New Jersey Slavery Records

On August 1, 1818, Robert Chambers advertised the sale of a 9-year-old Black girl for a term of 12 years. Born circa 1809, the girl was considered a slave for a term of 21 years under New Jersey's gradual abolition law, and she had 12 more years of service before she would be eligible for emancipation. ----- Transcript of the source document: "For Sale, The time of a healthy BLACK GIRL, nine years old, and has twelve years to serve. Enquire of ROBERT CHAMBERS, Mill-hill, near Trenton. August 1st, 1818. 14.3w"

On August 1, 1818, Garret Whitlock posted an advertisement for an enslaved farm servant aged 31 or 32 years. ----- Transcript of the source document: "For Sale, A Good FARM SERVANT, ABOUT thirty one or two years of age. For further particulars, please to apply to GARRET WHITLOCK. Rocky-Hill, August 1, 1818. 15.3tp"

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 71 Child: Charles Mother: Nancy Enslaver of mother and child: William Post Location: West Windsor, NJ Birth date: August 1, 1818 Reported date: September 2, 1823 Clerk: William Philips Deare

The following birth record from Gloucester County was transcribed by the Historical Records Survey Project of the Works Progress Administration. The transcript was originally published in 1940 in the book titled Transcriptions of Early County Records of New Jersey: Gloucester County Series Slave Documents. The transcript is reproduced below as it appeared in that book. The document certified the births of Biddy's two children: Paul and his sister Mary Ann. Note that, although these documents were filed in Gloucester County, the Waterford area where these births took place is now part of Camden County. GLOUCESTER COUNTY DOCUMENT NUMBER: 6 TRANSCRIPT: Gloucester County ss I William Tod of the Township of Waterford County of Gloucester, New Jersey do by these, presents Certify that on the third day of August A D 1811 Was born of the Body of Biddy, a Black Woman and slave to the Subscriber a "Female Slave "Child" named Mary Ann this time above Nine Years and Four Months In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand this thirteenth day of December A D 1820 Willm Tod Gloucester County ss William Tod of the Township of Waterford County of Gloucester New Jersey do by these presents Certify that on the [...] day of August A D 1818 Was Born of the Body of Biddy, a Black Woman and slave to the subscriber a Male Child Named Paul aged at this time about Two Years and four Months In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this thirteenth day of December A D 1820 Willm Tod [Verso] Certificate of the birth of two Slaves to Wm. Tod. Recd Decem 13 1820 and recorded in the Clerks Office at Woodbury Lib A of Manumissions folio 14 J. J. Foster, Clk.

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.

This sale advertisement for an adult Black woman does not list the name of the seller. Prospective buyers are advised to inquire with the printer of the newspaper (George Sherman of Trenton) who will help facilitate the sale. ----- Transcript of the source document: "To be disposed of, for a term of years, a very capable BLACK WOMAN accustomed to all kinds of family business, perfectly honest, and sober—enquire at this office. 143w"

Slaveholder Andrew Kirkpatrick manumitted Samuel Lane on August 21, 1818. Samuel Lane was between 21 and 40 years old, but his exact age was not recorded by the county officials. Kirkpatrick noted that he manumitted Lane "especially in consideration of his services for several years to me rendered." Kirkpatrick described Lane as "negro man named Sam, but who calls himself Samuel Lane." The Middlesex County Book of Manumissions and Removals contains two records related to Samuel Lane's manumission. The Certificate of Manumission, issued on August 21, 1818, by officials Abraham Van Arsdalen (Overseer of the Poor of the township of North Brunswick), Thomas Hance and John Gillman (two Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County), appears on page 274. The Deed of Manumission signed by Andrew Kirkpatrick on August 21, 1818, appears on pages 274-275. These documents were recorded in the book by Middlesex County Clerk William P. Deare on August 24, 1818.

On August 30th, 1818, a 22-year-old Black man named Earl ran away from his enslaver Abner Woodward in Burlington County, New Jersey. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Ten Dollar Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber on the 30th day of August, a NEGRO MAN, called Earl, about 22 years of age, 5 feet 5 or 6 inches high, stout built, the joint in his right thumb is stiff from a cut—wore a brown coat, and homespun trowsers. The above reward will be paid for securing him in any jail, that the owner may get him again. ABNER WOODWARD. Burlington County, Sept. 8, 1818. 20-3w"

Mark Harris Sr. was recorded as a member of the African Association of New Brunswick who paid dues during the meeting of September 5, 1818. He paid 50 cents membership dues. His name was recorded in the association's minute book as "Mark Harres."

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Abigale Mother: not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Everett Van Auken Location: Newton, NJ Birth date: 14 September 1818 Recorded date: 5 August 1825 Clerk: David D. Chandler The enslaver signed by his mark and is presumed to be illiterate.

Mariann (or Mary Ann) was manumitted when she was 21 years old. She was manumitted by Samuel Edgar of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Joseph Crowell and John Harriott) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Ichabod Potter and Ephraim Harriot) on October 3, 1818. The document recorded her name as Mary Ann and stated that she was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on October 3, 1818, by Samuel Edgar, and was witnessed by John Holton and Ichabod Potter. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on October 17, 1818. Note that, although the manumission certificate does not mention this, in manumitting Mariann, Samuel Edgar was following the wishes of his father James Edgar, deceased in 1815. James Edgar's will, written in 1814, recorded the young woman's name as Mariann and instructed that she should be manumitted at age 21. Samuel Edgar was one of the executors of his father's will.

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.

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.

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.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Cato Mother: Yon Enslaver of mother and child: Jacob Hornbeck Location: Sussex County (Sandyston, NJ) Birth date: 10 Oct 1818 Recorded date: 21 Aug 1819 Clerk: Green

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Jain Mother: Name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: John A. Johnson Location: Independence Township Birth date: October 19, 1818 Recorded date: February 1, 1819 Clerk: Green

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.

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.

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."

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: female child, name not listed Mother: Nance Enslaver of mother and child: Abraham Shaver Location: Stillwater Birth date: November 7, 1818 Recorded date: January 11, 1819 Clerk: Green Other historical records indicate that enslaver Abraham Shaver was the owner of the Shafer Grist Mill in Stillwater.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Marten Mother: Jin Enslaver of mother and child at the time of birth: Thomas VnKirk Location: Sussex County Birth date: 8 Nov 1818 Recorded date: 13 March 1819 Clerk: Greene The birth certificate indicates that the boy and his mother were originally enslaved by Thomas VanKirk and were then sold to Job S. Halsted of Newton on March 1, 1819. The place of birth of the child is not specified on the birth certificate, but since Thomas VanKirk was known to be a resident of Hardyston, it appears likely that the child was born in that township.

Saul Edgar, aged 31, was manumitted by Peter Edgar and David Edgar, the sons and executors of the last will and testament of Thomas Edgar of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The executors brought Saul Edgar to court to obtain a certificate of manumission. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Joseph Crowell and Richard Cutter) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Ichabod Potter and Ephraim Harriot) on November 28, 1818. The document stated that Saul Edgar was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was signed on November 28, 1818, by Peter Edgar and David Edgar. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 5, 1818. The abstract of the will of Thomas Edgar (published in the Calendar of Wills, Vol. 12, 1810–1813) does not mention Saul Edgar.

Saul Noe, aged 27, was manumitted by John Clark Noe of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Joseph Crowell and Richard Cutter) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Ephraim Harriot and Ichabod Potter) on November 28, 1818. The document stated that Saul Noe was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on November 28, 1818, by John Clark Noe. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 8, 1819.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Dine Mother: Pat Enslaver of mother and child: George Bowlby Location: Sussex County (Locality not listed) Birth date: December 27, 1818 Reported date: May 21, 1820 Clerk: Green

Mark Harris Sr. was recorded as a member of the African Association of New Brunswick on January 1, 1819. He paid 50 cents membership dues. His name was recorded in the association's minute book as "Mark Harress."

Samuel Lane was recorded as a member of the African Association of New Brunswick who paid dues during the meeting of January 1, 1819. He paid 50 cents membership dues (the customary 6-month dues for free persons of color). His name was recorded in the association's minute book as "Samuel Lain." Samuel had been previously enslaved by Andrew Kirkpatrick, but had been manumitted four months prior to this event.

Henry Staats (aka Harry) received a permission slip from his enslaver, Abraham Staats of Franklin Township, allowing him to join the African Association of New Brunswick. The following is a transcript of the permission slip, which refers to him by the name Harry: "January 9th 1819 
This certifies that I give my colourd man Harry my approbation to become a member of the African Association.
 Abrm Staats" He was recorded as a member of the association in January 1819, and he paid 25 cents membership dues. His name was recorded in the association's minute book as Henry Staats.

Charles, aged 28, was manumitted by Sarah Goelet of Perth Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Perth Amboy (Charles Ford and John Wait) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (James Skinner and Robert Arnold) on February 1, 1819. The document stated that Charles was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on February 1, 1819, by Sarah Goelet. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on March 1, 1819.

Mary was manumitted by the last will and testament of James Harris of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey, who died in August 1813. His will was written on May 10, 1813, and stipulated that Mary and her daughter Bet should be set free. The manumission registration for Mary did not take place until February 3, 1819, five and a half years after the death of James Harris. The executors of the will of James Harris were his widow Jane Covert (previously Jane Harris, who remarried and became Jane Covert by 1819) and friend Lefferd Waldron Sr. The executors brought Mary to court to complete the process and obtain a certificate of manumission. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (Ephraim Runyon and John Dayton) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Samuel Drake and George Boice) on February 3, 1819. The document stated that Mary was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. Mary's exact age was not recorded in the document. She was described in this document as "femail Negro slave name Mary who by virtue of the Will and last testament of said James Harris dece'd was ordered after his death to be set free from slavery." The deed of manumission was signed on February 3, 1819, by Jane Covert (who signed by her mark) and Jefferd Waldron Sr. in the presence of witnesses Lewis D. Stelle and Elisha Coriell. The deed was notarized by Judge John Outcalt on March 17, 1819. The certificate and deed were both recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on March 17, 1819.

On March 1, 1819, enslaver Thomas VanKirk of Hardyston, NJ, sold Jin and her infant son Marten to the lawyer Job Stockton Halsted of Newton, NJ. Both of the enslavers were residents of Sussex County. This information comes from the birth certificate that Thomas VanKirk filed for Marten, where VanKirk mentioned that he sold the boy and his mother.

Peter was manumitted by Mary Clarkson of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (John Harriott and Joseph Crowell) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Josiah Ford and Richard Marsh) on March 6, 1819. The document stated that Peter was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. Peter's exact age was not recorded in the document. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 20, 1819.

The following birth record from Gloucester County was transcribed by the Historical Records Survey Project of the Works Progress Administration. The transcript was originally published in 1940 in the book titled Transcriptions of Early County Records of New Jersey: Gloucester County Series Slave Documents. The transcript is reproduced below as it appeared in that book. GLOUCESTER COUNTY DOCUMENT NUMBER: 3 TRANSCRIPT: State of New Jersey Gloucester County Ss To the Clerk of the County of Gloucester- I James Matlack of Woodbury in the Township of Deptford, County of Gloucester and State of New Jersey - Do by these presents Certify That on thursday the 11th day of March, in the year of our LORD one Thousand eight hundred and nineteen, Was Born of the Body of Sill Johnson (a Black woman) and slave to the subscriber, "a black Female Child, named Dianna Johnson aged at this time Four 'weeks and four Days" In testimony Whereof I have Set my hand this 12th day of april A. D. eighteen hundred and nineteen - 1819. James Matlack [Verso] Certificate of the Birth of a Female black child Born Mar, 11th, 1819. filed 12th April 1819. Hendry Clk. recorded same day - 12 April 1819, Hendry Clk

Benjamin Mendes, aged 35, was manumitted by Benjamin Davids of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Richard Cutter and Joseph Crowell) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Ichabod Potter and Richard Marsh) on March 19, 1819. The document stated that Benjamin Mendes was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on March 17, 1819, by Benjamin Davids. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on August 16, 1819.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 78 Child: Ellen Mother: Kate Enslaver of mother and child: Enos Ayers Location: North Brunswick, NJ Birth date: March 29, 1819 Reported date: May 27, 1829 Clerk: T. S. Van Arsdalen Sarah Ayers signed the birth certificate on behalf of Enos Ayers on May 27, 1829, but her relationship to Enos Ayers is not clarified in the document. The same document also reported the birth of children Silas and Catharine Jane.

Philip Dunn, aged 35, was manumitted by Samuel Dunn of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Richard Cutter and Joseph Crowell) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Ichabod Potter and Josiah Ford) on April 1, 1819. The document stated that Philip Dunn was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on April 1, 1819, by Samuel Dunn. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on November 30, 1819.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 86 Child: Jude Stout Mother: Jane Enslaver of mother and child: Asher Applegate Location: East Windsor, NJ Birth date: May 9, 1819 Reported date: August 9, 1836 Clerk: Nicholas Booraem The birth registration was delayed by seventeen years and did not occur until after the deaths of the original enslaver Asher Applegate and his wife Sarah Applegate. Executor Abijah Applegate signed the birth certificate on August 9, 1836, on behalf of the estate of his father Asher Applegate.

Nancy Smith, aged 22, was manumitted by John Brown of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Joseph Crowell and Richard Cutter) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Ichabod Potter and Josiah Ford) on June 2, 1819. The document stated that Nancy Smith was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 9, 1819.

Jack Demun, aged 39, was manumitted by the last will and testament of Israel Thornal of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey, who died in May 1819. The executors of Israel Thornal's estate (Lewis Thornal and Manning Thornal) brought Jack Demun to court to complete the process and obtain a certificate of manumission. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Joseph Crowell and Richard Cutter) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Ichabod Potter and Josiah Ford) on June 19, 1819. The document stated that Jack Demun was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was signed on June 19, 1819, by Lewis Thornal and Manning Thornal in the presence of witnesses Reuben M. Mundy and Joseph Crowell. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on July 1, 1819.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Benjamin Mother: Poll Enslaver of mother and child: John D. Van Horn Location: Sussex County (locality not specififed) Birth date: 27 June 1819 Recorded date: 10 Aug 1822 Clerk: Greene

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 86 Child: Jim Mother: Fan Enslaver of mother and child: William Hollowet[?] Location: South Brunswick, NJ Birth date: July 1, 1819 Reported date: June 28, 1836 Clerk: Nicholas Booraem

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Tom Mother: Dine Decker Enslaver of mother and child: Bow Decker Location: Sussex County (Locality not listed) Birth date: July 11, 1819 Recorded date: November 29, 1821 Clerk: Green The place of birth was not specified on the certificate, but Bowdewine Decker was a well-known resident of Wantage, and it can be inferred that the child was born there.

Anthony (also called Tony or Toney), aged 30, was manumitted by Sarah Voorhees of the City of New Brunswick in North Brunswick Township, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of North Brunswick (Abraham Van Arsdalen) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Thomas Hance and John Outcalt) on July 12, 1819. The document stated that Anthony was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on July 12, 1819, by Sarah Voorhees. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on August 4, 1819.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 258 Child: Lidia Mother: name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Abraham A. Van Arsdalen Location: Somerset County (locality not specified) Birth date: 16 July 1819 Reported date: 6 Jan 1820 Clerk: Samuel Swan

Margaret Lawrence, aged 38, was manumitted by John Rattoone of Perth Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Perth Amboy (Charles Ford and John Wait) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Robert Arnold and James Skinner) on July 16, 1819. The document stated that Margaret Lawrence was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on August 3, 1819. The deed of manumission was signed on July 16, 1819, by John Rattoone. The deed was recorded separately by Deare on January 25, 1823. John Rattoone also manumitted a man named Silas Hendrickson at the same time.

Silas Hendrickson, aged 21, was manumitted by John Rattoone of Perth Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Perth Amboy (Charles Ford and John Wait) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Robert Arnold and James Skinner) on July 16, 1819. The document stated that Silas Hendrickson was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on August 3, 1819, on page 304 of the county Book of Manumissions. The deed of manumission was signed on July 16, 1819, by John Rattoone. The deed was recorded separately by Deare on January 25, 1823, on page 371 of the book. John Rattoone also manumitted a woman named Margaret Lawrence at the same time.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Hager (possibly "Hager Mana") Mother: Not listed or indecipherable Enslaver of mother and child: difficult to decipher, possibly Major Lesten, Lester, or Gesten Location: Sussex County (Locality not specified) Birth date: July 26, 1819 Recorded date: January 15, 1820 Clerk: name not listed, presumed Ephraim Green Jr

The following manumission record from Gloucester County was transcribed by the Historical Records Survey Project of the Works Progress Administration. The transcript was originally published in 1940 in the book titled Transcriptions of Early County Records of New Jersey: Gloucester County Series Slave Documents. The transcript is reproduced below as it appeared in that book. The manumission of Cornelia McLaughlin Kennedy was performed in 1819 by William Cooper and Richard M. Cooper, acting as the executors for the estate of Joseph Cooper Esq., who had died in November 1818. The document mentions that the decedent had lived at Cooper's Point in Newton Township, Gloucester County. This refers to the Cooper's Poynt area of present-day Camden in Camden County (it was still part of Newton Township at the time when this document was filed). The certificate of manumission transcribed here does not list Cornelia's age, but she was probably about 21 at this time. See the related event linked below—the will of Joseph Cooper Esq., which mentions that Cornelia McLaughlin should be free at age 21. GLOUCESTER COUNTY DOCUMENT NUMBER: 42 TRANSCRIPT: State of New Jersey Gloucester County, to wit:- We do hereby certify, That on this twenty seventh day of July in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and nineteen, William Cooper and Richard M. Cooper acting Executors of the last Will and Testament of Joseph Cooper Esquire late of Cooper's point in the Township of Newton and County of Gloucester aforesaid deceased, brought before us two of the overseers of the poor of the said Township and two of the Justices of the peace of said County. Cornelia McLaughlin Kennedy a female Mulatto Slave, belonging to the Estate of the said Joseph Cooper Esquire deceased, who on view and examination appear to us to be sound in mind and nor under any bodily incapacity of obtaining a support and also is not under the age of twenty one years nor above the age of forty years. In Witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands, the day and year above written Cornelius Wiltsee ) Overseers of the poor of the Isaac Webster ) said Township of Newton Joseph Rogers ) Justices of the peace in and for Joel Gibbs ) the said County of Gloucester. 27 Aug. 1819 [Verso] Certificate of two of the overseers of the poor of the Township of Newton and two of the Justices of the peace of the County of Gloucester for Cornelia McLaughlin Kennedy Received & Recorded 27 Aug. 1819, Book A page 4 of Manumissions. Hendry Clk

Hannah was manumitted by Stelle Fitz Randolph of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (Ephraim Runyon and John Dayton) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (John Gillman and William Benjamin Manning) on August 24, 1819. The document stated that Hannah was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. Hannah's exact age was not recorded in the document. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on August 25, 1819.

Harry was manumitted by Stelle Fitz Randolph of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (Ephraim Runyon and John Dayton) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (William Benjamin Manning and John Gillman) on August 24, 1819. The document stated that Harry was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. Harry's exact age was not recorded in the document. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on August 25, 1819.

Cesar Mundy, aged 21, was manumitted by Phineas Mundy of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (John Harriott and Richard Cutter) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Ichabod Potter and Benajah Mundy) on September 23, 1819. The document stated that Cesar Mundy was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on September 23, 1819, by Phineas Mundy. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on September 25, 1819.

Cato, aged 24, was manumitted by Margaret Haines of West Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of West Windsor (Henry Dye) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (William Tindall and Samuel Gulick) on October 14, 1819. The document stated that Cato was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on October 14, 1819, by Margaret Haines. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on the same day.

Robert Brister, aged 26, was manumitted by Mary Groom of South Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of South Amboy (Matthias Mount) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Joseph McChesney and Robert McChesney) on October 14, 1819. The document stated that Robert Brister was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on October 14, 1819, by Mary Groom. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on October 28, 1819.

George, aged 33, was manumitted by William L. Dey of South Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of South Amboy (Matthias Mount) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (John Dey and Robert McChesney) on October 22, 1819. The document stated that George was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on October 28, 1819.

Joseph, aged 32, was manumitted by Hannah Mershon, the executrix of the last will and testament of Robert Mershon of South Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey. Hannah Mershon completed the manumission process on October 23, 1819, when she brought Joseph to court to obtain a certificate of manumission. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of South Brunswick (Andrew McDowell and John Barricklo) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Nathaniel Hunt and John Bastedo). The document stated that Joseph was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. This certificate of manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) in his Book of Manumissions on June 3, 1822, on page 360. The accompanying deed of manumission was signed on October 23, 1819, by Hannah Mershon in the presence of witnesses Daniel J. Barricklo and Lydia Barricklo. The deed was notarized on July 22, 1822, by Judge Nathaniel Hunt, and then recorded by Deare in his book on October 28, 1822, on pages 367-368.

Thomas, aged 30, was manumitted by George Boice of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (Ephraim Runyon and John Dayton) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (William Benjamin Manning and John LaTourrette) on October 28, 1819. The document stated that Thomas was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on November 4, 1819. The deed of manumission was executed on October 28, 1819, by George Boice. It was notarized by Judge Thomas Hance and recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 24, 1819.

The following birth record from Gloucester County was transcribed by the Historical Records Survey Project of the Works Progress Administration. The transcript was originally published in 1940 in the book titled Transcriptions of Early County Records of New Jersey: Gloucester County Series Slave Documents. The transcript is reproduced below as it appeared in that book. GLOUCESTER COUNTY DOCUMENT NUMBER: 5 TRANSCRIPT: State of New Jersey Gloucester County ss I Samuel Kille of the Township of Woolwich in the County and State aforesaid do by these presents Certify that on the twenty first day of November in the Year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and Nineteen, Was born of the body of Nancy, a Black Woman and Slave to the Subscriber "A Male child named Frank" aged at -this time Ten Months and twenty five Days. In Testimony Thereof I have hereunto Set my hand this Sixteenth day of October A D Eighteen hundred and Twenty Samuel Kille [Verso] Certificate Sam Kille Recorded 16 October 1820 in Book A Page 10, of Manumissions Hendry, Clk.

Cato, aged 30, was manumitted by Abraham Van Arsdalen and William P. Deare, acting as executors for the estate of Elijah Hunt, deceased. Before his death, Elijah Hunt promised to manumit Cato in September 1819 (at the expiration of a 9-year term of service that began in September 1810). The manumission deed, signed by the executors on December 13, 1819, states: "Elijah Hunt late of the Township of North Brunswick in the County of Middlesex New Jersey dec'd, did in his lifetime by writing under his hand & seal covenant & bind himself on the 11th Sept. 1810 to manumit and set free his Negro Slave Cato in nine years from the date thereof, which term hath now expired," and thus the executors "in pursuance of the said covenant manumit and set free the said Negro Slave Cato aged about thirty years from slavery and servitude." The executors brought Cato to court to complete the process and obtain a certificate of manumission. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of North Brunswick (who happened to be Abraham Van Arsdalen, one of the executors of Elijah Hunt's estate) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Thomas Hance and Nicholas Booraem Jr.) on December 13, 1819. The document stated that Cato was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed and the certificate were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare, who was also one of the executors named in the documents) on December 24, 1819.

Abraham Shaver of Stillwater wrote his will on December 29, 1819. He mentioned two Black people by name and made reference to other enslaved children without listing their names. These enslaved people were to serve Shaver's widow Sarah. Transcript of the relevant passage from his will is as follows: "I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Sarah Shaver ... [mansion house, garden, cows, horses, furniture, etc] ... also my black girl Nance and my black boy Bob and her choice of one of my little black girls." The boy Bob mentioned in the will was the son of Nance. The words "one of my little black girls" refers to the girl children in the household, whose birth certificates with the Sussex County Clerk indicate that their names were Dinah, Ester, and another baby girl whose name is not known.

Henry Staats was recorded as a member of the African Association of New Brunswick on January 1, 1820. He paid 25 cents membership dues.

Mark Harris Sr. was recorded as a member of the African Association of New Brunswick on January 1, 1820. He paid 50 cents membership dues.

Phillis Nelson became a member of the African Association of New Brunswick on January 1, 1820, with the permission of enslaver John Neilson. The following is a transcript of the permission slip written by John Neilson: "Phillis a colored woman has my entire approbation to join the Affrican Association. New Brunswick 1 Janry 1820 John Neilson" The minute book for the association records Phillis as a member who paid dues during the meeting of January 1, 1820. She paid 25 cents membership dues (the customary 6-month dues for enslaved members of the organization). Her name was recorded in the minute book as "Phillis Nelson."

Samuel Lane was recorded as a member of the African Association of New Brunswick who paid dues during the meeting of January 1, 1820. He paid 50 cents membership dues (the customary 6-month dues for free persons of color). His name was recorded in the association's minute book as "Samuel Lain." This is the last time his name appears in the organization's records. He was a member from 1817 to 1820. At the time of this event, Samuel was a free man. He had been previously enslaved by Andrew Kirkpatrick, but was manumitted in 1818.

Peter Lewe (also referred to as Peter Manning) was manumitted by William F. Manning, the son and heir and administrator of the estate of Jeremiah Manning, deceased. The certificate of manumission for Peter Lewe was issued on January 25, 1820. The certificate was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Richard Cutter and Joseph Crowell) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Ichabod Potter and Josiah Ford). The document stated that Peter Lewe was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. Peter Lewe's exact age was not recorded in the document. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on January 26, 1820. Note that Jeremiah Manning had died sixteen and a half years earlier in June 1803. It appears that Jeremiah Manning died without a will. Unlike most other manumissions performed after the death of an enslaver, this one was not related to wishes expressed in the enslaver's will, but rather fulfilled the promises that Jeremiah Manning had made while he was still alive. The certificate of manumission recorded by the County Clerk provided additional details about the situation, mentioning that Jeremiah Manning intended to manumit two enslaved persons during his lifetime: Dianna Lewe and Peter Lewe. Dianna had been set free in 1801 (see related manumission event for Dianna Lewe), but Peter was not given his freedom before Jeremiah Manning's death in 1803, and continued in slavery until 1820. ----- The following is a complete transcript of the certificate of manumission, appearing on pages 322-323 in the Middlesex County Book of Manumissions: "Certificate } Dianna Lewe } Peter Lewe } als. Manning } Whereas Jeremiah Manning late of the Township of Woodbridge, County of Middlesex & State of New Jersey, deceased in his life time was owner of the slaves called Dianna Lewe and Peter Lewe / or otherwise / Dianna Manning & Peter Manning. And whereas on the 14th day of June 1801 the said Dianna was manumitted according to Law as by a certificate for that purpose will appear, and it being the intention of the said Jeremiah that the said Peter should also be manumitted whenever the same was practicable. Therefore William F. Manning of the Township aforesaid, one of the sons, and one of the heirs and admns of said Jeremiah on the 25th day of January 1820 brought before us (two of the overseers of the poor of the Township aforesaid & two of the Justices of the Peace of said county) the said Peter Lewe (otherwise Peter Manning) who on view and examination appears to us to be sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity of obtaining a support, and also is not under the age of twenty one years, nor above the age of forty years, these are to certify the same. Witness our hands the day and year above written — Richd Cutter } Joseph Crowell } Overseers of the Poor of the Township of Woodbridge Ichabod Potter } Josiah Ford } Justices of the Peace in & for the County of Middlesex Received 26 January 1820 & Recorded by Deare Clk"

The following birth record from Gloucester County was transcribed by the Historical Records Survey Project of the Works Progress Administration. The transcript was originally published in 1940 in the book titled Transcriptions of Early County Records of New Jersey: Gloucester County Series Slave Documents. The transcript is reproduced below as it appeared in that book. GLOUCESTER COUNTY DOCUMENT NUMBER: 4 TRANSCRIPT: State of New Jersey Gloucester County SS To all to whom it may concern:- I, James Matlack of Woodbury in the County & State aforesaid, do hereby certify that on the Twenty first day of February A D, Eightteen hundred and twenty. A Female Child named Emaline S. B. Johnson, aged at this time Seven weeks was born of the body of Phebe Johnson a Courlered Woman a Slave the property of the said Matlack - Which certificate is produced to the Clerk of the said County to be recorded this Tenth day of April A D eighteen hundred and twenty - Per James Matlack April 10th 1820. [Verso] Certificate of the Birth of Emaline S. B. Johnson daughter of Phebe Johnson a slave Recorded 10 April 1820 in the Book A of Manumissions Page 6 Hendry, Clk.

Mariah was manumitted by John Fitz Randolph of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (John Dayton and Ephraim Runyon) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (William B. Manning and John Gillman) on March 18, 1820. The document stated that Mariah was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. Mariah's exact age was not recorded in the document. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 11, 1820.

Elisha, aged 31, was manumitted by William I. Tindall of West Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of West Windsor (Henry Dye) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (John Hammell and William Tindall) on March 31, 1820. The document stated that Elisha was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on March 31, 1820, by William I. Tindall. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 12, 1820.

Plina Maria was manumitted by Bernard Smith, Esquire, of North Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of North Brunswick (Abraham Van Arsdalen) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Nicholas Booraem Jr. and James Dunham) on April 3, 1820. The document stated that Plina Maria was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. Plina Maria's exact age was not recorded in the document. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on April 11, 1821.

Ben was manumitted by Joseph Grover of South Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of South Brunswick (Andrew McDowell and John Barricklo) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Nathaniel Hunt and John Bastedo) on April 15, 1820. The document stated that Ben was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. Ben's exact age was not recorded in the document. The deed of manumission was executed on April 15, 1820, by Joseph Grover, in the presence of witnesses Benjamin Griggs and Daniel J. Barricklo. The deed was notarized by Moses Morris on December 26, 1820. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 10, 1823.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Archoble McVicker Mother: Rachel Enslaver of mother and child: A. Hunt Location: Sussex County Birth date: April 16, 1820 Reported date: October 13, 1820 Clerk: Green

Samuel Brown, aged 38, was manumitted by Benjamin A. Brown of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Jonathan Freeman and Frazee Ayers) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Ichabod Potter and Josiah Ford) on May 24, 1820. The document stated that Samuel Brown was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on May 22, 1820, by Benjamin A. Brown. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on November 7, 1820.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Harry Mother: Dine Dewitt Enslaver of mother and child: Bow Decker Location: Sussex County (Locality not listed) Birth date: May 23, 1820 Recorded date: November 29, 1821 Clerk: Green The place of birth was not specified on the certificate, but Bowdewine Decker was a well-known resident of Wantage, and it can be inferred that the child was born there.

George Wiles was manumitted by Benjamin James of East Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey, on June 10, 1820. The enslaver/manumitter in this case was a Black man (himself a formerly enslaved person who attained freedom from Samuel Eli in 1807). The manumission certificate listed the enslaver as "Ben James blackman of the township of East Windsor." The certificate was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of East Windsor (John Hammell and David Silver) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (William Tindall Jr. and John Hammell, who was also one of the Overseers of the Poor, so signed the document twice). The document stated that George Wiles was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. George Wiles's exact age was not recorded in the document. This document was received and recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on September 17, 1821. This is one of two manumissions recorded in Middlesex County where the enslaver performing the manumission is a Black person. It is possible that Benjamin James and George Wiles may have been related. African Americans in the early 19th century sometimes purchased and then manumitted their own family members as a way to secure freedom for their relatives. It is uncertain whether a familial relationship existed between Benjamin James and George Wiles.

The following manumission record from Gloucester County was transcribed by the Historical Records Survey Project of the Works Progress Administration. The transcript was originally published in 1940 in the book titled Transcriptions of Early County Records of New Jersey: Gloucester County Series Slave Documents. The transcript is reproduced below as it appeared in that book. This manumission took place in Swedesboro, which was then part of the township of Woolwich. TRANSCRIPT: [DOCUMENT 43] To all to Whom these presents shall come or may Concern I, Simon Wilmer, Rector of the Swedish Lutheran Church at Swedesborough in the County of Gloucester and State of New Jersey Sent Greeting Know ye, that I the said Simon Wilmer, for divers good causes and considerations me thereunto moving have, and by those presents do hereby manunit and set free my Negro Slave Lydia Bradly of the age of thirty seven years On Christman Day next ensueing the date hereof, she being at this time of sound mind and under no bodily incapacity of obtaining her support. So that neither I myself my heirs executors or administrators can hereafter have claim or demand the said Lydia, or her labour or services as a Slave, In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal. this Seventeenth day of June. in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty 1820. S. Wilmer (Seal) Sealed and Delivered in the presence of Thos. Wilkison W. Harrison State of New Jersey Gloucester County ss Be it known that on the seventeenth day of June A Domine Eighteen hundred and twenty before me the subscriber Commissioner for taking the acknowledgement and proof of deeds in and for the said County personally came Simon Wilmer the Grantor to the above instrument of Manumission and acknowledged that he Signed Sealed and delivered the same as his Act and deed to and for the uses and purposes therein contained. Acknowledged and the Day and year above written before me Tho's Wilkins [Verso] 30 June 1820 Manumission of Lydia Bradley Rec'd 30 June 1820 and Recorded in the Clerks Office of Gloucester County in Liber A page 9 of Manumissions Hendry Clk [DOCUMENT 44] State of New Jersey Gloucester County to wit. We do hereby certify, that on this Seventeenth day of June One Thousand Eight hundred and twenty. The Reverind Simon Wilmer of Swedesborough in the Township of Woolwich in the County aforesaid brought before us two of the overseers of the poor of the said Township, and two of the Justices of the peace of the said County, his slave named Lydia Bradley who on view and examination appears to us to be sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity of obtaining a support, and also is not under the age of twenty One years, nor above the age of forty years. In Witness, whereof we have hereunto set our hands the day and year above written. John Pierson ) Overseers of the poor of the Leanard Fisler ) said Township Samuel Cooper ) Justices of the peace in and for Robt. Littermay ) the said County of Gloucester 30 June 1820 [Verso] Certificate Simon Wilmer Simon Wilmer Rec'd 30 June 1820 and recorded in the Clerks Office of Gloucester County in Book A page 8 of Manumissions. Hendry Clk

Henry Staats was recorded as a member of the African Association of New Brunswick on July 1, 1820. He paid 25 cents membership dues.

Mark Harris Sr. was recorded as a member of the African Association of New Brunswick on July 1, 1820. He paid 50 cents membership dues.

Phillis Neilson was recorded as a member of the African Association of New Brunswick who paid dues during the meeting of July 1, 1820. She paid 25 cents membership dues (the customary 6-month dues for enslaved members of the organization). Her name was recorded in the association's minute book as "Phillis Nelson."

On August 9, 1820, a certificate of manumission was issued for Oliver Johnston, who was brought before Middlesex County officials by John Crowell, acting as assignee for Jacob Fitz Randolph. Oliver Johnston was aged 21 to 40 at the time of manumission. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Jonathan Freeman and Frazee Ayers) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Ichabod Potter and Richard Marsh). The document stated that Oliver Johnston was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. Oliver Johnston's exact age was not recorded in the document. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on September 4, 1820.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Clinton Mother: name not listed Enslaver of mother and child at the time of birth: David Philips Location: Sandiston Birth date: 10 Aug 1820 Recorded date: 19 June 1822 Clerk: Greene The original enslaver David Phillips died on June 15, 1822. His widow Abigail Phillips submitted this record to the Sussex County Clerk several days after David's death on June 19, 1822.

Somerset County Register of Black Children, Manumissions, and Removals, Book A, Page 265, contains a manumission record for Susan, who was released from slavery on 16 August 1820 in Franklin (Somerset County). Susan was manumitted by David Nevius Jr.. The manumission document states that Susan was 34 years old at the time of this event. The document was entered into the book by the County Clerk (Samuel Swan) on 4 September 1820. The manumission record was signed by the Overseers of the Poor for the township (Andrew Brown and Jeromus Rappleyea) and Justices of the Peace for Somerset County (John Terhune and Andrew Brown).

Somerset County Register of Black Children, Manumissions, and Removals, Book A, Pages 265-266, contain a manumission deed and certificate for Tom, who was released from slavery on 26 August 1820 in Montgomery. Tom's primary enslaver, Job Stockton, had died earlier in 1820, and the manumission was performed by Ebenezer Stockton and James S. Green, the administrators of the estate of Job Stockton. In the manumission deed, Ebenezer Stockton and James S. Green noted that they freed Tom "for divers good causes us thereunto moving and also for and in consideration of the regard the said Job Stockton in his lifetime entertained for his negro slave named Tom." The manumission certificate states that Tom was an adult between 21 and 40 years old, but his exact age was not recorded. The documents were entered into the book by the County Clerk (Samuel Swan) on 9 September 1820. The manumission certificate was signed by the Overseers of the Poor for the township of Montgomery (William Duryea and Peter Voorhees) and Justices of the Peace for Somerset County (Ralph Sansbury and Josias Ferguson).

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: James Boyer Mother: Dinah Enslaver of mother and child: Samuel Price Location: Sussex County (Frankford Township) Birth date: 28 August 1820 Recorded date: 19 August 1823 Clerk: Greene The same slip of paper also reported the birth of James Boyer's younger brother Tousaint Milford.

Fanny Pursue, a 21-year-old black woman, was sold in Burlington, New Jersey, in the fall of 1820, to Rowland Jones for the nominal price of 50 cents with the explicit agreement that Rowland Jones would manumit her as soon as practicable. The sellers were a group of siblings—children of Mercy English. The sale documents indicate that Mercy English was Fanny Pursue's owner before Mercy English died, and Mercy's children inherited Fanny. The following group of siblings and in-laws signed the bill of sale on September 10, 1820: Joseph English, John English, Amy West née English and her husband George West, Sarah Ellet née English and her husband John Ellet. Subsequently, their brother Elisha N. English signed a separate bill of sale on December 15, 1820, to release his portion of the claim to Fanny Pursue's services. Both documents mentioned the price of 50 cents, and it is not entirely clear whether the full price Rowland Jones paid for Fanny Pursue's freedom was 50 cents or whether different siblings each collected 50 cents. In either case, the price can be considered nominal. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Know all Men by these Presents that we Joseph English John English George West and Amy his Wife late Amy English John Ellet and Sarah his Wife late Sarah English do for the Consideration that Rowland Jones shall well and truly and as speedily as he can effect the same Emancipate Manumit and set free our Slave Fanney Pursue as well also as for the sum of Fifty cents to us paid or secured to be paid have and do bargain and sell unto the said Rowland Jones of the City of Burlington his Executors Administrators & Assigns all our right title Interest Property Claim and Demand whatever in and to the said Fanny Pursue a Colourd Woman aged twenty one Years of Age. The said Fanny having been brought up and resided with our Mother Mercy English until the time of her Decease. To have and to hold the said Fanny Pursue to him the Said Rowland Jones his Executors Administrators & Assigns until the said Manumission shall be effected as aforesaid and not for his own private emolument or advantage in anywise whatsoever And we do hereby for ourselves our Heirs Exrs & Administrators remise release & forever quit Claim all our right & Interest in the Said Colourd Woman Named Fanny Pursue above described or to any services to be performed by her. In Witness whereof we have hereunto set our Hands & Seals this tenth Day of the Ninth Month Anno Domini 1820— Joseph English John English George West Amy West John Ellet Sarah E Ellet Sealed & Delivered } in the Presence of } Wm Allinson Robert Thomas Whereas I, Elisha N. English brother to the within named Joseph and John English, and Amy West & Sarah Ellet, have and hold a right & Claim to the personal Services of Fanny Pursue, the coloured woman within named, aged twenty one years, similar to the right and claim which my said brothers & Sisters have by the within Bill of Sale disposed of and relinquished to Rowland Jones of the City of Burlington, for the purposes in the Bill of Sale expressed — I do therefore in cooperation with them, and in order to effect through Rowland Jones the manumission of the said Fanny Pursue, and for and in consideration of the sum of Fifty cents to me paid, the receipt whereof I acknowledge — Have and do grant, bargain and sell unto the said Rowland Jones his executors, administrators, and assigns, all my right, title, interest, property, claim and demand in and to the person and Services of the within said named Fanny Pursue, To hold to him the said Rowland Jones, his executors, administrators and assigns, the said Fanny Pursue, untill he shall be able to emancipate, manumit and set free in a legal manner, and not for his own benefit and emolument in any wise howsoever — And I do hereby, for myself, my heirs, executors & administrators, remise, release and forever quit claim all my right and claim whatsoever to the Person and Services of the said Fanny Pursue — In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand: and Seal this Fifteenth day of december A.D. 1820. Elisha N. English [seal] Witnesses Present— Omer Jackson John W Brown [verso] Bill of Sale Fanny Pursue a col Woman 1820"

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 71 Child: Daphne Mother: Bett Enslaver of mother and child: Andrew Bell Location: Perth Amboy, NJ Birth date: October 8, 1820 Reported date: April 14, 1823 Clerk: William Philips Deare The same document also listed the birth of Bett's daughter Jane, born July 13, 1822.

Sarah, aged 24, was manumitted by Thomas Hill, Esquire, of North Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of North Brunswick (Abraham Van Arsdalen) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Thomas Hance and Nicholas Booraem) on November 29, 1820. The document stated that Sarah was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on November 30, 1820, by Thomas Hill. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 1, 1820.

Cate Centurian, aged 28, was manumitted by Henry Dye of West Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. Since Henry Dye happened to be the Overseer of the Poor of West Windsor, he signed the manumission certificate in his official capacity as the Overseer, and the certificate was also signed by two Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Andrew Rowan and William Tindall) on December 18, 1820. The document stated that Cate Centurian was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on December 18, 1820, by Henry Dye (in his capacity as Cate Centurian's enslaver and manumitter). These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 21, 1820.

Henry Staats was recorded as a member of the African Association of New Brunswick on January 1, 1821. He paid 25 cents membership dues.

Mark Harris Sr. was recorded as a member of the African Association of New Brunswick on January 1, 1821. He paid 50 cents membership dues. Additionally, he promised to contribute 50 cents as part of an effort to raise funds for printing 500 pamphlets with Gustavus V. Caesar's address to the association. This was the final time Mark Harris's name was recorded in the association's minute book. He was a member from 1817 to 1821.

Phillis Neilson was recorded as a member of the African Association of New Brunswick who paid dues during the meeting of January 1, 1821. She paid 25 cents membership dues (the customary 6-month dues for enslaved members of the organization). Her name was recorded in the association's minute book as "Phillis Nelson."

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Peggy Mother: Yon Enslaver of mother and child: Jacob Hornbeck Location: Sussex County (Locality not listed) Birth date: January 4, 1821 Recorded date: November 29, 1821 Clerk: Green The township is not listed on the birth certificate. Other historical records indicate that Jacob Hornbeck lived around the area of Sandyston, and it can be inferred that the child was probably born in that area.

Lun was manumitted by George McDowell and John T. McDowell, acting jointly, both residents of South Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of South Brunswick (Andrew McDowell and Daniel J. Barricklo) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (John Bastedo and David Vanderhoef) on February 24, 1821. The document stated that Lun was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. Lun's exact age was not recorded in the document. The deed of manumission was executed on February 24, 1821, by George McDowellJohn T. McDowell. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on February 27, 1821.

Lyd was manumitted by Thomas McDowell of South Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of South Brunswick (Andrew McDowell and Daniel J. Barricklo) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (John Bastedo and David Vanderhoef) on February 24, 1821. The document stated that Lyd was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. Lyd's exact age was not recorded in the document. The deed of manumission was executed on February 24, 1821, by Thomas McDowell. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on February 27, 1821.

On April 2, 1821, a young Black man named Jack ran away from his enslaver John E. Post, who lived in Bergen Township (around the area of present-day Jersey City). It seems that two years later, Jack was still at large. In March 1823, John E. Post published a runaway ad offering a reward of 1 dollar for Jack's capture and return. The ad noted that Jack was about 21 years old. It is not entirely clear whether this number refers to Jack's age at the time of his escape in 1821 or at the time of the runaway advertisement in 1823. ----- Transcript of the source document: "1 Dollar Reward. RAN away from the subscriber living in the town and county of Bergen, New Jersey, on the 2d day of April, A. D. 1821, a Negro Boy named JACK, about 21 years old, 5 feet 4 inches high, middling dark Collar; had on when he went away, a drab collared Coat and blue Pantaloons. All persons are forbid harbouring or trusting said boy on penalty of the law. Whoever will return him to his master shall receive the above reward. JOHN E. POST. Bergen, March 7, 1823. 9-3wp"

Dublin Halsey, aged 25, was manumitted by Robert Lee of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Jonathan Freeman and John Harriott) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Benajah Mundy and Richard Marsh) on April 9, 1821. The document stated that Dublin Halsey was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on April 9, 1821, by Robert Lee, and witnessed by John B. Lee and Jesse B. Lee. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 14, 1821.