Documents, discoveries & records

Bill of sale for Dander, an enslaved boy, sold by William Plummer to Robert Jones, 1796 March 30

Bill of sale for an enslaved person named Dander, sold by William Plummer to Robert Jones, March 30, 1796.

Certificate of registration for Neptune York, a free person of color, Fredericksburg, Virginia, 1798

Certificate of registration certifying that Neptune York is a free person of color, issued in Fredericksburg, Virginia, 1798.

Draft bill of sale, 1787

Draft bill of sale document from 1787, related to a legal proceeding at Camden, South Carolina. References a suit in the Court of Common Pleas, a verdict and judgment, a writ of fieri facias, and a subsequent bill of sale. Seller Henry Hunter in consideration of a sum paid by J.C. Henry, bargains, sells and delivers [enslaved person(s)]. Includes arithmetic calculations on reverse.

Bill of sale for Jude, an enslaved woman, her son Jim, and Glasgow, an enslaved man, sold by Robert Ellison, Sheriff, on behalf of Colo. Brisbane, 1794 April 7

Bill of sale for two enslaved people — Jude (a woman), her son Jim, and Glasgow (a man) — sold by Robert Ellison, Sheriff, on behalf of Colonel Brisbane, April 7, 1794.

Copy of a form bill of sale for enslaved persons bought by N.E. from Daniel Huger of Richfield Plantation on the Pee Dee River, 1779

Form bill of sale for enslaved persons purchased by N.E. from Daniel Huger of Richfield Plantation on the Pee Dee River, South Carolina, 1779.

Export and import form for two bales of blankets on the brig Noah's Ark, 1794 October 14

Form of a Drawback Entry for two bales of blankets on the Brig Noah's Ark, bound for New Orleans. Goods imported by Samuel Thomas Shaw in the Ship Clothier from Hull on 14 October 1794. Exporter's oath by R. Potter; Importer's oath by Thomas Shaw. Received by W. Tilton, Apt. Bond No. 750, November 10, 1795.

Financial statement on a bond held by Isaac Dubois, 1807 February 24

Financial ledger statement detailing a bond held by Isaac Dubois, dated circa April 24, 1800 through February 24, 1807. Records interest accrued, hire of two negroes, discounts, and credits including a note by W. Fitzhugh. Total balance: $540.60.

Bill of sale for Porter, an enslaved man, from Archibald Cunison to Thomas Cook, 1771 April 14

Bill of sale for an enslaved man named Porter, sold by Archibald Cunison to Thomas Cook, April 14, 1771, in North Carolina.

Deed of manumission freeing Eveline Lewis, an enslaved child, Albemarle County, Virginia, 1796 April 5 (copy 2)

Second copy of the deed of manumission in which Robert Jouett of Albemarle County, Virginia, emancipates Eveline Lewis, daughter of Jenny. Identical content to copy 1 — both copies were made as required by law, one lodged with the Court of Albemarle and one delivered to Eveline Lewis.

Bill of sale for Vilet, Cheney, and Gack, 3 enslaved persons, from Alexander Avera to William Avera, Cumberland County, North Carolina, 1799 August 30

Bill of sale for three enslaved persons named Vilet, Cheney, and Gack, sold by Alexander Avera to William Avera, Cumberland County, North Carolina, August 30, 1799.

Deed of manumission freeing Edmund, an enslaved child, Albemarle County, Virginia, 1796 April 5

Deed of manumission freeing an enslaved child named Edmund, Albemarle County, Virginia, April 5, 1796.

Bill of sale for Hal, an enslaved man, from William Merritt to Robert Long, 1780 March 1

Bill of sale for an enslaved man named Sal (Hal), sold by William Merritt to Robert Long for tobacco, March 1, 1780.

A.V. Wood letter to W.T. Samuels, 1866 December 8

Letter from A.V. Wood in Cadiz, Kentucky to W.T. Samuels dated December 8, 1866, regarding a missing Treasury check for $281.66 meant for J.M. Richman, related to the sale of a self-emancipated person.

Certification that William Anthony is a free person, 1811 April 29

Two-part document from the City and County of New-York, April 29, 1811. First, a sworn affidavit by Charles Stewart attesting that William Anthony, a Black man aged about 35 born in Petersburgh in the State of Virginia, has been reputed free. Second, a certification by Richard Cunningham, Alderman and Judge, certifying that William Anthony is free according to the laws of New York state. He is described as about five feet eleven inches high, with dark eyes, black and grey hair, aged about thirty-five years, born at Petersburgh in the State of Virginia.

Life insurance policies for Nancy and Margaret, two persons enslaved by E.L. McNair, James W. Blakeney, and Peter L. McIntyre, 1859

Two North-Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company policies (Nos. 6087 and 6086), each insuring the life of an enslaved person — Nancy and Margaret respectively — for $700 each, for a term of five years from June 17, 1859 to June 17, 1864. Both policies were taken out by C.L. McNair of Cheraw, S.C., Chesterfield County, and later assigned on September 22, 1859 to James W. Blakeney and Peter L. McIntyre, witnessed by M.A.H. Duvall. Annual premium for Nancy was $14.28; for Margaret was $17.15.

Summary of sales of 43 enslaved persons, Halifax, Virginia (copy 3)

Third copy of the handwritten ledger documenting the sale of 43 enslaved individuals in Halifax County, Virginia. Lists purchasers' names, names of enslaved persons sold, and prices. Total sales: $32,294. Purchasers include Joshua Chaney, Thomas E. Barksdale, Rufus Stamps, Charles H. Hooper, Wm. H. Rice, Sterling E. Edmunds, Wm. S. Roddin, Robert Moore, Wm. L. Oliver, James W. James, Wm. T. Connerly, John R. Edmunds, William Pruitt (changed to Levi Lewis), Joseph R. Farmer, John Cunningham, and Wooden Hughes.

Caroline County warrants related to Eldrida, an enslaved man, 1829 December 31 - 1830 March 19

Legal warrants from Caroline County, Virginia, related to an enslaved man named Eldrida, spanning December 31, 1829 to March 19, 1830.

Wm. W. Waters letter to W.T. Samuels, 1865 May 6 - May 9

Letter from Wm. W. Waters in Shelbyville, Kentucky to W.T. Samuels (Auditor), dated May 6-9, 1865, returning papers and a check related to the case of Anthony, a self-emancipated man.

Warren County Court reports related to the sale of Miranda, a self-emancipated woman, 1863

Legal documents from Warren County, Kentucky recording the 1863 court-ordered sale of an enslaved woman named Miranda who had self-emancipated. Miranda, aged about 35, was committed to jail as a runaway on October 24, 1862 and sold to J.S. Phelps for $105.

Woodford County Court reports related to the re-enslavement of Bob, a self-emancipated man, 1864

Legal documents from Woodford County, Kentucky (December Term 1863 - January 1864) related to the court-ordered re-enslavement and sale of Bob, a self-emancipated enslaved man said to belong to Jacob Pack of Morgan County, Alabama. Bob was sold to Lic Atwell for $155.

Woodford County reports related to the sale of John, a self-emancipated man, 1863-1864

Legal documents from Woodford County, Kentucky (July Term 1864) related to the court-ordered sale of John, a self-emancipated enslaved man said to belong to Albert Dudley of Fayette County. John was sold to Lee Atwell for $90.

W. Barrow account of auction of enslaved people, 1851 March 15 - 1851 April 8

Historical manuscript listing the sale prices of enslaved people at a New Orleans auction held on March 14-April 8, 1851, documented in a W. Barrow account.

Warren County Court reports related to the sale of Amanda Adelaide, a self-emancipated woman, 1863

Legal documents recording the 1863 legal auction and court-ordered sale of an enslaved person named Amanda Adelaide in Warren County, Kentucky, who had self-emancipated.

Two bills of sale for Elizabeth and Harriet, an enslaved woman and her daughter, and Delilah, a teenage girl, to George Legg, Baltimore, Maryland, 1805 October 11

1805 bill of sale for two enslaved individuals, Elizabeth and Harriet (a woman and her daughter), and Delilah (a teenage girl), sold to George Legg in Baltimore, Maryland, documented by Caleb Perine.

Waiver releasing Richard Jones from his obligations regarding his warranty of Matilda, an enslaved woman, and her children, 1849 October 3

1849 document from Pittsylvania County, Virginia, in which purchasers of enslaved people release Richard Jones from a health warranty for an enslaved woman named Matilda and her children.

Warren County Court reports related to the sale of Charles, a self-emancipated boy, 1863

Nineteenth-century legal documents from Warren County, Kentucky recording the 1863 seizure, advertisement, and court-ordered sale of an enslaved person named Charles who had self-emancipated.

Statement of Thomas Berry that he intended to sell William Williams' wife and child to Williams, not Thomas C. Duvall, 1831 February 28

Handwritten letter from Thomas Berry dated February 28, 1831, regarding a bill of sale for an enslaved woman and her child, stating his intent to sell them to William Williams rather than Thomas C. Duvall.

Sheriff's bill of sale for Ned, an enslaved boy, sold by B. Wiggins at public auction to George W. Tuten, 1859 February 2

1859 South Carolina Sheriff's Bill of Sale recording the public auction of an enslaved person named Ned for $730, sold by B. Wiggins to George W. Tuten.

Sheriff's bill of sale for Warren, an enslaved boy, by G. O. Riley to Ann Hannah L. Trotti, 1840 November 2

1840 South Carolina Sheriff's Bill of Sale recording the public auction of an enslaved seven-year-old boy named Warren, sold by G. O. Riley to Ann Hannah L. Trotti.

Shelby County reports related to the sale of Anthony, a self-emancipated man, 1864

Shelby County, Kentucky court reports related to the 1864 capture, appraisal, and court-ordered sale of Anthony, a self-emancipated enslaved man.

Summary of sales of 43 enslaved persons, Halifax, Virginia (copy 2)

Historical handwritten accounting records documenting the sale of 43 enslaved people in Halifax, Virginia, listing the buyers' names, the names of the individuals sold, and prices. This is copy 2 of 2.

Shelby County Court claims related to the sale of Anthony, a self-emancipated man, 1865 (manuscript copy)

Manuscript copy of Shelby County, Kentucky court claims related to costs associated with the incarceration and sale of Anthony, a self-emancipated enslaved man, 1865.

Ship manifest for the schooner De Kalb transporting four enslaved persons Sophia, Kitty, and Harriett and her infant daughter Elizabeth, from Baltimore, Maryland to Savannah, Georgia, 1835 June 29

1835 maritime manifest from Baltimore documenting three enslaved females — Sophia, Kitty, and Harriett — and Harriett's infant daughter Elizabeth, being transported by the schooner De Kalb for sale in Savannah, Georgia.

Summary of a report to the Livingston County Court regarding the public sale and purchase of Mingo, a self-liberated boy, 1865 May 24

Document from Livingston County, Kentucky, dated May 24, 1865, recording the financial report of the court-ordered sale of an enslaved person named Mingo who had self-liberated.

Transcript of court documents regarding the jailing and re-enslavement of Jim, a self-emancipated person, 1865 January 10

Historical legal records from 1864-1865 in Adair County, Kentucky, detailing the capture, appraisal, and court-ordered sale of a self-emancipated enslaved person named Jim.

Summary of sales of 43 enslaved persons, Halifax, Virginia (copy 1)

Historical handwritten accounting records documenting the sale of 43 enslaved people in Halifax, Virginia, listing the buyers' names, the names of the individuals sold, and prices. This is copy 1 of 2.

Shelby County reports related to fees regarding the sale of Anthony, a self-emancipated man, 1865-1868

Shelby County, Kentucky reports related to fees and financial proceedings regarding the court-ordered sale of Anthony, a self-emancipated enslaved man, 1865-1868.

Sheriff's bill of sale for Lewis, an enslaved man, from Wm. G. Richardson to Franklin I. Moses, 1841 November 1

1841 Sheriff's Bill of Sale from Sumter District, South Carolina, documenting the legal auction and purchase of an enslaved man named Lewis. Lewis was sold by Wm. G. Richardson to Franklin I. Moses.

Financial statement on a bond held by Isaac Dubois, 1807 February 24

Financial statement dated February 24, 1807, relating to a bond held by Isaac Dubois involving the hire of enslaved persons.

Life insurance policies for Nancy and Margaret, two persons enslaved by E. L. McNair, James W. Blakeney, and Peter L. McIntyre, 1859

Two North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company policies, No. 6087 and No. 6086, issued June 17, 1859, insuring the lives of two enslaved women named Nancy and Margaret for $700 each, for the benefit of E. L. McNair — later assigned to James W. Blakeney and Peter L. McIntyre on September 22, 1859.

Harrison County Court reports related to the sale of John, a self-emancipated person, 1864–1865

Harrison County, Kentucky court records from 1864–1865 documenting the appraisal, court-ordered sale, and subsequent bond cancellation related to a self-emancipated man named John, who was sold to George J. Pollard and later taken by Union military forces.

George C. Mendenhall letter to Martha Moore, 1825 June 14

Letter from Jamestown, Guilford County, North Carolina, dated June 14, 1825, from George C. Mendenhall to Martha Moore advising her on the legal mechanisms for emancipating enslaved people and resettling them in Ohio or Indiana, citing North Carolina Supreme Court cases.

Financial records related to the sale of three self-emancipated people by the Warren County Court, 1864 June–July

Collection of documents from June–July 1864 concerning a bank deposit made by James H. Rose to the Bank of Kentucky for the state auditor, related to the court-ordered sale of three self-emancipated enslaved people in Warren County.

Certification that Scipio Welden is a free person, 1811 April 29

1811 document from New York City certifying the freedom of a Black man named Scipio Welden, including a deposition and an official attestation.

Court order to the Caroline County jailer from C. S. Stevenson, 1829 July 16

1829 court order from Caroline County, Virginia, signed by C. S. Stevenson, authorizing the jailer to deliver an enslaved person named Adam to H. H. Templeman.

Court order to the jailer of Caroline County issued by Pichegru Woolfolk, 1829 September 10

September 10, 1829 court order from Pichegru Woolfolk authorizing the Caroline County jailer to hold an enslaved man owned by Taliaferro S. Howard.

Court documents relating to the sale of Jenny, an enslaved woman, from James L. Fitts to Henry E. Solomons, Beaufort County, South Carolina, 1850 March 4

1850s South Carolina legal records including a mortgage and bill of sale regarding the enslavement of a woman named Jenny, transferred from James L. Fitts to Henry E. Solomons in Beaufort County.

Deed of manumission freeing Eveline Lewis, an enslaved child, Albemarle County, Virginia, 1796 April 5

18th-century indenture of manumission from Albemarle County, Virginia, in which Robert Jouett emancipates a four-year-old child named Evelina Lewis.

Draft bill of sale, 1787

Handwritten draft bill of sale from circa 1787 containing archaic script and judicial terminology with mathematical calculations.

Financial record related to the court-ordered sale of Rosetta, a self-emancipated woman, 1863–1864

Accounting record from 1866 detailing financial costs related to the capture, jailing, and legal proceedings involving a self-emancipated woman named Rosetta.

Deed of manumission freeing Frankey, an enslaved woman, Albemarle County, Virginia, 1801 June 25

1801 legal deed of manumission from Virginia in which William Champe Carter emancipates a woman named Frankey.

Bond cancellation issued by the court of Livingston County, Kentucky, over death of John, self-liberated from slavery, 1864 June 6

Livingston County, Kentucky court order canceling a bond related to the forced re-enslavement and sale of a self-emancipated man named John, who was subsequently taken by military force and never returned.

Certification that Joshua Cornish is a free person, 1814 April 22

1814 freedom certificate issued in New York for a Black man named Joshua Cornish, signed by Alderman Peter M. Carter.

Certificate of freedom issued to Thomas Segin, 1863 July 6

Certificate of freedom issued in Powhatan County, Virginia, July 6, 1863, certifying that Thomas Legin (Segin) is a free man.

Deed of manumission freeing Edmund, an enslaved child, Albemarle County, Virginia, 1796 April 5

1796 indenture from Albemarle County, Virginia, in which Robert Jouett formally emancipates an enslaved four-year-old child named Camund (Edmund).

Export and import manuscript for fifty casks claret on the brigs Betsy and Holbrooke, 1794 December 3–4

1794 customs declaration detailing fifty casks of claret imported from Bordeaux on the Brig Holbrooke, sworn by John Vaughan in Philadelphia.

Certification that James De Hart is a free person, 1811 April 29

1811 certificate from the City of New York affirming the legal freedom of a Black man named James De Hart.

Deed of trust between William Scott, Richard Wallace, and John Pilson, with 4 enslaved persons Ben, Phillis, Robert Wilson, and Jesse as collateral for a loan, 1827 June 1

1827 legal indenture recording a financial debt agreement between William Scott, Richard Wallace, and John Pilson, using four enslaved individuals — Ben, Phillis, Robert Wilson, and Jesse — as collateral.

Certification that William Anthony is a free person, 1811 April 29 (copy 2)

Second copy of the 1811 legal certificate of freedom issued in New York for a Black man named William Anthony from Petersburg, Virginia.

Certificate of registration for Neptune York, a free person of color, Fredericksburg, Virginia, 1798

1798 legal document from Fredericksburg, Virginia, certifying the free status of a man named Neptune York, later recorded in 1803.

Certification that Thomas Pritchard is a free person, 1811 April 27

1811 document from New York City verifying that a Black man named Thomas Pritchard is a free person.

Export and import form for two bales of blankets on the brig Noah's Ark, 1794 October 14

1794 U.S. customs drawback entry form for shipping two bales of blankets to New Orleans on the brig Noah's Ark, featuring handwritten cargo details and formal exporter/importer oaths.

Bonds related to the enslavement of Stephen, George, Sherrod, Charles, and Lewis, self-emancipated people, issued by S. R. Tolle, sheriff of Barren County, Kentucky, 1863–1864

A set of sale bonds from Barren County, Kentucky, 1863–1864, documenting the court-ordered purchase of five self-emancipated people — Stephen, George, Sherrod, Charles, and Lewis — at public auction, with purchaser bonds payable to the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Caroline County warrant for the jailing of Walker, an enslaved man, 1829 September 2

1829 warrant from a Caroline County, Virginia Justice of the Peace ordering the jailer to imprison an enslaved man named Walker.

Documents relating to the disposition of Viney, an enslaved woman, and Frances and Aaron, her children, Guilford County, North Carolina, 1850 April 1

Multiple legal documents from Guilford County, North Carolina, dated 1850, relating to the disposition of an enslaved woman named Viney and her two children Frances and Aaron.

Caroline County warrants related to Eldrida, an enslaved man, 1829 December 31–1830 March 19

Series of warrants from Caroline County, Virginia, related to an enslaved man named Eldrida (Eldridge), 1829–1830.

Charles C. Hooks letter to William T. Samuels, 1867 June 25

Handwritten letter from Cadiz, Kentucky, dated June 25, 1867, from Charles C. Hooks to William T. Samuels regarding the sale of a runaway enslaved woman named Rosella (Rosetta).

Court order settling the estate of John Jenkins, 1832 September 24–1835 June 22

Nelson County Court, Virginia, legal decree and commissioners' report, 1832–1835, detailing the division and sale of John Jenkins' estate including enslaved persons.

Court order to the constable and jailer of Caroline County from Fleming Terrell, 1829 August 1

Arrest warrant (mittimus) issued August 1, 1829, in Caroline County, Virginia, by Fleming Terrell for an enslaved man named Randal, accused of uttering seditious language.

Deed of gift for Viney, an enslaved woman, and her eighteen-month-old daughter Adelia, from Hezekiah and Sarah Thompson to their daughter Adelaide Kemp, 1853 June 29

Legal bill of sale from St. Helena Parish, Louisiana, dated June 29, 1853, transferring ownership of an enslaved woman named Viney and her infant daughter Adelia from Hezekiah and Sarah Thompson to their daughter Adelaide Kemp.

Certification that John Roberts is a free person, 1814 April 27

Freedom paper for a man named John Roberts (Robert), dated April 27, 1814, in New York City.

Deed for Jim, an enslaved man, created by A. M. Nisbet for William S. Mitchell, 1843 July 7

1843 bill of sale from the Central Bank of Georgia recording the purchase of an enslaved man named Jim, created by A. M. Nisbet for William S. Mitchell.

Certification that William Anthony is a free person, 1811 April 29 (copy 1)

1811 affidavit and certificate of freedom from New York for a Black man named William Anthony from Petersburg, Virginia.

Bond between Guthridge Lyons and Robert Pasley, 1794 October 21

Financial bond between Guthridge Lyons and Robert Pasley secured by a mortgage of enslaved persons, with interest calculations from 1800 to 1807.

Deed of gift for 3 enslaved adults and 2 enslaved children from John Hamilton to Patsy Brickell, 1808 December 27

Legal deed of gift dated December 27, 1808, transferring five enslaved people — three adults and two children — from John Hamilton into a trust for Patsy Brickell and her children.

Deed of manumission freeing Sue, an enslaved woman, and her daughter Margaret, Georgetown, South Carolina, 1815 October 6

1815 legal document certifying the manumission and good character of an enslaved woman named Sue and her daughter Margaret, from Georgetown, South Carolina.

Deed of manumission freeing Cato the Elder and Cloe, Albemarle County, Virginia, 1801 March 9

1801 legal indenture from Albemarle County, Virginia, documenting the manumission of two enslaved individuals named Cato the Elder and Cloe.

Certification that Henry Tafe is a free person, 1813 October 13

Legal certificate of freedom from 1813, issued by an Alderman in New York City for a man named Henry Tofe (Tafe).

D. P. Robb letter to W. O. Samuels, 1864 April 1

Handwritten letter dated April 1, 1864, from Versailles, Kentucky, signed by D. P. Robb, concerning the court-ordered sale of two runaway enslaved persons.

Copy of a form bill of sale for enslaved persons bought by N.E. from Daniel Huger of Richfield Plantation on the Pee Dee River, 1779

Handwritten legal document dated April 14, 1779, regarding a slave purchase agreement in South Carolina from Daniel Huger of Richfield Plantation on the Pee Dee River.

Bill of sale for Henry, an enslaved boy, by Morgan Davis to James Bisland, 1832 January 4

Bill of sale from Franklin County, Mississippi, dated January 4, 1832, documenting the transfer of an enslaved person named Henry from Morgan Davis to James Bisland (Roland).

Bill of sale for Jenny, an enslaved woman, from Edmund Hoskins to Joseph Blount, North Carolina, 1823 April 29

Bill of sale from Chowan County, North Carolina, dated April 29, 1823, in which Edmund Hoskins of Chowan County sells an enslaved woman named Jenny to Joseph Blount for three hundred dollars. Includes a subsequent assignment dated December 3, 1823, by the executor of Joseph Blount's estate to John S. Bryan.

Bill of sale for Jacob, an enslaved man, from John Smith Jr. to Richard Jones, 1844

Receipt dated October 1844, recording the sale of an enslaved man named Jacob by John Smith Jr. to Richard Jones for $187.50, including the hire of Jacob during the time he had been with Jones.

Bill of sale for Flora, an enslaved woman, and her two children Silvey and Shadrick, sold by Jesse Peacock to William R. Enecks, 1849 May 11

Bill of sale from South Carolina, dated May 11, 1849, documenting the sale of an enslaved woman named Flora and her two children, Silvey and Shadrick, by Jesse Peacock to William R. Enecks.

Bill of sale for Esther, an enslaved woman, from William Astin to Samuel Guy, 1818 February 18

Bill of sale from Virginia, dated February 18, 1818, recording the sale of an enslaved woman named Esther by William Astin to Samuel Guy.

Bill of sale for Jef, an enslaved child, from James Tarrant, 1805 March 5

Receipt dated March 5, 1805, recording the sale of an enslaved boy named Jef (Jeff) by James Tarrant for three hundred and fifty-one dollars.

Bill of sale for four enslaved persons Milly, Ann, Jack, and Mary, from James Huie and Josiah Huie to Samuel Guy, 1824 March 31

Bill of sale from North Carolina, dated March 31, 1824, recording the sale of four enslaved persons — Milly, Ann, Jack, and Mary — from James and Josiah Huie to Samuel Guy.

Bill of sale for Dianah, an enslaved woman, from Benjamin Grandstaff to John W. Rice, 1831 April 19

Bill of sale dated April 19, 1831, recording the sale of an enslaved woman named Dianah by Benjamin Grandstaff to John W. Rice for $250.

Bill of sale for Henry, an enslaved child, from Jacob Lemly to G. F. Davidson, 1857 April 30

Bill of sale dated April 30, 1857, documenting the purchase of an enslaved child named Henry for four hundred dollars by G. F. Davidson from Jacob Lemly.

Bill of sale for Eli Wilson, an enslaved person, from Arthur Emory to Edmund Carville, 1851 November 25

Bill of sale from Maryland, dated November 25, 1851, documenting the legal transfer of an enslaved man named Eli Wilson from Arthur Emory to Edmund Carville.

Bill of sale for Hannah, an enslaved woman, from William Brumfield to Richard Jones, 1812 November 18

Bill of sale dated November 18, 1812, recording the sale of an enslaved woman named Hannah by William Brumfield to Richard Jones.

Bill of sale for Hal, an enslaved man, from William Merritt to Robert Long, 1780 March 1

Bill of sale from Chatham County, North Carolina, dated March 1, 1780, recording the sale of an enslaved person named Hal (Das) from William Merritt to Robert Long.

Bill of sale for Emilie, an enslaved woman, and her daughter Eve, from Lucien Montegut to Nathaniel Williamson, 1856 August 2

Bill of sale from New Orleans, dated August 2, 1856, documenting the sale of two enslaved people — Emilie and her daughter Eve — from Lucien Montegut to Nathaniel Williamson.

Bill of sale for Jane, an enslaved person, and a hiring agreement for Wash, an enslaved person, from Jacob Lemly to G. F. Davidson, 1861 January 17

Two documents from 1861: a bill of sale dated January 17, 1861 in which Jacob Lemly sells an enslaved girl named Jane (about 18–19 years old) to G. F. Davidson for six hundred dollars, and a separate hiring receipt dated January 1, 1861, for the hire of an enslaved boy named Wash to G. F. Davidson for fifty-one dollars.

Bill of sale for Gorge, an enslaved person, from Joseph Beard to William Chambless, 1854 November 13

Bill of sale from Randolph County, Georgia, dated November 13, 1854, documenting the purchase of an enslaved boy named George (Gorge) for nine hundred dollars by William Chambless from Joseph Beard.

Bill of sale for Harriet and Martha, two enslaved women, from John Hunter to J. E. Calhoun, 1858 February 8

Bill of sale from Grand Gulf, dated February 8, 1858, documenting the sale of two enslaved women, Harriet and Martha, by John Hunter to J. E. Calhoun.

Bill of sale for Feby, Jammie, and Jacob, enslaved persons, from Zachariah Flurry to James Brown and Ely Kershaw, 1779 February 11

Bill of sale from South Carolina, dated February 11, 1779, recording the sale of three enslaved individuals named Feby, Jammie, and Jacob from Zachariah Flurry to James Brown and Ely Kershaw.

Bill of sale for Grandison, an enslaved boy, sold by M. E. Manning to B. A. Capehart, 1857 August 8

Bill of sale dated August 8, 1857, recording the sale of an enslaved boy named Grandison by M. E. Manning to B. A. Capehart for $1,060.

Bill of sale for four enslaved persons George, Primus, Lucy, and Louisa, from Freeman Hoyt to E. H. Simmons, 1849 December 22

Bill of sale from South Carolina, dated December 22, 1849, recording the sale of four enslaved people — George, Primus, Lucy, and Louisa — from Freeman Hoyt to E. H. Simmons.

Bill of sale for Henry, an enslaved child, from William Bennett to Richard Jones, 1813 August 26

Bill of sale from Pittsylvania County, Virginia, dated August 26, 1813, recording the sale of an enslaved boy named Henry (approximately 14 years old) by William Bennett Sen. to Richard Jones for three hundred dollars.

Bill of sale for Jane, an enslaved woman and her child, from Smith Hubbard to John Hunter, acting on behalf of J. E. Calhoun, 1858 March 2

Bill of sale dated March 2, 1858, in which Smith Hubbard sells an enslaved woman named Jane and her child (approximately 22 years old) to John Hunter acting on behalf of J. E. Calhoun for $1,500. A second note dated March 26, 1858 confirms the purchase was made with Calhoun's funds.

Bill of sale for Jenny, an enslaved girl, sold by Hiram James to Alfred Carson, 1856 February 15

Bill of sale dated February 15, 1856, recording the sale of an enslaved girl named Jenny (approximately twelve years old) by Hiram James to Alfred Carson for seven hundred dollars.

Bill of sale for George, an enslaved child, from E. D. Gillmore to Emanuel Geiger, 1849

Bill of sale from approximately 1845, documenting the purchase of an eleven-year-old enslaved boy named George for four hundred and fifty dollars by Emanuel Geiger from E. D. Gillmore.

Bill of sale for Davy, an enslaved person, from R. N. and D. C. Herndon to E. H. Simmons, 1849 July 5

Bill of sale from Richmond, dated July 5, 1849, documenting the purchase of an enslaved person named Davy for $485 by E. H. Simmons from R. N. and D. C. Herndon.

Bill of sale for Dander, an enslaved boy, sold by William Plummer to Robert Jones, 1796 March 30

Bill of sale dated March 30, 1796, recording the sale of an enslaved boy named Dander by William Plummer to Robert Jones.

Bill of sale for Betty, an enslaved woman, from Baltice Roller, 1802 April 5

Bill of sale from Tennessee, dated April 5, 1802, recording the transaction of an enslaved woman named Bitty (Betty) for four hundred dollars from Baltice (Baltzer) Roller.

Bill of sale for Daphney, an enslaved woman, from Samuel F. Shelton to Richard Jones, 1860 November 30

Bill of sale dated November 30, 1860, documenting the sale of an enslaved woman named Daphne by Samuel F. Shelton to Richard Jones.

Bill of sale for Arthur, an enslaved man, sold by S. Cohen to H. L. Muse, 1864 February 17

Bill of sale from Richmond, Virginia, dated February 17, 1864, documenting the purchase of an enslaved man named Arthur for $5,500 by H. L. Muse from S. Cohen.

Bill of sale for an enslaved woman and her three children from H. MacLaurin to Gilbert MacMillan, 1829 August 21

Bill of sale from South Carolina, dated August 21, 1829, transferring an enslaved woman and her three children from N. MacLaurin to Gilbert MacMillan.

Bill of sale for Ben, an enslaved man and blacksmith tools, sold by John Ing to Bryant Young, 1845 March 12

Bill of sale from Franklin County, North Carolina, dated March 12, 1845, documenting the sale of an enslaved man named Ben along with his blacksmith tools by John Ing to Bryant Young.

Bill of sale for Bedford, an enslaved boy, from Mark Weatherly to Martin Weatherly, Guilford County, North Carolina, 1822 October 17

Bill of sale from Guilford County, North Carolina, dated October 17, 1822, recording the estate-based transfer of an enslaved boy named Bedford from Mark Weatherly to Martin Weatherly.

Bill of sale for Beck, an enslaved girl, from A. J. Worke to Samuel Guy, 1824 November 15

Bill of sale dated November 15, 1824, recording the sale of an enslaved girl named Beck by A. Worke to Samuel Guy for three hundred dollars.

Bill of sale for Amy, an enslaved woman, and her child Sindy, from Joseph and Margaret Lawrence to Samuel Guy, 1817 May 12

Bill of sale from Mecklenburg County, Virginia, dated May 12, 1817, transferring Amy and her child Sindy from Joseph and Margaret Lawrence to Samuel Guy.

Bill of sale for Dave, an enslaved man, from A. J. Worke to Samuel Guy, 1824 November 9

Bill of sale dated November 9, 1824, recording the purchase of an enslaved man named Dave for three hundred and twenty-five dollars by Samuel Guy from A. J. Worke.

Bill of sale for Ann, an enslaved girl, sold by David Hensler and William Maxwell to Hardy Clemmond, 1810 June 4

Bill of sale dated June 4, 1810, in which David Henslee and William Maxwell sell an enslaved girl named Ann to Hardy Clemmond.

Bill of sale for Catey, an enslaved woman, from Abijah Holbrook to Samuel Boykin, 1787 April 2

Bill of sale dated April 2, 1787, documenting the purchase of an enslaved woman named Caty by Samuel Boykin from Abijah Holbrook.

Bill of sale for Adam, an enslaved boy, from John MacCullers to Gilbert MacMulton, 1829 May 14

Bill of sale from Wake County, North Carolina, dated May 14, 1829, in which John McCullers sells an enslaved boy named Adam to Gilbert McMullen.

Bill of sale for Andrew, an enslaved person, from Monroe County, Kentucky, to A. H. Maxey, 1863 June 1

Promissory bond from Monroe County, Kentucky, dated June 1, 1863, regarding the court-ordered sale of an enslaved person named Andrew to A. H. Maxey.

Bill of sale for Betta, an enslaved girl, from Absalom Lancaster to Thomas Cook, 1761

Bill of sale from Granville County, North Carolina, circa 1761, recording the sale of an enslaved girl named Bett from Absalom Lancaster to Thomas Cook.

Bill of sale for Daniel, an enslaved boy, sold by Willie Allen to Robert Park, 1818 November 8

Bill of sale from North Carolina, dated November 8, 1818, documenting the sale of an enslaved boy named Daniel from Willie Allen to Robert Parks.

Bill of sale for Bell, an enslaved man, sold by Kenneth Clarke to John Betham, 1822 June 1

Bill of sale dated June 1, 1822, documenting the sale of an enslaved man named Bill (Bell) for five hundred and fifty dollars by Kenneth Clarke to John Betham.

Bill of sale for Betta, an enslaved girl, from Lawrence Lancaster to Thomas Cook, 1757 March 18

Bill of sale from Granville County, North Carolina, dated March 18, 1757, documenting the sale of an enslaved girl named Bett from Lawrence Lancaster to Thomas Cook.

Bill of sale for Dave, an enslaved man, from Henry Smithwick to William Sutton, 1812 January 23

Bill of sale from 1812, documenting the purchase of an enslaved man named Dave for four hundred dollars by William Sutton from Henry Smithwick.

Bill of sale for Ben, an enslaved boy, sold by Henry Humphreys to William Ryan, 1827 December 22

Bill of sale from Greensborough, dated December 22, 1827, transferring an enslaved nine-year-old boy named Ben from Henry Humphreys to William Ryan for two hundred dollars.

Bill of sale for Betty, an enslaved woman, from John Kellshaw to Baltice Roller, 1802 January 22

Indenture record dated January 22, 1802, detailing the sale of an enslaved person named Betty by John Hillshaw (Kellshaw) to Baltzer Roller.

Bill of sale for Aron, an enslaved child, to Jacob Coble and Ervin Hanner, Guilford County, North Carolina, 1850 September 28

Bill of sale from Guilford County, North Carolina, dated September 28, 1850, recording the sale of an enslaved ten-year-old boy named Aron. Signed by commissioners Jacob Coble and Erwin Hammer.

Bill of sale for Caroline, an enslaved woman, by public auction to Richard R. Winfrey, 1846 December 1

Bill of sale from Georgia, dated December 1, 1846, recording the purchase of an enslaved woman named Caroline for four hundred dollars at public auction by Richard R. Winfrey.

Betts and Gregory price lists of enslaved persons, 1860 July 20 - 1861 January 5

Three price lists from Betts & Gregory Auctioneers of Richmond, Virginia, detailing market prices for enslaved people by gender, age, and physical description, dated July 1860, September 1860, and January 1861.

Bill of sale for Abraham, an enslaved child, from Daniel J. Manire to John Kelly, 1809 May 6

Bill of sale from Granville County, North Carolina, dated May 6, 1809, in which Daniel Jackson Manear sells an enslaved child named Abraham to John Kelly of Orange County for ninety pounds Virginia Currency.

Barren County Court order requiring sheriff to sell Stephen, a self-liberated man, 1862

Barren County, Kentucky court order from December 1862 requiring the sheriff to advertise and sell a self-emancipated man named Stephen at public auction.

Barren County Court report on the advertisement for and public auction of George, Lewis, Jasper, Sherrod, and Charles, self-emancipated persons, 1863 April-May

Barren County, Kentucky court records documenting the valuation, advertisement, and forced public auction sale of five self-emancipated men: George, Lewis, Jasper, Sherrod, and Charles.

Affidavit confirming that Solomon Snowden was manumitted by Valentine Doub, 1830 September 2

1830 document from Frederick County, Maryland — an affidavit by Valentine Doub confirming the manumission of an enslaved man named Solomon Snowden (Snapden).

Affidavit that Nancy Gardner was born with free status, 1806 November 30

Legal certificate of freedom for a mulatto girl named Nancy Gardner, issued and recorded in Albemarle County in December 1806.

Affidavit confirming that Susan, Israel, and Rachel, the children of Moses and Marian Knight, were born with free status, 1822 January 14

Document from Frederick County, Maryland, dated January 14, 1822, legally certifying the free-born status of three children: Susan, Israel, and Rachel, children of Moses and Marian Knight.

Affidavit confirming that John Brown has been manumitted by Isaac Bett, 1829 January 16

1829 Maryland legal affidavit confirming that John Brown, a Black man, was manumitted and freed by Isaac Kett (Bett).

Alfred B. Dyer letter to Alfred Allen, 1867 July 25

Handwritten letter from Cadiz, Kentucky, dated 1867, sent by A.B. Dyer regarding funds from the sale of an enslaved person named Rosetta.

Affidavit confirming that Mathew Scroggins was manumitted by Ignatius Davis, 1830 April 16

Legal affidavit from April 16, 1830, in Frederick County, Maryland, verifying the identity and manumitted status of Matthew Scroggins.

Affidavit confirming the freedom of Elias, Frederick County, Maryland, 1829 June 9

Handwritten 1829 legal document from Maryland confirming the identity of a manumitted person named Elias, with a filing note on the back.

Adair County Court reports related to the re-enslavement of Edmund, a self-emancipated man, 1865-1866

Series of legal records from 1864–1865 detailing the capture, appraisal, and auction of a self-emancipated man named Edmund in Kentucky.

Amount of levy made on Adam Carruth's property, October 4, 1821

1821 legal record of a property levy against Adam Carruth, listing enslaved people, livestock, furniture, and land holdings.

Affidavit certifying that Anna Whiten was born free, 1849 January 15

Document issued by the Frederick County Court in Maryland, certifying that a woman named Anna Whiten is free-born, 1849.

Account statement for Mrs. Brisbane, 1807-1809

Historical handwritten ledger pages from 1807 and 1809 detailing financial accounts, including wage payments for individuals named Sophia Manning and Hector.

Alfred B. Dyer letter to William T. Samuels, 1867 June 17-22

Hand-written letter dated June 17, 1867, from A.B. Dyer regarding tax payments and the sale of an enslaved person named Rosetta.

Arrest warrant issued for Isaac, an enslaved person, by R.B. Semple, Mayor and Justice of Peace, corporation of Fredericksburg, Virginia, 1851 July 25

Arrest warrant from the Corporation of Fredericksburg, Virginia, issued July 25, 1851 by Mayor R.B. Semple against an enslaved man named Isaac who was aboard the Steam Boat Mary Washington and allegedly assaulted Warner Mondowney.

Account of money owed by the late John Chestnut to John Cantey for the hire of enslaved persons, 1823 April 12

Financial account from South Carolina detailing money owed by the estate of John Chestnut to John Cantey for the hire of enslaved persons. Signed by Major John Cantey and sworn before Tho. P. Evans, 1823.

Affidavit confirming that Betsy Crumwell was born with free status, 1832 May 7

Handwritten legal affidavit from Frederick County, Maryland, dated May 7, 1832, regarding the free-born status of Betsy Crummell.

A.V. Wood Letter to W.T. Samuels, December 8, 1860

Letter from attorney A.V. Wood in Cadiz, Trigg County, Kentucky to Hon. W.J. Samuels regarding a missing Treasurer's Check for $281.66 — money refunded for the purchase of a runaway slave named John. Wood reports the check was likely stolen from the mail.

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