New Jersey Slavery Records

The Following Abandonment Certificate was submitted to the Overseer of the Poor of the Township of Piscataway: Child: Matt Mother: Lett Enslaver of Mother and Child: Dennis Field Abandonment Certificate Date: March 17, 1806 Child’s Date of Birth: August 18, 1805 This certificate indicates that the enslaver abandoned all his legal rights and title to the child and gave up the child to the Overseer of the Poor to be bound out as a pauper.

The Following Abandonment Certificate was submitted to the Overseer of the Poor of the Township of Piscataway: Child: Abraham Mother: Ann Enslaver of Mother and Child: Jeremiah Van Deventer Abandonment Certificate Date: March 25, 1806 Child’s Date of Birth: September 13, 1805 The Certificate is addressed to Thomson Stelle, Township Clerk. This certificate indicates that the enslaver abandoned all his legal rights and title to the child and gave up the child to the Overseer of the Poor to be bound out as a pauper.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 38 Certificate number: 129 Child: Anthony Mother: Phillis Enslaver of mother and child: Richard Stockton Esqr. Location: Montgomery Township Birth date: 25 Mar 1806 Reported date: 20 Dec 1806 Clerk: Joseph Doty The location listed is Montgomery Township. Richard Stockton was the owner of the Morven mansion in Princeton, which was then part of Montgomery township.

Publius Vergillius Marr was born in April 1806 to an enslaved woman in the household of David Sheppard of Cumberland County. Although New Jersey law required births of Black children to be reported within 9 months, Sheppard only reported the boy's birth 7 years later on 4 September 1813. The same record included information about two other children. It was recorded by County Clerk Jonathan Holmes in Book C, on page 21. The record did not explicitly state who the mother of Publius Vergillius Marr was. The same record indicated that there were at least two women of childbearing age in David Sheppard's household, named Juno and Violet, and one of them may have been the mother of Publius Vergillius Marr. Although the Clerk's record did not state the locality, David Sheppard was a well-known resident of Bridgeton with a mansion in the center of town and a separate farm property in Fairfield Township. It can be inferred that the child was born at one of those locations, both of which have been preserved to this day. The transcript of the record from the County Clerk's Book C, page 21, is as follows: "This is to certify a female child named Agur was born August 8 1813 by my slave Juno. Also a black boy of my slave Violet named Enoch August 14 1808. Also a negro boy was born in April named Publius Vergillius Marr in the year 1806." David Sheppard obtained a receipt from the County Clerk. The following is a transcript of the receipt: "This is to certify that David Sheppard has this day filed in the clerks office in Cumberland County a certificate of the birth of three negro children by the name of Publius Vergillius Marr, Enoch and Agur. Septem 4th 1813 J. Holmes Clk NB. This is the first record of this sort on the Books of this County And there never has been but one besides this braught forward that is not recorded. [verso] Rect of the Record of three negro Children September 1, 1813 J. Homes Clerk of Court C County"

On April 5, 1806, a Black man named Titus, aged about 21, ran away from his enslaver Thomas Terry of Westfield, Essex County (now in Union County), New Jersey. ----- Transcript of the source document: "30 Dollars Reward. RAN-AWAY from the subscriber, on Saturday the 5th inst. a negro man named Titus, very black, about 21 years old, 6 feet high, and has a remarkable scar in the palm of his right hand; had on a new rorum hat, blue long-tail coat, black velvet pantaloons, swansdown jacket, and boots; he took with him shoes and another suit of clothes. Whoever will take up said runaway, or secure him in any jail in this state, so that the subscriber can get him again, shall have the above reward and reasonable charges. Thomas Terry. Westfield, April 14, 1806. 98.3wp."

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Lowery Brown Mother: Clary Enslaver of mother and child: Elizabeth Paul, widow Location: Oxford Township, NJ Birth date: 6 April 1806 Signed date: 29 October 1810 Recorded by the clerk: 15 January 1811 Clerk: John Johnson Elizabeth Paul signed and sealed the certificate. Benjamin Hunt and C. Paul signed as witnesses.

The Following Abandonment Certificate was submitted to the Overseer of the Poor of the Township of Piscataway: Child: Alexander Mother: Elizabeth Enslaver of Mother and Child: Jeremiah Manning Abandonment Certificate Date: May 8, 1806 Child’s Date of Birth: August 16, 1805 The Certificate is addressed to Edward Griffith and David Correll, Overseers of the Poor. This certificate indicates that the enslaver abandoned all his legal rights and title to the child and gave up the child to the Overseer of the Poor to be bound out as a pauper.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 32 Child: Phillis Mother: Pat Enslaver of mother and child: John Davison Location: South Brunswick, NJ Birth date: April 13, 1806 Reported date: March 9, 1809 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Sophia Mother: Name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: James Van Auken Location: Montague, NJ Birth date: 24 April 1806 Recorded date: 21 Dec 1806 Clerk: John Johnson

David Ford, the executor of the estate of Isabella Kearney, late of the Irish Lot in Hanover, Morris County, manumitted a Black man named Mars Willson, aged 33. The manumission deed noted that Mars Willson and his enslaver, Isabella Kearney, had made a formal agreement during Kearney's lifetime to the effect that Mars Willson would gain freedom. The Irish Lot, mentioned as Isabella Kearney's late residence, refers to the name of her (then already deceased) brother Michael Kearney's estate in Hanover, where Isabella had been living for some time after the American Revolution. Transcript of the manumission certificate, dated April 28, 1806: "State of New Jersey County of Morris We do hereby Certify that on the twenty eighth day of April, One thousand eight hundred and Six, David Ford Esquire, Executor of the Estate of Isabella Kearny, late of the Irish Lot, in said County, deceased, brought before us two of the Overseers of the Poor of the Township of Hanover in the said County, and two of the Justices of the Peace of the said County, a Negro Man, named Mars Willson, late the property of the said Isabella Kearny, who, on view and examination, appears to us to be sound in mind, and not under any bodily Incapacity of obtaining a Support; and also, is not under the age of twenty one years, nor above the age of forty years. In witness whereof, we have hereunto set our hands the day and year above written. John Dehart Enoch Clarke Overseers of the Poor of the Township of Hanover Abraham Kitchell Abraham Fairchild Justices of the Peace for the County of Morris" Transcript of the manumission deed, dated May 7, 1806: "To all whom these presents come, know ye, that I, David Ford, Executor of the last will and testament of Isabella Kearny, late of the Township of Hanover in the County of Morris, in the State of New Jersey, in consideration, and in pursuance of an agreement heretofore made between the said Isabella Kearny, in her lifetime, of the one part, & Mars Willson, her Negro Slave, of the other part, and duly recorded in the Morris County Register of Manumitted Slaves, Lib. A, Fol 12. And also in consideration of the Powers and Trusts in me reposed by the last will and testament of the said Isabella Kearny deceased,have Emancipated, Manumitted, and set free, and by these presents, do Emancipate, Manumit, and set free, the said Negro Slave, named Mars Willson, aged thirty three years, and do hereby forever Discharge the said Mars Willson from Servitude. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this seventh day of May in the Year of our Lord Eighteen Hundred and Six. David Ford Executor to the Estate of Isabella Kearny Signed Sealed and Delivered in the presence of John J. Faesch John M. Carter"

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 21 Child: Bunn Mother: Lenah Enslaver of mother and child: Samuel Longstreet Location: South Amboy, NJ Birth date: May 4, 1806 Reported date: October 16, 1806 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a farmer.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Dave Mother: Dine Enslaver of mother and child: Robert Kennedy Location: Greenwich Township Birth date: May 4, 1806 Recorded date: May 12, 1806 Clerk: John Johnson Robert Kennedy lived at a property that is now on the National Register of Historic Places under the name Kennedy House and Mill. It can be inferred that Dave was born on this property. The father's name was not listed on the birth certificate. Robert Kennedy's will, written in 1810, reveals that there was an older Black man named Dave in the household, and he was mentioned together with Dine. From this will, it can be inferred that the elder Dave was likely the father of Dine's child.

Somerset County Register of Black Children, Manumissions, and Removals, Book A, Pages 31 and 33-34, contain a manumission certificate and manumission deed for Margaret, who was released from slavery on 14 May 1806 in Bridgewater. Margaret was manumitted by Daniel La Tourrette. The manumission document states that Margaret was 25 years old at the time of this event. The document was entered into the book by the County Clerk (Joseph Doty) on 24 June 1806. The manumission record was signed by the Overseers of the Poor for the township (Gilbert A. Lane and Joseph Mollison) and Justices of the Peace for Somerset County (James Van Duyn and Cornelius Van Horne). Judge Jacob DeGroot notarized the deed of manumission.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 36 Certificate number: 121 Child: Harry Mother: Eve Enslaver of mother and child: Daniel La Tourrette Location: Somerville Birth date: 16 May 1806 Reported date: 3 Sep 1806 Clerk: Joseph Doty

Dinah, aged 30, was manumitted by John Manley 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 (Thomas Hill, Thomas Hance) on May 19, 1806. The document stated that Dinah 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 was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 19, 1806.

On May 25, 1806, a 23-year-old Black man named Jack ran away from his enslaver Thomas Stevens of Maidenhead, Hunterdon County (now Lawrence, Mercer County). ----- Transcript of the source document: "Ten Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber, living in the township of Maidenhead, near Trenton on the 25th of May, a negro man named Jack aged about twenty-three years, about five feet ten inches high, thin build, yellow complexion, thick lips, a down look, is much given to intoxication, had on a wool hat, colored linen jacket, striped coating vest, mixed with cloth overalls. Whoever will take up and secure said slave so that his master gets him again, shall receive the above reward and all reasonable charges. Thomas Stevens. Maidenhead, June 4th, 1806."

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Phebe Mother: Flora Enslaver of mother and child: Savina Semons (signed by her mark) Location: Sussex County (Locality not listed) Birth date: June 1, 1806 Recorded: May 1807 Clerk: not listed, presumed to be John Johnson

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Martin Mother: Phebe Enslaver of mother and child: Elias Van Bunschooten Location: Sussex County (locality not specified) Birth date: 5 June 1806 Recorded date: 17 December 1806 Clerk: Johnson Although the locality was not specified in the document, Elias Van Bunschooten was a well-known resident of Wantage Township, and it can be assumed that Martin was born in that area. The following is a complete transcript of the birth certificate: "I had born of the body of ny negroe wench Phebe, a slave, a male child the 5th of June 1806 which I have named Martin. - The Clerk of Sussex is requested to record the same. - Elias V. Bunschooten" On reverse side: "Slave Certificate Filed 17 Decmr 1806 Johnson CLK"

The Following Abandonment Certificate was submitted to the Overseer of the Poor of the Township of Piscataway: Child: Sarah Mother: Jude Enslaver of Mother and Child: Mary Boice Abandonment Certificate Date: June 6, 1806 Child's Date of Birth as recorded on the abandonment certificate: November 16, 1805 Note that there is a discrepancy in the way Sarah's birthday was recorded. Her birthday, as reported on her original birth certificate, was November 13, 1805. This abandonment certificate indicates that the enslaver abandoned all her legal rights and title to the child and gave up the child to the Overseer of the Poor to be bound out as a pauper. The following is a transcript of the certificate: "To the Town Clerk & overseer of the poor of the township of Piscataway Gentlemen these are to inform you that my Negro wench Jude was brought to bed the sixteenth day of November last with a female child which she named Sarah—I do therefore hereby give you notice that I do abandon all my right & title to the said female child agreeably to an Act of the Legislature in such case made & provided – Given under my hand the 6th day of June 1806. Mary Boice her mark"

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Clarra Mother: name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Willhelmus Fradenburgh Location: Sussex County (Locality not specified) Birth date: June 15, 1806 Recorded date: December 21, 1806 Clerk: Johnson

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 20 Child: George Mother: Grace Enslaver of mother and child: Joseph Clark Location: New Brunswick, NJ Birth date: June 22, 1806 Reported date: September 6, 1806 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that Joseph Clark was a "Minister of the Gospel" in New Brunswick.

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: 29 TRANSCRIPT: State of New Jersey, Gloucester County. We certify that on this Twenty third day of June in the year of our Lord, One thousand eight hundred and six, James Stratton of the Township of Woolwich in the said County of Gloucester, brought before us two of the Overseers of the Poor of the said Township, and two of the Justices of the peace of the said County, his Slave named, Ishmael, who, on view and examination, appears to us to be, sound in mind, and not under any bodily incapacity, of obtaining a support, and also is not under the age of twenty one years, nor above the age of forty years. In Witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands, the day and year above written. Overseers of the Poor of the Township of Woolwich Samuel Paul Samuel Lippincott. Justices of the Peace in and for the County of Gloucester Nicholas Justice ) Rich'd Fittermary ) J. Peace. [Verso] Certificate for Mulatto Ishmael Recorded in the Clerks Office of Gloucester County in Lib A of Manumission of Slaves November 22d, 1806. C. Oden Clk

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 22 Child: Martha Mother: Sarah Enslaver of mother and child: Guisbert Sutphen Location: South Brunswick, NJ Birth date: June 26, 1806 Reported date: March 27, 1807 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a farmer.

A Black man named Philip, aged about 21 or 22, ran away from his enslaver, Charles Higbee of Trenton in 1806. The exact date of Phillip's escape is uncertain. Charles Higbee published a runaway ad for Phillip on July 14, 1806, but the ad did not mention how long Phillip had been away from Higbee's household at that time. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TEN DOLLARS, WILL be paid for apprehending Philip, a NEGRO MAN, who has run away from the subscriber. He is about 21 or 22 years of age, has a broad unmeaning countenance, thick lips and a large flat nose. The above reward will be paid for securing him, and if brought home, reasonable charges. Charles Higbee Trenton, July 14th, 1806. 85-3w"

The Following Abandonment Certificate was submitted to the Overseer of the Poor of the Township of Piscataway: Child: Fanny Mother: Phillis Enslaver of Mother and Child: Sarah Dunn Abandonment Certificate Date: July 4, 1806 Child’s Date of Birth: December 22, 1805 This certificate indicates that the enslaver abandoned all her legal rights and title to the child and gave up the child to the Overseer of the Poor to be bound out as a pauper. Note that there is a discrepancy in the child's birth date. This abandonment certificate states that Fanny was born on December 22, 1805, but a birth registration in the County Clerk's book says that she was born a month earlier on November 22, 1805.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Susanna Mother: Fam Enslaver of mother and child: Cornelius P. Westbrook Location: Sandyston, NJ Birth date: 5 July 1806 Recorded date: 22 Nov 1806 Clerk: John Johnson

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 41-a Certificate number: 136 Child: Betty Mother: name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: David Nevius Location: Franklin Birth date: 7 Jul 1806 Reported date: 8 Jan 1807 Clerk: Joseph Doty

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 91 Child: Tom Mother: name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Abraham Voorhees Location: Franklin Birth date: 4 Aug 1806 Reported date: 20 Jun 1810 Clerk: Samuel Swan The name of the mother was not written on the document, but the certificate mentioned that the same woman gave birth to a daughter named Dian in 1809.

The Following Abandonment Certificate was submitted to the Overseer of the Poor of the Township of Piscataway: Child: Martha Mother: Susan Enslaver of Mother and Child: Michael Garrish Abandonment Certificate Date: August 9, 1806 Child’s Date of Birth: December 27, 1805 This certificate indicates that the enslaver abandoned all his legal rights and title to the child and gave up the child to the Overseer of the Poor to be bound out as a pauper.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Bill Mother: Peg Enslaver of mother and child: Evert Van Auken Location: Sussex County (Locality not specified) Birth date: August 10, 1806 Recorded date: December 21, 1806 Clerk: Johnson The locality was not specified on this birth certificate; however, other county documents indicate that the enslaver lived in Newton, thus it may be inferred that the child was born in Newton.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 41-b Certificate number: 141 Child: Eve Mother: Peg Enslaver of mother and child: John P. Dumont Location: Hillsborough Birth date: 10 Aug 1806 Reported date: 23 Jan 1807 Clerk: Joseph Doty

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 23 Child: Nance Mother: Cate Enslaver of mother and child: John Wetherill Location: South Brunswick, NJ Birth date: August 24, 1806 Reported date: May 23, 1807 Clerk: William Philips Deare

On September 24, 1806, a young Black man named Cyrus ran away from his enslaver Daniel Duncan, who lived in South Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey, about 5 miles from Princeton. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber on Wednesday last, a Negro Man named Cyrus, about 20 years of age, five feet two or three inches high, stout built, assuming in his looks, and very temperate. Had on when he went away, a grey linsey coattee, light spotted vest, and nankeen trousers, woolen stockings, and wool hat about half worn. Whoever will take up said runaway and return him to the subscriber, living in the township of South-Brunswick, 5 miles from Princeton, or secure him in any gaol so that he can get him again, shall receive the above reward and reasonable charges. South-Brunswick, Sept 27, 1806. 96 3P 3m"

On Wednesday, August 27, 1806, a Black man named John ran away from his enslaver Ruloof Lane, who lived near Princeton, NJ. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Ten Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber, on Wednesday the 27th inst. a negro man named John, about 5 feet 8 or 9 inches high, slim built, spare face, thick lips, slim nose, marked with the small pox, speaks broken English and French; had on, when he went away, a bluish long coat, fur hat, nearly new — the remainder of his clothes not recollected. Whoever will take up said runaway and secure him so that his master may get him again, shall receive ten dollars, and all reasonable additional charges if he is brought home. RULOOF LANE Near Princeton, August 29th, 1805. 92-3w"

On August 28, 1806, a Black man named Jim, aged about 22, ran away from John Durling in Hardwick, Sussex County (now in Warren County), New Jersey. John Durling submitted a runaway ad for Jim three weeks later, indicating that Jim managed to evade capture and was still at large as of September 16, 1806. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty-five Dollars reward. Ranaway from the subscriber, living in the township of Hardwick, county of Sussex, State of New Jersey, on the 28th August last, a NEGRO MAN, named Jim, about five feet, seven or eight inches high, thick lips, speaks slow, dark yellowish complexion. In the 23rd year of his age, his left fore finger stiff, occasioned by a cut on the joint; had on when he went away, a tow shirt and trousers and swansdown waistcoat; took with him a drab green coat half worne. Any person who will take up said runaway and return him to his master, or secure him in any gaol so that he can get him again, shall receive above reward and all reasonable charges. JOHN DURLING Hardwick, September 16, 1806. 95-3w pd"

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 22 Child: Deyaun Enslaver of mother and child: Jacob Van Devanter Sr. Location: Piscataway, NJ Birth date: September 4, 1806 Reported date: May 21, 1807 Clerk: William Philips Deare The names of the mother and father were not recorded on this birth certificate. The location specified was "Piscataway Township, Middlesex County near Bound brook."

Book A, Page 45 Certificate: 158 Child: Joe Mother: Bet Enslaver of mother and child: David Ayers, Esquire Location: Bernards Birth date: 6 September 1806 Reported date: 22 April 1807 Clerk: Joseph Doty

On Thursday night, September 18, 1806, a Black man named Sampson ran away from his enslaver Richard Stockton in Princeton, NJ. He was approximately 30 years old. A runaway ad for Sampson first appeared in a Trenton newspaper on September 29, 1806. At the end of December, Stockton continued running the ad, suggesting that Sampson was still at large three months after his escape. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber on Thursday night last, a Negro Man slave named Sampson. He is about 30 years of age, five feet six or seven inches high, very black, of good countenance, but awkward in his appearance when spoken to; his knees knock, and his legs are remarkably small, compared with his body. He had on when he absconded, common summer working clothes. Any person returning him to me at this place shall receive the above reward. RICHARD STOCKTON Princeton, Sept. 24, 1806."

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 27 Child: Nancy Mother: Phebe Enslaver of mother and child: John Croes Location: New Brunswick, NJ Birth date: September 20, 1806 Reported date: February 3, 1808 Clerk: William Philips Deare The record notes that John Croes is "Rector of Christ Church in the City of New Brunswick."

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 45 Certificate number: 156 Child: Rachel Mother: Gin Enslaver of mother and child: Abraham Voorhees Location: Franklin Birth date: 26 Sep 1806 Reported date: 22 Apr 1807 Clerk: Joseph Doty

The Following Abandonment Certificate was submitted to the Overseer of the Poor of the Township of Piscataway: Child: Galon Mother: Phillis Enslaver of Mother and Child: David Dunham Jr. Abandonment Certificate Date: October 3, 1806 Child’s Date of Birth: October 5, 1805 Two related slips of paper were found pertaining to Galon's abandonment; one was addressed to Thomson Stelle and the other to the Town Clerk and Overseers of the Poor for the Township of Piscataway. This certificate indicates that the enslaver abandoned all his legal rights and title to the child and gave up the child to the Overseer of the Poor to be bound out as a pauper.

The Following Abandonment Certificate was submitted to the Overseer of the Poor of the Township of Piscataway: Child: Tom Mother: Nelle Enslaver of Mother and Child: Hendrick Smock Abandonment Certificate Date: November 1, 1806 Child’s Date of Birth: March 4, 1806 This certificate indicates that the enslaver abandoned all his legal rights and title to the child and gave up the child to the Overseer of the Poor to be bound out as a pauper.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 77 Child: Jane Brown Mother: Dina Enslaver of mother and child: Benjamin A. Brown Location: Woodbridge, NJ Birth date: November 2, 1806 Reported date: February 4, 1828 Clerk: James F. Randolph

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 25 Child: Sammuel Mother: Zoor Enslaver of mother and child: William Perrine Location: South Amboy, NJ Birth date: November 6, 1806 Reported date: October 12, 1807 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a farmer.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Daniel Mother: Bett Enslaver of mother and child: Isaac Hughes Location: Sussex County (locality not specified) Birth date: 28 Nov 1806 Recorded date: 21 Aug 1810 Clerk: not listed, presumed to be Johnson

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 24 Child: Lewis Mother: Hanna Enslaver of mother and child: Rachel Boice Location: Piscataway, NJ Birth date: December 2, 1806 Reported date: August 10, 1807 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 24 Child: Cato Mother: Celia Enslaver of mother and child: Eliza Heard Location: Woodbridge, NJ Birth date: December 14, 1806 Reported date: August 25, 1807 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 24 Child: York Enslaver of mother and child: Joseph Taylor Location: Perth Amboy, NJ Birth date: December 15, 1806 Reported date: September 8, 1807 Clerk: William Philips Deare The names of the mother and father were not recorded on this birth certificate.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 25 Child: Tona Mother: Jane Enslaver of mother and child: Andrew Perrine Location: South Amboy, NJ Birth date: December 17, 1806 Reported date: November 6, 1807 Clerk: William Philips Deare The birth certificate does not specify the sex of the child.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 35 Child: Saul Mother: Dinah Enslaver of mother and child: Joseph Barron Location: Woodbridge, NJ Birth date: December 20, 1806 Reported date: September 4, 1809 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document noted that Joseph Barron was a merchant.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 16 Child: Susan Mother: Hagar Enslaver of mother and child: Jacob C. Ten Eyck Location: Princeton in West Windsor, NJ Birth date: December 21, 1806 Reported date: February 10, 1806 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was an innkeeper at Princeton in the township of West Windsor.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 57 Child: Isabella Mother: Nancy Enslaver of mother and child: John Meldrum Location: Bridgewater Birth date: 22 Dec 1806 Reported date: 8 Oct 1807 Clerk: Joseph Doty

Enslaver James Stevenson, who lived near Pennington, in Hunterdon County (now in Mercer County), New Jersey, advertised the sale of a young Black woman in 1806. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FOR SALE, A Healthy Young Black Woman. Enquire of the Subscriber near Pennington. JAMES STEVENSON December 27, 1806. 10.3w"

It appears that Sampson (aka Francis) was captured following his escape from enslaver Richard Stockton of Princeton. The exact date and circumstances of the capture event are uncertain. Sampson originally ran away at the end of September 1806, and a runaway ad for him was still circulating three months later in December 1806. Then, in early April 1808, another runaway ad for Sampson was published by a new enslaver named Oliver Hunt, detailing Sampson's second escape attempt. It can be inferred from these runaway ads that sometime (likely in 1807) Sampson was captured, returned to Princeton, and sold or otherwise transferred from Richard Stockton to Oliver Hunt.

In 1807, when John Annin (or Jack) was 10 years old, his enslaver Joseph Annin of Somerset County, NJ, sold him to James Parker Jr. (1776-1868) of Perth Amboy, Middlesex County, NJ. At the time of the sale, James Parker Jr. promised to manumit John Annin when the boy reached the age of 25. Information about John Annin's sale comes from his deed of manumission, signed by Parker in 1822 and recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Prince Mother: Phillis Enslaver of mother and child: Lydia Westbrook Location: Sussex County (Locality not listed) Birth date: January 8, 1807 Recorded date: January 15, 1811 Clerk: John Johnson

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 24 Child: Bristor Mother: Hanna Enslaver of mother and child: Jacob Van Dike Location: Middlesex County, NJ Birth date: January 22, 1807 Reported date: August 18, 1807 Clerk: William Philips Deare This birth certificate does not list a specific location within Middlesex County. Other historical records show that Jacob Van Dike resided around the area of Ten Mile Run and Rocky Hill, and it can be inferred that Bristor was born there. A separate birth record that Jacob Van Dike submitted for Bristor's older sister Rachel in 1804 listed Ten Mile Run as the locality.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 56 Child: Tom Mother: Peg Enslaver of mother and child: Jaques Cortelyou Location: Franklin Birth date: 25 Jan 1807 Reported date: 7 Oct 1807 Clerk: Joseph Doty

In January 1807, enslaver William Fox advertised the sale of a 17-year-old Black boy near Baptistown village in Kingwood Township, Hunterdon County. The boy was bound to serve for another 11 years until age 28. Based on this timeline, it can be inferred that the boy was most likely born in Pennsylvania, where the state's gradual abolition law stipulated that children born to enslaved mothers were bound to serve for 28 years before they would become free. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FOR SALE, a Smart Healthy Negro Boy, ABOUT 17 years of age — has 11 years to serve — understands all kinds of farming business. Enquire of subscriber, near Baptistows. William Fox. Kingwood, January 31, 1807."

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 30 Child: Margaret Mother: Jane Father: John Still Enslaver of mother and child: James Edgar Enslaver of father: Asher Still Location: Woodbridge, NJ Birth date: February 10, 1807 Recorded by the clerk on: June 17, 1808 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Adam, a 32-year-old Black man, ran away from his enslaver William Wikoff on February 14, 1807. Adam ran from Wikoff's farm, which was located in Monmouth County. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Forty Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the farm of the subscriber in Monmouth county, New Jersey, on the 14th February last, a Negro Man named Adam about thirty-two years of age, five feet five inches high, has rather a thin visage a small scar on his left eyebrow, and another on his forehead a little above the same eyebrow (not really seen without close examination) rather slim made and a little bow legged, his great toe joints large, especially the one on his right foot, wears his hair tied, although, curly as other blacks generally are, takes much pains to make it straight, sometimes cueing it, has a variety of clothes with him which he may change. Whoever takes up said Negro and secures him in any goal in the United States, and gives information thereof to his master, shall be entitled to the above reward and all reasonable charges, by William Wikoff. March, 28, 1807"

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Francis Mother: Phyllis Enslaver of mother and child: Martin Ryerson Location: Hamburg, NJ Birth date: 15 Feb 1807 Recorded date: 14 Nov 1811 Clerk: John Johnson The document was signed by Thomas Ryerson as an agent for Martin Ryerson.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 30 Child: Bob Mother: Abb Enslaver of mother and child: Matthias Vanderveer Location: North Brunswick, NJ Birth date: March 6, 1807 Reported date: June 6, 1808 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a farmer. The following is a complete transcript of the document: "Bob / I Matthias Van Der Veer of the township of North Brunswick in the County of Middlesex, and State of New Jersey, Farmer, certify that a male negro child called Bob, was born of my slave Abb, at the place aforesaid, on the twenty sixth day of March, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and seven. Witness my hand, this Sixth day of June, eighteen hundred and eight. Matthias Vanderveer Received June 6th 1808 & recorded by Deare Clk"

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 25 Child: Peter Greene Mother: Gin Enslaver of mother and child: Thomas Blackwell Location: West Windsor, NJ Birth date: March 14, 1807 Reported date: November 28, 1807 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a farmer.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Dinna Mother: Name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: the estate of Ann Henderson, late of Alexandria, Hunterdon County Reported by: Daniel Williamson, executor of the Henderson estate, resident of Greenwich, Sussex County Birth date: April 3, 1807 Recorded date: September 2, 1807 Clerk: John Johnson The mother, whose name is not listed on the birth record, was originally enslaved by the late Ann Henderson of Alexandria, Hunterdon County. Henderson died in 1805, appointing Daniel Williamson of Greenwich Township, Sussex County, as the executor of her will. Daniel Williamson submitted this birth record for Dinna in 1807.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 57 Child: Samuel Mother: Isabella Enslaver of mother and child: John Passage Location: Princeton (Montgomery township) Birth date: 12 Apr 1807 Reported date: 8 Oct 1807 Clerk: Joseph Doty

Benjamin James, aged 25, was manumitted by Samuel Eli of East Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of East Windsor (Jonathan Brown) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Andrew Rowan, John James) on April 17, 1807. The document stated that Benjamin 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. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on April 25, 1807.

Hester Richison, aged 38, was manumitted by Sarah Appleget of East Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of East Windsor (Jonathan Brown) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Andrew Rowan, John James) on April 17, 1807. The document stated that Hester Richison 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 was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 13, 1807. East Windsor was part of Middlesex County at this time, but it would later become part of Mercer County in 1838.

Susan Wiles, aged 26, was manumitted by Joseph Hutchinson of East Windsor, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of East Windsor (Jonathan Brown) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Andrew Rowan, John James) on April 17, 1807. The document stated that Susan Wiles was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on April 25, 1807. East Windsor was part of Middlesex County at this time, but it would later become part of Mercer County in 1838.

A young Black man named Phillip ran away from enslaver Charles Higbee of Trenton, New Jersey. On April 20, 1807, Charles Higbee published a runaway ad in the Trenton Federalist newspaper offering a reward of $10 for Philip's capture and return. At this time, Phillip was aged 22 or 23. The advertisement did not say when Phillip actually made his escape. Note that Charles Higbee had previously published a runaway ad for Phillip in July 1806. It seems that Phillip ran away in the summer of 1806 and then managed to evade capture for over 9 months and was still at large as of April 1807. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Ten Dollars Reward, RANAWAY from the subscriber, PHILLIP, a NEGRO MAN; he is about 22 or 23 years old, five feet six inches high, a broad simple countenance and a flat nose — he wore a beaver hat, black cloth coat, blue cashmere pantaloons, red flannel shirt, &c. The above reward and reasonable charges will be paid if brought home or lodged in any gaol so that he can be had again. Charles Higbee Trenton, 20th April, 1807. 23-3w"

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 23 Child: Phillis Mother: Patty Enslaver of mother and child: James Schureman, Esquire Location: North Brunswick, NJ Birth date: May 1, 1807 Reported date: July 29, 1807 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 25 Child: Knelly Mother: Bett Enslaver of mother and child: Abraham Coriell Location: Piscataway, NJ Birth date: May 5, 1807 Reported date: December 1, 1807 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a farmer.

Rachel, aged 37, was manumitted by Matthew Freeman of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Ezekiel Ayers, William Flatt Jr.) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Benajah Mundy, David Turvey) on May 11, 1807. The document stated that Rachel 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 was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 12, 1807.

On May 16, 1807, a young Black man who went by the name William Lewis (also known as Harry) ran away from his enslaver Cornelius Wyckoff of Millstone, Somerset County, New Jersey. William Lewis was about 18 or 19 years old at this time. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber, living at Millstone, Somerset county, N.J. on the 16th May last, a NEGRO MAN named Harry, but calls himself William Lewis; he is very black, about 18 or 19 years of age, and has a remarkable scar on his left cheek near his eye; had on when he went away, a wool hat without lining, drab coattee, swansdown vest, blue pantaloons, mixt coloured stockings, and shoes much worn. Whoever will take up said runaway and secure him in any goal in the state of New Jersey shall receive the above reward, or Twenty five Dollars if delivered to his master, with reasonable charges, paid by the subscriber. CORNELIUS WYCKOFF. June 2, 1807. 31-3w pd f"

A sale advertisement for a 25-year-old Black woman was published in the Trenton Federalist newspaper in May 1807. The name of the enslaver was not mentioned. The sale would be brokered by the printer of the newspaper, George Sherman. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FOR SALE, A HEALTHY, STRONG NEGRO WOMAN, twenty-five years of age — She has been accustomed to all kinds of house work. The purchaser may have her on trial. Inquire of the Printer. Trenton, 18th May, 1807."

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 25 Child: Hannah Mother: Delilah Enslaver of mother and child: David Chambers Location: Middlesex County, NJ Birth date: May 31, 1807 Reported date: November 14, 1807 Clerk: William Philips Deare The specific location within Middlesex County was not listed on this birth certificate.

Margaret was manumitted jointly by John Dunham and his wife Ruth Dunham (late Ruth Stelle) 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 Randolph, John F. Randolph) on June 4, 1807. The document stated that Margaret 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 was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 13, 1807. County records also include a copy of the deed of manumission for Margaret, signed by John Dunham and Ruth Dunham (by her mark) on July 3, 1807. The deed of manumission stated that Margaret was "aged twenty one years and more" at the time of manumission, leaving some ambiguity about Margaret's exact age. It is possible that Margaret was just over the age of 21 (born around 1786) or she could have been significantly older than 21 at the time of her manumission. The deed of manumission was witnessed by David Oliver and Benjamin Runyon and notarized by judge Asa Runyon.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 28 Child: Jane Mother: Tabitha Enslaver of mother and child: Elizabeth Barron Location: Woodbridge, NJ Birth date: June 10, 1807 Reported date: March 5, 1808 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 44 Child: Tom Mother: Hannah Enslaver of mother and child: Andrew McDowell Location: South Brunswick, NJ Birth date: June 30, 1807 Reported date: March 1, 1811 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Jacob Mother: Nance Enslaver of mother and child: Abraham Shaver Location: Sussex County (Locality not listed) Birth date: July 1, 1807 Recorded date: March 23, 1808 Clerk: Johnson The locality within Sussex County is not specified in this document. However, other historical records indicate that enslaver Abraham Shaver was the owner of the Shafer Grist Mill and a in Stillwater. Thus it can be inferred that the child was born in Stillwater.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: name not listed Mother: Sal Enslaver of mother and child: Joseph Demund Location: Sussex County (Locality not listed) Birth date: July 1, 1807 Recorded date: August 18, 1808 Clerk: Name not listed, presumed to be John Johnson The locality is not listed on the birth certificate. Joseph Demund was a prominent resident of Allamuchy (which was located in Sussex County at the time, but was later annexed to Warren County). It can be inferred that the child was probably born in Allamuchy.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 27 Child: Bill Mother: Catharine Enslaver of mother and child: Andrew McDowell Jr. Location: South Brunswick, NJ Birth date: July 8, 1807 Reported date: February 29, 1808 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document noted that Andrew McDowell Jr. was a farmer.

Dick ran away from the house of his enslaver Alpheus Freeman on Thursday evening, July 16, 1807. Dick was aged about 17 or 18 at this time. Since Alpheus Freeman owned multiple properties in New Brunswick, it is difficult to know for certain where Dick resided prior to running away. Dick may have lived (and ran from) the large building on the corner of George Street and Prince (Bayard) Street which was one of Freeman's properties. Freeman was an alumnus of Queen's College (now Rutgers University) and an attorney. Alpheus Freeman offered a 20 dollar reward for the capture and return of Dick and published a detailed description of Dick's physical appearance, scars, and meager apparel in the local newspaper called Guardian, or, New Brunswick Advertiser. The following is a complete transcript of the runaway advertisement, copied from the November 12, 1807, issue of the newspaper: "Twenty Dollars Reward Ranaway from the subscriber on Thursday evening the 16th inst. a mulatto boy, named Dick, a slave of the subscriber, about 17 or 18 years of age, short and thick, with very bushy hair, has one or two scars in the forehead, the sinews of one of his hams a little contracted from a burn when an infant, the scar of which still remains, a scar on the top of one of his feet from an ulcer, an another scar on one of his great toes, occasioned by its being split open with an axe; had on when he went away a pair of tow trousers and shirt, an old great coat an old hat, no shoes or any other wearing apparel. Whoever will take up and secure said boy in any gaol, so that the subscriber may get him again, shall be entitled to the above reward with reasonable expenses. Alpheus Freeman New Brunswick (N.J.) Aug. 22, 1807"

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 26 Child: Roxanna Mother: Tene Enslaver of mother and child: John Hill Location: North Brunswick, NJ Birth date: July 30, 1807 Reported date: January 26, 1808 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a glover.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 28 Child: Bob Mother: Betty Enslaver of mother and child: Henry Cortleyou Location: South Amboy, NJ Birth date: August 5, 1807 Reported date: March 1, 1808 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a farmer.

On August 16, 1807, a Black young man named Cuffee, aged about 18 or 19 years old, ran away from his enslaver Lucas Hoagland of Griggstown, Somerset County, New Jersey. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Thirty Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber living at Grigg's Town, Somerset county, N. J on the 16th instant, a NEGRO BOY, named Cuffee, about 18 or 19 years of age, thick set, very black, slow of speech and commonly very still; had on when he went away, an old castor hat, grey linsey coat, homespun striped pantaloons, shoes and coarse shirt; had holes in his ears for the purpose of wearing ear rings. Whoever will take up said Negro, and secure him in any goal in the state of New Jersey, shall receive the above reward, or 35 dollars if delivered to his master, and all reasonable charges. Lucas Hoagland. Somerset, NJ. August 21, 1807"

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Stephen Mother: Betty Enslaver of mother and child: William T. Anderson Location: Newton Birth date: September 1, 1807 Recorded date: November 17, 1809 Clerk: Johnson The birth of Stephen's younger brother Joseph was reported on the same slip of paper.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 39 Child: Sall Mother: Maria Enslaver of mother and child: John V. Dean Location: South Brunswick, NJ Birth date: September 3, 1807 Reported date: April 5, 1810 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 75 Child: Thomas Mother: Mary Enslaver of mother and child: Aaron Hassert Location: City of New Brunswick, North Brunswick Township, NJ Birth date: September 13, 1807 Reported date: September 13, 1808 Clerk: James F. Randolph Note that the clerk received this birth certificate on January 18, 1826, many years after it was signed by the enslaver Aaron Hassert.

On September 14, 1807, a 34-year-old Black man named Peter ran away from his enslaver in Amwell, Hunterdon County, New Jersey. The enslaver's name was printed in the newspaper as "Jacob Keshow" and likely refers to Jacob Kershow. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Ten Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber, on the night of the 14th September inst., a Negro Man, about 34 years of age, named Peter, five feet nine or ten inches high, slim built, not very black, has a scar over one of his eyes; the toes of one of his feet are joined together almost or quite to the ends; he had on or took with him, an old fur hat and a wool hat, a linsey coat and jacket of a brownish color; one pair of old shoes, and a pair of calf skin nearly new, with other articles of clothing. Whoever will take up said runaway, and return him to his master in the township of Amwell, Hunterdon county, N.J. or secure him in jail so that he may get him again, shall receive the above reward, and all reasonable charges. Jacob Keshow. September 22d, 1807. 48 3wp"

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 26 Child: Sarh Mother: Margret Enslaver of mother and child: Samuel Baush Location: North Brunswick, NJ Birth date: September 16, 1807 Reported date: January 18, 1808 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 30 Child: Bet Mother: Han Enslaver of mother and child: Abraham Dunham Location: Piscataway, NJ Birth date: September 20, 1807 Reported date: August 10, 1808 Clerk: William Philips Deare The mother's name was recorded as "Han." Other birth records submitted by Abraham Dunham for her children indicate that her name was Hannah.

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. Note that the manumission deed for 21-year-old Mina was signed jointly by Abigail Stokes (identified here as the widow of Jacob Stokes) and John Stokes. Although the deed for Mina does not clarify the relationship between Abigail and John Stokes, other manumissions performed by John indicate that he was one of the heirs and co-executors of the estate of Jacob Stokes (Abigail's deceased husband). TRANSCRIPT: [DOCUMENT 30] Gloucester ss State of New Jersey To all whom these Presents shall come Greeting, It is hereby made known that on this third day of October in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and Seven I John Stokes of the Township of Newton in said County of Gloucester and I Abigail Stokes Widow of Jacob Stokes late of said Township Deceased, have liberated manumited and set free our Negro Slave called Mina of the Age of Twenty One Years of thereabouts, And we hereby liberate Manumit and set free our said Negro Slave and discharge her from all service or demand of Service to be hereafter made either by us or any Person Claiming by from or under us - In Testimony whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seals the day and year aforesaid John Stokes (Seal) Abbey Stokes (Seal) Sealed and Delivered in the Presence of us Isaac Webster John Clement [Verso] Gloucester County ss ) On the third day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and Seven came before me the Subscriber On of the Judges of the Court of common please in and or said County John Stokes and Abigail Stokes the makers and granters of the written Manumission and Acknowledged they executed the same for the uses and purposes therein mentioned. Taken and Acknowledged ) before me ) John Clement Manumission John Stokes & Abigail Stokes of Mina Black Woman [DOCUMENT 31] Gloucester County to wit: We do hereby certify that on the Third day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and Seven - John Stokes of the township of Newton in the County of Gloucester and Abigail Stokes widow of Jacob Stokes of the township aforesaid decd, brought before us two of the Overseers of the poor of the said Township and two of the Justices of the peace of the said County their Slave named Mina - - - who on view and examination appears to us to be sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity of obtaining a Support and also is not under the age of twenty one years nor above the age of forty years. In witness whereof we have hereunto Set our hand the day and year above written. Robert Rowand ) Overseers of the poor of the Isaac Webster ) Said Township Newton. Jas. Hopkins ) Justices of the peace in and for the John Clement ) said County of Gloucester. [Verso] Certificate of the Freedom of Mina a black Woman. Recorded in the Clerks Office of Gloucester County in Lib A of Manumissions October 8th 1807 C Ogden Clk

The Following Abandonment Certificate was submitted to the Overseer of the Poor of the Township of Piscataway: Child: Lewis Mother: Hannah Enslaver of Mother and Child: Rachel Boice Abandonment Certificate Date: August 10, 1807 Child’s Date of Birth: December 2, 1806 This certificate indicates that the enslaver abandoned all her legal rights and title to the child and gave up the child to the Overseer of the Poor to be bound out as a pauper.

Bristol, aged 33, and his wife Mary, aged 25, were manumitted by Erkuries Beatty (1759-1823) of West Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. A joint certificate of manumission was issued for Bristol and Mary, signed by the Overseers of the Poor of West Windsor (J Harrison, Henry Dye) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Wm Tindall, Rh Sansbury) on October 13, 1807. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on October 22, 1807.

Bristol, aged 33, and his wife Mary, aged 25, were manumitted by Erkuries Beatty (1759-1823) of West Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. A joint certificate of manumission was issued for Bristol and Mary, signed by the Overseers of the Poor of West Windsor (J Harrison, Henry Dye) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Wm Tindall, Rh Sansbury) on October 13, 1807. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on October 22, 1807.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 67 Child: Betty Mother: Deon Enslaver of mother and child: Peter Wortman Location: Franklin Birth date: 15 Oct 1807 Reported date: 5 Sep 1808 Clerk: Joseph Doty

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 62 Child: Bet Mother: Susan Enslaver of mother and child: Jacobus Quick Location: Somerset County (locality not specified) Birth date: 16 Oct 1807 Reported date: 11 Jul 1808 Clerk: Joseph Doty The birth certificate did not specify the township. However, another birth certificate filed by Jacobus Quick indicates that he was a resident of Hillsborough. Thus, it is likely that this child was born in Hillsborough.

Dr. Isaac Harris Sr of Pittsgrove, Salem County, wrote his will on 7 Nov. 1807, a few months before he died. The will was proved on 8 May 1808, and the inventory of his estate valued at a substantial $23,392.13 was made on 5 May 1808. The abstract of his will was printed in Calendar of Wills, Vol. 11, 1806-1809, and indicates the following. The will lists vast tracts of land and real estate in Salem and Cumberland Counties that he bequeaths to his many children. He provides for the support of his wife, Nancy, during her widowhood. Among the things he bequeaths to Nancy is the service of an enslaved Black woman named Selena, with the stipulation that Selena is to be free when she turns 35 years old: "also my negro woman, Selena, until she is 35 years old, when said negro woman is to be set free." Additionally, the will abstract stipulates that other enslaved people in the household are to be free at age 35, but it does not mention them by name: "Negro slaves to be manumitted when 35 years of age." (The original will has not yet been reviewed to confirm whether other Black people are mentioned by name.) Among the children and beneficiaries of the estate is a son named Dr. Samuel Harris. He is not named as one of the executors in the will, nor does he receive a specific bequest of bonded people. However, Samuel would become the one to manumit Selena in 1816, and thus, it appears that at some point in the next several years, Selena came to serve in his household. It can be inferred that Selena was 26 years old when the will was written, based on the assumption that she was 35 when she was manumitted 9 years later.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 80 Child: Alfred Mother: Grace Enslaver of mother and child: Dr. Jacob Scudder Location: Montgomery Birth date: 8 Nov 1807 Reported date: 12 Jun 1809 Clerk: Joseph Doty