Items

• 1812-02-22 Removal: Kate, Issabel

  An enslaved woman named Kate, aged 38, and her daughter Issabel, aged 4, moved with enslaver John Toan from South Amboy, New Jersey, to Cayuga County, New York, in 1812. A removal certificate authorizing John Toan to remove Kate from the state of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on February 22, 1812. The certificate was signed by two judges (Asa Runyon and John Outcalt). The document stated that Kate was examined by the judges and consented to move with John Toan to Cayuga County, New York. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on February 22, 1812. A removal certificate for Issabel was issued at the same time and signed by the same officials. Issabel's certificate said that the child was examined by the judges and consented to move with John Toan to Cayuga County, New York. The certificate stated, "at the same time Kate the mother of the said Issabel the only parent known of the said child upon private examination before us declared her consent to the removal of her said child to the place and state aforesaid."
• 1812-12-04 Removal: Anthony

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Joseph W. Hagaman to remove Anthony, an enslaved boy aged 8, from the state of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on December 4, 1812. The certificate was signed by two judges (Ralph Sansbury and Joseph McChesney). The document stated that Anthony was examined by the judges and consented to move with Joseph W. Hagaman from Princeton, NJ, to Cincinnati, OH, and that Anthony would reside with Hagaman in Ohio "in the quality of a servant." The document also stated that Anthony had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 8, 1812.
• 1812-12-04 Removal: Bob

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Joseph W. Hagaman to remove Bob, an enslaved person aged 13, from the state of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on December 4, 1812. The certificate was signed by two judges (Ralph Sansbury and Joseph McChesney). The document stated that Bob was examined by the judges and consented to move with Joseph W. Hagaman from Princeton, NJ, to Cincinnati, OH, and that Bob would reside with Hagaman in Ohio "in the quality of a servant." The document also stated that Bob had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 8, 1812.
• 1812-12-04 Removal: Mary

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Joseph W. Hagaman to remove Mary, an enslaved girl aged 13, from the state of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on December 4, 1812. The certificate stated that Mary would turn 14 on February 15, 1813. The certificate was signed by two judges (Ralph Sansbury and Joseph McChesney). The document stated that Mary was examined by the judges and consented to move with Joseph W. Hagaman from Princeton, NJ, to Cincinnati, OH. Additionally, the document stated that "Sableak a free mulattress mother of the said Mary (the said Mary having no father in the State of New Jersey)" also appeared in court and "declared and testified to us upon such examination that she freely consented that her said Daughter Mary should go with her said master to the said State of Ohio and there reside with him in quality of a servant." The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 8, 1812.
• 1813-04-03 Removal: Jude

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Simon Hillyer to remove Jude, an enslaved girl aged 12, from the state of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 3, 1813. The certificate was signed by two judges (Asa Runyon and Thomas Hance). The document stated that Jude was examined by the judges and consented to move with Simon Hillyer from Middlesex County, NJ, to New York, NY. The certificate also stated that Jude's mother Nance appeared in court and consented to have Jude move to New York City with Hillyer. Nance also testified that Jude's father was deceased. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 19, 1813.
• 1817-04-11 Removal: Maria

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Henry T. Bell to remove Maria, an enslaved woman aged 21 years and 7 months, from the state of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 11, 1817. The certificate was signed by two judges (Thomas Hance and John Outcalt). The document stated that Maria was examined by the judges and consented to move with Henry T. Bell from New Brunswick, NJ, to New York City. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on April 12, 1817.
• 1817-08-30 Removal: Dinah

  In 1817, William Van Deursen, a physician in New Brunswick and a graduate of Queen's College (now Rutgers University) sold Dinah to a man named Jacob Klady, a New Jersey landholder who was getting ready to move to Ouachita Parish in Louisiana to establish a plantation. Klady took Dinah to Louisiana with him. Dinah was aged 22 at this time. Before Klady was allowed to take Dinah out of the State of New Jersey, Dinah had to appear in court and give her consent to move with Klady. It appears that Dinah used this as an opportunity to negotiate with Klady for her freedom before giving her consent. On August 30, 1817, William Van Deursen brought Phillis to the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County to obtain a removal certificate authorizing Jacob Klady to take Dinah to Louisiana where she would serve Klady as her new enslaver. According to this removal certificate, Klady promised to manumit Dinah if she served him obediently for 15 years in Louisiana. The certificate was signed by two judges (Thomas Hance and John Fitz Randolph). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on October 8, 1817. A complete transcript of the removal certificate follows: "Dinah } State of New Jersey } Middlesex County } On the 30th day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventeen Dinah the female servant of Doctor William Van Deursen of the city of New Brunswick, in the county and State aforesaid, being a slave for life, was privately examined before us Thomas Hance and John Outcalt two of the Justices of the Peace, and Judges of the Court of Common Pleas in and for sd County, which sd slave Dinah upon her sd examination did say that she was near twenty two years of age, that she is perfectly satisfied and willing to leave the place of her present residence and remove with Jacob Klady to the State of Louisiana and that she prefers to serve the said Jacob Klady to the service of her present master – all which we do hereby certify and that the said Dinah is a slave for life – and that the said Jacob Klady has and does hereby promise and engage that if the sd slave Dinah shall behave in an obedient and orderly manner and serve him honestly and faithfully for the space of fifteen years from the date hereof she shall at the expiration of that time be manumitted & set free. – In Witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names the day and year above written. – Thos. Hance Jno. Outcalt – Received October 8, 1817 recorded by Deare clk"
• 1817-09-23 Removal: Ben

  In 1817, James Smith of Middlesex County, NJ, sold Ben to a man named Jacob Klady, a New Brunswick landholder who was getting ready to move to Ouachita Parish in Louisiana to establish a plantation. Klady took Ben to Louisiana with him. Ben was aged 18 at this time. On September 23, 1817, James Smith brought Ben to the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County to obtain a removal certificate authorizing Jacob Klady to take Ben to Louisiana where Ben would serve Klady as his new enslaver. The certificate was signed by two judges (Thomas Hance and John Fitz Randolph). The document stated that Ben was examined by the judges and consented to move with Jacob Klady to Louisiana. It additionally stated that Ben had no parents living in the state of New Jersey (i.e. parental consent was not obtained for Ben's move). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on October 8, 1817.
• 1817-09-23 Removal: Phillis

  In 1817, Staats Van Deursen (Treasurer of Queen's College, later Rutgers Univesity) sold Phillis to a man named Jacob Klady, a New Jersey landholder who was getting ready to move to Ouachita Parish in Louisiana to establish a cotton plantation. Klady took Phillis to Louisiana with him. Phillis was aged 22 at this time. On September 23, 1817, Staats Van Deursen brought Phillis to the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County to obtain a removal certificate authorizing Jacob Klady to take Phillis to Louisiana where she would serve Klady as her new enslaver. The certificate was signed by two judges (Thomas Hance and John Fitz Randolph). The document stated that Phillis was examined by the judges and consented to move with Jacob Klady to Louisiana. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on October 8, 1817. A complete transcript of the removal certificate follows: "Phillis } State of New Jersey } Middlesex County } On the 23rd day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventeen Phillis the negro slave of Staats Van Deursen of the city of New Brunswick, in the county and State aforesaid, aged twenty two years was privately examined before us Thomas Hance and John F. Randolph two of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said County of Middlesex, and on her examination did state and acknowledge to us that she was twenty two years old and that she was perfectly willing to leave the service of her present master and to remove with Jacob Klady to the State of Louisiana and that she would rather go with and serve the said Jacob Klady than continue with her present master. All of which we do hereby certify. In Witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands the day and year above written. - Thos. Hance John F. Randolph. - Received October 8th, 1817 recorded by Wm. P. Deare CLK"
• 1818-02-10 Removal: Lidiann, Harriet Jane

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver James Brown to remove Lidiann, an enslaved woman aged 22, together with her daughter Harriet Jane, aged 3 years 4 months 28 days, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on February 10, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Lidiann was examined by the judges and consented to move from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, "there to serve Colonel Charles Morgan as his slave." According to the certificate, James Brown appeared before the judges, but Charles Morgan did not. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818 on p. 237 of the Middlesex County Book of Manumissions and Removals. A related document, dated April 23, 1818, appears on p. 241 listing Harriet Jane among the young children who were sent to Louisiana, with her mother's name there listed as Lidia. Lidiann and Harriet Jane were two of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified.
• 1818-02-11 Removal: Margaret Coven

  A removal certificate for a Black woman named Margaret Coven (age unspecified) was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on February 11, 1818, authorizing Coven's move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt) and recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) three months later on May 20, 1818. This document is unusual. Removal certificates were typically issued for people who were enslaved because their consent was required before their enslavers could take them away from New Jersey to another state. Margaret Coven, however, is listed in the removal certificate as "a free coloured woman." The certificate stated that she "did declare that she was desirous to go with Colonel Charles Morgan of the Parish of Point Coupee in the State of Louisiana and there to serve in the capacity of a servant for the term of ten years." This removal certificate suggests that Coven would be an indentured servant in Louisiana. This removal certificate is found among the group of documents prepared by Judge Jacob Van Wickle to facilitate the business of his notorious slave trading ring. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting Black New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. Charles Morgan was Jacob Van Wickle's brother-in-law. Relatedly, on February 11, 1818, the same judges issued a removal certificate for Simon, who was also listed as a "freeman" bound for Louisiana where he would serve Charles Morgan as an indentured servant.
• 1818-02-11 Removal: Simon

  A removal certificate for an adult Black man named Simon (age unspecified) was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on February 11, 1818, authorizing Simon's move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt) and recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) three months later on May 20, 1818. This document is unusual. Removal certificates were typically issued for people who were enslaved because their consent was required before their enslavers could take them away from New Jersey to another state. Simon, however, is listed in the removal certificate as a "Coulored freeman." Simon had been enslaved by General James Morgan of South Amboy, but he obtained a manumission from his enslaver on February 11, 1818. On the same day, then, a removal certificate was issued by the same judges who had signed Simon's manumission certificate. The removal certificate stated that the judges examined Simon and that he "did declare that he was desirous of leaving his present place of residence and go with Colonel Charles Morgan of Point Coupee in the State of Louisiana and there to serve him in the capacity of a servant for the term of two years two months & eighteen days." This removal certificate suggests that Simon would be an indentured servant in Louisiana, serving Charles Morgan, who was the brother of Simon's original enslaver. This removal certificate is found among the group of documents prepared by Judge Jacob Van Wickle to facilitate the business of his notorious slave trading ring. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting Black New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. Charles Morgan and James Morgan were Jacob Van Wickle's brothers-in-law.
• 1818-02-12 Removal: Sarah, Diannah

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Sarah, an enslaved woman aged 21, together with her infant daughter Diannah, aged 7 months, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on February 12, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Sarah was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818. Sarah and Diannah were two of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified.
• 1818-02-26 Removal: Florah, Susan

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Florah, an enslaved woman aged 23, and her daughter Susan, aged 7 months, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on February 26, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Florah was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818, on p. 236 of the Middlesex County Book of Manumissions and Removals. A related document, dated April 23, 1818, appears on p. 241 listing Susan among the young children who were sent to Louisiana. Florah and Susan were two of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-02-26 Removal: Hager, Augustus, Mary, Roda

  Removal certificates authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Hager, an enslaved woman aged 29, and her children Roda (age 14), Augustus (age 4), and Mary (age 2), from the State of New Jersey were issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County, dated February 26, 1818. The certificates were signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The documents stated that Hager and her children were examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate for Hager, Roda, Mary, and Augustus was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818, on p. 234 of the Middlesex County Book of Manumissions and Removals. Another separate certificate for Roda appears on p. 232. A related document, dated April 23, 1818, appears on p. 241 listing Mary and Augustus among the young children who were sent to Louisiana. Hager and her children were among the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified.
• 1818-02-26 Removal: Rachel, Rozenah

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Rachel, an enslaved woman aged 22, together with her infant daughter Rozenah, aged 6 weeks, from the State of New Jersey, was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on February 26, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Rachel was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818. Rachel and Rozenah were two of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified.
• 1818-02-27 Removal: Elminah

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Elminah, an enslaved girl aged 14, from the State of New Jersey, was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on February 27, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Elminah was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The document stated that Elminah had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818. Elminah was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-02-27 Removal: George

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove George, an enslaved boy aged 16, from the State of New Jersey, was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on February 27, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that George was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The document stated that George had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818. George was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-02-27 Removal: Harrey

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Harrey, an enslaved boy aged 14, from the State of New Jersey, was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on February 27, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Harvey was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The document stated that Harrey had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818. Harvey was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-02-27 Removal: James

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove James, an enslaved man aged 21, from the State of New Jersey, was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on February 27, 1818. The man's name was written as "Jams" in the certificate. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that James was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818. James was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-02-27 Removal: Moses

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Moses, an enslaved person aged 16, from the State of New Jersey, was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on February 27, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Moses was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The document stated that Moses had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818. Moses was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-02-27 Removal: Peter

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Peter, an enslaved person aged 15, from the State of New Jersey, was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on February 27, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Peter was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The document stated that Peter had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818. Peter was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-02-27 Removal: Susan Watt

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Susan Watt, an enslaved person aged 35, from the State of New Jersey, was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on February 27, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Susan Watt was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818. Susan Watt was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified.
• 1818-03-01 Removal: Sam Johnson

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Sam Johnson, an enslaved man aged 32, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on March 1, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Sam Johnson was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Sam Johnson was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified.
• 1818-03-09 Removal: Betty

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Betty, an enslaved woman aged 22, from the State of New Jersey, was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on March 9, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Betty was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818. Betty was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-03-09 Removal: Boss

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Boss, an enslaved person aged 19, from the State of New Jersey, was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on March 9, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Boss was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The document stated that Boss had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818. Boss was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-03-09 Removal: Christeen, Diannah, Dorcas

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Christeen, an enslaved woman aged 37, together with her two daughters Diannah (age 9) and Dorcas (age 1), from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on March 9, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Christeen was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The removal certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818, on p. 233 of the Middlesex County Book of Manumissions and Removals. A related document, dated April 23, 1818, appears on p. 241 listing Diannah and Dorcas among the young children who were sent to Louisiana. Christeen and her daughters were among the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified.
• 1818-03-09 Removal: Claresse, Hercules

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Claresse, an enslaved woman aged 22 and 6 months, together with her son Hercules, aged 2 years 10 months and 7 days, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on March 9, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Claresse was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818 on p. 235 of the Middlesex County Book of Manumissions and Removals. A related document, dated April 23, 1818, appears on p. 241 listing Hercules among the young children who were sent to Louisiana. Claresse and Hercules were two of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified.
• 1818-03-09 Removal: Lidia

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Lidia, an enslaved girl aged 18, from the State of New Jersey, was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on March 9, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Lidia was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The document stated that Lidia had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818. Lidia was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-03-09 Removal: Pat

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Pat, an enslaved woman aged 22, from the State of New Jersey, was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on March 9, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Pat was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1818. Pat was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-03-13 Removal: Dick

  A removal certificate for a Black boy named Dick was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on March 13, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Benajah Mundy and John Outcalt). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on March 13, 1818. According to the removal certificate, Dick was 16 and a half years old and was enslaved by a man named Stephen Mundy, a resident of Piscataway, who planned to move to New York State. The certificate stated that Dick was examined by the judges and consented to move with Stephen Mundy to New York. The judges noted that Dick had the status of a "slave for the term," that his term of service would expire at age 27, and that he had 9 and a half years remaining on his term of service before he would be eligible for emancipation. The judges further noted that Stephen Mundy promised to manumit Dick one year sooner, provided that Dick would serve him obediently for 8 and a half years. Dick was a minor, and parental consent would normally be required from one of his parents in order to issue a removal certificate. The certificate noted that Dick said "that he has not to the best of his knowledge any parent now living in the State of New Jersey or elsewhere," and thus the parental consent was not obtained for Dick's move. The certificate does not mention Stephen Mundy's exact destination, but additional historical research has confirmed that Mundy moved to the village of Caneseraga in Allegany County, New York. Another removal certificate filed in Middlesex County a week later indicates that Stephen Mundy also took a Black boy named Aaron with him to New York. See the related event for Aaron (Identifier NJS-EVE-00198).
• 1818-03-21 Removal: Aaron

  A removal certificate for a Black boy named Aaron was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on March 21, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on March 21, 1818. According to the removal certificate, Aaron was 13 years old and was enslaved by a man named Henry Suydam, a resident of New Jersey (town and county not specified). The document stated that Aaron was examined by the judges and consented to move to New York State with a different enslaver named Stephen Mundy. It can be inferred from this document that Henry Suydam sold or otherwise transferred Aaron to Stephen Mundy. Aaron's relocation to New York with Stephen Mundy would result in family separation from his mother Peggy. According to the removal certificate, Peggy also appeared in court to give parental consent allowing Stephen Mundy to take her child out of the State of New Jersey. Peggy was likely also enslaved by Henry Suydam, although her enslavement status is not explicitly stated in the document. The certificate does not mention Stephen Mundy's exact destination, but additional historical research has confirmed that Mundy moved to the village of Caneseraga in Allegany County, New York. Additional research also indicates that Stephen Mundy's wife was named Ann Suydam, and thus Henry Suydam must have been an in-law of his. Another removal certificate filed in Middlesex County a week earlier indicates that Stephen Mundy also took a Black boy named Dick with him to New York. See the related event for Dick (Identifier NJS-EVE-00197).
• 1818-03-28 Removal: Dorcus

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Dorcus, an enslaved girl aged 16, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on March 28, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Dorcus was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The document also stated that Dorcus had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Dorcus was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-03-28 Removal: Leta

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Leta, an enslaved person aged 21, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on March 28, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Leta was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Leta was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-03-31 Removal: Margaret

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Margaret, an enslaved woman aged 21, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on March 31, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Margaret was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Margaret was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-04-22 Removal: Elizer

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Elizer, an enslaved girl aged 19, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 22, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Elizer was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The document also stated that Elizer had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Elizer was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-04-22 Removal: Frank

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Frank, an enslaved man aged 21, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 22, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Frank was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Frank was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-04-22 Removal: Harey

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Harey, an enslaved man aged 22, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 22, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Harey was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Harey was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-04-22 Removal: Hester

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Hester, an enslaved girl aged 18, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 22, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Hester was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The document also stated that Hester had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Hester was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-04-22 Removal: Jack

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Jack, an enslaved boy aged 16, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 22, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Jack was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The document also stated that Jack had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Jack was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-04-22 Removal: Jane, John

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Jane, an enslaved woman aged 25, together with her son John, aged 4, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 22, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Jane was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Jane her son John were two of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified.
• 1818-04-22 Removal: Mary Davis

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Mary Davis, an enslaved woman aged 23, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 22, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Mary Davis was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Mary Davis was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-04-22 Removal: Peter

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove Peter, an enslaved man aged 21, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 22, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Lewis Compton brought Peter before the judges and that Peter was examined by the judges and consented to move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Colonel Charles Morgan and Nicholas Van Wickle. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. When making a copy of the certificate into his bound volume, the County Clerk also appended this notation at the bottom of the record, suggesting that the original document had been altered: "The name Nicholas Van Wickle erased before the name Lewis Compton." Peter was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-04-22 Removal: Phillis, Charles

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Phillis, an enslaved woman aged 25, together with her son Charles, aged 1 year and 6 months, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 22, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Phillis was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Phillis and Charles were two of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified.
• 1818-04-22 Removal: Silvey, Jacob

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Silvey, an enslaved woman aged 30, together with her infant son Jacob, aged 18 months, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 22, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Silvey was examined by the judges and consented to move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. A notation appended at the bottom of the certificate stated, "The said male child to serve to the age of twenty five years." This was an acknowledgement that baby Jacob was eligible for emancipation at age 25 according to New Jersey's gradual abolition law. However, the move to Louisiana would deprive Jacob of the promise of freedom at age 25 because enforcing his rights under northern gradual abolition laws would be nearly impossible in the Deep South. Silvey and Jacob were two of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified.
• 1818-04-29 Removal: Betsey

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove Betsey, an enslaved woman aged 22, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 29, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Lewis Compton brought Betsey before the judges and that Betsey was examined by the judges and consented to move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Colonel Charles Morgan and Nicholas Van Wickle. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Betsey was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-04-29 Removal: James

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Garret Story to remove James (or Jams), an enslaved boy aged 16, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 29, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Garret Story brought "his male servant, named Jams aged sixteen years" before the judges and that James was examined by the judges and consented to move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Charles Morgan and Nicholas Van Wickle or either of them "for and during the term of four years ten months & sixteen days." The terminology used in the certificate suggests that James was probably born outside of New Jersey and was treated as an indentured servant, or a so-called slave for a term of 21 years, under the gradual abolition rules of his home state (the laws of Connecticut and Rhode Island stipulated that male children of enslaved mothers were eligible for emancipation at age 21). The document also stated that James had no parents in the State of New Jersey (thus parental consent was not obtained for his move). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. When making a copy of the certificate into his bound volume, the County Clerk also appended this notation at the bottom of the record, suggesting that the original document had been altered: "The name 'Nicholas Van Wickle' is erased before the name Garret Story." James was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-04-29 Removal: Sam

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Peter F. Hendry to remove Sam, an enslaved boy aged 16, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 29, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Peter F. Hendry brought Sam before the judges and that Sam was examined by the judges and consented to move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Charles Morgan and Nicholas Van Wickle or either of them. The document also stated that Sam had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. When making a copy of the certificate into his bound volume, the County Clerk also appended this notation at the bottom of the record, suggesting that the original document had been altered: "The name Nicholas Van Wickle is erased before the name Peter F. Hendry." Sam was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-04-29 Removal: William

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove William, an enslaved person aged 22, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on April 29, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Lewis Compton brought William before the judges and that William was examined by the judges and consented to move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Colonel Charles Morgan and Nicholas Van Wickle. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. When making a copy of the certificate into his bound volume, the County Clerk also appended this notation at the bottom of the record, suggesting that the original document had been altered: "The name Nicholas Van Wickle is erased before the name Lewis Compton." William was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-05-15 Removal: Amey

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Amey, an enslaved woman aged 22, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on May 15, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Amey was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Amey was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-05-15 Removal: Henry

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Nicholas Van Wickle to remove Henry, an enslaved man aged 21, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on May 15, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Henry was examined by the judges and consented to move with Nicholas Van Wickle from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Nicholas Van Wickle and Charles Morgan or either of them (although only Nicholas Van Wickle appeared in court according to the certificate). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Henry was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-05-15 Removal: James

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove James, an enslaved man aged 32, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on May 15, 1818. The man's name was written as "Jams" in the certificate. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Lewis Compton brought James before the judges and that James was examined by the judges and consented to move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Colonel Charles Morgan and Nicholas Van Wickle. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. James was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-05-15 Removal: Juda, Samuel

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Peter Hendry to remove Juda, an enslaved woman aged 26, together with her son Samuel, aged 2 years and 4 months, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on May 15, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Peter Hendry brought Juda before the judges and that Juda was examined by the judges and consented to move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Charles Morgan and Nicholas Van Wickle. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Juda and Samuel were two of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified.
• 1818-05-20 Removal: George

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove George, an enslaved boy aged 18, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on May 20, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Lewis Compton brought George before the judges and that George was examined by the judges and consented to move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Colonel Charles Morgan and Nicholas Van Wickle. The document also stated that George had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. George was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-05-20 Removal: Hannah

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove Hannah, an enslaved girl aged 16, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on May 20, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Lewis Compton brought Hannah before the judges and that Hannah was examined by the judges and consented to move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Colonel Charles Morgan and Nicholas Van Wickle. The document also stated that Hannah had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Hannah was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-05-20 Removal: Sam

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Peter F. Hendry to remove Sam, an enslaved man aged 32, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on May 20, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Peter F. Hendry brought Sam before the judges, and that Sam was examined by the judges and consented to move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Colonel Charles Morgan and Nicholas Van Wickle. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Sam was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified.
• 1818-05-21 Removal: Nancy, Joseph

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver David F. Labaw to remove Nancy, an enslaved woman aged 22, together with her infant son, aged 2 days, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on May 21, 1818. The baby's name was not recorded in the certificate. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that David F. Labaw brought Nancy before the judges, and that Nancy was examined by the judges "separate and apart from her said master" and consented to move from Middlesex County, NJ, to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, "there to serve Colonel Charles Morgan and Nicholas Van Wickle." The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Nancy was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified.
• 1818-05-22 Removal: Peter

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Samuel Gordon to remove Peter, an enslaved boy aged 17, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on May 22, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Samuel Gordon brought "his male servant Peter aged seventeen years" before the judges and that Peter was examined by the judges and consented to move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Charles Morgan and Nicholas Van Wickle or either of them "for and during the Term of Eleven years from the first day of May next." The terminology used in the certificate suggests that Peter was treated as an indentured servant, or a so-called slave for a term of 28 years, under the gradual abolition rules of a neighboring state (the laws of New York and Pennsylvania both stipulated that male children of enslaved mothers were eligible for emancipation at age 28). The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. When making a copy of the certificate into his bound volume, the County Clerk also appended this notation at the bottom of the record, suggesting that the original document had been altered: "The name Nicholas Van Wickle is erased before the name Samuel Gordon." Peter was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-05-23 Removal: Hannah

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove Hannah, an enslaved girl aged 14, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on May 23, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Lewis Compton brought Hannah before the judges, and that Hannah was examined by the judges and consented to move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Colonel Charles Morgan and Nicholas Van Wickle. The document also stated that Hannah had no parents in the State of New Jersey. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Hannah was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-05-23 Removal: Jack

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove Jack, an enslaved man aged 21, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on May 23, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Outcalt). The document stated that Lewis Compton brought Jack before the judges and that Jack was examined by the judges and consented to move to Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, there to serve Colonel Charles Morgan and Nicholas Van Wickle. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 15, 1818. Jack was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents, and then putting enslaved New Jerseyans on ships bound for Louisiana. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified. Particularly in the case of enslaved children, Van Wickle was known to add years to their ages, and he also may have falsely recorded that children did not have parents in New Jersey. This was done to circumvent the New Jersey law that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state.
• 1818-06-01 Removal: Salley

  On June 1, 1818, enslaver Daniel Perrine brought Salley, an enslaved woman aged 25, before the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County to obtain a removal certificate authorizing Salley's removal from Middlesex County, New Jersey, to Virginia. The certificate was signed by two judges (Thomas Hance and John Outcalt). The removal certificate stated that Daniel Perrine was planning to sell Salley to a man named Peter Tiernan, and that Salley was examined by the judges and consented to move with Peter Tiernan to Virginia. It appears that Tiernan did not appear in court, but he was mentioned in the document. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on the same day, June 1, 1818. The record only mentions the state of Virginia and does not list a more specific destination for Salley and Peter Tiernan.
• 1818-07-22 Removal: Hannah Grene, Rebecca Ann

  A removal certificate authorizing the relocation of Hannah Grene, an enslaved woman aged 21, from the State of New Jersey to Virginia was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on July 22, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Robert McChesney and Thomas Hance) and was subsequently recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on July 27, 1818. The document stated that Hannah Grene's enslaver George Farmer of Middlesex County brought Hannah Grene before the judges, as was required by law before an enslaved person could be taken out of the state. George Farmer planned to sell Hannah Grene to an enslaver named James K. Cook, a resident of Virginia. The law required Hannah Grene's consent for this move. The certificate states that Hannah Grene agreed to go to Virginia, but there was a condition attached: she was willing to go if James K. Cook would also purchase and take with him Hannah Grene's daughter Rebecca Ann, aged 4, who was currently enslaved by John Smock of Monmouth County. The document also noted that Rebecca Ann was eligible for emancipation at age 21 under New Jersey's gradual abolition law. This document suggests that, faced with an untenable situation, Hannah Grene took steps to prevent permanent separation from her daughter. Although 4-year-old Rebecca Ann's legal status as a slave for a term of 21 years was recorded in this document, relocation to Virginia was extremely dangerous for a child in her position, because it would be nearly impossible for her to enforce her rights under New Jersey's gradual abolition law once she reached adulthood in the South. Additionally, if Hannah Grene gave birth to any children in Virginia, they would be enslaved for life. The removal certificate listed George Farmer as a resident of Middlesex County, but did not specify the locality. However, other historical records confirm that George Farmer was a well-known resident of Piscataway and had a large estate called Belle Vue near the Raritan River (around the area of present-day Highland Park). It can be inferred that Hannah Grene lived at Belle Vue prior to her relocation to Virginia. The following is a complete transcript of the removal certificate: "Removal } Hannah Grene } State of New Jersey } Middlesex County} Be it remembered that on the twenty second day of July in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and eighteen, Captain George Farmer of the said county of Middlesex in New Jersey brought before us Robert McChesney and Thomas Hance two of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the said County his female slave named Hannah Grene aged between twenty one and twenty two years - and the said Hannah being by us examined separate and apart from her said Master declared that she was a slave for life and that she was willing and freely consented to remove and go out of this State with James K. Cook a resident in the State of Virginia (to whom her said master is about the sell her) and to reside with the said James K. Cook rather than continue with and serve her present master - provided that he the said James K. Cook purchases and takes with her female child named Rebeca Ann aged four years on or about the fifth day of April last past now belonging to John Smock in the County of Monmouth in New Jersey which said female child was born under the Abolition Act of the Legislature of the State of New Jersey by virtue of which act she the said female child will become free and entitled to freedom at the age of twenty one years. - In Testimony whereof we have hereunto set our hands the day and year above written. Robert McChesney } Thos. Hance } Judges Received July 27th 1818 & recorded by Deare CLK"
• 1818-08-04 Removal: Charles

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Redford Jobs to remove Charles, an enslaved man aged 22, from the State of New Jersey, was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on August 4, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (John Smith and Joseph McChesney). The document stated that Charles was examined by the judges and consented "to remove and go out of this State to Charleston in the State of Virginia and there to serve for life." The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on August 5, 1818. The certificate does not state the name of the enslaver whom Charles would "serve for life" in Charleston (which is located in present-day West Virginia). A typical removal certificate would either explicitly state that the original enslaver intended to relocate and bring the enslaved person along, or else record the name of the new enslaver who would be holding the person in bondage henceforth (usually as the result of a sale). However, this certificate does not provide such information. Thus, the circumstances of Charles's relocation out of New Jersey are uncertain. Redford Jobs was a long-time resident of New Jersey (around the area of West Windsor), and it appears likely that he did not leave New Jersey, but rather sold Charles out of the state.
• 1818-10-06 Removal: Cain

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove Cain, an enslaved man aged 22, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on October 6, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Smith). The document stated that Cain was examined by the judges and consented to move to New Iberia, Louisiana, there to serve William Stone as a slave for life. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 29, 1818. Cain was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents.
• 1818-10-06 Removal: Frank

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove Frank, an enslaved man aged 21, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on October 6, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Smith). The document stated that Frank was examined by the judges and consented to move to New Iberia, Louisiana, there to serve William Stone as a slave for life. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 29, 1818. Frank was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents.
• 1818-10-06 Removal: George

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove George, an enslaved man aged 35, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on October 6, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Smith). The document stated that George was examined by the judges and consented to move to New Iberia, Louisiana, there to serve William Stone as a slave for life. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 29, 1818. George was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents.
• 1818-10-15 Removal: Elijah

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove Elijah, an enslaved man aged 31, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on October 15, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Smith). The document stated that Elijah was examined by the judges and consented to move to Palmira, Mississippi, there to serve Allen Reynolds as a slave. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 29, 1818. Elijah was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents.
• 1818-10-15 Removal: Jack

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove Jack, an enslaved man aged 22, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on October 15, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Smith). The document stated that Jack was examined by the judges and consented to move with Lewis Compton to Louisiana, "there to serve Lewis Compton as a slave for life." The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 29, 1818. Jack was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents.
• 1818-10-15 Removal: Lewis

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove Lewis, an enslaved man aged 22, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on October 15, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Smith). The document stated that Lewis was examined by the judges and consented to move with Lewis Compton to New Iberia, Louisiana, there to serve Lewis Compton as a slave for life. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 29, 1818. Lewis was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents.
• 1818-10-15 Removal: Mary

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove Mary, an enslaved woman aged 27, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on October 15, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Smith). The document stated that Mary was examined by the judges and consented to move to Palmira, Mississippi, there to serve Allen Reynolds as a slave for life. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 29, 1818. Mary was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents.
• 1818-10-15 Removal: Phebe

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove Phebe, an enslaved woman aged 21, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on October 15, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Smith). The document stated that Phebe was examined by the judges and consented to move to Palmira, Mississippi, there to serve Allen Reynolds as a slave for life. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 29, 1818. Phebe was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents.
• 1818-10-15 Removal: Sam

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove Sam, an enslaved man aged 21, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on October 15, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Smith). The document stated that Sam was examined by the judges and consented to move to Mississippi, "there to serve Allen Reynolds as a servant for six years." The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 29, 1818. The language used in the certificate suggests that Sam was considered an indentured servant (or a so-called slave for a term of years) and would become eligible for emancipation in 6 years. However, going to Mississippi would likely deprive him of the opportunity to gain freedom because enforcing his legal rights under northern abolition laws would be nearly impossible in the Deep South. The certificate mentioned Mississippi, but did not list a specific locality. According to other related removal certificates, Allen Reynolds was a resident of Palmyra, Mississippi, so it can be inferred that this was Sam's intended destination. Sam was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents.
• 1818-10-15 Removal: Susan

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Abrams to remove Susan, an enslaved woman aged 23, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on October 15, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Smith). The document stated that Susan was examined by the judges and consented to move to Mississippi, there to serve Allen Reynolds as a slave for life. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 29, 1818. The certificate mentioned Mississippi, but did not list a specific locality. According to other related removal certificates, Allen Reynolds was a resident of Palmyra, Mississippi, so it can be inferred that this was Susan's intended destination. Susan was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents.
• 1818-10-21 Removal: Charles

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove Charles, an enslaved man aged 43, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on October 21, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Smith). The document stated that Lewis Compton brought Charles before the judges and that Charles was examined by the judges and consented to move to New Iberia, Louisiana, "there to serve the said Lewis Compton as a slave for life." The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 29, 1818. Charles was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents.
• 1818-10-21 Removal: Jane

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Abrams to remove Jane, an enslaved woman aged 23, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on October 21, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Smith). The document stated that Jane was examined by the judges and consented to move to New Iberia, Louisiana, there to serve William Stone as a slave for life. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 29, 1818. Jane was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents.
• 1818-10-21 Removal: Peter

  A removal certificate authorizing enslaver Lewis Compton to remove Peter, an enslaved person aged 14, from the State of New Jersey was issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Middlesex County on October 21, 1818. The certificate was signed by two judges (Jacob Van Wickle and John Smith). The document stated that Peter was examined by the judges and consented to move to New Iberia, Louisiana, there to serve Lewis Compton and William Stone "for life as a slave." The document also stated that Peter had no parents in living, and parental consent was not obtained. The certificate was recorded by the County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 29, 1818. Peter was one of the victims of the slave trading ring that revolved around Judge Jacob Van Wickle. Van Wickle and his associates exploited loopholes in New Jersey law in order to enrich themselves through the interstate slave trade. In 1818, Van Wickle falsified many removal certificates, signing the certificates without the consent of the enslaved people named in the documents. The details listed in the removal certificates issued by Jacob Van Wickle in 1818 are questionable. The dates of the supposed court appearances, the recorded ages, and the family circumstances of the enslaved individuals listed in the documents might have been falsified, particularly with the aim of circumventing the rules that required parental consent before enslaved minors could be taken out of the state. This particular certificate contains a number of inconsistencies, calling Peter a "female slave" and mixing up pronouns, noting that Lewis Compton brought before the court "his female slave named Peter aged fourteen years, and the said Peter being by us examined separate and apart from her said master declared that he was willing, and that he freely consented to remove and go out of this State to New Iberia in the State of Louisiana."