New Jersey Slavery Records

Phebe Merrill was manumitted by Hugh Davids of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Richard Wright, Ezekiel Ayers) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Henry Marsh, Ichabod Potter) on May 10, 1800. The document stated that Phebe Merrill 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. Phebe Merrill's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk almost 3 years later in the spring of 1803.

Simon Lot was manumitted by Henry Shotwell of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Richard Wright, Ezekiel Ayers) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Henry Marsh, Ichabod Potter) on May 10, 1800. The document stated that Simon Lot 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. Simon Lot's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on February 22, 1803.

On 14 July 1800, Joseph Blackwood Esq. sold a Black girl named Rin or Marinda to his son Samuel Blackwood. The sale took place in Gloucester County, New Jersey. Marinda was about 6 years old at this time. Information about the sale comes from a manumission deed for Marinda, which was filed 15 years later in Deptford, Gloucester County, and which stated, in part: "Joseph Blackwood Esq late of the County of Gloucester in the State of New Jersey by a certain writing under his hand and seal duly Executed and bearing date the 14th day of July A D 1800 Therin did Grant Bargain and Sell unto his son Samuel Blackwood and to his heirs and Assigns A Certain Negro Girl named Rin or Marinda who was Born a Slave to the said Joseph Blackwood."

On Saturday, August 2, 1800, a Black man named Rob ran away from his enslaver David Nichols of Newark, New Jersey. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TEN DOLLARS REWARD. RAN AWAY on Saturday, the 2d instant, a negro man named ROB, about 21 or 22 years old, about six feet high, likely, and of a very black complexion; very much given to intoxication, at which time he is very quarrelsome; has worked at the tanning business; it was expected he had on when he went away either a nankeen or gingham coat, nankeen trousers, a cashmere waistcoat, of a yellow cast a fur hat somewhat worn. Whoever takes up said negro, and returns him to the subscriber, shall have the above reward, and reasonable charges—or five dollars if they will secure him in any jail, so that his master can get him. DAVID NICHOLS Newark, August 4, 1800."

On August 12, 1800, a Black man named Leonard ran away from his enslaver Jonathan Baldwin of Newark, New Jersey. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TEN DOLLARS REWARD. RAN away from the Subscriber the 12th inst. a Negro Man named LEONARD, lame in both feet, having all his toes froze off; he is of a black complexion, and is a very good workmen at the shoe-making trade—had on when he went away, a blue short coat, vest, and fustian trousers. Whoever takes up said negro and secures him in any gaol, or return him to the owner, shall be entitled to the above reward with all reasonable charges. JONATHAN BALDWIN Newark, August 19. 203-3w"

On Saturday, August 16, 1800, a 27-year-old Black man named Leonard Hornbeck ran away from his enslaver Robert Ogden, living in Sparta in Hardyston township, Sussex County. The enslaver published a detailed runaway ad that provided information about Leonard Hornbeck's background and listed the names of Leonard's several previous enslavers, which included the Hornbeck or Hardenberg family, Increase Crosby and Hugh Barkly in New York, and Thompson Danch in New Jersey. The ad also noted that Leonard Hornbeck left a wife and child behind when he escaped. Robert Ogden offered a reward of $15 for the capture and return of the runaway. Additionally, Robert Ogden announced that if Leonard Hornbeck would return voluntarily, he would be forgiven and could "have a new master" in the town where he previously lived. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FIFTEEN DOLLARS REWARD. RANAWAY from the Subscriber, in Hardiston, in the County of Sussex, in New-Jersey, on Saturday the 16th instant, a negro man, named LEONARD; he calls himself Leonard Hornbeck from his first master, whose name is Hornbeck or Hardenberg : He is twenty-seven years of age and about five feet eight inches high, middling stout bodied, but has small legs and thighs, is of a yellow complexion (something resembling a mulatto, which probably he may be ) — has short woolly hair, is very talkative, especially when a little in liquor, and has a very remarkable and uncommon way of laughing. He is an artful cunning fellow, understands making iron, and has been to sea. He took with him a short blue cloth coat, white linen jacket, nankeen overalls, one or two fine shirts ruffled in the bosom, and most of his Sunday clothes; having on when he went away, a good homespun tow and linen shirt and trousers — and also took with him another shirt and trousers of the same kind. He was formerly sold for the term of fourteen years, by Increase Crosby and Hugh Barkly, of the state of New-York, to Thompson Danch, of New-Jersey, of whose administrators. I purchased the residue of the term. Whoever takes up the said negro man, and returns him to the subscriber, or shall secure him so that the subscriber may get him again, shall receive the above reward, and all reasonable expenses; or if Leonard shall return voluntarily, he shall be forgiven and have a new master in the town I purchased him. ROBERT OGDEN. Sparta, August 18, 1800. 204-4w N.B. He has left a wife and one child at home."

The following item advertised the sale of a 12-year-old Black girl. The sale was to be brokered by the printers of the newspaper in Trenton. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FOR SALE, A smart healthy NEGRO GIRL, BETWEEN 12 and 13 years of age, has 11 years to serve, is capable of doing the work of a small family, and has had the small-pox. For further particulars enquire of the printers. Nov. 14, 1800. 91-tf"

Levi Brown escaped from his enslaver in Pennsylvania in 1800 (or earlier). The name of his enslaver is uncertain. He was later apprehended in Middlesex County, New Jersey. See the related jailing event for Levi Brown for details.

Matthew Fairfax escaped in the Chesapeake region in 1800 (or earlier). He had a forged pass from Fairfax County, Virginia. He was later apprehended in Middlesex County, New Jersey. See the related jailing event for Matthew Fairfax for details.

On 2 December 1800, Peter, aged 35, escaped from enslaver John Stevenson of Amwell, NJ. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty Dollars Reward. Ran-away from the subscriber, on Tuesday the 2d of this instant, a NEGRO MAN named PETER, about thirty years of age, five feet seven or eight inches high; had on a fox colored hat, light colored green coat, dark tight-bodied coat, swansdown vest, low trousers, all very much worn. Any person apprehending said negro, shall receive the above reward and reasonable charges, from JOHN STEVENSON Amwell, December 5, 1800. 93--tf."

Jacob Rutsen Hardenbergh Jr. (1768-1841) advertised a 35-year-old black woman for sale in Somerville, NJ. The ad was first submitted on December 16, 1800, and ran for at least 3 months until March 1801, in the local New Brunswick newspaper called the Guardian, Or, New-Brunswick Advertiser. The ad noted that the woman was a cook and was being "sold for no other reason than being dissatisfied with the place of her master’s residence." This suggests a possible act of resistance on the part of the woman; perhaps she appealed to Hardenbergh to sell her to a more favorable location so she could be closer to family. Hardenbergh grew up in Somerville (at the historic site now known as the Old Dutch Parsonage), but he moved to New Brunswick in the late 18th century, and perhaps his move disrupted this woman's family life. The following is a transcript of the ad, as printed in the March 27, 1801, issue of the newspaper: "FOR SALE BY the subscriber, a Negro wench, of about thirty five years of age, a good cook, sober and honest, sold for no other reason than being dissatisfied with the place of her master’s residence. Apply to JACOB R. HARDENBERGH. Somerville, Dec. 16, 1800." Note that some historians erroneously attribute this advertisement to Rutgers University's first president Jacob Rutsen Hardenbergh Sr. (1736-1790), but the president had died a decade before this ad was published. The person who placed this ad was the president's son. The son was an alumnus of Rutgers (then called Queen's College) and an active trustee of the school for decades; he served as the Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the college at the time when he placed this ad in 1800.

On January 1, 1801, two Black men were incarcerated in the Middlesex County jail in New Brunswick, NJ, on suspicion of being fugitives from slavery. Their names were Matthew Fairfax and Levi Brown. Two months later, on March 4, 1801, the keeper of the Middlesex County jail, Peter Keenon, issued a notice about the men and informed the public that they would be sold if their enslavers did not come forth to take them away by March 26. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TWO NEGROMEN, WERE Committed to my custody on the first day of January last, —MATTHEW FAIKFAX, black, about five feet eight inches high, and about 25 years old, speaks quick, and plays on the violin, had a forged pass, from Fairfax county in Virginia, and from his dialect, supposed to be from Maryland or Virginia. —LEVI BROWN, a mulatto, says he is from Pennsylvania, about five feet eight inches high, stout made, and about 20 years old, both say they have been brought up to the farming business —If they are not claimed by their masters on or before the 26th instant, they then will be sold to pay charges and goal fees. PETER KEENON, Keeper of the prison of Middlesex county New-Brunswick, New-Jersey, March 4, 1801. } 19--4w"

Major Robert Stockton of Princeton in Montgomery Township, Somerset County, wrote his will on March 21, 1801, about four years before his death. The will was proved on April 13, 1805, following the death of Robert Stockton. In his will, Stockton mentioned an enslaved Black woman named Phebe and bequeathed Phebe to his wife Helenah. The following is the abstract of the will, as printed in the Calendar of Wills, Vol. 10, on pages 428-429. The abstract includes a compiler's note indicating that this is the will of Major Robert Stockton of Constitution Hill in Princeton: "1801, Mar. 21. Stockton, Robert, of Montgomery Twsp., Somerset Co.: will of. Wife, Helenah, her right of dower; also use of northeast room in mansion house and other privileges, negro wench, Phebe, and otherwise provided for by son, Job, during her life. In trust for son, James, that part of my farm whereon he now lives, to wit, beginning at a chestnut stump in line of lands late of John Johnson, dec’d, thence running along the fence to westerly fence of orchard back of the garden, thence northerly to northwest corner of orchard, thence on a line parallel to line of division between lands of Richard Stockton and my farm to the line of lands late of Thomas Stockton, dec’d, thence along same to Stoney Brook, thence down same to line of lands late of said John Johnson, dec’d to place of beginning, during his life; after his death, said land to be sold and proceeds divided among the children of son, James. Son, Ebenezer, part of my orchard lot in Princeton adjoining the tanyard and orchard of Dr. Wiggins, together with house and lot in Princeton for which I have given him a deed. Son, Job, that part of homestead farm beginning in middle of the Post Road at Richard Stockton’s southwest corner, thence running along said road westwardly to a stone for a corner in line with a number of wild cherry trees, thence northwardly to the northwest corner of orchard back of the garden, then parallel to line of Richard Stockton to corner of land late of Thomas Stockton, dec’d, thence eastwardly till it strikes land late of John Stockton, thence along same and along line of Richard Stockton to place of beginning. Rest of real and personal estate to be sold. Sister-in-law, Mary Macomb (my wife’s sister), £25. Granddaughter, Ann Stockton (daughter of son James), £25. Residue to be divided among my 3 daughters, Elizabeth Green, Nancy James and Mary Johnson, except daughter, Mary, to have £300 less in consideration of that sum I have bound myself to pay her husband for the purchase of a house and lot in Princeton. Son, Job, to make provision for his mother and provide her with a horse and chair and a cow. Executors—sons, Ebenezer and Job Stockton. Witnesses— Josiah Skelton, Zebulon Morford and John N. Simpson. 1801, July 6. Codicil. Daughter, Mary Johnson, being since deceased, her share to be divided among her children, i.e, William Johnson, Robert Stockton Johnson, Harriet Johnson, Helenah Stockton Johnson, Elizabeth Green Johnson and Frederick Frelinghuysen Johnson. Witnesses—the same. Proved May 11, 1805. (Recorded, Surrogate’s Office, Somerset Co.) 1805, April 13. Inventory, $2,498.83 (list of plate includes, silver cream jug, sugar bowl and coffee pot, 2 silver cans, large silver spoon, 6 silver table spoons, 15 silver tea spoons and silver sugar tongs); made by Eremas Beatty and Hart Olden. File 1275 R. [This is Major Robert Stockton, Jr., of “Constitution Hill’: his daughter, Elizabeth m. Dr. Ashbel Green, and his daughter, Mary, m. Thomas P. Johnson, Esq. (son of William Johnson, an Irish Quaker). Compiler’s Note.]"

On April 4, 1801, a Black man named Harry ran away from his enslaver William Conover, living near Princeton in Middlesex County, NJ. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Forty Dollars Reward. RAN away from the subscriber, living near Princeton, in Middlesex county, New-Jersey, on the 4th inft. A Negro Man, by the name of HARRY, five feet nine or ten inches high, very black and remarkably strait; had on when he went away, a short homespun cloth jacket and blue trousers. Whoever will take up said negro, and secure him in any goal so that his master may get him again, shall be entitled to the above reward. WILLIAM CONOVER April 13, 1801."

Gilbert Wallace was manumitted by Samuel Minor of East Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of East Windsor (Joshua Ely, Jonathan Brown) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Robert Willson, Jonathan Combs) on April 23, 1801. The document stated that Gilbert Wallace 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. Gilbert Wallace's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 23, 1803. East Windsor was part of Middlesex County at this time, but it would later become part of Mercer County in 1838.

Richard Little was manumitted by Garret Schenck of West Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of West Windsor (Mr. Morford, Elijah Voorhees) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Daniel Agnew, William Tindall) on May 16, 1801. The document stated that Richard Little 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. Richard Little's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on July 17, 1801. West Windsor was part of Middlesex County at this time, but it would later become part of Mercer County in 1838.

Cato Stone was manumitted by Thomas Edgar, one of the executors of the estate of William Stone (1700–1788). The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (George Harrison, Ezekiel Ayers) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Ichabod Potter, Jeremiah Manning) on June 13, 1801. The document stated that Cato Stone 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. Cato Stone's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 17, 1801. The certificate of manumission described Cato Stone as "slave named Cato Stone late a slave of the said William Stone decd [deceased] and by his will left to be set free." The abstract of the will of William Stone (published in the Calendar of Wills, Vol. 7, 1786-1790) does not mention any enslaved persons; however, it is possible that the abstract is incomplete. The will was written on August 24, 1787, and William Stone died circa September 1788. Thirteen years passed between the death of William Stone and the manumission of Cato Stone.

Dianna was manumitted by Jeremiah Manning of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. Her name was recorded in the manumission document as "Dianna Manning or rather Luwee" as well as "Lewee." Her certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (George Harrison, Ezekiel Ayers) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (James Bonney, Ichabod Potter) on June 13, 1801. The document stated that Dianna 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. Dianna's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on July 18, 1801, on page 25 of his Book of Manumissions. Additionally, the circumstances surrounding Dianna's manumission are mentioned on page 323 of the same book, in the 1820 certificate related to the manumission of Peter Lewe. See Peter's manumission event for details.

Caesar was mentioned in the last will and testament of David Kirkpatrick Sr., signed on 15 June 1801. The will stipulates that Caesar would be bequeathed to David Kirkpatrick Jr. The relevant section states: "Item I give devise and bequeath unto my said son David my negro man Caesar." At the time the will was written, Caesar was about 16 years old. David Kirkpatrick Sr. died 13 years later in 1814, and at that time, Caesar became the legal property of David Jr., who also inherited a substantial portion of the Kirkpatrick plantation and homestead that was located in the Mine Brook area of Bernards township.

On August 17, 1801, a 14-year-old apprentice boy named Joseph Canfield ran away from shoemaker Daniel Mathews in Orange, near Newark, Essex County, New Jersey. Joseph Canfield was described as having a "dark complexion," and he may have been of African descent, although his racial background is uncertain. Daniel Mathews supposed that Joseph Canfield went toward Wyoming (a region in northeast Pennsylvania). ----- Transcript of the source document: "10 Dollars Reward. RAN AWAY on Monday the 17th instant, from the subscriber, an apprentice Boy to the Shoemaking business, by name JOSEPH CANFIELD, in the 15th year of his age, black eyes, dark complexion, and small of his age. He wore a fur hat of its natural color; a brown woolen coat; light colored homespun linsey woolsey waistcoat. He took with two pair of trowsers, one of nankeen, and the other tow, of fustian color. It is expected he is gone towards Wioming. Whoever will take up said Apprentice, and return him to his master, or secure him and given information that I may get him again, shall have the above award and reasonable charges. DANIEL MATHEWS. Orange, near Newark, Essex County N.J. August 24, 1801. 6-3."

On August 18, 1801, a Black man named Cesar ran away from his enslaver Jeremiah Clarkson of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. Cesar was about 40 years old at this time. Cesar's enslaver published a runaway ad offering a reward of $10 for Cesar's return. The ad ran in the newspaper for about 4 months. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TEN DOLLARS REWARD. RAN AWAY from the subscriber in Woodbridge, Middlesex County, the 18th instant, a NEGRO MAN named CESAR, about 40 years of age, 5 feet high, his hair cut; had on when he went away a homespun shirt and trowsers, his other clothes unknown; much given to drink, he is a good cook and handy among horses. Whoever will secure said Negro in any goal in this state, or return him to his master, shall have the above reward, and all reasonable charges. JEREMIAH CLARKSON. August 24, 1801. 56-t.f."

Around August 1801, a 25-year-old Black man named Ben ran away from his enslaver John Van Waggoner, who lived in Paterson, New Jersey. ----- Transcript of the source document: "20 DOLLARS REWARD. RAN-AWAY from the subscriber a Mulatto Negro Man, by the name of BEN; he is about 25 years of age, 5 feet 10 inches high, stout built, the first joint of one of his fore fingers is stiff and crooked. Any person that will take up said runaway (whatever be his pretensions to freedom) and secure him so that the owner may get him, shall be entitled to the above reward, and all reasonable charges, paid by JOHN VANWAGGONER. Paterson Township, N.J. August 28, 1801. 57-3w."

On October 6, 1801, a 20-year-old Black man named Jack ran away from his enslaver John High of Scotch Plains, Essex County, New Jersey (this location is in present-day Union County). John High originally submitted a runaway ad for Jack on October 7, and it ran in the Centinel of Freedom newspaper until October 27, 1801. In November, John High submitted the same advertisement to the paper once again indicating that Jack was still at large. The updated advertisement appeared in the paper until December 1, 1801. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FIFTEEN DOLLARS REWARD. RAN-AWAY from the subscriber, on Tuesday evening the 6th inst. a Negro man named JACK, about 20 years old, 5 feet 7 inches high, well made, of a dark yellowish complexion and on his left cheek under his ear there is a remarkable black spot, nearly round, about the size of a cent. He took with him a dark striped elastic cloth great coat, long blue broad cloth close-coat, nankeen and tow trousers, a tolerable hat and poor shoes. Whoever will take up said Negro and return him to me or secure him in any gaol so that I may get him again, shall receive the above reward and all reasonable charges paid by JOHN HIGH. Scotch Plains, (Essex-County, State of New-Jersey) October 7, 1801. 63-3w."

On November 14, 1801, Lenor Dunnom ran away from her enslaver David Brown of Gloucester County, NJ. Six weeks later, Brown issued a runaway notice offering a reward of 10 dollars for Lenor Dunnom's return. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Ten Dollars Reward. RAN AWAY from the subscriber, on the 14th of November, a Negro Wench, named Lenor Dunnom, about 22 years of age, not very black, slender built, nimblefooted, one of her thumbs is larger than the other, caused by a selon; one of her eyes is smaller than the other, and has a scar on one of her cheeks. She had on and took with her, a black bonnet, pretty much worn, two callico short gowns, one plaid and the other stripped, and one white ditto, one white muslin petticoat, one brown jonespining and one check't apron, three pair of stockings, 2 of which are white and one blue; one pair of calfskin pumps almost new, and a bundle of clothes unknown. The above reward will be given for apprehending and securing the said runaway, if taken within 50 miles of this place, and reasonable charges if brought home. DAVID BROWN, jun. Gloucester county, N. Jersey, Dec. 31, 1801. 49-3w"

James was manumitted by John Marsh of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (George Harrison, Ezekiel Ayers) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (James Bonney, Henry Marsh) on November 19, 1801. The document stated that James 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. James's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on November 23, 1801.

The Freeman family of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey, manumitted two enslaved people on November 30, 1802. Sylvia Bloomfield was manumitted by Israel Freeman. Sharper Roberson (or Robertson), aged 38, was manumitted by Rheuben Freeman at the same time. The certificate of manumission for Sharper Roberson was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Ezekiel Ayers, George Harrison) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (James Bonney, Ichabod Potter) on November 30, 1801. The document stated that Sharper Roberson 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 manumission certificate was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 10, 1802. A decade later, on April 29, 1811, the Middlesex County Clerk also recorded a copy of the original deed of manumission, which had been signed by Reuben Freeman on November 30, 1801, in the presence of Ichabod Potter and Matthias Freeman.

The Freeman family of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey, manumitted two enslaved people on November 30, 1802. Sylvia Bloomfield was manumitted by Israel Freeman. Sharper Roberson was manumitted by Rheuben Freeman at the same time. The certificate of manumission for Sylvia Bloomfield was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Ezekiel Ayers, George Harrison) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (James Bonney, Ichabod Potter) on November 30, 1801. The document stated that Sylvia Bloomfield 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. Sylvia Bloomfield's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 10, 1802.

Following his escape from enslaver John High, a Black man named Jack was captured in Gloucester County in the southern part of New Jersey. Jack was taken back to John High's household in Scotch Plains, Essex County (now in present-day Union County), in the northern part of the state. Jack was about 20 years old at this time. The exact date of Jack's capture is uncertain, but it can be inferred that this event occurred around December 1801. He originally ran away in October 1801 and was still at large as of the end of November, according to a series of runaway ads that John High submitted to the Centinel of Freedom newspaper in Newark. See the related events for additional information about Jack's multiple escape attempts.

In late 1801 or in the first week of 1802, Jack stole a red cow from his enslaver, Amos Moore. Information about this event comes from a jailbreak notice for Jack, published in 1802. The exact location of the incident with Amos Moore's cow is uncertain. This event may have occurred in Trenton or in a nearby community. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Eight Dollars Reward. BROKE gaol, on Thursday the 7th instant, Jack, a Negro slave, the property of Amos Moore, who stands charged with having privately taken and stolen from his said master, a red Cow; he is about twenty years of age, five feet and a half inches high, of a black complexion-Had on when he went away, a mixed coloured great coat, deep blue tight bodied do. blue vest and trousers, mixed blue stockings, old shoes, and an old hat. Whoever takes up said Negro, and delivers him to the subscriber, shall be entitled to the above reward and reasonable charges. DAVID WRIGHTER, Gaoler. Trenton, January 11, 1802. 50-3w"

On December 7, 1801, a Black man named Joe ran away from his enslaver William Trimbly, who lived in Montgomery, Orange County, New York, about 20 miles from the New Jersey-New York state border. Joe was about 45 years old at this time. William Trimbly published a runaway ad for Joe in the Newark newspaper, the Centinel of Freedom. Trimbly suspected that Joe went to Paramus, New Jersey, because Joe had previously lived in that area. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TEN DOLLARS REWARD. RAN-AWAY from the subscriber, living in the town of Montgomery, County of Orange, and state of New-York, on the 7th instant, a NEGRO MAN named JOE, of a yellow complexion, about 45 years old, 5 feet 6 inches high; he sometimes wears his hair tied, which is grey; he had on a new homemade grey cloth and vest, London brown colored home made cloth breeches, an old low crowned woolen hat; it is supposed he is near or at Paramus, as he formerly lived there. Any person apprehending said runaway, and will confine him in any jail in the U. States, and give information to the owner, shall be entitled to the above reward, and all reasonable charges. WILLIAM TRIMBLY. December 10, 1801. 73-3w."

Four enslaved people named Dick, Joseph, Margaret, and Tone, all aged 21 to 40, were manumitted by Jacob F. Randolph of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey, on December 28, 1801. Each certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Ezekiel Ayers, George Harrison) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Henry Marsh, James Bonney). The documents stated that the enslaved persons were examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. each person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. These four manumissions were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk on May 10, 1802.

Four enslaved people named Dick, Joseph, Margaret, and Tone, all aged 21 to 40, were manumitted by Jacob F. Randolph of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey, on December 28, 1801. Each certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Ezekiel Ayers, George Harrison) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Henry Marsh, James Bonney). The documents stated that the enslaved persons were examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. each person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. These four manumissions were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk on May 10, 1802.

Four enslaved people named Dick, Joseph, Margaret, and Tone, all aged 21 to 40, were manumitted by Jacob F. Randolph of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey, on December 28, 1801. Each certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Ezekiel Ayers, George Harrison) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Henry Marsh, James Bonney). The documents stated that the enslaved persons were examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. each person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. These four manumissions were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk on May 10, 1802.

Four enslaved people named Dick, Joseph, Margaret, and Tone, all aged 21 to 40, were manumitted by Jacob F. Randolph of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey, on December 28, 1801. Each certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Ezekiel Ayers, George Harrison) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Henry Marsh, James Bonney). The documents stated that the enslaved persons were examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. each person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. These four manumissions were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk on May 10, 1802.

On December 31, 1801, a Black man named Tom ran away from his enslaver Michael Aurtley, who lived in Slooterdam (around the area of modern-day Fair Lawn), Bergen County, New Jersey. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TWENTY DOLLARS REWARD. RAN AWAY from the subscriber, on Thursday the 31st of December last, a NEGRO MAN named TOM, about five feet five inches high, of a yellow complexion, stout and handsome built — had on when he went away, a pair of laced boots, a light colored great coat, bound with green binding. Whoever will take up said Negro and return him to the subscribers, or secure him in any goal shall have the above reward. 76-3w. MICHAEL AURTLEY. Slauterdam, Bergen County, Jan. 11, 1802."

David Lewis (Dave), a 30-year-old Black man indentured to Henry Dusenbery of New Hampton (in Lebanon Township, Hunterdon County, NJ) ran away in the winter of 1801-1802. The date of this event is approximate. He ran to Bucks County where he stayed in the Carver household until he was captured six months later. Information about this escape attempt comes from a runaway ad published in late 1802 after David Lewis made a second escape attempt.

A 21-year-old Black man named Harry ran away from his enslaver Lambert DeCamp on January 2 or 3, 1802. He ran from Rahway near the Bridgetown area (which was at that time considered part of Woodbridge, Middlesex County). Harry's enslaver issued a notice a few days later offering a $10 reward for Harry's capture. The advertisement was printed in the Centinel of Freedom newspaper in Newark and also in the Federalist & New-Jersey State Gazette in Trenton. ----- Transcripts of the source documents. From "TEN DOLLARS REWARD," Centinel of Freedom, January 12, 1802, p. 3: "TEN DOLLARS REWARD. RAN AWAY from the subscriber, living in Rahway, near Bridge-Town, Middlesex County, the 2d or 3d instant, a NEGRO MAN, named HARRY, about 21 years of age, about 5 feet 9 or 10 inches high, stout made, middling dark complexion, with a scar on his left hand a little back of his thumb, occasioned by inoculation for the small pox — had on and took with him, a great-coat, tight-coat, waist-coat and trowsers, all of mixed homespun, black and white, all new; also, a new roram hat; also, a striped thin under waistcoat; also, two pair of stockings and two pair of shoes, one pair of thin calf skin; also, a striped woolen shirt, blue and white, one ditto white linen. Whoever will apprehend said Negro and deliver him to the subscriber, or confine him in any gaol and give information so that he may be had, shall be entitled to the above reward and all reasonable charges paid by LOMBERT DE CAMP January 2, 1802. 76-3w." From "Ten Dollars Reward," Federalist & New-Jersey State Gazette, January 19, 1802: "Ten Dollars Reward. RANAWAY on the 2nd or 3rd instant, from Mr. Lambert D Camp, living in Rahway, near Bridgetown, Middlesex County, a negro man named HARRY about 21 years old, about 5 feet 9 or 10 inches high, stout male, middling dark complexion, with a scar on his left hand, occasioned by inoculation of the small-pox — Had on and took with him, a new rorum hat, a great coat, tight coat, waistcoat and trousers, all home-spun, mixed black and white, and new; also a striped linen under waistcoat, also two pair of stockings, and two pair of shoes, one of calf skin, new; also a striped woolen shirt, blue and white, one do linen, white. Whoever will apprehend said negro, and deliver him to the subscriber, or confine him in any gaol so that he may be had, shall be entitled to the above reward and all reasonable charges by me. LAMBERT D CAMP Rahway, Middlesex County, Jan. 6, 1802. 31-3W"

A Black man named Limus ran away from Thomas West Montgomery of Allentown, Monmouth County, NJ, on January 3, 1802. Five weeks later, his enslaver issued a notice offering a reward of 5 dollars for Limus's return. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Five Dollars Reward RANAWAY from the subscriber living in Allen-town, Monmouth county, on the 3d of January, 1802, a BLACK MAN named Limus; he is very black, about five feet, nine or ten inches high, slender, and very straight; bold spoken; had on, when he went away, a beaver hat two thirds worn, red sailor jacket, striped swansdown waistcoat, purple linsey trousers not fulled — took with him a nankeen sailor jacket edged with red. Whoever will secure the said Negro, so that his master may get him again, shall receive the above reward and reasonable charges. T. W. Montgomery February 9, 1802 54-3w"

Jack was imprisoned in the Trenton jail for stealing a cow from his enslaver, Amos Moore. He arrived at the jail sometime before January 7, 1802. Information about this event comes from a jailbreak notice for Jack. It is uncertain how long he was in jail before he broke out. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Eight Dollars Reward. BROKE gaol, on Thursday the 7th instant, Jack, a Negro slave, the property of Amos Moore, who stands charged with having privately taken and stolen from his said master, a red Cow; he is about twenty years of age, five feet and a half inches high, of a black complexion-Had on when he went away, a mixed coloured great coat, deep blue tight bodied do. blue vest and trousers, mixed blue stockings, old shoes, and an old hat. Whoever takes up said Negro, and delivers him to the subscriber, shall be entitled to the above reward and reasonable charges. DAVID WRIGHTER, Gaoler. Trenton, January 11, 1802. 50-3w"

On January 7, 1802, Jack escaped from jail in Trenton, NJ, where he was imprisoned for stealing a cow from his enslaver Amos Moore. The Trenton jailer David Wrighter published a runaway notice offering a reward for Jack's capture. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Eight Dollars Reward. BROKE gaol, on Thursday the 7th instant, Jack, a Negro slave, the property of Amos Moore, who stands charged with having privately taken and stolen from his said master, a red Cow; he is about twenty years of age, five feet and a half inches high, of a black complexion-Had on when he went away, a mixed coloured great coat, deep blue tight bodied do. blue vest and trousers, mixed blue stockings, old shoes, and an old hat. Whoever takes up said Negro, and delivers him to the subscriber, shall be entitled to the above reward and reasonable charges. DAVID WRIGHTER, Gaoler. Trenton, January 11, 1802. 50-3w"

Following his escape from enslaver Lambert DeCamp in early January 1802, a Black man named Harry was evidently apprehended and returned to DeCamp's household in the Bridgetown area of Rahway. Exactly when and where Harry was captured is uncertain. This capture event is inferred from the runaway ads that document two separate escape attempts by Harry in January 1802 and then later in June 1802. See the related freedom seeking events for more details about Harry's escapes.

An enslaver named Rebecca Frazer advertised the sale of a 17-year-old Black boy in Trenton in February 1802. ----- Transcript of the source document: "A Negro Boy to be Sold. To be sold on reasonable terms, a Negro Boy, 17 years old — has had the small-pox and measles; he is a good waiter, and understands a little of cooking; he is perfectly sober and honest, and is sold for no other reason but want of employment. He also understands something of farming. — Enquire of Rebecca Frazer, Trenton. February 26, 1802. 57-tf"

Dr. William Geary, an enslaver residing in Flemington, Hunterton County, advertised the sale of a 19-year-old Black woman in February 1802. ----- Transcript of the source document: "A Negro Woman for Sale. To be sold, on very reasonable terms, a Negro Woman, 19 years of age, capable of all kinds of kitchen work — She is strong and healthy, and has had the small-pox and measles — Her character, for sobriety and honesty is unexceptionable. Enquire of Dr. William Geary, near Flemington, or the printers hereof. February 26, 1802. 57-tf."

A young Black man named Thomas Titus and his enslaver, Gerardus Beekman, made an agreement that Beekman would manumit Titus after 15 years of service. The term of the agreement began on March 1, 1802, and was supposed to end on March 1, 1817. Titus was about 17 years old when the agreement was made. It is uncertain whether a written contract was signed in 1802; the original term agreement has not been found. However, Beekman mentioned this agreement in his last will and testament, which he wrote in 1814. Recording the promise in his will would ensure that Beekman's heirs would have to honor the agreement in case Beekman died before Titus's term was finished in 1817. This offered a level of legal protection for Titus to ensure that the promise would be carried out. Beekman was still alive in 1817 when Titus's term ended, and Beekman would go on to make good on his promise and file manumission papers for Titus in Middlesex County in 1818. Beekman and Titus lived in South Brunswick.

On April 6, 1802, a 29-year-old Black woman ran away from her enslaver Mrs. Penea of Mill Hill at Trenton, NJ. Penea published an advertisement offering a reward for the runaway's return, but the advertisement did not mention the runaway's name. Penea described her as a "French Negro Woman," suggesting that the woman likely came from the French West Indies and had been brought up in a French-speaking family. Penea suspected that the woman went to Burlington. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Ten Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from her mistress, on 6th inst, a French Negro Woman, about 29 years of age, yellowish complexion, thick lips, large mouth, very flat nose, and short in nature. Whoever will take up said runaway and return her to Mrs. Penea, living on the Mill-hill, Trenton, or secure her so that she be obtained, shall receive the above reward. It is supposed she has gone to Burlington. Trenton, April 26, 1802. 65-3w."

Joseph Hutchinson of East Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey, manumitted two enslaved men on April 8, 1802. The names of the men who were manumitted were Samson Jeters and Thomas Wildes. The certificate of manumission for Samson Jeters was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of East Windsor (Joshua Ely, Jonathan Brown) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Jonathan Combs, Robert Willson) on April 8, 1802. The document stated that Samson Jeters 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. Samson Jeters's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on October 18, 1802. East Windsor was part of Middlesex County at this time, but it would later become part of Mercer County in 1838.

Joseph Hutchinson of East Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey, manumitted two enslaved men on April 8, 1802. The names of the men who were manumitted were Samson Jeters and Thomas Wildes. The certificate of manumission for Thomas Wildes was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of East Windsor (Joshua Ely, Jonathan Brown) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Jonathan Combs, Robert Willson) on April 8, 1802. The document stated that Thomas Wildes 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. Thomas Wildes's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on October 18, 1802. East Windsor was part of Middlesex County at this time, but it would later become part of Mercer County in 1838.

Lindor, aged 30, ran away from his enslaver in Princeton, NJ, on Saturday, April 10, 1802. His enslaver published a runaway ad for Lindor. The ad was signed J. B. Cheilan, which appears to refer to John Baptist Cheilan of Princeton. Lindor ran away with his young bride, who was aged 18 and was described as a "mulatto girl" whose family was from Rocky Hill, NJ. The ad does not list the name of the bride and does not mention whether she was free or enslaved prior to her elopement with Lindor. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Ten Dollars Reward. RAN away on Saturday last the 10th inst a Negro man named LINDOR. About thirty years of age, five feet eight inches high. Well made, round visage, a smooth skin, having a little deformity in one of his thumbs, smooth tongued and of an engaging countenance with strangers ; he speaks broken English and is usually dressed in a short blue coat and half booths he had also with him, when he went away, a chestnut colored great coat, he eloped with a young mulatto girl about eighteen years of age to whom it is pretended he is married ; part of the family to which she belongs lives at Rocky Hill. Any person stopping the said Negro man and lodging him in the nearest goal, shall receive the reward above mentioned by giving advice to the subscriber. J. B. CHEILAN All persons are prohibited from employing the said negro without the special permission of his master, under whatever penalty of the law may inflict. Princeton, April 14, 1802"

Frank was manumitted by Solomon Marsh of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Ezekiel Ayers, Francis Everitt) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Henry Marsh, James Bonney) on April 20, 1802. The document stated that Frank 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. Frank's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk on May 10, 1802.

Solomon Laing was manumitted by Isaac Laing Jr. of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Ezekiel Ayers, Francis Everitt) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Henry Marsh, James Bonney) on April 20, 1802. The document stated that Solomon Laing 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. Solomon Laing's exact age was not recorded in the document. The manumission certificate was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 10, 1802. The related deed of manumission signed by Isaac Laing Jr. was later recorded by the County Clerk on January 20, 1803.

On April 24, 1802, a 25-year-old Black man named Bill and his wife Hannah ran away together from their enslaver Nathaniel Seabury of Newark, New Jersey. They took with them many clothes, a chain and locket, and other items from Seabury's house. ----- Transcript of the source document: "RAN-AWAY from the subscriber on the night of the 24th instant, a black man named BILL, about twenty-five years of age, 5 feet 7 or 8 inches high — his common dress, a blue jacket and trousers; took with him a long brown coat, and white sarge shirts with linen collars, he has a large scar on the calf of his leg, occasioned by a cut with a seythe. At the same time a black woman named HANNAH, who he calls his wife — she is rather of a large size, a clumsy gait, but very pleasant and good-natured. Her common clothes a blue cloth jacket and petticoats, took with her a red calico gown, two white muslin gowns, a yellow barcelona handkerchief and blue bonet, a gilt neck chain and locket, with many other things. They undoubtedly are gone together. Whoever will take them up and lodge them in goal, so that their master may get them again, shall be entitled to TWENTY DOLLARS reward for the two, or TEN DOLLARS for either of them, by the Subscriber. NATHANIEL SEABURY. Newark, May 4, 1802."

A Black man named Noel escaped from his enslaver Jean Andre Barbarroux (John Andrew Barbarroux) in Burlington, NJ, on April 29, 1802. Barbarroux submitted a runaway ad for Noel to newspapers in Trenton and Philadelphia. Transcript of the source document: "Ten Dollars Reward. RANAWAY on Thursday the 29th of April last, from the City of Burlington, New Jersey a Negro man named NOEL, about twenty six years old, about five feet three inches high, having a few guinea marks on his face, and a large flat nose. Any person stopping said negro man and lodging him either in Burlington or Trenton goal, by giving advice to the subscriber, shall receive the above reward and all reasonable expenses. J. A. Barbarroux. All persons are prohibited from employing the said negro man, without special permission of his master, under whatever penalty the law may inflict. Burlington, May 3."

On May 11, 1802, enslaver John Gifford of Princeton, NJ, placed an advertisement for the sale of a Black woman who was 22 years old. The ad indicated that, according to a preexisting agreement, the woman had 9 years of service remaining before she was supposed to become free. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FOR SALE, A BLACK WOMAN, used to all kinds of house-work, but more particularly to cooking, at which she has been employed in a public house, several years. She is about twenty-two years of age, and has nine years to serve. Apply to John Gifford at Princeton. May 11, 1802."

On May 16, 1802, a 20-year-old Black man named Jack ran away from his enslaver John High, who lived in the area of Scotch Plains, New Jersey (then in Essex County, but now located in present-day Union County). John High submitted a runaway ad offering a reward of $10 for Jack's capture. The runaway ad noted that this was Jack's second escape attempt. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TEN DOLLARS REWARD. RAN-AWAY from the subscriber on Sunday the 16th inst, a negro man named JACK, about 20 years of age, 5 feet 7 inches high, well made, of a dark yellowish complexion; on his left cheek, under his ear, there is a remarkable spot, about the size of a cent, and nearly round; he took with him a dark striped elastic cloth great coat, tow frock, clouded nankeen coat, swansdown waistcoat, lyon's skin and nankeen trousers. — Whoever will take up said negro and return him to me, or secure him in any gaol; so that I may get him Gaian, shall receive the above award, and all reasonable charges paid. JOHN HIGH. Scotch Plains, Essex County, May 17, 1802. The same fellow ranaway last fall, and was taken up in Gloucester county, for which he never received the least correction, and now he has shewed his gratitude. 94-t.f."

On June 12, 1802, a young Black man named Isaac Cortland ran away from his enslaver Robert Ogden of Sparta in Sussex County, New Jersey. Isaac Cortland was 18 years old at this time and was described by his enslaver as "a very handsome Negro boy." He took with him a variety of very nice clothing. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TWENTY DOLLARS REWARD. RAN-AWAY from the subscriber, in the night of Saturday the 12th instant, a very handsome Negro boy named ISAAC CORTLAND. He is about eighteen years of age, 5 feet 7 or 8 inches high, well made, smart and active, walks erect, and is almost as black as one born in Africa, he took with him a superfine brown broadcloth coat, with white pearl buttons, having a single brilliant in the center, a jacket of the same cloth with balloon buttons, one dark purple narrow ribbed cotton coat, one green striped cashmere pattern vest, one pair of copperas colored check pantaloons, two new whitened homespun Shirts, one new cotton Shirt marked I C, one or two muslin Cravats, two pair of tow Trousers, one pair of hem-stockings, a pair new of shoes, and an old round Hat — also, a half worn grey bearskin great Coat half lined with green baize. Whoever takes up the said Negro, and shall secure him in any of the Gaols in the United States, and shall give notice thereof to the subscriber, so that he gets him again shall be entitled to the above reward; any intelligence communicated by the mail from Travellers or Ferrymen, will be thankfully acknowledged. ROBERT OGDEN. Sparta, Sussex County, (N.J.) June 15, 1802. 99-tf."

On June 27, 1802, a 21-year-old Black man named Harry ran away from his enslaver Lambert DeCamp. He ran from Rahway near the Bridgetown area (which was at that time considered part of Woodbridge, Middlesex County). This was at least the second time Harry ran away in 1802. He had previously attempted to run away in January of the same year. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TWENTY DOLLARS REWARD. RAN-AWAY from the subscriber, living in Rahway, near Bridge-Town, Middlesex County, and State of New Jersey, the twenty-seventh day of June, a Negro Man named HARRY, 21 years of age, about 5 feet 8 or 9 inches high, with a down look, and brown complexion.—Had on, and took with him, one striped Nankeen Coat and Trowsers, two pair tow trowsers, two waistcoats, the one homespun and the other a bought one, three Shirts, one woollen blue and white striped, and two of linen, one fur Hat, and two wool Hats and a small Bag. Also a pair of calf-skin Shoes sharp toed, he has a large skar on his left hand, just back of his thumb, occasioned by the innoculation of the small pox. Whoever will take up said Negro man, and return him to his master, or confine him in any Gaol, so that he gets him again, shall receive the above reward and reasonable charges, by LOMBERT De CAMP. August 16, 1802. 7-3w."

In the summer of 1802, an indentured Black man named David Lewis was captured in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, in the Carver household, where he had been for about six months following his escape from Henry Dusenbery of New Hampton (in Lebanon Township, Hunterdon County, NJ). The date of this capture event is approximate. David Lewis was brought back to New Hampton to continue laboring for Henry Dusenbery. Information about this capture event comes from a runaway ad published in late 1802 after David Lewis made a second escape attempt.

Sarah was manumitted by Andrew Kirkpatrick (1756-1831) of North Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of North Brunswick (John Van Nuis) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Abraham Schuyler, Elijah Phillips) on July 3, 1802. 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. Sarah's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on July 7, 1802. Andrew Kirkpatrick was a prominent Queen's College / Rutgers trustee and benefactor.

On July 5, 1802, a Black man named Frank ran away from enslaver Matthias Denman. Frank was about 40 years old at this time. Matthias Denman submitted a runaway advertisement to the Newark newspaper Centinel of Freedom offering a reward for Frank's capture. The advertisement did not mention Matthias Denman's place of residence. However, based on numerous other items in the same newspaper, it is evident that Matthias Denman lived in Springfield, Essex County (now in Union County), and it can be inferred that Frank ran away from Springfield. This runaway advertisement appeared in the Centinel of Freedom newspaper weekly for over nine months from July 13, 1802, until April 26, 1803, when Denman finally stopped paying for the ad. This suggests that Frank managed to evade capture until at least April 1803. Whether he was ever caught is unknown. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TWENTY DOLLARS REWARD. RAN-AWAY from the subscriber, on the 5th of July inst., a negro man named FRANK, about forty years old, dressed in a nankeen sailor jacket and trousers, or blue short coat and homespun trousers, took with him considerable many clothes, which makes it difficult to describe his dress. Frank is a short chunky fellow, full faced big mouth, thick lips, and flat nose pock marked; he is about 5 feet high or more — Whoever will return him to his master, or confine him in any jail, so that his master may get him, shall receive the above reward and reasonable charges. MATTHIAS DENMAN. July 12, 1802. 2-t.f."

In July 1802 (or earlier), a 22-year-old Black man named Wanno ran away from enslaver Joseph Taylor, who lived in Perth Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The exact date of Wanno's escape from Perth Amboy is uncertain, but it is known that he was seen in Newark on July 18, 1802. Joseph Taylor published a runaway ad offering a reward of $15 for Wanno's capture. The runaway ad indicated that Wanno had roots in the West Indies and was formerly enslaved by "Mr. Beaverhout." This appears to be a reference to Lucas Von Beverhoudt, the owner of the Beverwyck plantation in the area of Parsippany, Morris County, who was from the Danish West Indies. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FIFTEEN DOLLARS REWARD. RANAWAY from the subscriber, living in Perth Amboy, a negro man named WANNO, about twenty two years old, five feet six of seven inches high, round visage, very black, strait, well made and active — when he went away he had a ring in one of his ears, he looks and talks like a West-India negro, was formerly the property of Mr. Beaverhout — he took with him a bundle of clothes, among which are a blue round jacket, lined with flannel, one olive colored nankeen do. with a striped collar, three under jackets, one pair of black nankeen pantaloons, and one do. light colored striped cloth, one do. blue cashmere, one do. nankeen, one do. tow trowsers, three shirts, &c. He was at Newark on the night of the eighteenth last month. The above reward will be paid to any person apprehending and securing said negro in goal, so that his master may get him again and if brought home a reasonable compensation for that service. JOSEPH TAYLOR. Perth Amboy, August 3, 1802. 6-4w."

On July 19, 1802, a 28-year-old Black man named Sambo ran away from his enslaver John Manning, who resided in Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TEN DOLLARS REWARD. RAN-AWAY from the subscriber on Monday the 19th day of July last, a negro man named SAMBO. He is about 28 years of age, 5 feet 4 or 5 inches high, short neck, stout made, has a scar over one of his eyes, much addicted to drink, rather of a yellowish complexion; had on when he went away, a short blue sailor jacket, a striped swansdown waistcoat, a pair of tow trousers, patched on the knees, a wool hat about worn. Whoever takes up said Negro, and delivers him to his master, or secures him in any goal so that he may get him again, shall be entitled to the above reward, and all reasonable charges, by JOHN MANNING. Woodbridge, August 5, 1802. 6-4w."

Shelote was manumitted by Aruhan F. Randolph of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (Edward Griffith, David Coriell Jr.) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Samuel F. Randolph, Alexander Dunn) on August 6, 1802. The document stated that Shelote 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. Shelote's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on September 10, 1802.

On September 1, 1802, a 21-year-old Black man named Ralph ran away from his enslaver Appollo Woodward of Arney's Town, Upper Freehold township, Monmouth County, New Jersey. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Fifteen Dollars Reward. RAN away from the subscriber the 1st of September inst. a NEGRO MAN, named Ralph, about 21 years of age, short stout built, rather bow legged, wears his hair platted, and is remarkable, when in conversation, for alternately looking at and from the person with whom he converses; had on when he went away, a nankeen coattee, waistcoat and trousers, a straw hat lined with a bandanna handkerchief, and new shoes. Whoever will return said Negro to the subscriber, living near Arney's Town, Upper Freehold, Monmouth County, or secure him in any gaol so that he may be obtained again, shall receive the above reward and all reasonable. charges. APPOLLO WOODWARD. September 12, 1802. 85-3w"

On September 5, 1802, a Black man named Prime ran away from his enslaver Edmund Burroughs of Hopewell Township, Hunterdon County, NJ. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty Dollars Reward. RAN away, on Sunday the 5th instant, a Negro man named PRIME, nineteen years of age, of a yellow colour, somewhat marked with the small pox, his right upper sore tooth broken off, he is five feet six or seven inches high, had on a gingham coat of lightish colours, swansdown waistcoat, tow trousers, a good wool hat bound with leather, neat's leather shoes, almost new. Whoever takes said negro and delivers him to his master, or confines him in any gaol so that his master gets him again shall receive the above reward and reasonable charges paid by me. EDMUND BURROUGHS September 8th, 1802. 85-3w Hopewell Township, Hunterdon County, New Jersey"

Richard was manumitted by Miles Smith of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (David Coriell Jr., Edward Griffith) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Abraham Schuyler, Elijah Phillips) on September 14, 1802. The document stated that Richard 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. Richard's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on November 1, 1802. Richard was described in the manumission certificate as a "servant" rather than "slave." The use of the term "servant" here suggests that Richard likely negotiated a limited term indenture agreement with Miles Smith at the conclusion of which Richard expected to gain his freedom.

In September 1802, enslaver Kenneth Hankinson advertised two Black women and four children for sale in Monmouth County, NJ. The ad did not specify whether the children were boys or girls or how old they were. This ad listed the location as simply "Monmouth." Another ad published by Hankinson identified him as a resident of Freehold Township, and it can be inferred that this sale advertisement probably also originated in Freehold. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FOR SALE, TWO Negro Women that can be recommended to do any kind of housework—Also four Negro Children, sold for no other reason than that thw owner has not sufficient employ. Terms will be made known by applying to the subscriber. KENNETH HANKINSON Monmouth, September 23, 1802, 87-3w."

Around October 10, 1802, a young Black man named Frank ran away from his enslaver Edward Earl, who lived in Newark, New Jersey. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TEN DOLLARS REWARD. RAN-AWAY on Sunday last, a negro lad named FRANK, about 5 feet 5 inches high, likely and well proportioned, tolerably black, very smooth and winning in his conversation — had on a bought linen shirt, blue trousers and grey homespun coatee — He took with him two striped short waistcoats, a pair of gingham trousers, one pair of new strong shoes and pair of thin shoes half worn — he had a very sore finger which was occasioned by a bruise. — Whoever will take up said runaway shall be entitled to the above reward. EDWARD EARL. N.B. All persons are forewarned harboring or employing said negro on penalty of prosecution. Newark, Oct. 11, 1802. 15-tf."

On October 11, 1802, A Black man named Bob ran away from his enslaver, James Lake, who resided in Somerset County, New Jersey, near Princeton. James Lake placed a runaway ad offering a reward of 25 dollars for Bob's return. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty-five Dollars Reward. RAN away from the subscriber on the 11th of this instant, a negro man named BOB, about five feet one or two inches high, of a yellow complexion ; he is thick tongued, and has a lump on his tongue which appears like the cancer ; not possessed of any politeness, talkative at the same time – had on when he went away, a blue coat, striped swan down vest, grey cashmere pantaloons. Whoever takes up said negro, and secures him in the goal of Somerset county, or returns him to the subscriber shall receive the above reward and all reasonable charges. JAMES LAKE. Somerset, N. Jersey, near Princeton, October 13, 1802"

Jack Fisher was manumitted by Isaac Freeman of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Ezekiel Ayers, Francis Everitt) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Henry Marsh, Ichabod Potter) on October 13, 1802. The document stated that Jack Fisher 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. Jack Fisher's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on February 18, 1803. At the same time, Isaac Freeman also manumitted a woman named Martha Fisher.

Martha Fisher was manumitted by Isaac Freeman of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Ezekiel Ayers, Francis Everitt) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Henry Marsh, Ichabod Potter) on October 13, 1802. The document stated that Martha Fisher 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. Martha Fisher's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on February 18, 1803. At the same time, Isaac Freeman also manumitted a man named Jack Fisher.

On November 14th, 1802, a Black man named Jack ran away from his enslaver Hezekiah Smith of Piscataway, Middlesex County. At the same time, an 18-year-old Black woman ran away from enslaver John Woldron (or Waldron) of nearby Franklin Township, Somerset County. The two enslavers supposed that Jack and the woman escaped together. Smith and Woldron published a runaway ad offering a reward for the capture of the two runaways. The young woman's name was not mentioned in the ad. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty-four Dollars Reward. RAN-AWAY from the subscribers on the 14th inst. a negro man named JACK, about 30 years old, short and well made, the middle finger of his right hand much enlarged, and rendered stiff by a severe sore which he had on it the past summer-- had on a short homespun grey coat, dark lion-skin waistcoat and tow trousers; he is the property of Hezekiah Smith, of Piscataway. ALSO, a negro wench, about 18 years old, short and thick, her toes are sore-- had on a yellow linsey petticoat, striped linen short gown; she is the property of John Woldron of Franklin township, county of Somerset. It is presumed they went away together. Whoever will take up said negroes and deliver them to either of the subscribers, or secure them in any goal so that their masters may get them again, shall be entitled to the above reward and reasonable charges, or 16 dollars for the man only, and 8 for the woman. HEZEKIAH SMITH, JOHN WOLDRON. Piscataway, N. Jersey, Nov 21, 1802 96 5w"

On November 25, 1802, David Lewis (Dave) escaped from Henry Dusenbery for the second time. David Lewis was a 30-year-old Black man held in bondage with about 4 years of service remaining on his indenture at this time. His description, as well as information about his previous escape attempt, were detailed in a runaway ad published in the Trenton Federalist newspaper. The presumed location of this event is the Henry Dusenbery Mansion House, where Dusenbery lived in New Hampton, Lebanon Township, Hunterdon County, NJ. He may have gone to Bucks County, Pennsylvania, where he had lived during his prior escape. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Thirty Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber, living in New Hampton, Hunterdon county, West New Jersey on the 25th instant, an indentured servant Negro Man, who has near four years to serve named DAVE, otherwise calls himself David Lewis, near thirty years of age, about 5 feet 6 inches high, middling thin built, fond of drink, and can play on the violin — had on when he absconded, a reddish colored coarse cashmere sailor's jacket with a scarlet cape, old olive colored thicket breeches, coarse dark stockings, and new coarse shoes. Whoever takes up said negro and confines him in any goal so that the owner gets him again, shall receive the above reward and all reasonable charges, if brought home, by HENRY DUSENBERY. November 27, 1802. N.B. Said Negro Man absconded last winter, and was apprehended the last of June past, at one Carver's Bucks county, Pennsylvania, in which neighborhood he had been about six months. All persons are forbid harboring him at their peril."

As evidenced by a runaway ad published in September 1802, Prime ran away from his enslaver Edmund Burroughs of Hopewell, Hunterdon County, NJ. At that time, Prime was about 19 years old. What exactly happened after he ran away and how long he managed to evade capture is uncertain. However, we do know that Edmund Burroughs would go on to manumit Prime in 1809, and thus we can infer that Prime was captured following his escape and returned to his enslaver's household sometime after the publication of the runaway ad.

The Trenton Federalist newspaper published a sale ad for a young Black woman aged 19 who was accustomed to domestic labor and childcare. The seller's name was not printed in the ad, and prospective buyers were advised to enquire of the printers, who were George Sherman and John Mershon. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FOR SALE, A STOUT healthy NEGRO GIRL, about nineteen years of age, who is very capable of doing housework — is sober, honest and much attached to Children. She would well suit a Farmer. Apply to the Printers hereof. January 9, 1803. 54-3w"

Charles Hawkins was manumitted by Abel Slayback and Jesse Slayback of West Windsor, New Jersey, on January 27, 1803. It appears that Abel Slayback and Jesse Slayback jointly held legal ownership over Hawkins, and they appeared jointly before the court in order to manumit Hawkins. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of West Windsor (John Jones, Elijah Voorhees) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Jonathan Combs, Daniel Agnew) on January 27, 1803. The document stated that Charles Hawkins 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. Charles Hawkins's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on February 5, 1803. West Windsor was part of Middlesex County at this time, but it would later become part of Mercer County in 1838.

In March 1803, enslaver Kenneth Hankinson advertised the sale of 6 Black boys between the ages of 5 and 8, plus a Black woman aged 36 with her little son who was 2 and a half years old. The woman was enslaved for life. Kenneth Hankinson indicated that he wanted to sell the children with an indenture agreement that would allow them to be released at age 28, but if the buyer would agree to educate the boys and teach them how to read the Bible, then Hankinson would extend the indenture by 2 years, allowing the buyer to keep each boy in slavery until age 30. Hankinson was also selling livestock. This ad (which was published in Trenton) did not list Hankinson's place of residence, but other advertisements of his around this time period indicate that he was a resident of Freehold, Monmouth County. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TO BE SOLD, SIX healthy negro boys, from 5 to 8 years old, to serve until they arrive to the age of 28; but if the purchaser will oblige to learn them to read the Bible well, they will be sold until they are 30 years of age. Likewise, a healthy negro wench, about 36 years of age, for life, with a male child 2 1/2 hears old, which will be sold on the same conditions of the boys. Also, good horses, mares, cows, calves and stears fit for fatting, by me, KENNETH HANKINSON. March 14, 1803. 211-3w"

A sale advertisement for a 34-year-old Black woman appeared in the Newark newspaper the Centinel of Freedom on March 29, 1803. The prospective buyers were instructed to contact the printer of the paper for details. At this time, the paper was printed by Samuel Pennington and Stephen Gould. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FOR SALE. A HEALTHY Negro Woman, aged 34 years, who can do all kinds of house and country work, and is likewise a good cook. For particulars enquire of the Printer. March 29, 1803."

On April 3, 1803, a Black man named James, aged about 25, ran away from his enslaver Edmund Bainbridge of Maidenhead, NJ (modern-day Lawrence). Bainbridge submitted a runaway ad to the Trenton Federalist newspaper offering a reward of $20 for James's capture and specifying that he wanted James to be lodged in the Trenton jail. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty Dollars Reward. RAN AWAY from the subscriber on the 3d of April instant, a Negro man named JAMES, 25 years old about 5 feet 4 or 5 inches, a likely, well made man, fond of strong drink — had on when he went away, a coat, jacket, trousers made of mixed woolen cloth, linen shirt, and took with him a pair of blue cloth pantaloons. Whoever takes up said negro, and secures him in the gaol in the city of Trenton, and gives notice thereof to the subscriber, shall receive the above reward and all reasonable charges. EDMUND BAINBRIDGE Maidenhead, 8 miles from Trenton N. Jersey, April 18, 1803."

John Wycoof was manumitted by Henry Shotwell of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Ezekiel Ayers, Francis Everitt) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Jeremiah Manning, Henry Marsh) on April 11, 1803. The document stated that John Wycoof 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. John Wycoof's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on April 15, 1803.

Peter was manumitted by Joseph Freeman of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Francis Everitt, Ezekiel Ayers) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Phineas Manning, Jeremiah Manning) on April 11, 1803. 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 manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 9, 1803.

Saul was manumitted by Joseph Barron of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Francis Everitt, Ezekiel Ayers) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Phineas Manning, Jeremiah Manning) on April 11, 1803. The document stated that Saul 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. Saul's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 14, 1803.

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. GLOUCESTER COUNTY DOCUMENT NUMBER: 23 TRANSCRIPT: Gloucester County ) To wit. We do hereby Certify that on this 14th day of April in the year of our Lord one Thousand Eight hundred and three Isaac Mickel Esq. of the Township of Newton in the County afsd 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, his Slave named Sharper who on view and examination appears to be sound in Mind, and not under any Bodily incapacity of obtaining a support and 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 first above written. John Rowand ) Overseeing the Poor of the Township Joseph Evens ) of Newton. Joseph Champion ) Justices of the peace in & for J. Clement ) the said County of Gloucester. [Verso] Certificate of Manumission of Isaac Mickel Esq. Slave Sharper. Recorded in the Clerks Office of Gloucester County 17 May 1803. E Clark Clk Paid

Broffo Bowles was manumitted jointly by John Combs and Lewis Combs of South Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey, on May 3, 1803. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of South Amboy (Matthias Rue, William Toan) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (John Combs, Jacob Suidam) on May 3, 1803. The document stated that Broffo Bowles 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. Broffo Bowles's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 4, 1803. Note that the clerk's copy of the certificate of manumission lists one of the manumitters as John Combs and also lists one of the Justices of the Peace as John Combs. It is not entirely clear whether these are two different men, the same man, or an error on the part of the clerk.

Enslaver Edmund Bainbridge of Maidenhead, Hunterdon County (present-day Lawrence, Mercer County), advertised the sale of an 18-year-old Black woman who was primarily engaged in domestic labor. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FOR SALE, AN active healthy black Woman, eighteen years of age, well calculated for house work, and will be sold on reasonable and easy terms. Enquire of the subscriber, in Maidenhead, Hunterdon county, EDMUND BAINBRIDGE, May 23, 1803, 24-3w"

On June 6, 1803, a 25-year-old Black man named Philip ran away from his enslaver James Hankinson. James Hankinson submitted a runaway ad to the Trenton Federalist newspaper on June 13th, 1803, offering a twenty-dollar reward for Philip's capture. Hankinson identified his residence as simply "Monmouth," which is presumed to be either a general reference to Monmouth County, or a more specific reference to Freehold, the county seat, which was often referred to as "Monmouth Court House" in this era. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty Dollars Reward. RAN AWAY from the subscriber on the 6th instant. A Negro man named Philip, about 25 years old, yellow complexion, 5 feet high, large mouth, thick lips, fond of strong drink, plays the Violin — had on when went away a mixed cloth coat, with long skirts, nankeen vest and Pantaloons, short boots -- Whoever takes up said Negro and secures him in any Goal so that the owner may get him again shall receive the above reward and reasonable charges. JAMES HANKINSON. Monmouth, June 13, 1803."

Middlesex County farmer Jacob Van Dike (1723-1809) wrote his will on June 16, 1803, when he was 80 years old. Van Dike died six years later in 1809, and the will was proved on April 19, 1809. Van Dike appointed as executors his nephews Col. Henry Van Dike, Jacob Van Dike, and Matthew Van Dike. The will lists Middlesex County as the location, without specifying a locality. Jacob Van Dike resided in the area of Ten Mile Run and is buried in the Ten Mile Run Cemetery. The will mentioned four enslaved people: Betty, Jenny, James, and Hannah. Betty and Jenny would gain their freedom and an annuity for life from Van Dike's estate. James and Hannah were allowed "the liberty of choosing their own masters," and Van Dike prohibited his executors from selling James and Hannah at public auction. The will also mentioned that Van Dike held James "for a term of years only," meaning that an indenture agreement was in place for James to become free at some later date after some years of service. The number of years left on James's indenture was not mentioned in the will. The following is a transcript of the relevant passages from the will: "Whereas my Negro Woman Betty and Jenny have served me with fidelity and attention and have at all times behaved themselves both to me and my family with decency and respect, therefore it is my will and I do hereby order and direct that they be made free and set at liberty immediately after my decease and I do hereby give and bequeath unto each of them her freedom accordingly. I also give and bequeath unto each of them her wearing apparel her bed and bedding and her spinning wheel; I also order and direct that eight hundred dollars of the proceeds of my estate be placed on loan or good security and that the interest thence arising be paid to my said Negro women Betty and Jenny in equal moieties or shares for and during their respective natural lives... My Negro Man James whom I hold for a term of years only and my Negro Woman Hannah shall have the liberty of choosing their own masters, provided they shall do so within three months after my death and that in no case they shall be sold at public outcry or vendue, but only at a private sale." The following is a copy of the will abstract, as published in the Calendar of Wills, Vol. 11, 1806-1809: "1803, June 16. Van Dike, Jacob, of Middlesex Co., farmer; will of. To such children of the sisters of my late wife, Moijeke, as shall be living at time of my decease the sum of $2500 divided equally. My nephew, Col. Henry Van Dyke, “for his friendly aid and consideration”, $250. Negro women, Betty and Jenny to be free and to each of them her wearing apparel, bed, bedding and her spinning wheel; also to have interest of $800 during their natural lives. Negro man, James, and woman, Hannah, to have the privilege of choosing their own masters, and in no wise to be sold at public outcry. All residue to be divided between my brothers’ and sisters’ children. Executors—Col. Henry Van Dike (son of my brother, Ruloff), Jacob Van Dike (son of my brother, John), and Matthew Van Dike (son of my. brother, Matthais). Witnesses—John Cortelyou, John Quick and Peter Quick. Proved Apr. 19, 1809. 1809, Apr. 17 and 18. Inventory, $43,048.63; made by Elias Baker and Matthew Patterson. (Long list of names in accounts). File 10232 L"

A sale advertisement for a Black boy, aged 15, appeared in the Newark newspaper the Centinel of Freedom in the summer of 1803. The boy was skilled as a coachman. The prospective buyers were advised to contact the printer for more information. At this time, the printer of the newspaper was Samuel Pennington. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FOR SALE. A Likely active Black Boy, fifteen years of age, capable of taking care of a Horse, and driving a Carriage — Enquire of the Printer. July 26, 1803."

On August 10, 1803, a Black man named Jack, aged 22 years, ran away from his enslaver Isaac Clarkson, who lived in Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TEN DOLLARS REWARD. RAN AWAY from the subscriber, the 10th inst. a negro man, named JACK, 22 years of age, 5 feet 5 or 6 inches high, a little upon the yellow complexion. Said negro has a black spot about half way between his left ear and his mouth, about as big as a quarter of a dollar, a natural mark where the skin is ten times if possible, as black as any where else, and the hair grows as long as on his head, he has threatened to cut the skin off, but if that be the case, the mark will be seen ——— He had on when he went away, a homespun bear-skin trowsers, his other clothes unknown. Whoever takes up said negro, and secures him in any gaol, or returns him to his master shall have the above reward and all reasonable charges. ISAAC CLARKSON. Woodbridge, Aug. 29, 1803. 61-3w."

On or about August 20, 1803, two Black siblings ran away from Readington, Hunterdon County, New Jersey. They were named Dick and Phebe, and they had been enslaved by the late John Emmans, deceased. John Emmans had died just two weeks earlier, and the timing of Dick and Phebe's escape probably had something to do with the change in circumstances that Emmans's death precipitated. On September 5, 1803, the administrator of Emmans's estate, Simon Wyckoff, published a runaway ad offering a reward of $15 for each of the two runaways. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Thirty Dollars Reward. RAN AWAY, on or about the 20th of August last, from the subscriber, a Negro Man named DICK aged about twenty-six years, his colour is quite black; he is about five feet six inches high, very much bow legged, speaks English and low Dutch very well. Also, at the same time, ran away, a Negro Wench, called PHEBE, about nineteen years of age, and sister to the above named DICK, a good looking wench-- They both belonged to John Emmans of Readington in the county of Hunterdon, now deceased. Any person lodging the said negroes in gaol or delivering them to the subscriber, shall receive the above reward, with reasonable charges, or fifteen for either. SIMON WYCKOFF, Administrator of John Emmans, Readington, Hunterdon county, September 5, 1803. 37-3w"

On September 5, 1803, a Black man named Jack ran away from his enslaver John Maxwell Jr of Greenwich Township, Sussex County (present-day Warren County), New Jersey. A month an a half later, his enslaver submitted a runaway ad to the Trenton Federalist newspaper offering a reward of $10 for Jack's capture. Jack's age was not mentioned in the ad. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Ten Dollars Reward. RAN AWAY from the subscriber, on Saturday night the 5th September, a Negro man named JACK, about 5 feet 8 or 10 inches, slender made, very black, white eyes — had on when he went away a blue roundabout jacket, and pantaloons, edged with red tape, and tied with the same; one pair plain nankeen trousers, striped vest, a remarkable low crowned, narrow rimmed castor hat -- took with him a blue light horseman's coat, trimmed with buff, one pair of grey linsey trousers. Whoever takes up said runaway and returns him to his master shall receive the above reward and reasonable charges. JOHN MAXWELL, jun. Greenwich, Sussex, N.J. October 17, 1803. 42-3w"

A sale advertisement for a 20-year-old Black man was published in the Newark newspaper Centinel of Freedom in the fall of 1803. The name of the enslaver was not mentioned. The sale would be brokered by the printer of the newspaper, Samuel Pennington. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FOR SALE. A stout healthy NEGRO MAN about 20 years of age. — Enquire of the printer. Newark, Oct. 31, 1803."

Pat, a 20-year-old Black woman, ran away from her enslaver John Reeve in 1803. Reeve published a runaway ad for Pat, noting that she likely went to Newtown, PA, where her mother (a free Black woman) lived, or to Philadelphia where she had an aunt. Although the bottom of the ad states that it was written on "Nov. 7, 1803," this appears to be an error, since Pat did not run away until November 14. According to the text of the ad, Pat ran away on "Monday morning the 14th inst," i.e. the 14th of the current month. This certainly refers to November 14, 1803, which was a Monday. The ad first appeared in the November 21, 1803, issue of the True American (a Trenton newspaper) and ran for about two months. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Fifty Dollars Reward. RAN away from the subscriber, on Monday morning the 14th inst., living at Rocky Hill, a negro woman named PAT, about 20 years of age, of a yellowish complexion, middle sized, pretty robust and strong built, very thick and bushy hair and inclined to grow long but has lately been cut off quite short; she has a down and guilty look. She took with her a Calico short gown of chocolate ground work with white oval spots and a small red spot in the middle of the white ones and sprigs between the oval spots; one striped tow and linnen do, a blue linsey petticoat, a blue and white shawl which on close examination will be found to have a seam through it, a pair of thick leather shoes with spur pieces on the heels, and ran down at sides and much worn, a pair of netting fingered gloves almost white. A dog belonging to the house disappeared same morning, and quite likely followed her, he is middle sized almost white somewhat inclined to yellow, some parts of his body more than others, and has no artificial mark; he answers to the name Saap[?]. Said wench will probably change her name and dress; as her mother is free and lives near Newtown in Pennsylvania it is very probable she will be found in that neighborhood or within 15 or 20 miles of it, or perhaps in the City of Philadelphia as she has an aunt living there. Whoever will take up said runaway and deliver her to the subscriber, or secure her that her master may get her again, shall receive the above reward, and reasonable charges by applying to JOHN REEVE. Rocky-Hill near Princeton, Nov. 7, 1803."

The following manumission deed and certificate from Gloucester County were 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 deed noted that a Black woman named Rose, whose legal owner was Solomon Combs, had been promised freedom under an indenture agreement entered into in 1798. Under the indenture agreement, she would serve a man named John Lawrence for several years and would then be set free. The instructions to manumit Rose were carried out in 1803 by James B. Caldwell, acting under the authority given to him by Solomon Combs in the indenture agreement. It is not entirely clear from the manumission deed whether James B. Caldwell ever employed Rose as a servant in his own household prior to her manumission, or whether he was acting merely as a legal representative to carry out Solomon Combs's instructions that Rose should be set free. These documents were filed in Deptford Township, of which James B. Caldwell and John Lawrence were residents at this time (as confirmed by Deptford tax ratables for 1802). Whether Solomon Combs was a resident of that township is uncertain. Rose was aged 33 at the time of her manumission in 1803. GLOUCESTER COUNTY DOCUMENT NUMBER: 22 TRANSCRIPT: To Whom it may Concern - Know ye that I James B. Caldwell by the Authority given me by Solomon Combs in a Certain Indenture Given to John Lawrence on a Negro Woman named Rose bearing date 30th March 1798 In which Indenture sd. Combs hath particularly specified that the sd Rose should be manumitted and set free do hereby Manumit discharge and set free the aforesaid Negro Woman Rose aged about thirty three years being the property of said Solomon Combs - Witness my hand seal the third day of December Eighteen hundred and three - James B. Caldwell. Gloucester County to wit, We do hereby Certify that on the third day of December Eighteen hundred and three James B. Caldwell agreeable to an Indenture given to John Lawrence bearing date March 30th 1798 by Solomon Combs on a Certain Negro Woman named Rose in which Indenture sd Combs hath particularly specified that the sd Negro Woman Rose should be manumited and set free Brought before us the subscribers the only acting overseer of the poor of the township of Debtford and two of the Justices of the Peace of the sd County the aforesaid Negro Woman named Rose the Property of sd Solomon Combs, Which sd Rose 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 & year above written. Acting overseer of the poor of the township of Debtford Biddle Reeves As Justices of the peace of the County of Gloucester Jonathan Harker, J. P. Jeremiah Wood. [Verso] Rose's Manumission Recorded 6th decem 1803 in the Clerks Office of Gloucester County in Book A. E Clark Clk

George Hawkins was manumitted by Robert Davison of South Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of South Brunswick (Thomas McDowell, John Davison) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Nathaniel Hunt, Andrew McDowell) on December 14, 1803. The document stated that George Hawkins 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 Hawkins's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on December 22, 1803.

On December 20, 1803, a 33-year-old Black man named Jack ran away from his enslaver, Louis Rossignol de Belleanse, who was at that time living in Trenton. Belleanse submitted a runaway ad to the Trenton Federalist in January 1804, and the subscriber's name was printed in the newspaper as "Lewis R. Balleanse." The ad noted that Belleanse was living with "Mr. Grandmont" in Trenton, which refers to Jacques Philipe Rossignol de Grandmont. Belleanse and Grandmont were both French planters who fled the island of Haiti during the Haitian Revolution. The ad also noted that Jack was brought up to speak French, and could only speak broken English. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty Dollars Reward. RAN-AWAY from the Subscriber, on Monday the 20th of December last, a NEGRO MAN named Jack. He is about thirty-three years of age, five feet four inches high, a good looking fellow, and respectful in his address — has an aquiline nose, large whiskers, and wears gold rings in his ears. He took with him the following articles of clothing, (viz): A blue surtout coat, a green coat, a pair of brown pantaloons, a brown jacket, lined with red flannel, a new fur hat, a new pair of shoes, and several other articles. He is a French Negro, but speaks the English language in a broken manner. The above reward will be given, with all reasonable charges, to any one who will take up the said Negro and return to his master, at Mr. Grandmont's in Trenton. LEWIS R. BALLEANSE Trenton, January 4, 1804. 54-3w"

Robert Campton (or Compton) was manumitted jointly by Thomas Grant, Catherine Grant, John Grant, and Ebenezer Grant of North Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of North Brunswick (John Van Nuis) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Abraham Schuyler, Elijah Phillips) on December 21, 1803. The document stated that Robert 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. Robert's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on March 19, 1804.

A sale advertisement for a Black woman skilled at domestic duties, such as spinning, sewing, and cooking, was published in the Newark newspaper Centinel of Freedom in January 1804. The name of the enslaver was not mentioned. The sale would be brokered by the printers of the newspaper, William Tuttle and John Pike. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FOR SALE. A LIKELY Negro Woman of about 27 years of age, who is acquainted with all kinds of family business, such as spinning, sewing, cooking, &c. Any person wishing to purchase the said woman, may know the conditions enquiring at the office of the Centinel."

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 10 Child: Gabriel Enslaver of mother and child: Isaac Cotheal Location: Woodbridge, NJ Birth date: February 15, 1804 Reported date: November 11, 1805 Clerk: William Philips Deare This certificate lists Woodbridge township as the location. A different birth certificate submitted by the same enslaver indicated that he was a resident of Bonhamtown in Woodbridge township; it can be inferred that Gabriel was also born in the vicinity of Bonhamtown. The names of the mother and father were not recorded on this birth certificate. Other birth records for Middlesex County indicate that, in Isaac Cotheal's household, a woman named Ann gave birth to children Jane (1808) and Hester (1810). It is possible that Ann was the mother of Gabriel. The document indicates that the enslaver was a farmer. Note that the original record in the book was corrected by a later addition in the margins. The original certificate, which was written in November 1805, stated that Gabriel was born on the 15th of "February last," meaning February 1805. Later in 1809, the enslaver informed the clerk that Gabriel was actually born a year earlier in February 1804. The following is a complete transcript of the document: "Gabriel / I Isaac Cotheal of the township of Woodbridge in the County of Middlesex New Jersey, Farmer, certify that Gabriel a male negro boy was born on the fifteenth day of February last. Witness my hand this eleventh day of November Eighteen Hundred & five. - Isaac Cotheal Recorded November 11th, 1805. - [added between the lines:] - True time February 15th, 1804 Isaac Cotheal [note added in the margins:] The above is a mistake. The boy was born Febry 15th, 1804. Witness my hand. January 16th, 1809. Isaac Cotheal Recorded same day Deare Clk"

Azor, a 41-year-old French-speaking Black man who had been raised in Saint Domingue (now Haiti), ran away from his enslaver Jacques Philipe Rossignol de Grandmont around March or April 1804. Azor made his escape from Trenton, where Grandmont had a home. Grandmont posted a reward for Azor's capture in July 1804, noting that Azor had been gone for 3 or 4 months by then. Grandmont requested that information be sent to Dr. Bellville in Trenton, which may indicate that Grandmont himself was away from Trenton at that time. Azor was one of several people who ran away from Grandmont around this time. See related events for Alexander and Fifi (who were mentioned in the same runaway ad) and also for Jack. ----- Transcript of the source document: "One Hundred Dollars Reward. RAN-AWAY from the Subscriber, at Trenton, New Jersey, two negro men, named Azor and Alexander, and a negro woman named Fifi. Azor has been gone 3 or 4 months, is a tall stout fellow, about 41 years of age, speaks the English language very imperfectly, being from St. Domingo, and may be easily known by a peculiarity in his walk, an impediment in his speech, and by his front teeth being turned with their edges in front. Alexander has been living for some time past with Mr. Hunter, at Flemington, and went off from that place on Tuesday night last, he is a tall, slender, well made man, about 28 or 30 years of age, and also speaks the English language imperfectly, being from St. Domingo; he is very black, and took with him many clothes; among them he had a sailor's jacket and a pair of pantaloons of plaid cotton. Fifi, the woman, has been absent for 2 or 3 months, and is perhaps somewhere in Pennsylvania; she is a short, fat, round faced wench, speaks the English language badly and is neat in her dress and appearance. Whoever will take up the above slaves and lodge them in Trenton gaol, shall receive 100 dollars reward, or in proportion for either. If confined in any other place 30 dollars will be given for each, on applying to Andrew S. Hunter, Esq, Flemington, or to Dr. Bellville, Trenton, New Jersey. J. P. R. Grandmont July 28, 1804. 83 tf."

A sale advertisement for a 19-year-old Black man experienced in farming and tanning was published in the Newark newspaper Centinel of Freedom in March 1804. The name of the enslaver was not mentioned. The sale would be brokered by the printers of the newspaper, William Tuttle and John Pike. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FOR SALE. A STOUT, healthy, robust, likely NEGRO MAN, about 19 years old, well acquainted with all kinds of farming business, as well as all branches of the tanning business. — Sold for no fault, but for want of employment. Enquire of the Printers."