordan and Harrison (Quakers) to
Edward Taylor.
p.585, 21 October 1793, deed of emancipation Robert Nicholson, Jr. to his slave Alice.
p.597, 2 October 1793, Mary Stith to Sarah Gillett and her children Jane and Peter
Gillett.
Deed of emancipation from David Miller to his Negro slave Pamphlet.
p.616, 21 April 1794, deed of emancipation Charles Lewis to slave Mingo.
p.627, 16 June 1794, deed of emancipation Benjamin White to his son and slave Benjamin
White.
15 June 1795, deed of emancipation John Page to slave Betty.
Orders 1795-1803,
p.3, deed of emancipation Sarah Green to Cain, 20 July 1795.
15 February 1796, ordered the sheriff hir out William Mossom a negro liberated by the
last will of John Lester to discharge his poor rates and county levies for the years 1793
and 1794.
p.148, 20 February 1797, deed of emancipation Hugh Nelson to Scilla.
p.393, 21 April 1800, deed of emancipation William Cary to his slave Samuel Barber.