New Jersey Slavery Records

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Rosannah Cook Mother: Amy Cook Father: Dr. Edward Cook Enslaver of mother and child: J. D. Austin Location: Sussex County (Locality not listed) Birth date: October 6, 1811 Clerk: Name not listed, presumed Johnson The following is a complete transcript of the birth certificate: "Rosannah a black daughter of Dr. Edward Cook a negro & Amy his wife born October 6th 1811. J. D. Austin" A different birth certificate related to Rosannah's sister Mary Cook clarifies that J. D. Austin's full name is Joshua D. Austin.

On November 1, 1811, two Black men named Aaron and Ben ran away from their enslaver Elijah Blackwell of Princeton, NJ. Aaron was accompanied by a white woman and her mixed-race child, who may have been Aaron's child. It appears the escape was well planned, and the group had a lot of money with them. Aaron was 19 at the time of this escape (which was at least his second escape), and Ben was 24. At the time of this escape, Aaron had 12 years remaining to serve and Ben had 10 and a half years remaining, apparently per some prior agreement with Blackwell. The enslaver published an ad offering a reward of $80 for Aaron's capture and an additional $100 for the capture of Ben. ----- Transcript of the source document: "180 Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber, near Princeton, state of New-Jersey, about the first of November, TWO NEGRO MEN, one a mulatto, rather white, called Ben, who has ten years and six months to serve, about twenty-four years old, of a middle size ; takes a great deal of care to keep his hair straight, as it curls in his neck ; had on a new roram hat, a long dark coating coat, and pantaloons of the same, a striped yellow and black vest, and took with him a variety of vestcoats and pantaloons, two pairs of shoes, one thick pair, the other thin, foxed all round ; he is a great professor of religion. The other is about nineteen years old, tall and stout built for his age, called Aaron, of a dark complexion, has near twelve years to serve ; had on a roram hat, a new roundabout light grey linsey coat, and pantaloons of the same ; took with him two pair of pantaloons, one deep blue cotton, the other brown tow and linen. It is likely they will change their clothes, and perhaps their names; they have considerable of money with them. Said Aaron runaway from Asher Borden, of Allentown, last August, and was taken in New York. It is thought that a white woman, who has a mulatto child, has followed him. Whoever takes up said runaways, and delivers them to the subscriber, shall receive the above reward, one hundred dollars for the former and eighty for the latter. ELIJAH BLACKWELL. Nov. 9, 1811."

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 48 Child: Elias Mother: Peggy Father: Cyrus Enslaver of mother and child: John Bergen Location: South Brunswick, NJ Birth date: November 29, 1811 Reported date: March 17, 1812 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a farmer and his middle initial was I (or possibly J). The birth certificate does not list the father's name, but sale documents for Elias and his parents indicate that his father was Cyrus. Some enslavers in New Jersey falsified birth certificates in order to keep children in bondage longer than allowed by law. It appears that John Bergen may have done this with Elias's birth registration. Note that the birth date listed on the birth certificate appears to be wrong as other archival documents indicate that John Bergen sold the infant Elias and his parents to Peter Kean and Susan U. Niemcewicz on March 18, 1811. Elias could not have been born on November 29, 1811 (as stated on the birth certificate), because he had already been sold ten months before this date. Thus the birth certificate makes Elias seem younger than he really was. Elias was likely born in 1810 or possibly earlier. This error or deliberate falsification of his birth certificate could have dire consequences for Elias. Since he was born under the provisions of New Jersey's 1804 Gradual Abolition Act, he was supposed to be emancipated when he reached age 25 from the date listed on the birth certificate. But if his birth certificate was wrong, Elias's new enslavers could keep him in bondage longer, well past his 25th birthday.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Dine Mother: Name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Simon Hibbler Location: Sussex County (locality not specified) Birth date: 26 March 1811 Recorded date: 19 Dec 1811 Clerk: John Johnson

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Guy Mother: Dine Dewitt Enslaver of mother and child: Bow Decker Location: Sussex County (Locality not specified) Birth date: January 13, 1812 Recorded date: November 29, 1821 Clerk: Green The place of birth was not specified on the certificate, but Bowdewine Decker was a well-known resident of Wantage, and it can be inferred that the child was born there.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book B, Page 92 Child: Arch Mother: Jenney Father: Tom Enslaver of mother and child: John Frelinghuysen Location: not listed Birth date: 28 January 1812 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 the historic property known as the General John Frelinghuysen House at the time of this event, and it can be presumed that the child was born there. The house is located in the present-day Raritan borough (then part of Bridgewater township). The same birth registration record also mentioned Arch's siblings Rachel, Jane, and George.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 51 Child: Peter Mother: Hannah Enslaver of mother and child: Abraham Blauvett Location: North Brunswick, NJ Birth date: January 29, 1812 Reported date: January 29, 1812 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a printer.

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

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 50 Child: Ellen Mother: Caty Enslaver of mother and child: Mary Deare Location: North Brunswick, NJ Reported date: December 19, 1812 Clerk: William Philips Deare This record does not indicate full date it states the birth was "...on the [blank space] day of March eighteen hundred & twelve." The following is a complete transcript of the document: "Ellen / I Mary Deare of the city of New Brunswick in New Jersey certify that a female negro child called Ellen was born of my slave Caty at the township of North Brunswick in the county of Middlesex on the day of March eighteen hundred twelve. Witness my hand. Mary Deare Recorded December 19, 1812 "

On March 2, 1812, Joseph Schenck of South Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey, executed a deed of manumission to free Cesar, who was aged 42. The document was witnessed by Alexander Laird and William H. Macey and then notarized by Robert McChesney. This deed of manumission was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on March 4, 1812. However, it is unclear whether Cesar actually attained freedom as the result of this deed because Cesar was 42 years old at this time. Under New Jersey law, a person had to be aged 21 to 40 years old in order to be eligible for manumission. The next step in the process would have been to obtain a certificate of manumission from the Overseer of the Poor of South Amboy and two Justices of the Peace of Middlesex County. These officials would have to confirm Cesar's eligibility for manumission. A certificate of manumission for Cesar has not been found in Middlesex County records.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 47 Child: Democrat Mother: Hanna Enslaver of mother and child: Jacob Van Dike Location: West Windsor, NJ Birth date: March 7, 1812 Reported date: March 13, 1812 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Abraham, aged 30, was manumitted by John Runyon Jr. of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The deed of manumission was executed on March 14, 1812, by John Runyon Jr. in the presence of witnesses by George Boice Jr. and Ephraim Runyon, and notarized by Asa Runyon on March 23, 1812. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on July 6, 1812.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 131 Child: Sarah Mother: Phillis Enslaver of mother and child: Rev. Robert Finley Location: Basking Ridge, Bernards Birth date: 27 Mar 1812 Reported date: 5 Oct 1813 Clerk: Samuel Swan (Somerset County Clerk) The same birth certificate also lists the birth of Sarah's younger brother Anthony who was born in 1813. Rev. Robert Finley was the pastor of the Presbyterian Church of Basking Ridge at the time of these events.

Jane Oppie, aged 28, was manumitted by Elizabeth Story and Joseph Story, the administrators of the estate of Joseph Story West Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey, who died intestate circa 1811. The administrators issued a deed of manumission for Jane Oppie on May 2, 1812, and brought her to court to complete the process and obtain a certificate of manumission. On the same day, the Storys also manumitted Jane's husband Thomas Oppie. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of West Windsor (Henry Dye, Giles W. Olden) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Andrew Rowan, William Tindall) on May 2, 1812. The document stated that Jane Oppie 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. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on October 30, 1812.

Thomas Oppie, aged 35, was manumitted by Elizabeth Story and Joseph Story, the administrators of the estate of Joseph Story West Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey, who died intestate circa 1811. The administrators issued a deed of manumission for Thomas Oppie on May 2, 1812, and brought him to court to complete the process and obtain a certificate of manumission. On the same day, the Storys also manumitted Thomas Oppie's wife Jane. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of West Windsor (Henry Dye, Giles W. Olden) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Andrew Rowan, William Tindall) on May 2, 1812. The document stated that Thomas Oppie 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. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on October 30, 1812.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Loose Certificates Part I, Series 3, Item 34 Recorded by the County Clerk in: Book A, Page 116 Child: Bet Mother: Dina (or Dinean) Enslaver of mother and child: Peter Voorhees Location: Somerset County (locality not specified) Birth date: 9 May 1812 Reported date: 7 October 1812 Clerk: Samuel Swan The original loose certificate records the mother's name as Dinean, while the County Clerk's register book records her as Dina.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 81 Child: Alexander Mother: Jane Enslaver signed: Austin D. Blackwell Location: Mapletown, NJ Birth date: May 29, 1812 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"

George, aged 30, was manumitted by William Tindall and Daniel Hutchinson, executors of the will of Isaac Hutchinson of West Windsor, Middlesex County, NJ. The executors brought George 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 West Windsor (Henry Dye, Giles W. Olden) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Andrew Rowan, John James) on June 8, 1812. The document stated that George was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on June 8, 1812, by the two executors William Tindall and Daniel Hutchinson. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on September 9, 1812.

The following birth record from Gloucester County was transcribed by the Historical Records Survey Project of the Works Progress Administration. The transcript was originally published in 1940 in the book titled Transcriptions of Early County Records of New Jersey: Gloucester County Series Slave Documents. The transcript is reproduced below as it appeared in that book. GLOUCESTER COUNTY DOCUMENT NUMBER: 2 TRANSCRIPT: John, A Male Child of my Negro Slave Betty was born at Camden Gloucester County New Jersey the Twenty ninth day of June eighteen hundred & twelve - Edw'd Sharp I wish you wou'd record the above and file the same in your office I am with respect yours sc Edw'd Sharp [Verso] Mr. Ogden Clerk of Gloucester County

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 53 Child: Maria Mother: Charlotte Enslaver of mother and child: Ann Parker, widow Location: City of New Brunswick, in the Township of North Brunswick, NJ Birth date: July 5, 1812 Reported date: June 18, 1814 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 123 Child: Rachel Mother: name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: J. B. Teisseire Location: Somerset County (locality not specified) Birth date: 1 Aug 1812 Reported date: 15 Jun 1813 Clerk: Samuel Swan (Somerset County Clerk) The birth certificate recorded in Book A does not list the locality, but John B. Teisseire was known as a resident of Princeton in Montgomery township, and it is likely that the child was born there.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 52 Child: Rose Mother: Hannah Enslaver of mother and child: Isaac Vanpelt Location: South Brunswick, NJ Birth date: August 1, 1812 Reported date: April 26, 1813 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document indicates that the enslaver was a miller.

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: 37 TRANSCRIPT: Gloucester County To wit - We do hereby certify, that on the First day of August in year of our LORD one thousand eight Hundred and Twelve William Hugg of the Town and County of Gloucester brought before us, two of the overseers of the poor of the said Town of Gloucester and two of the Justices of the Peace of said County his Slave named Jettho Hemrey (a man of couler), 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 WTNESS whereof, we have hereunto Set our hands, the day and year above written. Isaac Doughton ) Overseers of the Poor of the town Saml Thompson ) of Gloucester Amos Cooper ) Justices of the Peace in and for the James Matlack ) said County of Gloucester [Verso] Certificate of the Manumission of Jettho black man late the Slave of Wm. Hugg.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: George Mother: Agness Enslaver of mother and child: Daniel Predmore Location: Newton Birth date: 8 April 1812 Recorded date: 4 Aug 1812 Clerk: not listed (presumed John Johnson)

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 52 Child: Tony Mother: Jenn Enslaver of mother and child: John C. Schenck Location: West Windsor, NJ Birth date: August 20, 1812 Reported date: May 3, 1813 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain two conflicting records for Dick, son of Flora, enslaved by John Joline, innkeeper in Princeton. The certificates were submitted 7 years apart. The conflicting information is as follows. Book A, page 180, has a birth certificate for Dick and another certificate for his brother Joe. This page says that Dick was born on 6 August 1813. The certificate was signed by John Joline on 13 April 1816 and was recorded in the book on 16 April 1816 by Samuel Swan (clerk). Book A, page 301, has a birth registration for Dick and his three siblings Joseph, Lewis, and Samuel. This page says that Dick was born on 25 August 1812. The certificate was signed by John Joline on 6 January 1823 and was recorded in the book on 20 February 1823 by Isaac Southard (clerk).

Gitty, aged 21, was manumitted by Mary Minto (c. 1750s-1824) of West Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of West Windsor (Henry Dye, Giles W. Olden) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Ralph Sansbury, David Slaback) on August 25, 1812. The document stated that Gitty was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on August 25, 1812, by Mary Minto. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on August 26, 1812.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 51 Child: Frank Mother: Dinah Enslaver of mother and child: Runyon Barkelew Location: North Brunswick, NJ Birth date: September 8, 1812 Reported date: February 8, 1813 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Clara Harris was born on September 14, 1812, in New Brunswick, the daughter of Ambo and Mark Harris Sr. Ambo's enslaver John Neilson reported Clara's birth to the Middlesex County Clerk. The following is a transcript of Clara's birth record in the County Clerk's register: "I John Neilson of the city in in of New Brunswick in the township of North Brunswick in the county of Middlesex State of New Jersey, certify that a female negro child called Clara was born of my slave Ambo at the place aforesaid on the 14 day of September in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred twelve. - Witness my hand at New Brunswick aforesd. John Neilson. - Recd. December 19, 1812 recorded. -"

On 12 October 1812, David Kirkpatrick Sr. of Bernards township, Somerset County, gave an enslaved man named Dick to his daughter Jennet Kirkpatrick Miller and son-in-law Dickinson Miller. This transfer was done as an advance of Jennet's inheritance, and David Kirkpatrick Sr. deducted $300 from Jennet's inheritance as a result of this gift, noting that this was the monetary value attached to Dick. Dick's age at the time of this transfer is not certain, but based on contextual information it can be inferred that he was a young man of prime working age. This event was documented in a codicil that David Kirkpatrick Sr. signed, amending his will. His original will was written in 1801 and did not mention Dick; the codicil was added on 12 October 1812, when David Kirkpatrick was 89 years old and was in the process of distributing some of his assets to his children. The following is a transcript of the relevant section of the codicil: "and to my daughter Jennet (being the sum at which I value my negro man Dick whom I this day give to her husband Dickinson Miller) the sum of three hundred dollars." Subsequent passages clarify that this sum is to be deducted from Jennet's inheritance. The documents listed Bernards township as the location. David Kirkpatrick Sr. resided in the Mine Brook area of Bernards.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Stephen Mother: not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Everett Van Auken Location: Newton, NJ Birth date: 30 November 1812 Recorded date: 5 August 1825 Clerk: David D. Chandler The enslaver signed by his mark and is presumed to be illiterate.

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

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

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

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Hannah Mother: Name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Thomas Stewart Location: Greenwich Township Birth date: December 17, 1812 Recorded date: December 17, 1812 Clerk: Name not listed (presumed John Johnson) The mother's name was not listed on the birth certificate. It is possible that Hannah was the sister of Simon, a boy whose birth certificate was submitted by Thomas Stewart in 1811. Simon's mother was named Dina, and it is possible that Dina was also Hannah's mother.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 51 Child: Hannah Mother: Phebe Enslaver of mother and child: Reuben Drake Location: Piscataway, NJ Birth date: January 8, 1813 Reported date: March 25, 1813 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: Dinah Mother: Nance Enslaver of mother and child: Abraham Shaver Location: Sussex County (location not listed) Birth date: 29 Jan 1813 Recorded date: 22 June 1813 Clerk: John 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 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: Dave Mother: Rach Enslaver of mother and child: William Kennedy Location: Sussex County (locality not specified) Birth date: 1 Feb 1813 Recorded date: 15 Feb 1813 Clerk: John Johnson

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: James Mother: Hetty Enslaver of mother and child: George Boyer, yeoman Location: Greenwich Township Birth date: February 2, 1813 Recorded date: May 25, 1814 Clerk: Johnson

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Charly Mother: Silvey Enslaver of mother and child: Moses Beavers Location: Mansfield Birth date: 4 Feb 1813 Recorded date: 17 Aug 1813 Clerk: John Johnson In this document, Moses Beavers wrote the child "was born in my kitchen."

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 52 Child: Jude Mother: Jemima Enslaver of mother and child: Jarvis Brewster, Esquire Location: Woodbridge, NJ Birth date: February 21, 1813 Reported date: December 1, 1813 Clerk: William Philips Deare

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Jacob Mother: Suse Enslaver of mother and child: Mary Kinsberg Location: Sussex County (Hardwick, NJ) Birth date: 25 Feb 1813 Recorded date: 9 Aug 1813 Clerk: John Johnson

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Cato Mother: Yon Enslaver of mother and child: Henry Price Location: Frankford Birth date: 1 March 1813 Recorded date: 21 Aug 1813 Clerk: John Johnson

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Gabriel Mother: described as "a slave belonging to me," but name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Thomas Lawrence Location: Hamburg Birth date: April 1813 (exact date not listed, only month) Recorded date: November 22, 1814 Clerk: John Johnson

Leanor, aged 39 years and 10 months, was manumitted by John Moore of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The deed of manumission was executed on April 3, 1813, by John Moore and witnessed by Nathan Bloomfield and Richard Marsh. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on April 19, 1813.

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

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Child: Rompey Mother: Betty Original enslaver of mother and child: the widow Lemetje Van Neste Delayed birth registration filed by new enslaver: John J. Schenck Location: Somerset County (Locality not listed) Birth date: April 11, 1813 Reported date: April 9, 1818 Clerk: Samuel Swan John J. Schenck filed a delayed birth registration for Betty's three children Dinah, Rompey, and Mary in 1818, after the death of Schenck's mother-in-law Lemmetye Van Neste (deceased 1816). The delayed birth registration indicated that the children were "born at the widow Lemetje Van Neste's." Although the township was not listed on the birth certificate, Lemmetye Van Neste and John J. Schenck were both known to be residents of Hillsborough, and it can be assumed that the children were born there.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Simon Mother: Name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: John A. Johnson Location: Sussex County (Locality not specified) Birth date: April 18, 1813 Recorded date: May 24, 1814 Clerk: John Johnson The township is not listed on this birth certificate; however, another birth certificate submitted by John A. Johnson several years later listed him as a resident of Independence township. Thus, it can be inferred that the child was likely born in that township.

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 53 Child: Harry Mother: Kate Enslaver of mother and child: Andrew McDowell Jr. Location: South Brunswick, NJ Birth date: April 20, 1813 Reported date: April 19, 1814 Clerk: William Philips Deare The document notes that Andrew McDowell Jr. is a farmer.

Peter was manumitted by Jacob Boice of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (Ephraim Runyon, Samuel Stelle) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Samuel Drake, George Boice Jr.) on April 29, 1813. The document stated that Peter was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. Peter's exact age was not recorded in the document. The deed of manumission was executed on April 29, 1813, by Jacob Boice and witnessed by Ephraim Runyon. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 1, 1813.

Juday was manumitted by James Morgan of South Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of South Amboy (William Toan and John Perrine) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (David Hall and William Toan, who was also the Overseer) on April 30, 1813. The document stated that Juday 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. Juday's exact age was not recorded in the document. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on October 20, 1815.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Bristow Mother: Liz Enslaver of mother and child: Ralph Hunt Location: Hardwick Birth date: 31 May 1813 Recorded date: 14 Dec 1813 Clerk: John Johnson

Caty was manumitted by John Vanneste of West Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of West Windsor (Henry Dye and John G. Schenck) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Moses Morris and Ralph Sansbury) on June 19, 1813. The document stated that Caty 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. Caty's exact age was not recorded in the document. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on May 1, 1816.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 131 Child: Anthony Mother: Phillis Enslaver of mother and child: Rev. Robert Finley Location: Basking Ridge, Bernards Birth date: 12 Jul 1813 Reported date: 5 Oct 1813 Clerk: Samuel Swan (Somerset County Clerk) The same birth certificate also lists the birth of Anthony's older sister Sarah who was born in 1812. Rev. Robert Finley was the pastor of the Presbyterian Church of Basking Ridge at the time of these events.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book A, page number: 132 Child: Silas Mother: name not listed Enslaver of mother and child: Stoffle Barkalow Location: Bernards township Birth date: 25 July 1813 Reported date: 24 January 1814 Clerk: Samuel Swan

A girl named Agur was born on 8 August 1813 to an enslaved woman named Juno in the household of David Sheppard of Cumberland County. Sheppard filed a birth certificate for the girl on 4 September 1813. The same certificate included information about two other children who had been born years earlier. 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"

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Loose Certificates Part I, Series 4, Item 22 Recorded by the County Clerk in: Book A, Page 153 Child: Sam Mother: Eve Enslaver of mother and child: Job Stockton Location: Montgomery Birth date: 24 September 1813 Reported date: 24 January 1815 Clerk: Samuel Swan

Isabella, aged 22, was manumitted by Charles Gilmore of North Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of North Brunswick (Moses Guest) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Thomas Hance, Asa Runyon) on November 9, 1813. The document stated that Isabella was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on November 9, 1813, by Charles Gilmore. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on November 9, 1813.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Loose Certificates Part I, Series 3, Item 1 Recorded by the County Clerk in: Book A, Page 136 Child: Dine Mother: Jude Enslaver of mother and child: Peter Voorhees Location: Somerset County (locality not specified) Birth date: 22 November 1813 Reported date: 19 April 1814 Although the township is not listed on this certificate, a related birth certificate for Jude's other daughter Kate indicated that Peter Voorhees resided in Montgomery.

Jane, aged 28, was manumitted by Elijah Hunt of South Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of South Brunswick (Andrew McDowell, Thomas Wetherill) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (John Bastedo, David Slaback) on December 4, 1813. 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. The deed of manumission was executed on December 4, 1813, by Elijah Hunt and witnessed by Aaron Cowling and John H. Vanderhoof. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on January 28, 1814.

On December 8th, 1813, a Black man named Peat, aged 25, ran away from his enslaver Garret G. Vanderveer, living near Monmouth Court House (present-day Freehold) in Monmouth County, NJ. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Twenty Dollars Reward. RAN AWAY from the subscriber, living within six miles of Monmouth Court House, on the 8th inst. a negro man named PEAT, twenty five years of age, five feet nine inches high: had on when he went away a coat and pantaloons of homespun of a light mixed colour; his shoes had nails in the bottom. Whoever shall deliver the said negro to me, or confine him in any jail so that I may get him again, shall be entitled to the above reward. Garret G. Vanderveer. Dec. 23. tf."

Nelly, aged 31, was manumitted by John Van Cleve of West Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of West Windsor (Henry Dye, John G. Schenck) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Moses Morris, Ralph Sansbury) on December 18, 1813. The document stated that Nelly was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on December 18, 1813, by John Van Cleve. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on January 17, 1814.

The memoirs of Black Quaker William Boen, published after his death, indicate that he was admitted to membership in the Mount Holly Monthly Meeting of the Society of Friends in 1814. He was a devout Quaker for decades prior to this. He had originally applied for membership circa 1763, when he was first transitioning from slavery to freedom, but he was denied. It took half a century before he was allowed to become a member. See page 17: "In 1814, he was, on application, received into membership with us, and continued to the last, when able, a steady attender of our meetings, both for worship and discipline."

Rachel, a young woman enslaved by George Farmer of Belle Vue (an estate in Piscataway), was imprisoned in the Middlesex County jail in New Brunswick in early January 1814. The reason for her imprisonment is unclear. Information about this event comes from a jailbreak notice for Rachel. See the related freedom-seeking event for Rachel for more details.

Jack, aged 29, was manumitted by James Throckmorton of South Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of South Amboy (William Toan, John Perrine) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Jacob Van Wickle, David Hall) on January 6, 1814. The document stated that Jack was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on January 6, 1814, by James Throckmorton. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on January 19, 1814. Peter was manumitted by James Throckmorton on the same day.

Peter, aged 27, was manumitted by James Throckmorton of South Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of South Amboy (William Toan, John Perrine) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (David Hall, Jacob Van Wickle) on January 6, 1814. The document stated that Peter was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on January 6, 1814, by James Throckmorton. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on January 19, 1814. Jack was manumitted by James Throckmorton on the same day.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Mary Mother: Amy Cook Enslaver of mother and child: Joshua D. Austin Location: Sussex County (Locality not specified) Birth date: January 15, 1814 Recorded date: April 21, 1814 Clerk: Clerk not listed, presumed Johnson The father's name was not listed on this birth certificate. According to a related birth certificate for Mary's older sister Rosannah, her mother Amy Cook was married to a Black man named Dr. Edward Cook. He was most likely Mary's father.

On the night of January 15, 1814, Rachel escaped from the Middlesex County jail in New Brunswick, NJ. Her enslaver George Farmer published a notice offering a reward of ten dollars for her capture. ----- Transcript of the source document: "Ten Dollars Reward. BROKE the Gaol of Middlesex County, on the night of the 15th inst. a BLACK WOMAN, called RACHEL, (formerly the property of Wm. Hyler, of New-Brunswick) about 20 years of age.—The above reward, and all reasonable charges will be paid for her apprehension and confinement in any gaol, or on her being delivered to the subscriber. GEORGE FARMER. Belle Vue, opposite New-Brunswick. Jan. 19, 1814. 15 tf"

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Charles Bymam Mother: Silla Enslaver of mother and child: Harbert Hiner Location: Sussex County (Locality not specified) Birth date: January 20, 1814 Recorded date: May 23, 1814 Clerk: John Johnson

Middlesex County Births of Enslaved Children book contains the following record: Page: 81 Child: Sam Mother: Jane Enslaver signed: Austin D. Blackwell Location: Mapletown, NJ Birth date: January 20, 1814 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"

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Prince Mother: Dine Dewitt Enslaver of mother and child: Bow Decker Location: Sussex County (Locality not listed) Birth date: January 21, 1814 Recorded date: November 29, 1821 Clerk: Green The place of birth was not specified on the certificate, but Bowdewine Decker was a well-known resident of Wantage, and it can be inferred that the child was born there.

In January 1814, William B. Parker and Joseph W. Scott, the administrators of the estate of Alpheus Freeman, began advertising the sale of a Black woman, aged 24, who was enslaved to the late Alpheus Freeman of New Brunswick, NJ. The same advertisement listed 8 buildings for rent in New Brunswick. The advertisement was first submitted on January 26, 1814, and continued running in the local paper at least until April of 1815. The following is a transcript of the ad as it appeared in the April 13, 1815, issue of the newspaper, called the Guardian, Or, New-Brunswick Advertiser. The Black woman is mentioned at the bottom of the ad: "To Rent, THAT elegant and established stand for business, the CITY HALL; Now in the occupancy of Philip Pierson, situate on the corner of Prince and George streets, in the City of New-Brunswick. The house is large, commodious, and in complete repair—the out buildings are spacious and complete, with a pump of excellent water and a cistern in the yard. This stand is in every respect circulated to carry on an an extensive and profitable business.—Possession given the first of May. ALSO, The house adjoining the above, in Prince-street; an excellent stand for a Grocery Store, having been occupied as such for several years.—Immediate possession given. ALSO, The house adjoining, in Prince-street—Possession given the first of May. ALSO, The house now occupied by John Machet, apposite the above described property, in Prince-street—Possession given the first of May. ALSO, The house occupied at present by Simon Pette, adjoining Dennis' Row in George-street—Possession given the first of May. ALSO, A house in Somerset-street, opposite the College, at present occupied by Stephen Huat—Possession given the first of May. ALSO, A house in Washington-street, near the Turnpike Road, now occupied by Thomas Bell—Possession given the first of May. ALSO, The house occupied by Mrs. Freeman, in Burnet-street—Possession given the first May. For further information apply to WILLIAM B. PARKER, or JOSEPH W. SCOTT, Am’rs. of Alpheus Freeman dec. For Sale, A BLACK WOMAN, slave for life, about 24 years of age, stout, active and healthy—Apply as above. Jan 26, 1814. 25-4w."

Catharine was born on March 9, 1814, in Hunterdon County. Her mother was an enslaved woman named Hannah, whose enslaver was Andrew Bray. Andrew Bray reported the birth to the County Clerk on October 25, 1814. Under the Gradual Abolition Act of 1804, Catharine would be considered a slave for a term; she would be emancipated when she reached age 21.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Moses Hambelton Mother: name not listed Father: probably Moses Hambelton Sr Enslaver of mother and child: Roger Clark Location: Sussex County (Montague, NJ) Birth date: 16 March 1814 Recorded date: 16 May 1814 Clerk: John Johnson The birth certificate did not list the name of the mother, but it mentioned that "the name of the child is Moses Hambelton which is named after its father." It is not entirely clear whether this note is meant to suggest that the father gave his last name or his full name to the son. The father's name may have been Moses Hambelton Sr.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: female child, name not listed Mother: Lot Enslaver of mother and child: John Strader Location: Sussex County (Locality not specified) Birth date: March 18, 1814 Recorded date: September 25, 1814 Clerk: Name not listed, presumed John Johnson

On 21 March 1814, a formerly enslaved Black man named Jack Leake signed an indenture agreement with Samuel Thompson and Ruth Thompson (Samuel's wife) pertaining to Jack's son Thomas Leake, who was 11 years old at this time. Born circa 1803, when both of his parents were already free, Thomas was free from birth. This agreement bound Thomas to serve in the Thompson household for 10 years until he was 21 years old, a common arrangement for children from poor families. The term of service would expire on 21 March 1814. Per the agreement, Samuel and Ruth Thompson would provide a basic literacy education for Thomas, ensuring that he could read and write—something that his father, Jack, did not know how to do, as can be seen from Jack signing the document with an X, rather than writing out his name. Thomas would receive twenty dollars and a new suit of clothes at the end of his term of service. The agreement was signed by Samuel and Ruth Thompson. Jack Leake signed with an X, and 11-year-old Thomas Leake also signed the document with an X. The agreement was witnessed by Edmond Sheppard and Levi Leake. The Thompson family lived in Deerfield, Cumberland County, the place where Jack Leake's family had resided for many years and where Thomas had been born. However, on this document, Jack Leake's place of residence is listed as Greenwich Township, Cumberland County, indicating that, by 1814, Jack had gone to live in that township. ----- Transcript of the source document: "This Indentured Witnesseth that Thomas Leake of the age of eleven years Son on Jack Leake of the Township of Greenwich in the County of Cumberland & State of New Jersey hath of his own free will and accord and by with the consent of his father aforesaid signing by his said father signing & sealing this indenture put and bound himself unto Samuel Thompson esquire and Ruth his wife of Deerfield in the County aforesaid with them faithfully to serve for and during the term of yen years from and after the date hereof that is to say until he shall attain his age of Twentyone years during all which term his said master and mistress he shall faithfully serve, their secrets keep, their lawful command cheerfully obey — hurt to his said master he shall not do nor suffer it to be done by others, with his own good or the goods of others he shall not buy nor sell without leave from his master but in all things he shall behave himself as a good and faithful servant towards his said master & mistress and all that are thiers during said term, — And the said Samuel Thompson and Ruth his wife will cause him to be taught to read write and Cypher, and shall procure and provide for him sufficient meal drink, apparel, lodging and washing, suitable for him during said term and at the expiration thereof, the said master shall give to the said Thomas one good new suit of clothes besides his common clothes and Twenty Dollars in money. It witness whereof the said Parties have hereunto interchangeably set their hands & seals the Twenty-First day of March in the year of our Lord 1814 Samuel Thompson Ruth Thompson Thomas (his X mark) Leake Jack (his X mark) Leake Sealed and Delivered in the presence of Edmd Sheppard Levi Leake [verso] Thomas Leake’s Indenture"

Sarah Bogert was manumitted by Robert R. Ross of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Frazee Ayers and Jonathan Freeman) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (William Benjamin Manning and John Harriott) on March 27, 1814. The document stated that Sarah Bogert was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. Sarah Bogert's exact age was not recorded in the document. The deed of manumission was executed on March 27, 1814, by Robert R. Ross. The deed was notarized by Judge James Dunham on March 31, 1834. Both of these documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on March 31, 1824.

Rebecca Ann was born on April 5, 1814, in New Jersey, the daughter of an enslaved woman named Hannah Grene. The birth date is inferred from a court document issued in July 1818 that mentions Rebecca Ann as a "female child named Rebeca Ann aged four years on or about the fifth day of April last past." It is unclear who was Rebecca Ann's enslaver at the time of her birth in 1814, because by the time Rebecca Ann was 4 years old, she and her mother were enslaved by different men and lived in separate households. By 1818, Rebecca Ann's enslaver was John Smock of Monmouth County, but her mother Hannah Grene's enslaver was George Farmer of Middlesex County. It is possible that Rebecca Ann was born in George Farmer's household and was later sold or otherwise transferred to John Smock.

George Dillon, aged 28, was manumitted by John James of East Windsor, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of East Windsor (John Hammell, Charles South) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Andrew Rowan, David Chambers) on April 7, 1814. The document stated that George Dillon was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on April 7, 1814, by John James and witnessed by Stephen Rowan and Zedekiah McCabe. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 16, 1814.

Nean, aged 32, was manumitted by the last will and testament of Gershom Dunn of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The executors of Gershom Dunn's estate (Phineas F. Randolph, Barzillai F. Randolph) brought Nean to court to complete the process and obtain a certificate of manumission. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (Ephraim Runyon, Samuel Stelle) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Samuel Drake, George Boice Jr.) on April 11, 1814. The document stated that Nean was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on April 11, 1814, by the executors of the estate and witnessed by Thomas Hance and S. W. Scott. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on August 29, 1814.

Phebe, aged 26, was manumitted by Reuben Drake of Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (Samuel Stelle and Ephraim Runyon) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (George Boice Jr. and John Fitz Randolph) on April 19, 1814. 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 document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on September 21, 1814, on p. 152. Additionally, Reuben Drake signed a deed of manumission on April 19, 1814, in the presence of witnesses Amasa Flatt and David Clayton. Six years later, on July 31, 1820, Judge Benajah Mundy notarized the deed, and the county clerk recorded a copy of the deed on p. 325-326.

Enslaver Joseph Baldwin of Newark, NJ, sold 26-year-old Teunis to James Neilson (1784-1862) of New Brunswick, NJ, for the sum of $175. We can infer that this sale caused a relocation of Teunis from Newark to New Brunswick. The Bill of Sale was signed on April 20, 1814, in the presence of John Guild.

On April 21, 1814, John Neilson and John Pool, two of the executors of the estate of the Rev. Joseph Clark (late pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of New Brunswick), placed a sale advertisement for two Black women in the New Brunswick newspaper the Fredonian. The ad also mentioned that buyers could inquire with "P. I. Clark" which refers to Joseph Clark's son Peter Imlay Clark, although he was not one of the executors of his father's estate. The text of the ad was as follows: "For Sale, TWO BLACK WOMEN, Belonging to the estate of Rev. Dr. J. Clark, dec— one in her 25th the other in her 18th year. They are sober, honest, and industrious. For terms enquire of JOHN NEILSON, JOHN POOL, Executers. Or of P.I. CLARK. Also for sale— A CHAIR AND HARNESS. April 21." Although the ad did not mention the women's names, we are able to identify the women as Grace and Dine based on related receipts that were preserved in the Neilson Family Papers at Rutgers Special Collections and University Archives.

Patty, aged 39, was manumitted by John Croes D.D., of North Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey. (The Reverend John Croes was the rector of Christ Church in New Brunswick at this time and would be elected first Episcopal Bishop of New Jersey the following year.) At age 39, Patty was on the brink of aging out of the possibility of manumission. New Jersey law held that enslaved persons aged 40 and above were too old to earn a livelihood on their own and were at a high risk of becoming paupers; thus the law held that they should be supported by the enslaver in their old age and could not be manumitted and sent away from the household where they had toiled for decades. The certificate of manumission for Patty was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of North Brunswick (Moses Guest) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Thomas Hance and Asa Runyon) on April 22, 1814. The document stated that Patty was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was signed on April 22, 1814, by John Croes. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) four and a half years later on October 6, 1820.

Somerset County birth records of enslaved children contain the following record: Book B, Page 267 Child: Jane Mother: Han Enslaver of mother and child: Peter Voorhees Location: Somerset County (locality not specified) Birth date: 7 May 1814 Reported date: 20 August 1835 Clerk: John M. Mann This document was filed in 1835 when Jane was already 21 years old and was eligible for emancipation under New Jersey's gradual abolition law. The document further indicated that Peter Voorhees sold Jane and her mother Han to Jacob Drake in 1814 when Jane was an infant. The following is a complete transcript of the document: “Hans child Jane was born in my kitchen May 7th 1814 and sold her and her mother to Jacob Drake in July the same year Peter Voorhees”

Mander, aged 35, was manumitted by Asher F. Randolph of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (Nathan Bloomfield, S. S. Barron) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Benajah Mundy, Richard Marsh) on May 28, 1814. The document stated that Mander was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on May 28, 1814, by Asher F. Randolph and witnessed by Andrew Elston and Richard Marsh. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on June 6, 1814.

Ann Harris was born on June 23, 1814, in New Brunswick, the daughter of Ambo and Mark Harris Sr. Ambo's enslaver John Neilson reported Ann's birth to the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare). The following is a transcript of Ann's birth record in the County Clerk's register: "I certify that Ann, Daugr of Ambo, my colored servant woman (by Mark her husband) was born the 23d day of June 1814. - New Brunswick County of } Middlesex New Jersey. - } John Neilson Received May 3d 1820. Recorded by Deare Clk"

In July 1814, Peter Voorhees sold Han and her infant daughter Jane to Jacob Drake. Jane was about two months old at this time. This sale took place in Somerset County, but the locality is uncertain. Information about the sale comes from a delayed birth registration that Peter Voorhees filed with the Somerset County Clerk's Office some twenty-one years later in 1835. In that registration document, Peter Voorhees certified that Jane was born on 7 May 1814 and that he sold Jane and her mother to Jacob Drake. The following is a complete transcript of the document: “Hans child Jane was born in my kitchen May 7th 1814 and sold her and her mother to Jacob Drake in July the same year Peter Voorhees”

On August 1, 1814, a 32-year-old Black man named Joe ran away from his enslaver John Duncan of Cranbury, Middlesex County, New Jersey. ----- Transcript of the source document: "100 DOLLAS REWARD. RANAWAY from the subscriber, living in Middlesex, New-Jersey, on the 4th inst. a BLACK MAN, by the name of Joe, about 32 years of age middling size, stout made; had on and took with him, a rorum hat, brown coat half worn, a cloth roundabout, gingham coattee, fair-top boots, and strong shoes. He has a scar on his right heel and some lumps on his breast. Whoever takes up said Runaway and returns him to his master or secures him so that he may be obtained again, shall receive the above reward and all reasonable charges. JOHN DUNCAN. Cranbury-Neck, Aug. 1st 1814. 43-tf"

Grace was sold by the executors of the estate of the Rev. Joseph Clark (late pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of New Brunswick) in 1814 to a man named Mr. Linn. Clark had left his estate to wife Margaret Clark and his children, naming several prominent members of his church as executors of his will. The executors of the estate advertised the sale of two black women (aged about 24 and 17) in the local newspaper the Fredonian starting in April 1814. Grace was the older of the two women. Grace was sold to Mr. Linn for the sum of 150 dollars, and John Neilson (one of the executors of the estate) collected the payment. On August 4, 1814, John Neilson delivered the payment of 150 dollars for Grace's sale to Margaret Clark, the widow of Joseph Clark. Neilson obtained a receipt from Margaret Clark, which was actually signed by Margaret's daughter Hannah Clark on Margaret's behalf. The following is a transcript of the receipt: "New Brunswick 4 August 1814 Received from John Neilson one hundred & fifty dollars which he received from Mr. Linn for a black girl Grace belonging to the estate of the late Revd Doctr Clark sold to the said Mr. Linn. Margaret Clark by Hannah Clark"

Peter Furman, aged 21 to 40 , was manumitted by Benjamin Marsh, a resident of Falls, Bucks County, Pennsylvania. The manumission took place in Woodbridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission described Peter Furman thus: "slave named Peter Furman (being a man given him the said Benjamin Marsh by the will of his father John Marsh of the said Township of Woodbridge)." The certificate was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Woodbridge (S. S. Barron, Richard Marsh) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Richard Marsh, Andrew Elston) on August 16, 1814. The document stated that Peter Furman was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on the same day, August 16, 1814, by Benjamin Marsh, witnessed by Andrew Elston and Andrew Marsh, and then notarized by Asa Runyon. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on August 17, 1814.

Will of Gerardus Beekman of South Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey, was signed on August 18, 1814. A codicil was added on May 27, 1818. The will was proved on March 27, 1822, after the decease of Gerardus Beekman. Item 3 mentioned Charlotte, a Black girl who had the status of a slave for a term in the Beekman household. The will stipulated that Charlotte should serve Beekman's wife Jane Beekman until she was eligible for emancipation. Item 5 recorded Beekman's promise to manumit a Black man named Thomas upon the expiration of a 15-year term which began on March 1, 1802 (i. e. on March 1, 1817). Additional research has confirmed that the man mentioned is Thomas Titus, and the girl is his daughter Charlotte Titus. Gerardus Beekman was still alive at the expiration of Thomas's term of service, and he made good on his promise to manumit Thomas during his lifetime. The following is a transcript of the relevant passages from the will: "3rd. I will and bequeath unto my beloved wife Jane Beekman the sum of Eight hundred dollars, to be paid unto her by my Executors, as soon as my property can be sold, or as soon as possibly can be done — I also bequeath unto he said Jane Beekman my wife, one of the best feather beds, with all its furniture, also my writing desk, the largest dining Table, the looking glass, half a dozen silver tea spoons, and the negro girl Charlotte to serve until free by law. ... 5th. I will that my negro man Thomas shall have his freedom after serving my heirs, or any man he shall choose, so long a time as to make fifteen years from the first day of March Eighteen hundred and two."

A Black man named Jack was manumitted by Samuel Cox of Middlesex County, New Jersey. The deed of manumission was executed on September 14, 1814, by Samuel Cox, in the presence of witnesses Luke Whitlock and Asher Applegate. Judge Asa Runyon notarized the deed on October 14, 1814, and Middlesex County Clerk William P. Deare recorded a copy of the document in his book on October 14, 1814. However, a certificate of manumission for Jack, which would customarily be issued by county officials as part of the manumission process, was not recorded by the clerk. The enslaver's place of residence within Middlesex County was not recorded on the deed, so the location of this event is uncertain. The location could be in North Brunswick Township considering the fact that the deed was notarized by Judge Asa Runyon who primarily worked in North Brunswick.

Betty, aged 21 to 40 , was manumitted by the last will and testament of Arietta Smock of North Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The executors of Arietta Smock's estate (Martin Schenck and John Van Nuys) brought Betty to court to complete the process and obtain a certificate of manumission. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of North Brunswick (Moses Guest) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Asa Runyon and Thomas Hance) on September 16, 1814. The document stated that Betty was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. This document was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on September 16, 1814. The name of the deceased enslaver is variously spelled Arietta or Arrietta throughout this document.

The will of William Manning of Piscataway, Middlesex County, NJ, was written on September 23, 1814, three days before his death. The will was signed by his mark and witnessed by John Dayton, David Clayton, and Reuben Drake. It was proved on October 10, 1814, by brother Thomas Manning and nephew William B. Manning, executors of the estate. A copy of the will abstract was published in the Calendar of Wills, Vol. 13, 1814-1817. The will enumerates bequests of thousands of dollars in cash and substantial landholdings in New Jersey and Ohio. William Manning passed most of his estate to his brother Thomas Manning and his nephews William T. Manning (Thomas's son) and William B. Manning (son of brother Benjamin, deceased). He provided substantial support for his wife Anna during her widowhood and made numerous bequests to his sisters and other extended family as well as a gift of $700 to the Presbyterian Church of Metuchen. William Manning's will mentioned 8 Black people who were enslaved in his household and provided that all of them should gain freedom at a future date, except for Phebe, who was an older woman (likely over the age of 40 and too old to be legally manumitted). Phebe would live with Manning's wife Anna, and $52 annually was set aside to support Phebe from Manning's estate. Manning also left money for four of the enslaved people mentioned, which would be paid to them when they were liberated. The following is a list of provisions related to all of the enslaved people mentioned in William Manning's will: to wife Anna, "$52 yearly for the support of my black woman, Phebe, during her life," also "time of my girls Rachel and Nell and the boy, Peter, until they are liberated." Additionally, "Negro boys, Jake and Tom, to be liberated on May 1, 1818; Peter on May 1, 1830, and Rachel and Hetty and the little boy, Harry, when they become 25 years. Nephew, William T. Manning, to have Peter and Nell after death of my wife until they are free. Jake and Tom to have $100 each, when freed, and Rachel and Hetty to have $50 as soon as Executors see fit."

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Abegel Mother: Deborah Enslaver of mother and child: Severyn Westbrook Location: Sussex County (Locality not listed) Birth date: September 29, 1814 Recorded date: May 24, 1815 Clerk: Johnson The locality is not specified on the birth certificate, but Severyn Westbrook was known to be a resident of Montague and it is likely that the child was born around that area.

Sussex County Births of Enslaved Children microfilm contains the following record: Child: Charlotte Mother: Betty Enslaver of mother and child: C. Dusenbery Location: Mansfield Birth date: October 1, 1814 Recorded date: November 23, 1814 Clerk: Johnson

Betty, aged 31, was manumitted by Anna Covenhoven of South Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseer of the Poor of South Amboy (John Perrine) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Robert McChesney and John L. Anderson) on October 4, 1814. The document stated that Betty was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was executed on October 4, 1814, by Anna Covenhoven. These documents were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on November 11, 1814.

Four manumissions related to the estate of William Manning (1740-1814) were recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) in October 1814, shortly after Thomas Manning and William B. Manning were appointed executors of William Manning's will. Thomas Manning (brother) and William B. Manning (nephew) were two of the main beneficiaries named in the will. The first three certificates were for Rachel (manumitted by the widow Anna Manning) and Jacob and Tom (manumitted by the executors Thomas Manning and William B. Manning). However, the fourth certificate was copied into the Clerk's book without the name of the person being liberated. This is highly unusual, and it appears to be the only manumission in the book where the name was omitted, leaving a blank space where the name should appear in the manumission certificate on p. 155 and likewise leaving a blank space in the accompanying manumission deed on p. 158. One might assume that the Clerk was unsure of the correct name when he copied the documents and then forgot to rectify the record later. All of the documents were dated October 15, 1814. These certificates were signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (Ephraim Runyon and Samuel Stelle) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Samuel Drake and George Boice Jr.). The manumission deed on p. 158 refers to the freed person as "Negro gearl ___ aged twenty three years or thereabout." She was manumitted by "Thomas Manning and William B. Manning Exectors to the estate of Capt. William Manning decd. all of the township of Piscataway." Using William Manning's will, it is possible to deduce that this certificate most likely belonged to a young woman named Hetty. William Manning mentioned 3 young women or girls in his will, all to be manumitted by the time they reached age 25. They were Rachel, Nell, and Hetty. Rachel and Nell were to live with William's widow, Anna Manning, until they were liberated/ Hetty was not listed as one of the people who would serve Anna Manning. The executors of the estate would be responsible for making arrangements for Hetty. Anna Manning promptly filed a manumission certificate for Rachel. This leaves Nell and Hetty as the possible candidates for the blank manumission certificate. Anna Manning was responsible for Nell, and Anna would have to sign the deed of manumission for Nell in due time. Considering the fact that the manumission record with the blank name was executed by Thomas Manning and William B. Manning (not by Anna Manning), we can conclude that the blank certificate belonged to Hetty (not Nell).

Jacob, aged 22, was manumitted by Thomas Manning and William B. Manning, beneficiaries and executors of the estate of William Manning. They brought Jacob to court to complete the process and obtain a certificate of manumission. The certificate of manumission was signed by the Overseers of the Poor of Piscataway (Samuel Stelle and Ephraim Runyon) and Justices of the Peace for Middlesex County (Samuel Drake and George Boice Jr.) on October 15, 1814. The document stated that Jacob was examined in court and met the eligibility requirements for manumission in New Jersey, i.e. the person was 21 to 40 years old and was "sound in mind and not under any bodily incapacity" of obtaining a livelihood. The deed of manumission was also executed on October 15, 1814. The certificate was recorded by the Middlesex County Clerk (William P. Deare) on October 21, 1814, and the deed was recorded on November 11, 1814. Although William Manning's will stipulated that Jake should be liberated on May 1, 1818, Thomas Manning and William B. Manning proceeded to manumit Jacob immediately after they took over the estate rather than waiting until 1818. Jacob also was supposed to receive $100 from the estate at the time of manumission, per William Manning's will. Three other manumissions related to William Manning's estate were filed on the same day. See related events for William Manning's will and the manumissions of Rachel, Tom, and Hetty.