New Jersey Slavery Records

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book B, Page 92 Child: Jane Mother: Jenney Father: Tom Enslaver of mother and child: John Frelinghuysen Location: not listed Birth date: 9 November 1807 Reported date: 15 May 1828 Clerk: Isaac Southard The birth record did not list a locality; however, other historical sources indicate that John Frelinghuysen was living at his late father's homestead in Millstone (then in Hillsborough township) at the time of this event, and it can be presumed that the child was born there. The same birth registration record also mentioned Jane's siblings Rachel, George, and Arch.

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. Charles Odgen's name appears twice in the document: as a Justices of the Peace for the County and also as the clerk who recorded the document in county records. TRANSCRIPT: [DOCUMENT 32] State of New Jersey Gloucester County ss (SEAL) To all to whom these presents shall come, greeting. It is hereby made known, that on this eighteenth day of November in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and seven. 1807 I Mary Wood of the Township of Deptford in the said County of Gloucester. have liberated, manumited and set free my negro Slave called George Huggins Mitchfield of the age of twenty one years and I do hereby liberate, manumit and set free, my said negro Slave, and discharge him from all service or demand of service to be hereafter made, either by me or any persons claiming by, from or under me. Mary Wood In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and seal the day and year aforesaid. Sealed and delivered in the presence of us Amos Cooper ) James Matlack ) Be it remembred that on the 18th day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and Seven before me James Matlack one of the judges of the Inferior Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Gloucester Personally appeared Mary Wood, the maker and grantor of the above Manumission, and acknowledged that she signed, sealed and delivered the said Manumission as her voluntary act for the uses and purposes therein mentioned. Taken and acknowledged Before James Matlack [Verso] Manumission of from Mary Wood November 18th, 1807 Recorded in the Clerks Office of Gloucester County in Book A of manumissions C Ogden Clk [DOCUMENT 33] State of New Jersey Gloucester, to wit: We do hereby certify, that on this eighteenth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and Seven 1807. Mary Wood of the township of Deptford in the 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, her Slave named George Huggins Mitchfield 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 Deptford Amos Cooper Job. Brown Charles Ogden ) James Matlack ) Justices of the peace in and for the said County of Gloucester. [Verso] Certificate of the Capacity of November 18th, 1807 Recorded in the Clerks Office of Gloucester County in Lib. A. of Manumissions C Ogden Clk

Around December 1807, a 14-year-old Black boy named Harry ran away from his enslaver Isaac Hughes, who lived in Greenwich, Sussex County (in present-day Warren County), New Jersey. The exact date of Harry's escape is uncertain. By December 10, 1807, his enslaver sent a runaway ad to the Trenton Federalist newspaper offering a reward for Harry's capture and return. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber living in the township of Greenwich, county of Sussex, N.J. a NEGRO BOY, named Harry, about 14 years old, 4 feet 6 or 8 inches high; had on when he went away, a rorum hat, old drab great coat, blue coat, rather large, dark striped waist-coat, dark mixt colored trousers, and blue stockings; he has a small scar over one of his eyes. Whoever takes up said boy and returns him to his master, or secures him in any gaol where he may be obtained, shall receive the above reward, and all reasonable charges. ISAAC HUGHES. Greenwich, Sussex, N.J. Dec. 10, 1807."

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 41 Child: Mary Ann Mother: Margaret Lawrence Enslaver of mother and child: John Rattoone Location: Perth Amboy, NJ Birth date: December 12, 1807 Reported date: October 16, 1810 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Sally Mother: Isabel Enslaver of mother and child: Asahel Peters Location: Sussex County (locality not specified) Birth date: 25 Dec 1807 Recorded date:4 Jan 1812 Clerk: John Johnson

Thomas was manumitted by the last will and testament of Dr. Melanthon Freeman (1746-1806) of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. Dr. Freeman died in November 1806, and the executors of Dr. Freeman's estate (Matthias Freeman, Nathaniel Manning, and Benajah Mundy) brought Thomas to court to complete the manumission process more than a year later. The certificate of manumission for Thomas was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (Edward Griffith, David Coriell) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Samuel Randolph, John F. Randolph) on December 26, 1807. The document stated that Thomas was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. Thomas's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on March 8, 1808.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 51 Child: Maria Mother: Esther Enslaver of mother and child: John I. Craig Location: West Windsor, NJ Birth date: December 28, 1807 Reported date: January 28, 1813 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a farmer. This birth certificate only lists West Windsor Township and does not provide further details about the location. The location of the event is inferred from other records that indicate John I. Craig was at this time the owner and resident of Prospect Farm in Princeton.

On Saturday night, March 26, 1808, Sampson (alias Francis) ran away from his enslaver Oliver Hunt near Princeton, NJ. This was at least Sampson's second escape attempt (he had run away from a different enslaver, Richard Stockton of Princeton, two years earlier). Oliver Hunt published a runaway ad for Sampson, listing the man's age as "about thirty years," but he was probably older than 30 by then, considering that Richard Stockton's runaway ad for Sampson two years earlier also listed age 30. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Thirty Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber near Princeton, on Saturday night the 26th inst. a Negro man named Sampson, he frequently calls himself Francis, about thirty years of age, five feet 4 or 5 inches high, square shouldered, his legs are remarkably small, knockneed, turns his toes much out when walking, and upon the whole has a very awkward walk, fond of spirituous liquors; had on when he went away a light drab coatee much worn, pantaloons of the same, dark swansdown jacket, rorum hat about half worn, light mixed worsted stockings, strong coarse shoes with spring heels; took with him a pair of old shoes, a pair of woolen stockings, a new muslin shirt one also of two and linen. Whoever will take up said Negro man and secure him in any gaol or deliver him to the subscriber shall receive the above reward with all reasonable charges. OLIVER HUNT 75-3w pd."

Sojourner Truth was sold at an auction by the executors of the estate of Charles Hardenbergh (1765-1808), who was Sojourner Truth's enslaver until his death in 1808. The executors of the estate were Isaac LeFever, Samuel DuBois, and Peter LeFever. Hardenbergh's will stipulated that all his "real and personal property" should be sold and the proceeds divided among his heirs, thus consigning Sojourner Truth and her family to the auction block. She was sold together with a flock of sheep for $100 to John Nealy of Ulster County, NY. Sojourner Truth was 9 years old and was known as Isabella at the time of these events. She recalled the auction, and the ensuing family separation, as the first major traumatic event of her life. The following passages from her 1850 book, The Narrative of Sojourner Truth, recall the circumstances of the auction sale. "Isabella and Peter, her youngest brother, remained, with their parents, the legal property of Charles Ardinburgh till his decease, which took place when Isabella was near nine years old. After this event, she was often surprised to find her mother in tears; and when, in her simplicity, she inquired, 'Mau-mau, what makes you cry?' she would answer, 'Oh, my child, I am thinking of your brothers and sisters that have been sold away from me.' And she would proceed to detail many circumstances respecting them. But Isabella long since concluded that it was the impending fate of her only remaining children, which her mother but too well understood, even then, that called up those memories from the past, and made them crucify her heart afresh." (Narrative of Sojourner Truth, p. 17) "At length, the never-to be-forgotten day of the terrible auction arrived, when the 'slaves, horses, and other cattle' of Charles Ardinburgh, deceased, were to be put under the hammer, and again change masters." (Narrative of Sojourner Truth, p. 18) "At this memorable time, Isabella was struck off, for the sum of one hundred dollars, to one John Nealy, of Ulster County, New York; and she has an impression that in this sale she was connected with a lot of sheep. She was now nine years of age, and her trials in life may be dated from this period. She says, with emphasis, 'Now the war begun.'" (Narrative of Sojourner Truth, p. 26)

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Charrlotte Mother: Name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Mrs. Elizabeth Hibbler Location: Greenwich Township Birth date: January 1, 1808 Recorded date: November 22, 1808 Clerk: John Johnson

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 31 Child: Joseph Mother: Nanny Enslaver of mother and child: James Parker Location: Perth Amboy, NJ Birth date: January 16, 1808 Reported date: August 18, 1808 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 69 Child: Dinah Mother: Eve Enslaver of mother and child: Daniel La Tourette Location: Bridgewater Birth date: 28 Jan 1808 Reported date: 9 Sep 1808 Clerk: Joseph Doty

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children Book contains the following record: Page: 29 Child: Debbie Mother: Lydda Enslaver of mother and child: Joseph Burlew Location: South Amboy, NJ Birth date: February 1, 1808 Reported date: March 26, 1808 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 70 Child: Rachel Mother: Subina (Sabina) Enslaver of mother and child: Mary Lupp Location: Franklin township Birth date: 4 Feb 1808 Reported date: 9 Oct 1808 Clerk: Joseph Doty This record lists Franklin township as the place of residence. Other county records submitted by Mary Lupp specify that she lived in the City of New Brunswick (in that portion of the city located within the boundaries of Franklin township). This record in Book A does not list the child's father, but a different birth certificate later submitted for Rachel's sister Hannah clarifies that Sabina was the wife of Pompey and that Pompey was the father of Sabina's three children.

On February 13, 1808, a Black man named Lund ran away from his enslaver Abraham Lowe of Readington, Hunterdon County, New Jersey. Lund was 28-years-old and had worked as a waiter at a pub or tavern. He had also worked on a farm. His enslaver suspected that Lund would try to make a living as a waiter after his escape. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Ten Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber, living in Readingtown, Hunterdon county, N.J. on or about the 13th of February last, a NEGRO MAN, named Lund, about 28 years of age, 5 feet 10 inches high, very black and somewhat pock-marked; took with him when he went away a white hat, linsey pantaloons, brown coat, and linsey grey coat; he will probably try to get into some public house as a waiter, being accustomed to that business, but also understands farming business. Whoever takes up said runaway and returns him to his master, or secures him so that he may be obtained, shall receive the above reward and reasonable charges. ABRAHAM LOWE Readingtown, March 18, 1808. 73-3wp"

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 79 Child: Maria Mother: Jude Enslaver of mother and child: Richard Runyon Location: Piscataway, NJ Birth date: February 19, 1808 Reported date: February 5, 1829 Clerk: T. S. Van Arsdalen The document indicated that the enslaver, Richard Runyon, was a farmer and "at present a lunatic," and Gershom Dunn signed as his guardian. This birth certificate was filed in 1829 when Maria was nearing her 21st birthday. It appears Richard Runyon neglected to report her birth when she was born in 1808.

Enslaver Henry Tiebout of Shrewsbury, Monmouth County, advertised the sale of a 17-year-old Black girl in February 1808. The ad indicated that the girl could be sold for a term of years. ----- Transcript of the source document: "TO BE SOLD, A LIKELY HEALTHY NEGRO GIRL. ABOUT 17 years old, for any term of years that will suit the purchaser; she understands all kinds of house work and common cooking. Apply to HENRY TIEBOUT Shrewsbury, Feb. 22, 1808"

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 31 Child: Quash Mother: Teen Enslaver of mother and child: Reuliff Voorhees Location: North Brunswick, NJ Birth date: February 25, 1808 Reported date: October 11, 1808 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a farmer.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 31 Child: Unus Mother: Pegg Enslaver of mother and child: Garline Ockerman Location: North Brunswick, NJ Birth date: March 1, 1808 Reported date: October 11, 1808 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: Nansey Mother: Matt Enslaver of mother and child: Peter Windamute Location: Sussex County (locality not specified) Birth date: March 11, 1808 Recorded date: March 14, 1808 Clerk: Clerk's name not listed, presumed to be John Johnson The record does not list the locality. However, Peter Windamute was a well known resident of Stillwater. Thus it can be inferred that the child was born in Stillwater at Peter Windamute's house.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Jack Mother: Eve Enslaver of mother and child: Hezikiah Phillips Location: Sussex County (locality not specified) Birth date: 12 March 1808 Recorded date: 22 April 1809 Clerk: not listed, presumed to be John Johnson

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Poll Mother: Suse Enslaver of mother and child: Mary Kinsberg Location: Sussex County (locality not specified) Birth date: March 15, 1808 Recorded date: January 27, 1809 Clerk: Johnson The location was not listed on the birth certificate. However, other county records indicate that Mary Kinsberg was associated with Hardwick, thus it can be inferred that the child was born in Hardwick.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Rose Mother: Black woman, name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Joseph William Location: Asbury Birth date: March 15, 1808 Reported date: December 10, 1808 Recorded by the clerk: January 9, 1809 Clerk: John Johnson

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 29 Child: Susan Mother: Jane Enslaver of mother and child: Thompson Stelle Location: Piscataway, NJ Birth date: March 20, 1808 Reported date: May 17, 1808 Clerk: William Philips Deare The mother was described as "Mulatto wench Jane" in this document. The enslaver's name was listed in this record as "Thompson Stelle," while other records in the same book refer to him as "Thomson Stelle."

P. DeHaven, who lived near the Greenwich Forge at the Musconetcong Creek (present-day area of Warren Glen, Pohatcong township, Warren County), advertised an 18-year-old Black girl for sale in the spring of 1808. ----- Transcript of the source document: "FOR SALE. A strong healthy Negro Girl, (a slave) aged about 18 years — she is honest and understands all kinds of house work and common cooking. For terms apply to P. DE HAVEN, near Greenwich Forge, Musconetcong creek. N.B. Terms left at the office of the Trenton Federalist. 24 March, 1808. 75-4w"

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 37 Child: Jane Mother: Ann Enslaver of mother and child: Isaac Cotheal Location: Bonhamtown in Woodbridge Township, NJ Birth date: March 25, 1808 Reported date: January 16, 1809 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a farmer.

The will of Thomas Edgar of Woodbridge, written on April 1, 1808, mentions Jenny and Dinah, who Black women who were enslaved in the Edgar household. The will states that Jenny and Dinah should both serve Thomas Edgar's wife Elizabeth Knapp Edgar after his decease. Thomas Edgar died in 1812. The following is a copy of the will abstract, as published in the Calendar of Wills, Vol. 12, 1810-1813: "1808, Apr. 1. Edgar, Thomas, of Woodbridge Twsp., Middlesex Co.; will of. Wife, Elizabeth, $750, my negro girls, Jenny and Dinah, 1 horse, 2 cows, riding chair, bed and bedding; also use and occupation of dwelling house and garden, barns and stables during widowhood; also use and benefit of lands to maintain minor children, all this in lieu of dower. After her death or marriage, real estate to son, Thompson. Tract purchased of John Mercereau (40 acres) to be sold; also 8 acres purchased of Thomas Freeman; also easterly part of tract purchased of Nathaniel Bloomfield. Son, Peter, 27 acres purchased of Robert Ross: 5 acres of woodland adjoining Ezra Freeman, Stephen Cutter and James Rowland, dec’d; also salt meadow (4 acres) bought of Nathaniel Bloomfield. If Peter should die without issue, said lands to surviving brothers and sisters, but if Peter’s wife should survive him, she is to have possession during widowhood and Peter is to pay his mother $750. Son, Thompson, 70 acres of northerly part of homestead, adjoining Ichabod Potter, containing dwelling house and barns, also salt meadow purchased of James Bonney on Woodbridge Creek and to have possession thereof when 21. Residue of lands to sons, David and James. Daughters, Jennett, Olivea and Catharine, each $375. Daughter, Sally, $500 and daughter, Isable, $650 when 18. Two grandsons, Craig Moor and Edgar Moor, $187.50 to be paid them after decease of their mother, my daughter, Rebecca, who is to have interest of said sum during her life. Granddaughter, Elizabeth Freeman, $125, and same to granddaughter, Julianna Edgar, when they reach 18. Any residue from sales of estate to be divided between daughters and grandchildren. Executors—sons, Peter, David and James, Jr., and brother, David Edgar. Witnesses—Henry Freeman, Israel Freeman, Ichabod Potter. Proved Sept. 10, 1812."

On April 3, 1808, a 20-year-old Black man named Harry ran away from his enslaver Michael Roseberry of Greenwich, Sussex County (now in Warren County). ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty-Five Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber on the night of Sunday the 3d of this inst. a Negro Slave named Harry, about twenty years of age, five feet ten inches high, of a yellow complexion, long, thin, and sharp countenance; had on and took with him a black linsey coattee and vest, and striped tow trousers, also a new wool hat. Whoever takes up said runaway and brings him back to his master, or secures him in any gaol so that he gets him again, shall receive the above reward and all reasonable charges. MICHAEL ROSEBERRY Greenwich, New Jersey near Easton Bridge. April 5, 1808. N.B. If confused he has a stammering of speech. 77-3wpd."

On April 3, 1808, a Black man named Tom, aged about 20 or 21 years, ran away from his enslaver Edward Van Harlingen, who lived in Millstone, Somerset County, New Jersey. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber, living at Millstone, Somerset, N.J. on the night of the 3d inst. a Negro Man, named Tom, about 5 feet 7 or 8 inches high, stout made, between 20 or 21 years of age, has a scar under one of his eyes, thick lips, and carries a bold countenance. Had on and took with him when he went away brown mixed coloured coat, double breasted, swansdown vest, blue pantaloons, striped coat, striped linen trousers, and a rorum hat. Whoever will take up said runaway, and return him to the subscriber, or secure him any gaol so that he may be obtained again, shall be entitled to the above reward, and reasonable charges. EDWARD VAN HARLINGEN. Millstone. April 6, 1808. 76-3w.pd."

On April 11, 1808, a 22-year-old Black man named Jim ran away from his enslaver Christopher Beekman. Beekman's house was near the Six Mile Run church at the border of South Brunswick Township, Middlesex County, and Franklin Township, Somerset County. Evidently, Jim was known for his defiance, and he resisted Beekman's control long before he ran away. At the time of his escape, Jim had fresh marks on his back from the violent punishment that he had experienced at the hands of his enslaver. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Thirty Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber on Monday the 11th inst., a Negro Man named JIM, about 5 feet 11 inches high, 22 years old, tolerable black, a down sneaking look, knock kneed — had on a lightish grey linsey sailor jacket, under jacket and trousers, all of the same pieces one knee of the trousers patched with stuff of different kind and colour; also a linsey shirt. He is an old offender and probably now carries marks upon his back and has committed thefts since he ranaway. The above reward will be given for returning him to the subscriber, or confining him to any jail so that he may be got again. CHRISTOPHER BEEKMAN Middlesex county, near Six Mile Meeting-house, April 12, 1808."

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 63 Child: Jacob Mother: name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Ezekiel Blew Location: Montgomery Birth date: 15 Apr 1808 Reported date: 21 Jun 1808 Clerk: Joseph Doty

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, Page 100 Child: Cyrus Mother: Phillis Enslaver of mother and child: Robert Finley Location: Basking Ridge, Bernards Birth date: 16 April 1808 Reported date: 29 July 1811 Clerk: Samuel Swan The same birth certificate also lists the birth of Cyrus's older brother Cuffe who was born in 1805. Rev. Robert Finley was the pastor of the Presbyterian Church of Basking Ridge at the time of these events.

On April 16, 1808, a Black boy (or young man) named Peter ran away from his enslaver Edward Wikoff in Readington, Hunterdon County, New Jersey. Wikoff published a runaway ad offering a reward of 10 dollars for Peter's capture and return. The ad did not mention how old Peter was at the time. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Ten Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the Subscriber, living in Readington, Hunterdon county, state of New Jersey on Saturday night, 16th inst. a NEGRO BOY, named Peter, of a yellow complexion, about 5 feet 5 or six inches high, he has a scar on the inside of one of his wrists; he had on when he went away a dark blue coattee with white lining and pockets in the inside and the collar and cuffs of a newer cloth, a black wool hat nearly new, new tow trousers, and a pair of good shoes; he is rather slow and not as attentive as some of the colour are; he will not speak the truth at all times. Whoever will take up the said Negro Boy, and secure him in any gaol so that his master may obtain him again shall have the above reward, and all reasonable charges if brought home. N.B. All persons are forbid to harbor him and masters of vessels to carry him off at their peril. EDWARD WIKOFF Readington, April 27, 1808. 8t-3w"

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 80 Child: Claus Mother: name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: David Nevius Location: Franklin Birth date: 21 Apr 1808 Reported date: 30 May 1809 Clerk: Joseph Doty

Thomas was manumitted by the last will and testament of John B. Oliver of Perth Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The executor of John B. Oliver's estate (David Wait) brought Thomas to court to complete the process and obtain a certificate of manumission. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Perth Amboy (James Compton, William Cross) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Joseph Marsh, John Lewis) on April 28, 1808. The document stated that Thomas was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. Thomas's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on April 29, 1808.

All, aged 21, was manumitted by David Dunn of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (Edward Griffith, Ephraim Runyon) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Samuel Randolph, John F. Randolph) on May 4, 1808. The document stated that All 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 27, 1808.

Tom was manumitted by George Boice of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (Edward Griffith, Ephraim Runyon) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Samuel Fitz Randolph (1741-1811), John F. Randolph) on May 4, 1808. The document stated that Tom 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. Tom's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 17, 1808.

The probate documents related to the estate of Charles Hardenbergh (1765-1808) are related to the famed abolitionist Sojourner Truth and her family. On January 4, 1808, shortly before his death, Charles Hardenbergh (1765-1808) signed his last will and testament in Hurley, Ulster County, NY, in the presence of witnesses William Hutchins, Cornelia Hardenbergh, and John C. Hardenbergh. The will was proved by the Surrogate of Ulster County on May 10, 1808, following Charles Hardenbergh's death. In this document, Hardenbergh declared his wish for his estate to be liquidated and the proceeds divided among his heirs, writing, "it is my will and desire that all my real and personal property shall be sold by my executors herein after named within a convenient time after my decease." Hardenbergh did not mention any Black people by name in his will. His instructions would affect all of the enslaved people in his household, who would all be sold shortly after his death. The inventory of the estate of Charles Hardenbergh (1765-1808) was taken on May 12, 1808, by Peter LeFever and Lewis Hardenbergh, and filed with the Surrogate of Ulster County on January 2, 1810. Page 5 of the inventory lists four enslaved persons who were part of the estate of Charles Hardenbergh. The following is a transcript of their names and the monetary values assigned to them by the inventory: "Negro slave Sam $100 Negro wench Bett $1 Negro wench Isabella $100 Negro boy Peet $100" The name Isabella refers to Sojourner Truth (Isabella was her birth name). Bett refers to her mother, Betsey Baumfree. Peet likely refers to Sojourner Truth's brother Peter. The inventory does not state the ages of these enslaved individuals, but according to The Narrative of Sojourner Truth, at the time of Charles Hardenbergh's death, she was nine years old: "Isabella and Peter, her youngest brother, remained, with their parents, the legal property of Charles Ardinburgh till his decease, which took place when Isabella was near nine years old." (Narrative of Sojourner Truth, p. 17)

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Enos Mother: Phillis Enslaver of mother and child: James Van Auken Location: Sussex County (locality not specified) Birth date: May 16, 1808 Recorded date: May 23, 1809 Clerk: John Johnson This birth certificate does not list the locality. However, other county records indicate that James Van Auken was a resident of Montague. Thus it can be inferred that Enos was born in Montague.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 32 Child: Julia Ann Mother: Hannah Enslaver of mother and child: Elizabeth Van Deventer Location: Piscataway, NJ Birth date: May 17, 1808 Reported date: March 28, 1809 Clerk: William Philips Deare It appears that Julia Ann had a twin sister because the enslaver also submitted a birth certificate for Hannah's daughter Sarah Ann, listing the same date of birth. The following is a complete transcript of the document: "Julia Ann / I Elizabeth Van Deventer, of the township of Piscataway in the County of Middlesex and the State of New Jersey, widow of Jeremiah Van Deventer, decd. certify that Julia Ann a female negro child was born of my slave Hannah, at the township aforesaid, on the seventeenth day of May last past. Witness my hand this twenty eighth day of March, in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and nine-1809. Elizabeth Vandeventer Received March 28th & Recorded Deare, Clk"

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 32 Child: Sarah Ann Mother: Hannah Enslaver of mother and child: Elizabeth Van Deventer Location: Piscataway, NJ Birth date: May 17, 1808 Reported date: March 28, 1809 Clerk: William Philips Deare It appears that Sarah Ann had a twin sister because the enslaver also submitted a birth certificate for Hannah's daughter Julia Ann, listing the same date of birth. The following is a complete transcript of the document: "Sarah-Ann / I, Elizabeth Van Deventer, of the township of Piscataway, in the County of Middlesex, and State of New Jersey, widow of Jeremiah Vandeventer, decd. certify that a female negro child called Sarah Ann, was born of my slave Hannah, at the township aforesaid, on the seventeenth day of May last. Witness my hand this twenty eighth day of March, in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and nine- 1809. Elizabeth Vandevanter. Received March 28th 1809, & recorded Deare, Clk"

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 34 Child: Mary Mother: Nance Enslaver of mother and child: Jeremiah Field Location: Piscataway, NJ Birth date: May 25, 1808 Reported date: June 28, 1809 Clerk: William Philips Deare The birth took place at the house of John Field where, it appears, Nance was working at the time. The following is a complete transcript of the document: "Mary / I, Jeremiah Field, of the County of Middlesex and township of Piscataway, do certify that my black girl Nance was delivered of a female child called Mary, May the 25, 1808, at the house of John Field, and in the service of John Field. Jeremiah Field Received June 28th 1809 & recorded Deare CLK"

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Ephraim Hamlet Mother: Clary Enslaver of mother and child: Elizabeth Paul, widow Location: Oxford Township, NJ Birth date: 26 June 1808 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.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 37 Child: Isaac Mother: Isabella Enslaver of mother and child: John Langstaff Location: Piscataway, NJ Birth date: July 10, 1808 Reported date: February 2, 1809 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: name not entirely clear, but appears to be Deborah or a variation thereof Mother: Name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Samuel D. Westfall Location: Sussex County (Locality not specified) Birth date: July 23, 1808 Recorded date: May 23, 1809 Clerk: Johnson Although the place of birth was not listed on the document, enslaver Samuel DeWitt Westfall was known to be a resident of Montague. Thus it can be inferred that the child was born there. Below Samuel D. Westfall's signature, he wrote a postscript reporting the birth of a child named Harry in the household of another enslaver, Martin Cole. See the related birth event for Harry for additional details.

Abigail was manumitted by Ephraim Pyatt of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (Edward Griffith, Ephraim Runyon) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Samuel Fitz Randolph (1741-1811), John F. Randolph) on August 8, 1808. The document stated that Abigail 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. Abigail's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on September 16, 1808.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Harman Mother: Harriot Enslaver of mother and child: Elizabeth Paul, widow Location: Oxford Township, NJ Birth date: 9 Aug 1808 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.

A boy named Enoch was born on 14 August 1808 to an enslaved woman named Violet 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 5 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. 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"

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Maria Mother: described as a "Molatto" woman, but name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Charles Rhodes Location: Vernon, NJ Birth date: August 24, 1808 Recorded date: Date not listed Clerk: John Johnson

Eve, aged 33, was manumitted by Aaron Hagerman of West Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. Aaron Hagerman executed a deed of manumission for Eve on September 3, 1808, with Ralph Sansbury and Henry Dye acting as witnesses. The document was later notarized by Andrew Rowan and recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 8, 1809.

Henry, aged 30, was manumitted by Benjamin B. Hopkins of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The manumission was performed in West Windsor (then located in Middlesex County), New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of West Windsor (Henry Dye, William Kovenhoven) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Andrew Rowan, Ralph Sansbury) on September 3, 1808. The document stated that Henry 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 September 5, 1808. A woman named Phebe, aged 23, was manumitted by Hopkins on the same day.

Phebe, aged 23, was manumitted by Benjamin B. Hopkins of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The manumission was performed in West Windsor (then located in Middlesex County), New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of West Windsor (Henry Dye, William Kovenhoven) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Andrew Rowan, Ralph Sansbury) on September 3, 1808. The document stated that Phebe 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 September 5, 1808. A man named Henry, aged 30, was manumitted by Hopkins on the same day.

Tom, aged 34, was manumitted by Ralph Sansbury of West Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of West Windsor (Henry Dye, William Kovenhoven) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Andrew Rowan, Daniel Atchley) on September 3, 1808. The document stated that Tom 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 March 13, 1809.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Harry Mother: name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Martin Cole Location: Sussex County (locality not specified) Birth date: 14 September 1808 Recorded date: 23 May 1809 Clerk: Johnson This record for Harry was submitted by Samuel D. Westfall on behalf of Martin Cole. Westfall sent a slip of paper to Clerk Johnson to report the birth of a Black girl named Deborah in Westfall's household, and Westfall signed the note. Below Westfall's signature, there was a postscript that stated: "& other for Martin Cole Born in the year 1808 the 14th Sepr named Harry." No further information was provided about Harry, and Martin Cole did not sign the record. The document did not list the child's place of birth, but Westfall and Cole were both known to be residents of Montague. Thus it can be inferred that the child was born in Montague.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Jack Craig Mother: no name or description provided Enslaver of mother and child: Charles McHenry Location: Oxford, NJ Birth date: 19 Sept 1808 Recorded date: 17 Dec 1811 Clerk: John Johnson Oxford was in Sussex County at the time this record was filed, but it is now located in Warren County.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Clarry Mother: described as "black woman a slave," but name not listed Enslavers of mother and child: John Axford and Abigail Axford Location: Sussex County (Locality not listed) Birth date: September 22, 1808 Recorded date: March 14, 1809 Clerk: name not listed, presumed John Johnson Record filed by Abigal Axford, the widow of the late John Axford. Enslaver John Axford was alive when Clarry was born, but died before filing the birth certificate with the county clerk. His widow Abigail filed the record and noted that the child was now her property after her husband's decease.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 34 Child: Jane Mother: Nance Enslaver of mother and child: William Longstreet Location: South Amboy, NJ Birth date: September 22, 1808 Reported date: June 26, 1809 Clerk: William Philips Deare

An enslaved man named Will performed construction labor for the first permanent building for Queen's College (later Rutgers). The building is now known as Old Queens. Will's enslaver Jacob Dunham hired out Will to the college to work at the construction site. Around September 1808, Will worked to lay the foundation for the building. On September 28, 1808, Abraham Blauvelt, chairman of the Queen's Building Committee, recorded a payment for $5.60 to Jacob Dunham for Will's labor on the foundation. Blauvelt's accounting record does not provide further details, but based on the cost of labor, one might estimate that the payment of $5.60 was for about one to two weeks of work.

The following birth record from Gloucester County was transcribed by the Historical Records Survey Project of the Works Progress Administration. The transcript was originally published in 1940 in the book titled Transcriptions of Early County Records of New Jersey: Gloucester County Series Slave Documents. The transcript is reproduced below as it appeared in that book. The record indicates that a black woman named Phebe was enslaved by Robert Kennedy who lived in Sussex County, in the northern part of New Jersey. The document mentions Sussex County, but does not list the township where Robert Kennedy lived. This likely refers to Robert Kennedy of Greenwich, Sussex County (now in Warren County), the owner of the Kennedy House and Mill on the Pohatcong Creek, a property that is now on the National Register of Historic Places. Although Kennedy was Phebe's legal owner, by 1808 Phebe actually lived at the house of James Matlack in Woodbury (then part of Deptford Township), Gloucester County, presumably pursuant to some agreement between Kennedy and Matlack. While living at the Matlack household, Phebe gave birth to a boy named Edward Bellwood. The name of Edward's father was not recorded, but the child was listed as a "molatto" on the birth certificate, suggesting that his father was a man of European or mixed ancestry. James Matlack submitted the birth certificate to the Gloucester County clerk. GLOUCESTER COUNTY DOCUMENT NUMBER: 1 TRANSCRIPT: State of New Jersey Gloucester County Deptford Township Woodbury. To all whom it may concern: This may certify that "Edward Bellwood" of the aforesaid mentioned Place (Molatto) son of Phebe - (A black woman) the property of Robert Kennedy of the County of Sussex) was born on Friday, the fourteenth day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eight - 1808. at the House of James Matlack of the County and State aforesaid. In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand at the eighteenth day - February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred Nine. 1809. James Matlack [verso] Certificate Edward Bellwood A Male Child - of a Slave rec'd and filed the 18th day of Feb 7 A D 1809. Filed 10th February 1809 C. Ogden Clk.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 33 Child: David Mother: Rachel Enslaver of mother and child: Isaac Story Location: South Brunswick, NJ Birth date: November 5, 1808 Reported date: June 6, 1809 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a farmer.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Loose Certificates Part I, Series 4, Item 27 Recorded by the County Clerk in: Book A, Page 154 Child: Bet Mother: Bet Enslaver of mother and child: Peter Voorhees Location: Somerset County (locality not specified) Birth date: 2 December 1808 Reported date: 20 March 1815 Clerk: Samuel Swan The same document also reported the birth of Bet's younger sister Rach, who was born in 1810.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 36 Child: Sarena Mother: Pegg Enslaver of mother and child: William Tindall Location: West Windsor, NJ Birth date: December 17, 1808 Reported date: September 6, 1809 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Adam Mother: name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Everet Vn Auken Location: Sussex County (locality not specified) Birth date: 18 Dec 1808 Recorded date: 31 Dec 1810 Clerk: John Johnson The document also mentions that the same Black woman (whose name is not recorded) gave birth to a girl named Peggy (Adam's sister) on November 2, 1810. 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.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 36 Child: Ellen Mother: Hannah Enslaver of mother and child: Ambrose Stelle Location: Piscataway, NJ Birth date: December 19, 1808 Reported date: November 1, 1809 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a farmer.

On December 28, 1808, a Black girl (or young woman) named Sukey ran away from her enslaver John Van Horne, who lived near Princeton in Somerset County. Sukey was of mixed African and European descent. Her age at the time of this event is not known. As of April 1809, her enslaver was still searching for her, and he published a runaway ad in the Trenton Federalist newspaper. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber, living in Somerset county, near Princeton, on the 28th of December a dark mulatto GIRL named Sukey, about four feet, ten or eleven inches high, slim made; she has hair and not wool; she had on when she went away a dark calico gown and a dove colored bonnet. Any person taking up the said girl and lodging her in Trenton, Somerset, or Middlesex Jail, shall be entitled to the above reward and all reasonable charges, paid by JOHN VAN HORNE April 7, 1809."

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Johnson Mogull Mother: described as "a slave belonging to me," but name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Thomas Lawrence Location: Hamburg, NJ Birth date: 1 Jan 1809 Recorded date: 30 Jan 1810 Clerk: John Johnson Thomas Lawrence enclosed 12 cents with the birth certificate to pay the County Clerk for the service of recording the child's birth. Notably, in this birth certificate, enslaver Thomas Lawrence wrote, "I now transmit to you this letter as a certificate of the birth of a negro child from a slave belonging to me in addition to one of whom I heretofore certified." This suggests that Lawrence had previously submitted another birth certificate for a different child. However, the earlier birth certificate has not been found among Sussex County records; it is likely that the county records are incomplete and have not all survived to the present day. There is one additional certificate submitted by Thomas Lawrence for a child named Gabriel who was born several years later in 1813.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 85 Child: Jerry Mother: Dinah Enslaver of mother and child: James Quick Jr. Location: Somerset county (locality not specified) Birth date: 21 Jan 1809 Reported date: 11 Nov 1809 Clerk: Samuel Swan

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 84 Child: Richard Mother: Amelia Voorhees Enslaver of mother and child: Elizabeth Conover Location: West Windsor, NJ Birth date: January 26, 1809 Reported date: June 7, 1834 Clerk: Nicholas Booraem

Will, aged 37, was manumitted by Ruliff Kovenhoven of West Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of West Windsor (Henry Dye, William Kovenhoven) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Daniel Atchley, Ralph Sansbury) on February 18, 1809. The document stated that Will 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 February 27, 1809.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 264 Child: Peg Mother: Peg Enslaver of mother and child: John P. Dumon Location: Somerset County (Locality not listed) Birth date: February 19, 1809 Reported date: August 30, 1820 Clerk: Samuel Swan Although the township was not listed on this birth certificate, other contemporaneous records indicate that John P. Dumont (or Dumon) was a resident of Hillsborough, and it is likely that the child was born in that place.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 61 Child: Fortunatus Mother: Bett Enslaver of mother and child: Thomas Edgar Location: Woodbridge, NJ Birth date: February 28, 1809 Reported date: April 10, 1818 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a farmer. See related birth events for Bett's other children, which were reported in the same document.

On March 11, 1809, a 22-year-old Black man named Philip ran away from his enslaver, Joseph Scudder of Maidenhead, Hunterdon County (present-day Lawrence, Mercer County). ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber, living in Maidenhead, near Trenton, N.J. on the night of the 11th instant, A NEGRO MAN named Philip, but likely may change his name, about 22 years of age, 5 feet 8 or 9 inches high, stout built, yellow complexion, his right fore fingers stiff, had on when he went away a snuff colored fear-nought great coat, blue coattee, brown homespun waistcoat, and drab pantaloons, old shoes and new rorum hat. He is very talkative, fond of company and dancing, but temperate in the use of liquor. Whoever will take up said Negro and return him to his master, or secure him in gaol so that he can obtain him again, shall receive the above reward and reasonable charges. JOSEPH SCUDDER Maidenhead, March 18, 1809"

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 85 Child: James Mother: Nancy Enslaver of mother and child: John Meldrum Location: Bridgewater Birth date: 17 Mar 1809 Reported date: 4 Sep 1809 Clerk: Joseph Doty

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 36 Child: Tom Mother: Jude Enslaver of mother and child: Abigail Blanchard Location: Woodbridge, NJ Birth date: March 17, 1809 Reported date: October 9, 1809 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 35 Child: Nicholas Mother: Dinah Enslaver of mother and child: James De Hart Location: North Brunswick, NJ Birth date: March 22, 1809 Reported date: August 12, 1809 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document notes that the enslaver was a farmer. He signed by his mark, indicating that he was illiterate.

The abstract of the will of enslaver John Axford of Oxford, NJ, does not mention Black people by name. After he died, an inventory of his estate was recorded on March 28, 1809, and in this inventory the names of two Black people appear: Jack and Isabel. The following is the abstract of the will and probate inventory as it appears in the Calendar of Wills, Vol. 11: "1808, June 22. Axford, John, Oxford Twsp., Sussex Co.; will of. Wife, Abigail, 4% of all lands as her dower during her widowhood, which is the land adjoining the house, with the house, barn, garden, milkhouse; also furniture; also 1% moveable estate, after debts are paid. Remainder of estate to be divided between my children, the sons, 2 shares and daughters, 1 share, viz., 4 sons, Samuel, John, Jonathon and Abraham, and 5 daughters, Joannah, Abigail, Sarah, Nancy and Martha. Daughter, Abigail Parks, is to pay out of her share £15 to her daughter, Elizabeth Ayres Mc Collum. Executors— sons, Samuel and John, and son-in-law, John Kinney. Witnesses— Jacob Osborn, Samuel Shower, James Mc Leer. Proved Mar. 15, 1809. 1809, Mar. 28. Inventory, $2,661.01; made by N. B. Woolston,* and George Hiles. Includes 2 volumes of Rev. Jno. Fletcher, 1 old Law Book, negroes named Jack & Isabel, and several names in accounts. File 1196S. * Called Newbold Woolston."

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 40 Child: Hannah Mother: Dinah Enslaver of mother and child: Charity Dean Location: South Brunswick, NJ Birth date: March 30, 1809 Reported date: April 5, 1810 Clerk: William Philips Deare The following is a complete transcript of the document: "Hannah / I Charity Dean of the Township of South Brunswick in the County of Middlesex and State of New Jersey do hereby certify that a certain female negro child named Hannah was on the thirtieth day of March in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and nine born of the body of Dinah a female negro slave of mine. Dated April 5th, 1810 Charity Dean Recd May - 17th, 1810 & recorded Deare Clk"

Around April 3, 1809 (or shortly before this date), a man named Purple Touser broke out of the Cape May County jail where he was being held as an alleged thief. The sheriff of Cape May County, Jacob Hughes, published a runaway ad offering a reward of 100 dollars for Purple Touser's capture. Purple Touser was a man of mixed African and European descent. Whether he was enslaved or free before he was incarcerated is not entirely clear, but the sheriff's ad did not mention the name of any enslaver. ----- Transcript of the source document: "100 Dollars Reward. BROKE gaol and made his escape a MULATTO MAN, by the name of Purple Touser, a noted thief, about five feet, seven or eight inches high, a stout made, well set fellow; has a scar from his nose down through his upper lip, occasioned by the stoke of an ax, which makes him show his upper teeth very much when he talks or laughs, wears his hair tied. Whoever will take up said runaway and lodge him in any gaol, and let the subscriber know, shall receive the above reward from me. JACOB HUGHES, sheriff Cape-May, N. Jersey April 3d, 1809. 28-3w"

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 87 Child: Jack Mother: Bett Enslaver of mother and child: Lemmettie Van Neste Location: Hillsborough Birth date: 10 Apr 1809 Reported date: 9 Jan 1810 Clerk: Samuel Swan (Somerset County Clerk)

Daniel was manumitted by Thomas Jackson of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Ezekiel Ayers, Lewis Kelly) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Benajah Mundy, David Turvey) on April 10, 1809. The document stated that Daniel 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. Daniel's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on July 20, 1809. Note the heading that appears above the certificate of manumission in the county clerk's book on page 86 says "Daniel, slave of Philip Brown," but this appears to be an error. The text of the certificate clearly states that the name of Daniel's enslaver was Thomas Jackson, and there is nothing to indicate that Philip Brown was related to Daniel's manumission. (The next page in the book contains Philip Brown's manumission deed for Heziah, and the documents' proximity likely led to the clerk's error in creating the headings.)

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 87 Child: Jacob Mother: Betty Enslaver of mother and child: Peter L. Voorhees Location: Montgomery Birth date: 16 Apr 1809 Reported date: 26 Feb 1810 Clerk: Samuel Swan (Somerset County Clerk)

Frank Suydam was manumitted by John Griffin of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (Edward Griffith, Ephraim Runyon) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Samuel Fitz Randolph (1741-1811), George Boice) on April 17, 1809. The document stated that Frank Suydam 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 Suydam's exact age was not recorded in the document. This manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 13, 1809.

Abraham Glasgow was manumitted by Andrew Kirkpatrick (1756-1831) of North Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey. Andrew Kirkpatrick was the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of New Jersey and a prominent Rutgers trustee. The certificate of manumission noted that the man was a "slave commonly called Glasgow, but who call himself Abraham Glasgow." The document stated that Abraham Glasgow 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. Abraham Glasgow's exact age was not recorded in the document, however, the judges stated that his aged was confirmed "as manifestly appears from his certificate of baptism, and from his own representation," thus revealing that Abraham Glasgow has been baptized as a child. This 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 (Asa Runyon, Thomas Hance) on April 29, 1809. The certificate was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on the same day. Two days later, on May 1, 1809, Andrew Kirkpatrick issued a deed of manumission for Glasgow. In this document, Kirkpatrick wrote that he decided to set free Glasgow "especially for and in consideration of his faithful services to me heretofore rendered." This document was witnessed by Anna Maria Bayard and Mary Ann Kirkpatrick and then notarized by judge Jacob Van Wickle. The deed was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk on the same day it was issued.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 93 (and Loose Certificate Part I, Series 2, item 69) Child: Jennette Mother: Eve Enslaver of mother and child: Job Stockton Location: Montgomery Birth date: 9 May 1809 Recorded date: 20 Sep 1810 Clerk: Samuel Swan

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 37 Child: Mary Mother: Jude Enslaver of mother and child: Ann Hutchinson Location: West Windsor, NJ Birth date: May 11, 1809 Reported date: November 4, 1809 Clerk: William Philips Deare

In May 1809, John Van Nuis, the Overseer of the Poor of the township of North Brunswick, published a notice seeking to bind out eight Black children, i.e. to place them as indentured servants into white households until age 21 (for girls) or age 25 (for boys). These children were abandoned to the Overseer pursuant to the abandonment provision of New Jersey's gradual abolition law, which allowed enslavers to take 1-year-old infants away from their enslaved mothers and give them up to the Overseer of the Poor to be treated as paupers. The following is a complete transcript of the source: "The subscriber Overseer of the Poor in the township of North Brunswick, in the county of Middlesex, doth hereby certify the following to be a true list of the abandoned black children born since the 4th day of July, 1804, in said township. Any person wishing to take any of said children upon the terms prescribed in the act of the legislature of this state for that purpose made and provided, will please to apply to the subscriber. 1 Male Child, aged 4 years and 5 months, 1 ... 3 ... 3 do. 1 ... 3 ... 5 do. 1 ... 3 ... 2 do. 1 Female Child, aged 4 years and 7 months, 1 ... 3 ... 9 do. 1 ... 3 ... 5 do. 1 ... 3 ... 3 do. JOHN VAN NEUS, Overseer of the Poor in the township of North Brunswick, New-Brunswick, May 13, 1809. 34-4w" Note that the abbreviation "do." in the source document means "ditto," meaning "the same as above." This notice appeared in the Trenton Federalist newspaper for 4 weeks from May 22, 1809, until June 12, 1809. The Overseer announced that any individual who wanted to take a Black child as an indentured servant could come forward and apply to take the child away. Note that the Overseer listed New-Brunswick as the location where he could be contacted; the City of New Brunswick was, at that time, considered to be part of North Brunswick township. The names of the eight abandoned children were not mentioned in the notice, but their ages were listed. We can determine at least some of their names by calculating their approximate date of birth and consulting the Middlesex County birth records for enslaved children registered in North Brunswick. Using this method, we can infer that the following four children were most likely among the abandoned group. The oldest boy listed was aged 4 years and 5 months. He would have been born in December 1804. This matches the birth record for Aaron, son of Kate, who was born on December 12, 1804. Aaron and his mother were enslaved by John Van Nuis, the very same Overseer of the Poor who placed this notice in the newspaper, and we can infer that John Van Nuis was among the first enslavers in North Brunswick to avail himself of the abandonment provision of the gradual abolition law. The next boy was 3 years and 5 months old. He would have been born in December 1805. This matches the birth record for Oliver, son of Margaret, born on December 4, 1805, in the household of enslaver Samuel Brush. The oldest girl listed was aged 4 years and 7 months. She would have been born in October 1804. There were no birth records listing North Brunswick township for this month, but there was a birth record for the City of New Brunswick (which was, as mentioned above, part of North Brunswick township at that time), for Sarah, daughter of Sarah, born on October 1, 1804, in the household of enslaver Ephraim Martin. Another girl listed was aged 3 years 5 months. She would have been born in December 1805. This matches the birth record for Jude, daughter of Margaret, born on December 2, 1805, in the household of enslaver Garline Ockerman. The identities of the remaining four children remain uncertain. One girl was listed aged 3 years 9 months, i.e. born in August 1805, but there is no matching birth certificate for that month. Potential matches may be Lydia, daughter of Violet, born July 6, 1805 (enslaver William Lawson) or Gin, daughter of Lary, born September 27, 1805 (enslaver Stephen Barkelew). The youngest children would have been born in the winter/spring of 1806—girl and boy both aged 3 years 3 months (February 1806), and another boy aged 3 years 2 months (March 1806). However, there are no birth certificates on file for North Brunswick or New Brunswick with birth dates between January and May 1806.

In May 1809, Overseers of the Poor of Bedminster, Somerset County, published a notice seeking to bind out eight Black children, i.e. to place them as indentured servants into white households until age 21 (for girls) or age 25 (for boys). These children were abandoned to the Overseers pursuant to the abandonment provision of New Jersey's gradual abolition law, which allowed enslavers to take 1-year-old infants away from their enslaved mothers and give them up to the Overseers of the Poor to be treated as paupers. The Overseers announced that any individual who wanted to take a Black child as an indentured servant could come forward and apply to take the child away. The notice listed the age and sex of each child, but did not provide the children's names. The names of the two Overseers of the Poor were listed as Abraham I. Van Arsdale and Abraham Brown. Note that the abbreviation "do." in the source document means "ditto," meaning "the same as above." In other words, the line "1 do. 4 do. 3 do." means 1 child aged 4 years 3 months. ----- Transcript of the source document: "IN conformity to a supplement of an act of the legislature of N. J. passed at Trenton on the 26th November 1808, for the gradual abolition of Slavery, We the undersigners, overseers of the poor of the township of Bedminster in the county of Somerset, do certify the following a correct list of the abandoned black children born in said township, since the 4th day of July 1804. Persons wishing to take any of said children agreeably to law, can apply to the said overseers. MALES 1 aged 4 years 7 months, 1 do. 4 do. 3 do. FEMALES 1 aged 4 years 6 months, 2 do. 4 do. 4 do. 1 do. 4 do. 2 do. 1 do. 3 do. 4 do. 1 do. 2 do. 11 do. ABM. I. VAN ARSDALE, } ABM. BROWN, } Overseers of the poor. May 24, 1809. 35-4 w.pd."

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 86 Child: Maria Mother: Patt Enslaver of mother and child: John M. Bayard Location: Hillsborough Birth date: 5 Jun 1809 Reported date: 3 Jan 1810 Clerk: Samuel Swan (Somerset County Clerk)

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 37 Child: Tom Mother: Patty Enslaver of mother and child: James Kearny Location: Perth Amboy, NJ Birth date: June 6, 1809 Reported date: November 15, 1809 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Nelson Mother: Bett Enslaver of mother and child: Isaac Hughes Location: Sussex County (locality not specified) Birth date: 10 June 1809 Recorded date: 21 Aug 1810 Clerk: name not listed, presumed to be John Johnson

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, Page 92 Child: Dick Mother: Betty Enslaver of mother and child: John J. Schenck Location: Hillsborough Birth date: 11 June 1809 Recorded: 25 July 1810 Clerk: Samuel Swan Note that the loose birth certificate only list the enslaver as John Schenck, but the corresponding page in the clerk's register specifies "John J. Schenck of the township of Hillsborough."

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. TRANSCRIPT: [DOCUMENT 34] Gloucester County ss To all to whom these presents shall come, it is hereby made known, that on this Eighteenth day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and nine, I James Stratton of the Township of Woolwich in the said County of Gloucester, have liberated, manumitted and set free, my Negro Slave, called Marinda Duffield, of the age of Twenty five years or thereabouts: and I do hereby liberate manumit and set free, my said Negro Slave, and discharge her from all service, or demand of service to be hereafter made either by me or any person claiming by from or under me. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year aforesaid. James Stratton. (Seal) Sealed and Delivered ) in the presence of ) James B. Caldwell ) William Harrison ) [Verso] Gloucester County: ss Be it remembered that on the twentieth day of June in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and nine, before me the Subscriber one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said County personally appeared James Stratton, the within named grantor, and acknowledged that he did sign seal and deliver the within instrument of manumission as his act and deed, to and for the uses and purposes therein mentioned. Taken and acknowledged the day and year aforesaid. James B. Caldwell [DOCUMENT 35] State of New Jersey Gloucester County ss We do hereby certify, that on this Seventeenth day of June in the year of our Lord One thousand, Eight hundred and nine. 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 of Woolwich, and two of the Justices of the Peace of the said County of Gloucester, his female Slave named Marinda Duffield, 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 Lippincott ) Vanderver Homan ) Overseers James B. Caldwell William Harrison [Verso] Manumission Merinda Duffield Recorded in the Clerks Office of Gloucester County in Lib A of manumission, June 22, 1809 C Ogden Clk.

In June 1809, Overseers of the Poor of Maidenhead, Hunterdon County (present-day Lawrence, Mercer County), published a notice seeking to bind out six Black children, i.e. to place them as indentured servants into white households until age 21 (for girls) or age 25 (for boys). These children were abandoned to the Overseers pursuant to the abandonment provision of New Jersey's gradual abolition law, which allowed enslavers to take 1-year-old infants away from their enslaved mothers and give them up to the Overseers of the Poor to be treated as paupers. The Overseers announced that any individual who wanted to take a Black child as an indentured servant could come forward and apply to take the child away. The notice listed the age and sex of each child, but did not provide the children's names. The names of the two Overseers of the Poor were listed as Joseph Scudder and Enoch Johnston. Note that the abbreviation "do." in the source document means "ditto," meaning "the same as above." In other words, the line "1 do. do. 4 do. 1 do." means 1 male child aged 4 years and 1 month. ----- Transcript of the source document: "THE subscribers Overseers of the poor in the township of Maidenhead, in the county of Hunterdon, doth hereby certify the following to be a true list of the abandoned black children, born since the 4th day of July 1804, in said township. Any person wishing to take any of said children upon the terms prescribed in the act of the Legislature of this state, for that purpose made and provided, will please to apply to the subscribers. 1 male child aged 4 years and 6 months, 1 do. do. 4 do. 1 do. 1 do. do. 3 do. 11 do. 1 do. do. 3 do. 8 do. 1 do. do. 3 do. 10 do. 1 female child aged 4 do. 9 do. JOSEPH SCUDDER, } ENOCH JOHNSTON, } Overseers of the poor. June 19, 1809. 38-4w"

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 40 Child: Lun Mother: Kate Enslaver of mother and child: Andrew McDowell Jr. Location: South Brunswick, NJ Birth date: July 6, 1809 Reported date: June 21, 1810 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document noted that Andrew McDowell Jr. was a farmer.

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

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, Page 92 Child: Harry Mother: Susan Enslaver of mother and child: Andrew Howell Location: Bridgewater Birth date: 2 August 1809 Reported date: 13 August 1810 County Clerk: Samuel Swan

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, Page 91 Child: Dian Mother: name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Abraham Voorhees Location: Franklin Birth date: 3 August 1809 Reported date: 20 June 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 son named Tone in 1806.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 38 Child: Sarah Mother: Kate Enslaver of mother and child: Jane Cornell Location: Middlesex County, NJ Birth date: September 5, 1809 Reported date: February 13, 1810 Clerk: William Philips Deare The birth certificate does not list a specific location within Middlesex County.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 81 Child: Charles Mother: Jane Enslaver signed: Austin D. Blackwell Location: Mapleton, NJ Birth date: September 6, 1809 Reported date: November 17, 1830 Clerk: T. S. Van Arsdalen The record also contains the names and dates of birth for the child’s 5 siblings. Note that this document was submitted by enslaver Austin D. Blackwell in 1830, many years after Jane’s children were born. Although this is not mentioned in this document, Austin was too young to have been Jane’s enslaver at the time when the children were born, and it can therefore be inferred that Austin’s father Thomas Blackwell (the head of the Blackwell household) was Jane’s original enslaver during her childbearing years. It appears that Thomas failed to report the children’s births as the law required, and Austin finally submitted birth records to the Middlesex County Clerk in 1830, five years after his father’s death. Note that the date “November 8th 1820” that appears in the transcript below is likely an error made either by Austin Blackwell or by the County Clerk, considering that two other dates on the document indicate that it was signed in November 1830 (not 1820), and the document appears in the Clerk’s book on page 81 alongside other records from 1830. The following is a complete transcript of the document: "Charles was born September 6th 1809 Letty was born February 1st 1811 Alexander was born May 29th 1812 Sam was born January 20th 1814 Phebe was born June 8th 1815 Sally was born August 10th 1817 all of the same mother Jane Dated November 8th 1820 Austin D. Blackwell I do hereby certify that the above names is taken from the family record Dated Mapleton November 17th 1830 Austin D. Blackwell Recd November 22, 1830 & recorded by T. S. Van Arsdalen Clerk"

Jane, aged 39, was manumitted by On Ward of East Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of East Windsor (Jonathan Brown, Charles South) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Andrew Rowan, John James) on September 9, 1809. The document stated that Jane 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 September 13, 1809.