Will Book 3

Pgs. 164-64

“The free girl, Margret Dent and her children, Laura, Minor, Virginia, Joseph, and Thomas, I give to them for their natural life the following slaves, namely Lain Fork, his wife Caroline, the latters [sic] mother Betsey, Miller Grover Hark, his wife Violet and her bodily heirs. And if my hand is saved from all the proceeds after paying my debts, I mean if got clear without it taking all sold for to pay my debts, I wish my friend, Daniel Smith to pick out four hundred acres at either end of the track which to give and bequeath to Marget Dent and her bodily heirs that she now has, build comfortable houses for her and servants, she having use of my gin and mill to supply her place with sufficient stock of all kinds” from Richard M. Tristano, “Holy Family Parish,” p. 265.

Margaret Dent28 bf, washerwoman, MS, w/Louisa, 12 bf; Maria, 10 mf; Virginia, 8 mf; Joseph, 6 mm; Thomas, 1 mm (1860 Natchez census)

T.J. Dent1 male –10; 1 male 24-36; 1 female 10-24 (1830 Adams Co. census)

Dick--

Dick, depositions regarding his freedom, 1801

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book C

Pgs. 34-5

Depositions respecting the freedom of Negro Dick

Mississippi Territory, fs?

This day came Margaret Nelson before me and being duly sworn Deponeth said? That about twenty eight years ago her then Husband Henry LaFleur purchased a negro named Dick, then about 10 or 12 years of age from a certain John Campbell, said Dick, the same who is now here present claiming to be free. That said negro boy was born as said Campbell told this deponent and was only purchased by her said husband to ? till he should arrive at the age of twenty one years after which he was to be free. Then a few months after sd Lafleur had purchased said negro boy he sold him to Alexander?? Now decd. This deponent believes on the same principles he had purchased him that until he should attain twenty one years of age, and further this deponent saith not

Sworn to and subscribed before me her

This 5^th day of August 1801 Margaret Nelson

Seth Davis Chief Justice of the Mississippi Territory mark

p. 35

Mississippi Territory

This day came John Sally before me and being first duly sworn deposeth and saith that about twenty seven or twenty eight years ago he saw the negro man Dick who claims to be a free man in the possession of one Decker on board of a boat on the Wataga River in the Holston? Country. Said Decker being then bound with boat to this Country that said Decker as he afterwards understood brought said Negro (then a small boy) to this country and disposed of him to one Campbell who sold him to one Lafleur as this deponent understood. He afterwards as he believes saw said negro in the possession of Alexander McInstosh Decd.This Deponent further saith that in the Holston Country he knew the mother of said Negro or the Negro woman who claimed him as her son & her name was Hannah and that she always passed as a free woman from which ? Deponent verily believes said negro Dick was born free.

Sworn to before me this 7^th day of August 1801 his

Seth Davis Chief Justice of the Mississippi Territory John Tally

Mark

Dinah

Manumission of Dinah by Jane Clark, 1801

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book B

P. 187

Recorded in Alford, Terry L. “Some Manumissions Recorded in the Adams County Deed Books in Chancery Clerk’s Office, Natchez, Mississippi, 1795-1835,” Journal of Mississippi History 33, (Feb. 1971): 39-50.

Dixon

Armsted Carter--47mm, “FN,” drayman, VA, w/ Jeannette, 40 bf; Matilda Dixon, 18 mf, MS; Schelly Carter16mm; Y., 14mm; Henny, 65 mf, Va (1850 Natchez census)

Armstrong Carter--56 mm, drayman, VA, w/William Shelby, 26 mm, barber, MS; ??, 2 mm; Geo. W. Ellison?, 23 mm, steward; Matilda Dickson, 28 mf, VA; Jeannette Carter, 40 mf, MS; Edward, 9 mm; William 3 mm; George 1 mm; Jennett, 6 mf (1860 Natchez census)

Dobbins

Manumission of Maria Dobbins and children by Rempsoan Walker, 1836

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book X and Y

Pgs. 354-355, 6

[Alford notes that Walker was from Concordia Parish, LA, and freed Maria, daughters Priscilla and Cynthia Ann for $1.00 consideration,” 49].

Manumission of Levina Jane Dobbins by Michael Zenor, 1836

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book X

P. 356

[Alford notes Zenor, like Walker was from Concordia Parish, LA and freed her for $1.00 consideration, 49].

Levina Jane, freed by Michael Zenor, 1836, Alford, Deed Book X, 356

Dolphin

John Dolphin1 male 45+, 1 female 45+ (1820 Natchez Census)

Donnerson

Donnerson, Sally et al v. H. Cooper, Chapman, William et al, 1823

Historic Natchez Foundation

Box 16

File 99

Know all men by these presents that we Richard Terrill and Richard H May of the County of Adams and State of Mississippi are held and firmly bound unto Walter M Leake governor of the State of Mississippi for the time being and his successors in office in the sum of one thousand dollars for the payment of which well and truly to be made to the said Governor of the State of Mississippi for the time being and his successors in office now and truly to be made we bind ourselves our heirs executors and administrators firmly [looks like they misspelled it? Maybe trying for “formally?”]and Literally firmly by these presents. The Condition of this obligation is such that whereas Sally Donnerson and Addison her infant son by the said Sally Donnerson his next friend people of color having on the ninth day of April in the present year of our Lord eighteen hundred and twenty three filed their Petition in the Adams County Circuit Court for freedom and who are claimed as slaves for life by the

above bound Richard Terrill Now if the said Richard Terrill shall at all times when requested by the Adams County Circuit Court of law well and truly deliver to the said Court the said Sally Donnerson and her infant child Addison according to the directions of said Court and at all times hold them subject to the order of said and will abide by the payment Lecture? or decree the said Court may remain in that case this recognizance to be void. Otherwise to remain in full force and virtue in testimony whereof the said Richard Terrill and Richard H May have herunto [sic] set their hands and seals the oath of April 1823 before me Richard Harkton one of the judges of the Supreme Court Rich Terrill

Rich Harkton RH May

Let a unit of attachment issue against Rich Terrill for disobedience to the within unit returnable forthwith before me at my chambers in Travellers Hall in the City of Natchez Date this 10^th day of April 1823

Rich Hockton

One of the judges of the

Supreme Court

To the Honorable Lewis Winston one of the Judges of the State of Mississippi Presiding in and for the Second Judicial District. The Petition of Sally Donnerson and Addison the infant child of the said Sally and under? Twenty one years of age. Who ?? by his next friend Sally Donnerson humbly and more respectfully represents unto your honor that she was born a free person altho of color and resided for number of years lately in the State of Tennessee until [sic] she emigrated from there to the State of Louisiana and from there to the State of Mississippi untill [sic] at length your Petitioners have been taken into the custody and possession of one Cooper Chapman and Richard Terrill who claim and hold your Petitioners in bondage and slavery and hitherto hath refused and still doth refuse to permit your Petitioner to enjoy their just and constitutional right of free persons. Whereas your Petitioners aver the truth to be and so they will be able to prove to the satisfaction of this honorable Court that they were born free and have a constitutional right to their freedom and by no means subject to slavery or involuntary servitude: your petitioners further sheweth there is danger of their being transported and sent to distant parts and sold as slaves without the immediate interpretation [sic] of your honor and therefore prays that your honor will grant unto your petitioners the privileges of the writ of habeas corpus for the purpose more especially of compelling the said defendants to give security according to the duration of the statute that by the decree of this honorable court your petitioners may be set free and hereby not subject to slavery or involuntary servitude and they as in duly bound will pray.

S. Thornberry &

L. Winston

For petitioners

Let a writ of Habeas Corpus issue agreeably to the prayer of the foregoing Petition returnable at this Courthouse on tomorrow at twelve O’clock April the 9^th 1823

Louis Winston

[On one of the documents it notes it was Dismissed for want of security for costssee order at Nov Term 1823

Note by HNF: Plaintiff received a judgment establishing her and her infant son as free people of color. Defendants failed to release them and are held in contempt by the Supreme Court of Mississippi. Damages assessed, HNF court case, 1823]

Dorsey

Isaac Dorsey1 male –10; 1 male 10-24; 1 male 36-55; 4 females –10; 1 female 36-55 (1830 Natchez census)

Isaac Dorsey3 males –10; 1 male 55-100; 3 females 10-24; 1 female 36-55 (1840 Natchez census)

Polly Dorsey22 bf, “fN,” MS (1850 Natchez census)

Polly Dorsey, Police Board Records, 1832

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 20

Special March Term 1832

Ordered by the Court that the application of the following named free negroes and mulattoes stand continued till next Term [2 words, illegiblesomeone’s name?] Eliza Bosack, Livinia, John Stewart, Phebe, Charles Matson, Polly Dorsey, Rachel Jackson and Moses Turner.

Polly Dorsey, Police Board Records, June 1832

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 23

June Term 1832

Wednesday morning, June 6^th 1832

Polly Dorsey a free woman of dark complexion aged about fifty years about five feet six inches high satisfied the court of her good character and honest deportment.

It is therefore ordered by the court that the said Polly Dorsey be licensed to remain in this state agreeably to the act of assembly entitled an act to amend an act to reduce into one the several acts concerning slaves free negroes and mulattoes passed 20^th December 1831.

Isaac [Dorsey??], Police Board Records, June 1832

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 23

June Term 1832

Wednesday morning, June 6^th 1832

Isaac a free lad of Colour about sixteen years old dark complexion satisfied the court of his good character and honest deportment.

It is therefore ordered by the court that the said Isaac be licensed to remain in this state agreeably to the act of assembly entitled an act to amend an act to reduce into one the several acts concerning slaves free negroes and mulattoes passed 20^th December 1831.

Douglass

William St. John Elliot, 1855

Adams County Chancery Court

Will Book 2

P. 15

I also give & bequeath to my beloved wife all the negroes I die possessed of except Willis Douglass & family, including his step son Charles Paynewho I desire shall have all the privileges of freed peopleand be under the special protection of Mrs. Elliot or some one of my blood relativesWillis having the choice of selectionand sincerely hope no one of my kinspeoplewill consider it an unreasonable request to give protection & care to a faithful old servant of mineIt is also further my wish in the settlement of my Estate provision should be made by some suitable investmentso as to insure Willis Douglas three hundred dollars per annumduring his lifetimeThe principle to revert at his death to the Catholick female Orphan Assylum of Natchez

[Not all transcribed, just details concerning African Americans]

Dudly

John Dudly1 male 45+ (1820 Natchez Census)

Jonathon Dudly1 male 55-100 (1840 Natchez census)

Dunbar

Ann Dunbar, Police Board Records, February 1844

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 422

February Term 1844

Ann Dunbar, a free woman of colour residing in the City of Natchez this day, produced to the Board satisfactory evidence of the good moral character and that it is the desire of the Majority of the citizens of said City that the said Ann shall continue to reside therein; and thereupon it is ordered by the Board that she be licensed to reside in said City, according to the provisions of the Act of the Legislature in this behalf

Ann Dunbar, Police Board Records, May 1844

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. [unrecorded]

May Term 1844

Upon the petition and representation of John J. Gillespie and testimony produced therewith; the Board being satisfied that there are good and sufficient reasons for expelling from the limits of the State Ann Dunbar a free woman of colour, licensed to reside in the City of Natchez at the last February term of this Board: it is thereupon ordered that the license granted to said Ann be and the same is hereby revoked

Duncan

George Duncan2 fpc (Census of 1816, Adams County)

Dutcher

Celia Dutcher2 females 14-25, 26-44 (1820 Natchez Census)

E

Earhart

Margaret Earhart20 mf, “Free Negro,” unclear birthplace, w/M. L., 3 mf, MS (1850 Natchez census)

[Info from Broussard, Joyce. “Stepping Lively in Place: The Free Black Women of Antebellum Natchez” in Mississippi Women: Their Histories, Their LivesVolume 2, ed. by Elizabeth Anne Payne, Martha H. Swain, and Marjorie Julian Spruill. Athens: University of Georgia Press, 2010]. She maintains that Agnes had at least 8 of 11 children with David Earhart, son of Cassandra Bofly, who was passing as white and was married to a white woman, Louisa, with whom he had children. She found evidence that Cassandra was listed in deeds as Jacob Earhart’s “wife”. I had her emancipation doc (see under Cass. Bofly) stating that he did purchase her from Anthony Hutchins. Jacob and Cassandra had four children together and he probably freed her daughter Julia Ann Hutchins when he freed her. Jacob died ca. 1824 and Cassandra “lived the rest of her life north of town in a small house purchased at auction in 1835” (26)

These children were living in the house of white merchant David Earhart who had $4000 RE, MS: Andrew Earhart, 14 mm, “FN,”MS; Donald, 8 mm; Napoleon, 7mm; William, 1 mm; Frances, 15 mf; Mary, 9mf; Emma, 3 mf; and Alena, 2mf (1850 Natchez Census)

Race and Petitions Project. circa 1859

Legislative Papers, Petitions and Memorials

Record Group 47

Volume 28

Natchez free woman of color Agnes Eahart asks for a special license to remain in Mississippi. She is the mother of many children--Elizabeth, Andrew, Mary, Margaret, David, Napoleon, Emma, Elina, William, Almon, and Melvin--all born free; and she can post a $5,000 good-behavior bond.

Edward

Manumission of Edward by Nathaniel Hoggatt, Jr, 1842

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book KK

P. 42

Eleanor

Chap. XXVI.

An Act to emancipate Eleanor, a person of color.

Whereas, it has been represented to the general assembly, by the petition of Wilson B. Harper, that he is desirous of emancipating the mulatto child, (p. 38)

Two months old, named Eleanor, who is his slave, for certain causes and considerations stated in his petition, and which appears reasonableTherefore,

Sec. 1. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives, of the state of Mississippi, in general assembly convened, That the mulatto child named Eleanor, slave of Wilson B. Harper, be, and she is hereby emancipated and set free from slavery, saving however, the rights of creditors, and on condition that the said Wilson B. Harper, enter into bond with security in the penal sum of one thousand dollars, to be approved by the county court of Adams county, to be filed in the office of the secretary of state, and made payable to the governor for the time being, and his successors in office, conditioned, that the said child Eleanor, shall not become a public charge, and that the said Wilson B. Harper, shall educate and maintain said child, according to the provision of the second section of this act.

Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That it shall be the duty of the said Wilson B. Harper, to educate and maintain the said girl Eleanor, until she arrives to the age of eighteen years, or until she marry, which ever may first happen.

E. TURNER

Speaker of the House of Representatives

JAMES PATTON

Lieutenant-Governor, and President of the Senate.

Approved, February 10, 1820

GEO, POINDEXTER

Laws of the State of Mississippi, Passed by the General Assembly, at Their Third Session, Which Commenced the Third of January, and Ended the Twelfth of February, 1820 in the City of Natchez. Natchez: Richard C. Langdon, 1820.

Elias

Elias (fmc) v. Bell, George, 1818

Historic Natchez Foundation

Box 35

File 124

Deposition of D?? Samuel Gustine taken the 28^th day of January 1818 to be read as evidence in a suit defending in the Superior court of law and equity in Adams County. In a suit in which Elias, a man of color is plaintiff and George Bell is defendant.

Question by the attorney for plff Do you know the plaintiff in this suit and how long have you known him?

=Ans. About 13 or 14 years ago I knew a boy called Elias or Lishe whom I believe to be the same boy who is the plff. in this suit. He was bound to my father in the state of Pennsylvania for a term of years. He was the son of a free mulatto man and woman in said state and I believe was bound by them or some other authority to my father who either gave up or transferred the indenture and the boy was taken away. I did not see him again until I saw him in this county two or three years ago when I recognized him as the same boy who had been bound in the manner above mentioned.

Quest. by same From what circumstances did you recognize the plff to be the same boy who was bound to your father?

Ans When I saw him in this county I believe I should have recognized him from color, features & c. but to satisfy myself beyond the possibility of doubt I asked him many questions relatively to the topography of my father’s residence, the construction of his house and the

members of his family and the members of other families all of which questions he answered so perfectly satisfactorily that had I known him from no other circumstances, would have been entirely convincing of his identity.

Quest. by same What do you suppose is the age of Elias?

Ans. I suppose he is between twenty six and twenty eight years, or thereabouts.

=Quest. by Deft’s Atto. Do you remember the names of the parents of the plff?

Ans. I do not remember the names of the mother. The father’s name was Ned, and was celebrated for a wood chopper.

Quest. by Plff’s Atto. Were the parents of the plff born free or were they emancipated, and was the plff. born in the state of Pennsylvania?

Ans. The plff’s parents passed and were universally acknowledged to be free but how they became so I cannot tellthe plff was also considered free.

Sam Gustine

The deposition of Doct? James Gustine? taken at the same time and place to be read in the same suit.

Plttf’s attorney. Will you proceed and relate everything you know in reference to the plttf, arising out of the foregoing interrogations put to your brother?

I recollect that sometime between the year 1800 and 1805 my father had a servant boy ^ being in his family ^ he was called Elias a mulatto and was held I believe by an indenture which I believe had been transferred to my father by a farmer who lived near Carlisle-- The boy was probably at that time between ten and sixteen years oldhe lived but a short time in the familywhen my father disposed of this indenture to some person that lived in Hanover a town near CarlisleThe boy was reputed the son of a free yellow man called Ned who lived many years in Carlisle where he diedthe boy was not claimed by any person and I believe there is no doubt of his being born freeSince I arrived in Natchez which was on the 17^th of November 1817I was accosted by a Mulatto Man and who asked me if I did not know himhe said he was the boy Elias that formerly lived in my father’s family from the very minute, and correct knowledge he had of the familythe situation of the house and the town generally, together with his present appearance

I have no doubt of his being the same boy

James Gustin

The written and foregoing depositions taken subscribed and sworn to before the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Adams this 28 day of January in the year 1818

Theodore Stark

We agree that these depositions of Deets [deponents] Samuel and James Gustine shall be read as evidence in this suit whenever the trial may be had and their personal appearance dispensed with

B. Metcalfe

Atto. For pltf

Christopher Rankin Atto

For Dpt

3^rd Monday in July 1818

Pleas before the Honorable William B. Shields and Powhatan Ellis Esquire

Be it remembered that heretofore towit at a Superior Court held at the Court house in and for the County of Adams on the Second Monday in October in the year 1817 Elias by John Taylor his attorney brought into the Court aforesaid his Petition against George Bell which said Petition is in the following words towit

To the Honorourable the Judges of the Superior Court of Law and Equity in and for the County of Adams Mississippi Territory

The Petition of Elias a Man of Colour

Humbly represents

That your Said Petitioner was born in the State of Pennsylvania of free Parents and has since his birth was born entitled to his freedom and could not now of might be held in slavery But so it is may it please your Honours one George Bell for a long time past hath and still doth hold and claims your said Petitioner as a slave contrary to the natural rights and to the manifest injury of your Petitioner Your Petitioner Therefore prays that the said George Bell be compelled to appear in this Honourable Court and answer the premises and that your said Petitioner may by a decree of said Court be let at liberty and [excoriated??] from slavery in which he is held and that he may have such other ruling as to this Honourable Court should be thought infavorable to Law and Equity

This your Petitioner will ever Pray

Trayton (?) Atty for Petitioner

Legal service of the foregoing Petition acknowledged conditioned that the trial thereof be postponed until the Defendant can notify Isaac Shelby the person from whom he purchased him of this petitioners pretensions to freedom.

October Term 1816

George Bell

The defendant George Bell says that the negro man Elias named in the foregoing petition is not a free man or entitled to his freedom but a slave for life & as such is guilty & lawfully kept by this defendant in servitude & this he prays may be enquired of by this country.

Christopher Rankin

Deft’s atty

And the petitioner doth the like

[Jury finds he is a free person of color]

2. Not sure, but COULD be Elias Chaviriesages match up

Natchez Gazette, Wed. May 18, 1825

Issue 21

Col C

Jail of Adams County

Was committed to the jail of Adams county on the 22d instant by Henry Tooley, Esq. as a runaway, a negro man who says his name is Elias; he is five feet seven inches high, says that he is about thirty-four years of age; he has lost two of his upper front teeth, has a scar over his right eye, and several scars round his neck, has on a red flannel shirt, and blue domestic pantaloons. The owner of said negro, if any, is desired to come forward, prove his property and take im [sic] out of jail

R.H. May, Jailer

Natchez, Feb. 26, 1825

Natchez Courier and Adams, Jefferson and Franklin Advertiser (Natchez, MS), Friday, February 15, 1833
Issue 7

Sheriff’s Sales

State of Mississippi

Elias

By virtue of the power vested in me by law, I shall expose at public sale to the highest bidder for ready money, at the door of the Court house of Adams county on the third Monday of February next within the time prescribed by law, a certain negro woman [sic] named ELIAS, committed to the jail of said county for not having complied with the law concerning slaves free negroes and molattoes, passed 20^th Dec. 1831 and to be sold for the term of five years.

H. Gridley, Shff.

5-tds

Natchez, Feb 1, 1833

Eliza

Manumission of Eliza by Timothy Terrell, 1834

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book V

P. 313

Alford notes Terrell is of Vicksburg and Eliza is “a bright mulatto about the common or middle size,” 48.

Ellison

Armstrong Carter56 mm, drayman, VA, w/William Shelby, 26 mm, barber, MS; ??, 2 mm; Geo. W. Ellison?, 23 mm, steward; Matilda Dickson, 28 mf, VA; Jeannette Carter, 40 mf, MS; Edward, 9 mm; William 3 mm; George 1 mm; Jennett, 6 mf (1860 Natchez Census)

Ely

Burrell Ely Police Board Records, 1832

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 6

March Term 1832

Burrell Ely, a free negro man of dark complexion about six feet twenty two years old having satisfied the court of his good character and honest deportment

It is therefore ordered by the Court that said Burrell Ely be and he is hereby authorized and licensed to remain in this state agreeable to the act of assembly entitled “an act to amend an act entitled an act “to reduce into one the several acts concerning slaves free negroes and mulattoes passed 20^th December AD 1831.

Emma (no last name)

The Natchez Court Records, 1767-1805, Abstracts of Early Records

The May Wilson McBee Collection, Volume 2

Ann Arbor: Edwards Brothers, Inc., 1953

“Negress Emma versus heirs of Asahel Lewis. Emma represents that Asahel Lewis did in his lifetime promise to give her her liberty. // Let the papers of Asahel Lewis be examined to see if there be any document to prove the statement. // In pursuance of the foregoing the annexed paper which appears to have been written by said Lewis was found by which he gives liberty to the negro woman, named Emma, and her son Henry…. ‘Nov. 1, 1794. Know all men, etc. it is my wish to set my negro wench, Emma, free. Sig: Asahel Lewis’. (283)

Emerson

Bridget Emerson1 female 36-55; 3 males –10 (1840 Natchez Census)

Feb. 29, 1844 (Johnson Diary)I was at the Wemple Store this Evening and I Saw Ellen sold, She was Bot in the name of Bridget, Her mother, and was struck off at 440 Dollars, I think, Mr Emerson made a Long speech in her behalf and Said some soft things, ie, he made a good talk and a Gentlemany Kind of a talk, I thought very well of Him for it.

Emily

John C. Carr, Last Will and Testament, 1834

Adams County Chancery Court

Will Book 2

P. 106

1^st It is my will that my Girl Mary & her child Emily shall immediately on my deceased, or as seen thereafter as practical be set free from the bonds of slavery

2ndly For the purpose of carrying the above provision into effect I do hereby appoint, my friends James Surget & A.J. Bingaman of the County of Adams, & State of Mississippi my Lawful Executors & do further bequeath to them any money I may die possessed of or the proceeds of any due me to be applied to the purpose of freeing said slaves above named & of maintaining them thereafter

Signed and sealed in the presence of

D Noruerck? John C. Carr

Esther

Esther, emancipation by Robert Moore, 1804

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book C

Pgs. 333-4

Know all men by these presents that I Robert Moore of the County of Adams and Mississippi Territory of the United States for and in consideration of the Faithful Services and Good Conduct of a Negro Woman named Esther an Old family Slave aged thirty two years old and for the further Confederation of one hundred Dollars to me in hand paid by the said Esther do hereby Emancipate and compleatley set free the said Negro Woman to have and enjoy her freedom Free and Clear from the molestation or hindrance of any person or persons [bottom of the page is cut off]

p. 334

so warrant and defend the title of the said Esther to her the said Esther against the Claim or Claims of myself my heirs Executors Administrators or assigns and against the claim of all and every other person or persons whatever In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this 15^th Day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and four

Signed Sealed and Deld Robert Moore Seal

In presence of

Richard L Wheatley Mississippi Territory

Adams County

Will of Robert Moore, 1826

Adams County Chancery Court

Will Book 1

P. 429

Esther-- Robert Moore10 July 1826“I give and devise to a certain free negro woman named Esther the premises whereon she now lives with one half acre of Land adjoining during her natural Life, or so long Said Esther continues to Live on said premises, and to be furnished with corn meal, sufficient for her support and Twenty dollars in money paid to her yearly during good behavior.”

Samuel Gibson's Will, 1832

Adams County Chancery Court

Will Book 2

P. 28

The Last Will and Testament of Saml Gibson (Deceased)

In the name of God Amen I Samuel Gibson a free man of colour of the City of Natchez County of Adams and State of Mississippi, being of sound mind and memory and disposition but knowing the uncertainty of life and the certainty of death do hereby make and declare this my last Will and Testament I hereby constitute and appoint Peter M Lapice and Dietrich Verwerck of the City of Natchez merchants and the survivor of them Executors and Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

After the payment of my just debts and expences I dispose of my Estate as follows: To my slave Dembo I bequeath his freedom and hereby enjoin it on my Executors to take measures as will be necessary to effect my intentions and if it requisite that they my Executors do remove the said Dembo to some free state and there pass him through the regular forms of manumission.

My real Estate consisting in a house and lot where I now reside and a vacant lot near the Theater in the City of Natchez I bequeath to the issue of my Body begotten on a free woman of color named Esther reserving however to the said Esther is right to occupy said house and lot in common with and during the minority of my said issue upon her.

My present Estate consisting of drays horses, mules, cattle, working utensils & c and money in Bank, I dispose of as follows. I desire that the drays horses, mules, cattle, working utensils &c &c may be sold by my Executors, and the proceeds thereof with my money in Bank, after the payment of certain legacies hereafter mentioned, invested in some safe stock for the education and support of my issue by said Esther untill they respectively come of age or marry and then the principal or stock to be given to said issue in full property, and if there should be more than one to be divided among them share and share alike.

To the above named Esther I leave all my furniture and one hundred and fifty dollars in cash to be paid by my Executors as soon as may be after my decease

In the event of my issue by said Esther dying before her, then I leave all my Estate, real and personal, to the said Esther except so far as it regards the legacies herein before mentioned

[More details, not all transcribed] twenty third day of August 1830-

Manumission of Esther and daughters by James Rose, 1837

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book Z

P. 255

Alford notes that Esther was 37 and the daughters are Mary Ann, 9, and Margaret, 7. Rose was from Warren County, MS, 49.

“Poor Andrew Leeper was, I understand, ordered off to day, and so was Dembo and Maryan Gibson They are as far as I Know inocent and Harmless People And Have never done a Crime since they have been in the State that I have Herd,” (9 Sep., 1841, Johnson Diary).

[Footnote: “Dembo had been freed by direction of the will of Samuel Gibson, illiterate free man of color, who had been a Natchez property owner as early as 1823 and died in 1832. Samuel Gibson had left his estate ‘consisting in a house and Lot where I now reside and a vacant Lot near the Theatre’ to ‘the issue of my Body begotten on free woman of color named Esther,’ whom he had already freed. He had also left his ‘personal Estate consisting of drays horses, mules, cattle, working utensils, &c &c and money in Bank’ to be used for the education and support of his children. Dembo worked for the estate until 1835, when he was emancipated in Ohio; he was still in Natchez in 1843. Mary Ann Gibson was perhaps one of Samuel Gibson’s children,” (Johnson Diary, 346)].

Aug. 27, 1844 (Johnson Diary)To day there was a tryal before Esqr Potter and the Parties were a Mr. Gibson VS. the Daughter of Poor Old Sam Gibson who the world Knows to be free, but during the Inquisition She and her mother went Out to Stay with this Gibson and now he puts a Claim to her, by Saying that Sam G. her father belonged to his Father and that he had went Out of the State and was set free and returned to it again. Thus he became the Property of Said Gibson under Some old Law passed so seys Potter in 1807Greate God, what a Country, the State went in favor of Gibson.

Eulalie

Eulalie Police Board Records, 1832

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 16

March Term 1832

Eulalie a free woman of light mulatto complexion about thirty four years old five feet high satisfied the court of her good character and honest deportment.

It is therefore ordered by the Court that said Eulalie be licensed to remain in this state agreeable to the act of assembly entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to reduce into one the several acts concerning slaves free negroes and mulattoes passed 20^th December AD 1831.

Evans

Isaac Evans1 fpc (Census of 1816, Adams County)

State v. Galvan, Joseph et al, HNF, 1825

Historic Natchez Foundation

Box 32

File 15

The State of Mississippi Circuit Court of Said

County of Adams Sct County May Term 1824

The Grand Jurors of Adams County on their oath present that Isaac Evans ^ a free person of colour late of said County laborer being an evil disposed dissolute and disorderly person on the first day of May in the year of our Lord 1824 and on divers days and times both before and since at Natchez in the County aforesaid did keep an irregular and disorderly house of evil fame, whereat persons of both sexes did meet and convene, for the purpose of drinking, gambling, rioting, hallowing, and peace breaking to the great disturbance and annoyance of the good people of the said State, then and there being and passing to the evil example of all others, and against the peace and dignity of ^ the said State of Mississippi

A Campbell foreman

The bench warrant was issued May Term 1825

[Didn’t have the bail money and committed to jail but ultimately Nolle Prosequie]

F

Fagan/Fagkin

Abigail Fagan, Police Board Records, February 1843

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 378

February Term 1843

Abigail Fagan, a free woman of Color of black complexion aged about thirty seven years, and four feet Eleven 1/2 inches in height, having satisfied the Board that she is of good character and honest deportment, she was thereupon licensed to remain in the State according to the Statute in this behalf

Hester Cummins, 40mf, “FN,” MS, w/Susan Cochran, 15mf, LA; Catherine Watson, 11 mf; Annett Fagkin, 17mf (1850 Natchez census)

Fairfax

Allen Fairfax's Free papers, 1825

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book O

Pgs. 347-8

Allen Fairfax Certificate of Freedom

I, Alexander Henderson of the County of Wood and Commonwealth of Virginia do hereby make known to all whom it may concern that the bearer hereof Allen or as he calls himself Allen Fairfax a negro man about sixty years of age was given to me by my father Alexander Henderson late of Dumfries Prince William County in this State in the year 1799, that the said Allen has belonged to me ever since a slave that he has served me ever faithfully for twenty five years under consideration thereof I have given him his liberty and do request all persons to treat and consider him as a freeman. And the said Allen being desirous to go to the neighborhoods of Natchez I do moreover request any person who may have doubts on this subject to go with him if necessary to David J Chambers Esq of the house of Chambers & Wilson of Louisville or to James Green Esq. of ? Natchez or to James C Wilkins Esq of Natchez and these doubts may be removed as these gentlemen Mr Chambers Mr Green & Mr Wilkins are all acquainted with my handwriting and signature. Given under my hand and seal this 28^th day of June 1824

Virginia to Wit

I John Taylor deputy clerk of the Superior Court for Wood County do hereby certify that Alexander Henderson who subscribed

p. 348

the within certificate of Freedom to Allen or as he calls himself Allen Fairfax personally appeared before me on the 29^th day of July 1824 and acknowledged the same to be his act and deed.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Superior Court the day and year aforesaid

John Taylor ??

Recd into my Office to be recorded 6^th June 1825

Woodson Wren Clk

By P. Greene DC

Fanny

James Boyce's Will, 1824

Adams County Chancery Court

Will Book 1

P. 318

It is my Sincere Will and desire, and I do hereby will & declare, that a certain Yellow woman, Slave, now in the possession of Mrs Winn, named Fanny, be emancipated and forever freed from SlaveryItem 2^nd It is my will & desire, that my two friends James C. Wilkins, & Louis Winston, have the management of my yellow woman Fanny, and to her obtaining her freedomItem 3^rd it is my Will and desire, that a certain Negro Woman now in the State of Kentucky & County of Mercer, named Hannah and all her offspring be emancipated, and forever freed from slaveryItem 4^thI give devise and bequeath to my Yellow woman Fanny heretofore named, the sum of three hundred, dollars, to be paid by my brother Richard Boyce out of the Estate herein devised to him..

[Not all transcribed, just the part relevant to free blacks]

Farris

Mark Farris49 mm, laborer, IN, w/Mary, 40 bf; John, 7 mm; Henry, 3 mm; Thomas, 2 mm (1860 Natchez census)

Faure

Louis Faure's free papers, 1826

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book P

P. 257

Louis Faure's Free papers

State of Louisiana Parish of East Baton Rouge

I Charles Tepier Parish Judge in and for the parish of East Baton Rouge do hereby certify that Louis Faure aged about eighteen years a son of Kitty Faure of the Parish is a free man of Colour by birth and Consequently entitled to all the privileges attached to free people of Colour

[More details not transcribed, but 5^th December 1825 by Ch. Tepier P.J.]

[Recorded by Woodson Wren 9^th day of October 1826]

Fitzgerald

Mary (last name not listed but has to be her)7 fpc (6 slaves) (Census of 1816, Adams County)

Mary Fitzgerald5 fpc (4 slaves) (Census of 1818, Adams County)

Mary Fitzgerald3 males –10; 1 male 10-24; 1 male 24-36; 1 female –10; 1 female 24-36; 3 females 36-55; 1 female 55-100 (1830 Adams Co. census)

Mary Fitzgerald2 males –10; 3 males 10-24; 1 female –10; 3 females 10-24; 1 female 24-36; 3 females 36-55 (slaves1 male –10; 1 male 10-24; 1 male 36-55; 1 female –10; 2 females 24-36; 1 female 36-55) (1840 Adams Co. census)

*Mary Fitzgerald57mf, FN,” MS, w/Eliza, 25mf; Betsey, 18mf; Burkes; 13mm; Louisa, 11mf; Elizabeth, 10 mf sharing w/ Isabella Barlan and Betsy Fitzgerald $2000 RE. (1850 Adams Co. census)

Betsy Fitzgerald1 male –10; 1 male 10-24; 1 male 24-36; 1 female –10; 1 female 24-36 (1 slave male 10-24) (1840 Adams Co. census)

Betsy Fitzgerald60 mf, “FN,” MS, w/Susannah, 38mf; John, 35mm **shared w/ Isabella Barlan and Betsy Fitzgerald $2000 RE (1850 Adams Co. census)

With 12 other whites (5 adults, 7 kids) William Fitzgerald, 30 bm, “FN,” MS (1850 Natchez census)

Elizabeth Fitzgerald65 Mf, $3000 R.E., $7000 P.E., MS, w/Mary, 60 mf; Isabella, 55 mf; Susannah, 50 mf, seamstress; John, 48 mm, seamstress??; Louisa, 20 mf, seamstress (1860 Natchez census)

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book D

Pgs. 478-9

“Fitzgerald to Mary & children. Received to record 12^th May 1806. Adams County, MS. To all people to whom these presents shall come, I George Fitzgerald of the Mississippi Territory and County aforesaid send GreetingKnow ye that I the said George Fitzgerald for and in consideration of the regard I have and bear unto my Negroe woman named Mary and her four mulatto children christened by the names of Elizabeth, Polly, Isabelle and George and also for other divers good causes and considerations me hereunto moving but more particularly from principles of humanity and tenderness to the said Mary and her four children as aforesaid as being unfit to undergo the hardships of slavery to which the said Mary and her four children might in a state of bondage be exposed. For remedy and prevention whereof I the said George Fitzgerald hath given and granted and by these presents do give, grant and confirm unto the said negroe woman named Mary and her four children named Elizabeth, Polly, Isabelle and George absolute freedom and manumission from henceforth and forever after and they are freely and clearly acquitted and discharged of and from all and all manner of duty, service and servitude to the said George Fitzgerald his heirs executors and administrators and of the said George Fitzgerald for myself my heirs, [some text not transcribed. But he signed, sealed, and delivered it in the presence of James Fitzgerald [brother?] on 4/18/1804]

[NOTE: In his will, Will Book 1, p. 37 dated 21 May 1808, he left nothing to Mary or his children instead, dividing his estate among his father and siblings.]

Then, listed at the bottom:

Mary, born in Jamaica

Elizabeth, born 22^nd Sept. 1795

Polly, born 7^th Aug. 1797

Isbelle, born 11^th April 1800

George born 5^th Jan. 1802

James born 19^th June 1805

Susannah born 10^th May 1807

James Fitzgerald Will, 1816

Adams County Chancery Court

Will Book 1

P. 165

James Fitzgerald9 May, 1816(recorded after his death by William Crawford)“..immediately after his death, his Children should be Sent to the State of Ohio, and set free, and fetched back by a faithful trusty person, that the property should not be divided among the Children, until the youngest became of age, and that his three Children, and the three youngest of his brothers, should be well schooled and bound to a trade, or any other place, at the discretion of the Executor, and that the Executor should give Sufficient Security, to be forthcoming for the amount of the appraisement of the property at his death, when the youngest Child became of age, and to raise the Children in a decent and becoming manner, and that should any of the Children of his brother be like to do well, the Executor is to furnish them with means, by way of Money in Negroes, but not of the landed property, and further that the property which now belongs to mulatto Betsey, should be considered as part of her Share, and that for the Service of the Executor, and attention to keeping the property together and raising the Children, he Should have the increase of property.”

Fitzhugh

Nelson Fitzhugh1 male –10; 1 male 36-55; 2 females –10; 1 female 24-36 (one listed in commerce) (1840 Natchez census)

Nelson Fitzhugh43 mm, “free Negro,” $1000 RE, VA, w/Agnes, 30 mf “FN;” Elizabeth, 17 mf, “””, MS; Robert, 14 mm; Catharine, 12 mf; Thomas?, 10 mm; Samuel, 8 mm; Cecelia, 6 mf; William T?, 4 mm; Charlie, 1 mm (1850 Natchez census)

Nelson Fitzhugh53 Mm, servant, $3000 R.E., $9000 P.E., VA w/Agnes, 40 mf; Elizabeth 20 mf, MS; Catherine, 18 mf; Cecilia, 16 mf; Robert, 14 mm; John M. 12 mm; Samuel W., 10 mm; William V., 8 mm; Winston, 6 mm; Edward, 3 mm (1860 Natchez census)

Adam Bower's Will, 1833

Adams County Chancery Court

Will Book 2

Pgs. 31-32

I wish my servant Nelson to be emancipated in such way as my executors should think the best to insure to him his freedom, and my said Executor is authorized and requested to sell to said Nelson as soon as he is [I think, unclear] liberated his wife and such child or children as she may have?

p. 32

at the time of the sale, and in the event of such sale taking place

Aug., 1843Nelson Fitzhugh and Robert Smith and their respective families were licensed in an exact manner as other free people in Police Board Minutes. (They shared the entry) (Police Board of Minutes, 1832-45).

AN ACT for the relief of Henry Lee, and others, and for other purposes,

Sec. 2. Be it further enacted, That the board of police of Adams county, and their successors in office be, and they are hereby empowered to grant a license in like manner to Robert Smith and Nelson Fitzhugh, free persons of color, and their families, to reside within the city of Natchez, county of Adams.

Sec. 3. Be it further enacted, That the Board of Police of any of the counties in this State shall have the same powers and privileges in relation to free persons of color residing within their respective counties, as are conferred by this act on the police courts of the counties of Warren and Adams: Provided, That said boards of police shall not have the power to grant licence to any free negroes or mulattoes that are not residents of the State at this time.

Sec. 4. And be it further enacted, That this act take effect and be in force from and after its passage.

Approved, July 25, 1843 (Laws of the State of Mississippi, Passed at a Called Session of the Legislature, Held in the City of Jackson, In July A.D. 1843. Jackson: C.M. Price & G.R. Fall, State Printers, 1843, 111)

Will of Nelson Fitzhugh, 1868

Adams County Chancery Court

Will Book [not recorded]

5 Feb, 1868“To my beloved wife Agnes Fitzhugh I give bequeath and devise all and singular my property of which I may [difficult to read] real, personal and mixed and wheresoever situated for and during the time of her natural life subject however to the legacies conditions and encumbrances herein after

[not all transcribed]

Foley

John Foley49 mm, Carpenting--$600 Real Estate, $700 Personal Estate, MS, w/Charlotte, 60 mf; Sally, 24 mf, Dressmaker; William 22 mm, carpenter; H.?? 21 mm, carpenter; Patrick, 18 mm, carpenter; Elizabeth, 16 mf, dressmaker; Lucy, 15 mf; Emma 13 mf; John J. 10 mm (1860 Natchez census)

Ford

May Ford22 mf, “FN,” NC; Josephine, 1 mf, MS w/ 3 white male adults (James Lofflan, 33 NC, Patrick Doyle, 40 Ireland, and David Hosfort, 24, NY?) (1850 Adams Co. census)

Francis Ford, free papers, 1801

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book C

P. 35

Charles Town Kentucky January 7^th 1801

This is to certify that the bearer hereof, Francis Ford a Mulatto aged twenty one? Years has lived with me for these seven years past, and has served me faithfully for the term of his agreement, and being now of full age and perfectly free from all claims of any person whatever in the United States of America, is consequently? At liberty to hire himself to whom, or who he pleases-or to dispose of his time in any manner he may think proper: As witness my hand and seal this day and year aforesaid

Henry B Stark seal

Daniel Ford, Police Board Records, June 1832

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 24

June Term 1832

Thursday morning, June 7^th 1832

Daniel Ford a free man of Colour of dark complexion with a scar on the left side of his upper lip about five feet eleven inches and one fourth high & about thirty five years old satisfied the court of his good character and honest deportment.

It is therefore ordered by the court that the said Daniel Ford be licensed to remain in this state agreeably to the act of assembly entitled an act to amend an act to reduce into one the several acts concerning slaves free negroes and mulattoes passed 20^th December 1831.

Daniel Ford's free papers, 1829

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book R Part 2

Pgs. 551-2

Daniel Ford's Free Papers

State of Kentucky At a Court began and held for Hardin County at the Court House in

Hardin County Elizabethtown on Monday the 5^th day of November 1827.

[Illegible for a bit]

An Instrument of writing signed by Lewis Chastain, widow and relic of lewis Chastain deceased and by Stephen L.D. Chastain Eliza A. Chastain Jane M. M. Chastin and by John Churchill Guardian for the said Jane MM Chastain being part of the heris of Lewis Chastain deceased was produced in Court and acknowledged by the said Stephen L.D. Chastain, and proven by the oaths of William E. Brown Amos Walters as together Chastain Eliza A. Chastain and Jane M.M. Chastain and by the oath of Samuel Haycroft as to John Churchill guardian of Jane M.M. Chastain which Instrument of writing purports to be an Emancipation for a certain negro man slave named Daniel and the same is laid out for further proof. And now at this day to wit; at the same Court mentioned and held for the County aforesaid on Tuesday the 5^th day of Nov. 1827present the worshipped?? Barten Roly Allen Singleton Arthur ? Esquire The Instrument of writing signed by Alice Chastain widow and relic of Lewis Chastain deceased and by Stephen L.D. Chastain Eliza A. Chastain Jane M.M. Chastain and John Churchill guardian for Jane M.M. Chastain purporting to be an emancipation

Foster

John Foster, free papers, 1805

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book D

Pgs. 79-80

State of Tennessee Davidson County Be it Known that this twenty second day of October in the year one thousand eight hundred and four personally appeared John Skinner and Nathan Skinner before us Christopher Stump & John Nichols Justices of the peace for the County aforesaid who being duly sworn deposed and said, that they have personally known John Foster a dark Mulatto aged about twenty three years from a short time after his birth that said John Foster then lived in the State of North Carolina with his parents who were always reputed free persons and that no person has to the knowledge of said deponents ever claimed said John Foster as a slave either in this State or in the State of North Carolina

p. 80

In testimony whereof said Deponants have hereunto set their hands and Seals the date above before us

John Nichols J.P. John Skinner Seal

Christopher Stump J.P Nathan Skinner Seal

State of Tennessee Davidson Coutny

I Andrew Ewing Clerk of the said County Court do Certify To whom it may concern that John Nichols and Christopher Stump whose names is affixed to the above deposition two Justices of the peace in and for the county duly commissioned qualified and that as such full faith…[more but I’m skipping ahead] this 22^nd day of October 1804 Andrew Ewing

We the subscribed do hereby certify that we have known bearer John Foster a dark Mulatto from the time of his birth he was born free and that no person has to our knowledge as yet ever claimed him as a slave, Given under our hands this nineteenth day of October 1804

John Skinner

Boston & Banks v. Hogue, John et. al, 1837

Historic Natchez Foundation

Box 29

File 20

[Not transcribing]

[HNF Note: Seeks $1000 in a breach of a slave warranty in that they purchased a free person of color (26 yo man with a "yellow complexion" named Foster) and not a slave for life. Dismissed].

Frances

Henry Francis1 fpc (Census of 1816, Adams County)

Victoreu Frances, Police Board Records, 1832

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 18

Special March Term 1832

Victoreu Frances a free mulatto of light complexion seventeen years old five feet three inches high satisfied the court of his good character and honest deportment.

It is therefore ordered by the Court that he be licensed to remain in this state agreeable to the act of assembly entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to reduce into one the several acts concerning slaves free negroes and mulattoes passed 20^th December AD 1831.

Frank

Frank, a free black man, Police Board Records, 1832

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 11

March Term 1832

Frank, a free black man about five feet ten inches high thirty two years having satisfied the court of her good character and honest deportment.

It is therefore ordered by the Court that said Frank be licensed to remain in this state agreeable to the act of assembly entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to reduce into one the several acts concerning slaves free negroes and mulattoes passed 20^th December AD 1831.

Frazier

In white household w/white male head, wife, and kids, and some other white males (probably boarders)Moses Spillers, 25mm, “FN,” “unknown;” Peter Frazier, 14mm; and Jason Hockett, 20mm (1850 City of Natchez census)

Frey

Fanny Leiper

Malvina Huffman, O.S. Bemis, Joseph Winscott & James Walsh

The State of Mississippi Southern District Chancery Court, 1851

[According to court testimony, Hannah, Mother of Fanny Leiper, freed while Fanny remained in bondage until 1832 or so]

Fullman

Thomas, the husband of Matilda Leiper, according to Johnson’s diary on August 20, 1841: “Fullman was also tryed at the same time and the result was the same as in the Case of Berry Duncan” [in the note on p. 342, they note that there was a lengthy opinion in The Natchez Courier on August 28, 1841 on how Berry Duncan, who, like Fullman, was unlicensed to remain in the state, could require them to leave in 60 days].

G

Gant?

David Gant1 male –10; 1 male 36-55; 1 female 36-55 (1830 Adams Co. census)

David Gant1 male 10-24; 1 male 55-100; 2 females 36-55 (1 slavemale 36-55) (1840 Washington census)

David Gant73 bm, “FN,” MD, w/ Davey, 25bm, MS; Frank, 40bm (1850 Adams Co. census)

Davy Gantt, free papers, 1827

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book P

Pgs.709-10

Davy Gantt

Free Papers

Know all whom it may concernThat I, B.L.C. Wailes of the County of Adams and the State of Mississippi do hereby declare and acknowledge that I have received full satisfaction for the personal services of Davy Gantt a man of Colour Inherited as a Slave by me in right of my wife from the Estate of Mrs. Rebecca Covington deceased. And I do hereby release withdraw and renounce all right title and interest which I my heirs or assigns have or may have to the services of the said Davy Gantt as a slave from this date henceforth forever hereby securing to the said Davy Gantt as fully and amply as it may legally be done his full and entire personal liberty, the enjoyment thereof in his own person exempt from all claim of the said B.L.C Wailes his heirs Administrators or assigns with one condition only to this obligation that the said B.L.C. Wailes is in no manner to become chargable with the maintenance of the said Davy, or to be subject to any cost or expences on his account or by his agencies or means under the penalty of a forfeiture of this contractIn witness where of I have hereunto set my hand and seal this thirteenth day of November in the year one thousand eight

p. 710

hundred and twenty seven

Signed sealed & delivered B.L.C. Wailes

In presence of

A.W. McDaniel

[Recorded 26^th day of Dec. 1827 Woodson Wren]

Dinah Gant, emancipation by David Gant, 1832

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book W

P. 264

Terry Alford notes wife Dinah was freed by David (her husband) after purchasing her from Levin Wailes, a Vice-President of the Mississippi Colonization Society (and a relative of his owner, B.L.C. Wailes?)

Garrus

[Brothers Juanito and Carlito mentioned in Chained to the Rock of Adversity, p. 82. Juanito was the free man of color who managed Johnson family plantations, Carthage and Black Lake, and the barbershops after William and Richard. Marries Eugenia Johnson in 1873 and they have at least 4 children. Carlos was the brother of Juanito, along with his brother, also worked for and lived with the Johnsons].

Gaston

Thomas Barland44 mm, laborer, $17,000 R.E, $12,000 P.E., MS, ??, 35 mf; Mary Gaston, 38 mf; Susannah Barland, 30 mf; Alexander, 21 mm, laborer; Betsy Hunter, 28 mf; Anna J., 6 mf; Thomas Barland, 2 mm; Walter, 1 mm; Nancy, 16 mf (1860 Natchez census).

Gates

Jonathon G.? Holloway, 23mm, “FN,” MS and Harriet Gates, 20 mf (1850 Natchez Census).

George

Manumission of George by Z. Mandox, 1797

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book D

P. 298

Notes that Mandox was from Mason County, Kentucky

Christopher Kyle's Will, 1826

Adams County Chancery Court

Will Book 1

Pgs. 419-20

Item 1^st I will & bequeath that after paying all of my just debts that the following slaves, to wit Nancy her daughter Caroline Milly & her brother George be emancipated & set free from slavery

Item 2 I will & bequeath that my executors hereinafter named shall appropriate the sum of one thousand dollars out of any monies belonging to my Estate to procure the emancipation of the above mentioned slaves by sending them to a non slave holding state if not to be procured in this State

Item 3^rd I will & bequeath to the above named Nancy the following described lot or parcel of land lying & being in the City of Natchez viz cornering? Upon sixth street and third North on the North side of third North & Sixth streets running forty feet on third North & fifty feet on sixth street.

Item 4^th I will & bequeath unto to the aforementioned Nancy & her daughter Caroline the sum of one thousand dollars.

[Not all transcribed, just the part relevant to free blacks]

Gibbs

Hester Gibbs1 female 24-36 (1840 Natchez census)

Henry Gibbs, Police Board Records, September 1841

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 319

Special September Term 1841

Henry Gibbs, a free Negro of light complexion aged about Twenty Two years, and five feet and seven inches in height, having Satisfied the Board that he was of good character and honest deportment; It was thereupon Ordered by the Board that he be, and he is hereby licensed to remain in this State, pursuant to the Statute in this behalf

Gibson

Margaret Gibson40 mf, “FN,” VA, w/Mary J. Gibson, 12mf, MS; E.F. 10mf; Euthana? 1mf (1850 Natchez census)

Prince Gibson1 male 55-100; 1 female 55-100 (1840 Natchez census)

then, there is a man just listed as Prince77 bm, “FN,” SC (1850 Natchez census)

Ruth Gibson11 bf w/23 wf Elizabeth M. Carter and 3 wf Elizabeth Kaston? (1860 Natchez census)

Samuel Gibson1 male 10-24 (slaves1 male –10; 1 male 24-36; 1 male 36-55; 1 female –10; 1 female 10-24) (1830 Natchez census)

Samuel Gibson's Will, 1832

Adams County Chancery Court

Will Book 2

P. 28

The Last Will and Testament of Saml Gibson (Deceased)

In the name of God Amen I Samuel Gibson a free man of colour of the City of Natchez County of Adams and State of Mississippi, being of sound mind and memory and disposition but knowing the uncertainty of life and the certainty of death do hereby make and declare this my last Will and Testament I hereby constitute and appoint Peter M Lapice and Dietrich Verwerck of the City of Natchez merchants and the survivor of them Executors and Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

After the payment of my just debts and expences I dispose of my Estate as follows: To my slave Dembo I bequeath his freedom and hereby enjoin it on my Executors to take measures as will be necessary to effect my intentions and if it requisite that they my Executors do remove the said Dembo to some free state and there pass him through the regular forms of manumission.

My real Estate consisting in a house and lot where I now reside and a vacant lot near the Theater in the City of Natchez I bequeath to the issue of my Body begotten on a free woman of color named Esther reserving however to the said Esther is right to occupy said house and lot in common with and during the minority of my said issue upon her.

My present Estate consisting of drays horses, mules, cattle, working utensils & c and money in Bank, I dispose of as follows. I desire that the drays horses, mules, cattle, working utensils &c &c may be sold by my Executors, and the proceeds thereof with my money in Bank, after the payment of certain legacies hereafter mentioned, invested in some safe stock for the education and support of my issue by said Esther untill they respectively come of age or marry and then the principal or stock to be given to said issue in full property, and if there should be more than one to be divided among them share and share alike.

To the above named Esther I leave all my furniture and one hundred and fifty dollars in cash to be paid by my Executors as soon as may be after my decease

In the event of my issue by said Esther dying before her, then I leave all my Estate, real and personal, to the said Esther except so far as it regards the legacies herein before mentioned

[More details, not all transcribed] twenty third day of August 1830-

Terry Alford lists Dembo getting his freedom from the executors of Samuel Gibson in Deed Book W, p. 51 in 1835.

“Poor Andrew Leeper was, I understand, ordered off to day, and so was Dembo and Maryan Gibson They are as far as I Know inocent and Harmless People And Have never done a Crime since they have been in the State that I have Herd,” (9 Sep., 1841, Johnson Diary).

[Footnote: “Dembo had been freed by direction of the will of Samuel Gibson, illiterate free man of color, who had been a Natchez property owner as early as 1823 and died in 1832. Samuel Gibson had left his estate ‘consisting in a house and Lot where I now reside and a vacant Lot near the Theatre’ to ‘the issue of my Body begotten on free woman of color named Esther,’ whom he had already freed. He had also left his ‘personal Estate consisting of drays horses, mules, cattle, working utensils, &c &c and money in Bank’ to be used for the education and support of his children. Dembo worked for the estate until 1835, when he was emancipated in Ohio; he was still in Natchez in 1843. Mary Ann Gibson was perhaps one of Samuel Gibson’s children,” (Johnson Diary, 346)].

“My Little Richard very Low. Poor Little Fellow, He suffers so muchMcCary and Mrs Gibson Sat up with him to night all night,” (5 Dec. 1841, Johnson Diary).

Gifford

Betsy Gifford, Police Board Records, September 1832

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 28

September Term 1832

Saturday morning, September 8^th 1832

The Petition of Betsy a free woman of colour to remain in the state is continued till next term.

Gillman

John Gillman, Police Board Records, 1832

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 19

Special March Term 1832

John Gillman a free man of Colour about [blank] years old five feet [blank] inches high of [blank] complexion satisfied the court of his good character and honest deportment.

It is therefore ordered by the Court that said John Gillman be licensed to remain in this state agreeable to the act of assembly entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to reduce into one the several acts concerning slaves free negroes and mulattoes passed 20^th December AD 1831.

Gilmore

Jonathon Gilmore1 male 36-55 (1840 Natchez Census).

Gireaudeau

Maria Jane, Peter, and Thorida, emancipation by Felicite Gireaudeau, 1832

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book W

Pgs. 3-5. 25

Terry Alford notes Peter was Maria Jane’s infant child.

Mary Gireaudeau34 mf, “Free Negro,” MS; Peter, 17 mm; Frances, 14 mf; Gabriell, 10 mm; John, 8 mm; Adolph, 7 mm; Louiza, 4 mf; Frank, 5 mm; Henry, 2 mm (1850 Natchez census)

Leforo?[They spelled her name wrong (unless it’s Jerido? but all else matches up] Mary44 mf, $300 P. E., MS w/Peter Pomet, 26 mm, servant; Dolph, 17 mm servant; John 21 mm servant; Caleb, 22 mm servant; Louisa 15 mf seamstress; Frank 12 mm; Molly, 7 mf (1860 Natchez census)

Robert Leiper57 mm, drayman, MS w/Sophia (formerly Gireaudeau), 44 mf; Hannah, 26 mf; James, 20 mm, carpenter; Daley, 24 mm, bricklayer; Mary W., 5 mf (1860 Natchez census)

Frances Gerrideau, Police Board Records, September 1841

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 319

Special September Term 1841

Frances Gerrideau, a free Mulatto woman of light complexion, aged about Eighteen years, and five feet two inches in heighth, having Satisfied the Board that She was of good character and honest deportment; It was thereupon Ordered by the Board that She be, and She is hereby licensed to remain in this State, pursuant to the Statute in this behalf

Maria Jean Jerrideau, Police Board Records, September 1841

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 321

Special September Term 1841

Maria Jean Jerrideau a free woman of colour of [blank] complexion, aged about [blank] years and [blank] feet [blank] inches in height, having satisfied the Board that she was of good character and honest deportment; it was thereupon ordered that she be and she is hereby licensed to remain in this state, pursuant to the Statute in this behalf

Minty Jerideau, Police Board Records, February 1844

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 422

February Term 1844

Minty Jerideau, a free woman of colour, residing in the City of Natchez, this day produced to the Board, satisfactory proof of her good moral character and that it is the desire of a majority of the Citizens of said City, that the said Minty shall continue to reside therein, and therefore it is ordered by the Board that she be licensed to reside in said City according to the provisions of an Act of the legislature entitled ‘An Act for the relief of Henry Lee and others, and for other purposes’ Approved July 25, 1843

Nancy Gireaudeau, Police Board Records, 1832

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 17

Special March Term 1832

Nancy Gireaudeau a free woman of colour about thirty six years of age black complexion and four feet six inches high satisfied the court of her good character and honest deportment.

It is therefore ordered by the Court that said Nancy Gireaudeau be licensed to remain in this state agreeable to the act of assembly entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to reduce into one the several acts concerning slaves free negroes and mulattoes passed 20^th December AD 1831

Rosella Gerrideau, Police Board Records, February 1843

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 377

February Term 1843

Roselle Jerideau a free woman of color of dark mulatto complexion aged about twenty five years and five feet two ¼ inches in height, having satisfied the Board that she was of good character and honest deportment, she was thereupon licensed to remain in this state according to the act of the Legislature in this behalf

Sophia Leiper, Police Board Records, February 1843

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 378

February Term 1843

Sophia Leiper, a free woman of Color of dark mulatto complexion, aged about twenty seven years and five feet two inches in height, having satisfied the Board that she was of good character and honest deportment, she was thereupon licensed to remain in the State pursuant to the act of the Legislature in this behalf

Sophia Leiper, Police Board Records, November 1843

Adams County Chancery Court

Police Board Records

P. 418

November Term 1843

Sophia Leiper, a free woman of color having produced to the Board satisfactory proof of her good moral character and that it is the desire of the majority of the Citizens of Natchez that said Sophia reside in said City, it is thereupon ordered by the Board that said Sophia Leiper be licensed to reside in said City, under the provisions of an act of the Legislature entitled ‘an act for the relief of Henry Lee and others, and for other purposes’ approved July 25, 1843

Felicite Gireaudeau to George W. Smyth, sale of Nancy and Frances, 1830

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book BB

P. 211

Felicite Gireaudeau to George W. Smyth Bill of sale

Know all men by these presents that I Felicite Gireaudeau of Natchez in the State of Mississippi for and in consideration of the sum of eight hundred dollars to me in hand paid by Geo. W. Smyth of the said City & State have and by these presents bargain sell and deliver to him a negro woman slave named Nancy about thirty five years of age and her daughter Frances about six years of age and hereby covenant to and with the said George W. Smyth his heirs and assigns to warrant the title of the said slaves against all persons claiming or to claim them or either of them.

In trust however and on the condition that whereas no part of the aforesaid purchase money for the said slaves has or is the proper money of the said George W. Smyth but has been advanced and paid by the particular friend of the said Nancy with a view and intent to procure the freedom from Slavery of her & her said child Frances now this bill of Sale is in trust that he the said Geo W. Smyth will permit the said Slaves to remove into another State & give such authority to them as will enable them to procure their freedom & that he will do & permit all such other acts & things necessary and requisite for procuring the emancipation of the said slaves whenever the fund necessary for that purchase be furnished to him

Witness my hand seal this 25^th August 1830

Felicite Gireaudeau

More details, but will not continue (repetitive)

Felicite Gireaudeau

Nancy Gireaudeau Will, 1842

Adams County Chancery Court

Will Book 2

P. 256

Nancy Gireaudeau10 Oct., 1842“ I devise and bequeath unto my three Daughters Sophia Leper, Roselle Gireaudeau and Francis Gireaudeau the House and Lot on which I now reside in the City of Natchez on the South Side of State Street with this understanding that Roselle G. and Frances G. my two younger daughters shall have the power and may when they wish and desire purchase out the remaining third part thus devised unto my said daughter Sophia Leper: by paying unto her the said Sophia my said daughter one third of whatever sum the said House and Lot may be appraised at by three disinterested Freeholders of said City selected for making such appraisment: and my will and desire is that my daughter Sophia and her husband Robert Leper convey such third part, hereby devised to her, unto my other daughters Roselle and Frances upon payment of the one third part of such appraisement. Thirdly, I do give and bequeath unto my daughter Frances G. all my household and kitchen furniture beds and bedding furniture. Fourthly, I do give and bequeath unto my said three Daughters Sophia Roselle and Frances all the other property (not otherwise above distributed, including all moneys and other effects of my Estate equally to be divided amongst them.”

[Signed with mark. More details, but will not continue (repetitive)]

“Mrs Lieper has her Litle Daugter this morning,” (Johnson Diary, 20 Oct. 1836)

Aug. 23, 1839 (Johnson Diary)Old Nancy Jerado daughter is I am told Kept by Robert S--- of this place Old French pays a Short and his Last visit to nightSo he Seys, God Knows how true. They are all a pack of StrumpWhat I thought they was

Aug. 24, 1839 (Johnson Diary)Wellington Denies wriding with Old Nancys Daugters in the Charterd Hack

Oct. 15, 1842 (Johnson Diary)Nancy Jerrideau died to dayhas been [sick] only a few days

Aug. 8, 1845 (Johnson Diary)Old Mrs. Jeredore was at the Landing and Quarantined.

Gireaudeau, Felicite

G. [Gabriel?] Gireaudeau2 fpc (Census of 1818, Adams County)

Felicita Gireaudeau58wf; LA (1850 Adams County Census)

F. Gherredeau69wf, $2,000 RE; $6,000 PE, LA (1860 Adams County Census)

Marriage contract between Gabriel Girardeau and Felicite Pomet

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book P

Pgs. 540-41

“United States of America, State of Louisiana. Pardevant nous Carlite Pollock notaire publique a la residence de la Nlle Orleans Etat de la Louisiana Etats Unis D’Amerique et en prevence des temoins ci après nommes Toussignes.

Fut ent presents, mousieur Gabriel Gireaudeau, natif en domicilie en cette ville et fils de Louis Bruno Gireaudeau et d’Alelaide Lemelle d’une part

Et demoiselle Felicite Pomet, procedant es en presence et de consentemens de M. Leonard Pomet, proprietaire de meuions dans le territoire du Mississippi presentennens en cette ville Son Pere de l’autre part

Lesquels en vie, es consideration du marriage projette entreux, ous fit en arête les clauses et consentious matrimoniales suivantes.

Les futures epoux terous? Commiens en leurs bienn, menbles et immenbles qu’il acquereront pendant et durans leur future marriage et la dite communante sera regie par le code civil de cit etas??

Les futures epoux ne seront point tenus des dettes l’un de l’antre contractees avant leur marriage les quills teroux? Acquitteess par celui ou celle qui les aura crees? Sans que l’autre ni les biens en puissens etre anennement tenin

La future epouse declare qu’elle aa des proprietes qui condistem en neuf esclaves; savoir

Harry age de quarante cinq ans estime a la somme de Sept cent cinqunte piastre, Lucy agee de trente cinq ans, estimee Six cent cinquente piastres, Joseph age de neuf ans estime quatre cent piastra, Nia? Age de quatorze ans estimee cinq cent piastres, Dena agee de onze ans estimee a quatre cent piastres, Francis age de douze ans, estime sept cent piastre, Nancy agee de dix huit estimee neuf cents piastra, Sophie agee de deux ans estimee deux cent piastres, et Rosalie de six mois, estimee cens piastra.

Lesquelles sommes font un total de quatre mille six cens piastra

Et les dites esclaves lui appartiennent pour les [unreadable] avoir achettes [maybe?] de ses propres deniers et en ton people droit

Le future epoux declare que ton bien consiste en un esclave nomme Joseph age de quinze an avalue a huit cents priastres.

La future declare que l’estimation ci dessus donnee aux esclaaves est faite dans la vue? D’dentemsporte l propriete u future qui consent et ne sera tenu que du montans de l’estimation de chagrin d’eux

Fais et passé a la Nouvelle Orleans ce vingt trios du monde mi de l’an milhuit cent dix sept en presence de Martin Fromntin et d’Etienne Lrieux temoins domicilies en cette ville qui ont signe avec les parties et nous notaire

Gabriel Gireaudeau, Felicite Pomet, Leo Pomet, E’n Larieux, Martin Fromantin, Carlita Pollock, not. Pub.

Certifie copie conforme a l’orignil demeure en mon etude le jour et an ??

Received and recorded 27 July 1827.

The Mississippi Statesman, Natchez

Wed. Jan. 3, 1827

Livery Stable. G. Gireaudeau respectfully informs the public, that he has erected a new and commodious Livery Stable, on First South, between Fifth and Sixth streets, where he will constantly keep good saddle and draft horses, and gigs and carriages, which he will hire, to good responsible persons only.

He will take horses to keep by the day, week or month, on reasonable termsand has always plenty of good oats and hay for sale.

July 24, 1825.

Statesman & Gazette, (Natchez, MS)

Thursday, December 27, 1827

Issue 1; col A

NoticeLetters Testamentary having been granted to the undersigned by the Honorable Probate, and County Court of Adams County, state of Mississippi, at their December Term, 1827on the estate of Gabriel Gireaudeau, deceased, late of said county. Notice is hereby given to all persons indebted to said estate, to make immediate payment to P.M. Lapiece, alone authorized to that effect; and those having claims against said estate, are requested to present to the said P.M Lapiece, their claims duly authenticated within the time prescribed by law, or they will be forever barred. Felicite Gireaudea, Peter M. Lapiece

Dec. 13, 1827

Gabriel Gireaudeau Will, 1827

Adams County Chancery Court

Will Book 1

P. 353

Gabriel Gireaudeau Will State of Mississippi

Adams County

I Gabriel Gireaudeau of the City of Natchez, State and County aforesaid, being of sound mind mind and memory [what!] do in the name of God, make and constitute my last will and Testiment in manner following

It is my will and desire that all my just debts should be fully paid and discharged out of my estate, so soon as the same can be effected after my decease
After my just debts aforesaid are fully paid and discharged, all the residence of my estate both real and personal I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Felicite to her & her heirs and assigns forever
To carry into effect this my last will and Testament, I hereby appoint and constitute my beloved wife Felicite my Executrix, and my respected friend Peter M Lapice of the City of Natchez aforesaid my Executor, and do hereby invest them the said Executrix and Executor with full power, to take into possession all my Estate real and personal, and dispose of the same in the best possible manner to affect the purposes aforesaid

In Witness whereof I have hereto set my hand & seal this 20^th day of November 1827

Signed and sealed in the

Presence of the undersigned Gab. Gireaudeau

Witness H Foley

Jno? Pomet Jr

Recorded on the 18^th December 1827

Felicite Gireaudeau to George W. Smyth, sale of Nancy and Frances, 1830

Adams County Chancery Court

Deed Book BB

P. 211

Felicite Gireaudeau to George W. Smyth Bill of sale

Witness my hand seal this 25^th August 1830

Felicite Gireaudeau

Felicite Gireaudeau Will, 1861

Will Book 3

Pgs. 164-64

Margaret Dent28 bf, washerwoman, MS, w/Louisa, 12 bf; Maria, 10 mf; Virginia, 8 mf; Joseph, 6 mm; Thomas, 1 mm (1860 Natchez census)

T.J. Dent1 male –10; 1 male 24-36; 1 female 10-24 (1830 Adams Co. census)

Dolphin

John Dolphin1 male 45+, 1 female 45+ (1820 Natchez Census)

Dorsey

Isaac Dorsey1 male –10; 1 male 10-24; 1 male 36-55; 4 females –10; 1 female 36-55 (1830 Natchez census)

Isaac Dorsey3 males –10; 1 male 55-100; 3 females 10-24; 1 female 36-55 (1840 Natchez census)

Douglass

Dudly

John Dudly1 male 45+ (1820 Natchez Census)

Jonathon Dudly1 male 55-100 (1840 Natchez census)

E

Earhart

Emerson

Bridget Emerson1 female 36-55; 3 males –10 (1840 Natchez Census)

Evans

F

Fagan/Fagkin

Hester Cummins, 40mf, “FN,” MS, w/Susan Cochran, 15mf, LA; Catherine Watson, 11 mf; Annett Fagkin, 17mf (1850 Natchez census)

Fairfax

Fanny

Farris

Faure

Fitzgerald

Mary Fitzgerald3 males –10; 1 male 10-24; 1 male 24-36; 1 female –10; 1 female 24-36; 3 females 36-55; 1 female 55-100 (1830 Adams Co. census)

Mary Fitzgerald2 males –10; 3 males 10-24; 1 female –10; 3 females 10-24; 1 female 24-36; 3 females 36-55 (slaves1 male –10; 1 male 10-24; 1 male 36-55; 1 female –10; 2 females 24-36; 1 female 36-55) (1840 Adams Co. census)

***Mary Fitzgerald57mf, FN,” MS, w/Eliza, 25mf; Betsey, 18mf; Burkes; 13mm; Louisa, 11mf; Elizabeth, 10 mf **sharing w/ Isabella Barlan and Betsy Fitzgerald $2000 RE. (1850 Adams Co. census)

Foley

John Foley49 mm, Carpenting--$600 Real Estate, $700 Personal Estate, MS, w/Charlotte, 60 mf; Sally, 24 mf, Dressmaker; William 22 mm, carpenter; H.?? 21 mm, carpenter; Patrick, 18 mm, carpenter; Elizabeth, 16 mf, dressmaker; Lucy, 15 mf; Emma 13 mf; John J. 10 mm (1860 Natchez census)

Ford

Foster

Frances

Frank

Malvina Huffman, O.S. Bemis, Joseph Winscott & James Walsh

The State of Mississippi Southern District Chancery Court, 1851

Fullman

G

Gant?

David Gant1 male –10; 1 male 36-55; 1 female 36-55 (1830 Adams Co. census)

David Gant1 male 10-24; 1 male 55-100; 2 females 36-55 (1 slavemale 36-55) (1840 Washington census)

David Gant73 bm, “FN,” MD, w/ Davey, 25bm, MS; Frank, 40bm (1850 Adams Co. census)

Gibbs

Gibson

Samuel Gibson1 male 10-24 (slaves1 male –10; 1 male 24-36; 1 male 36-55; 1 female –10; 1 female 10-24) (1830 Natchez census)

Felicite Gireaudeau Will, 1861

*Mary Fitzgerald57mf, FN,” MS, w/Eliza, 25mf; Betsey, 18mf; Burkes; 13mm; Louisa, 11mf; Elizabeth, 10 mf sharing w/ Isabella Barlan and Betsy Fitzgerald $2000 RE. (1850 Adams Co. census)