Slave Narratives

Federal Writers’ Project. WPA Slave Narratives. Web. 2007-2024. The WPA Slave Narratives must be used with care. There is, of course, the problem of confusion in memory resulting from (73+ years) of the participants. In addition, inexperienced interviewers sometimes pursued question lines related to their own interests and perspectives and attempted to capture the colloquialism of the informant’s speech. The interviews provide fascinating insight and surprisingly candid information, however.

Slave Narrative of Frances Batson

Frances Batson, over 90 years old and born in Nashville during slavery, recalls her early life under Dr. Crockett, her late master. She shares memories of her family’s struggles, including her mother’s disappearance and her brother’s attempts to escape. After the war, her brother and a soldier came to rescue her. Despite hardships, including punishment for fishing, her narrative reflects on the changes around her, her beliefs on interracial marriage, and her post-emancipation life working for various families.

Slave Narrative of Millie Simpkins

Millie Simpkins, a 109-year-old former slave from Nashville, Tennessee, recounts her life from her birth near Winchester. She describes being sold and separated from her first husband due to her perceived stubbornness, spending time in a Nashville slave yard before being purchased by the Simpkins family. As a house slave, she cared for children and worked in domestic roles. Simpkins reflects on the harsh realities of slavery, the Civil War, and her experiences after emancipation, revealing a life marked by hardship and resilience.

Slave Narrative of Measy Hudson

Measy Hudson, an 80-year-old resident of Nashville, Tennessee, shares his experiences of slavery and freedom. Born in North Carolina, he recounts his family’s journey to Tennessee during the Civil War and their connection to the Harshaw family, who treated them with relative kindness. He reflects on his life as a laundress, his limited education, beliefs in superstitions, and the challenges faced by both black and white communities post-war. Hudson emphasizes strong Baptist faith and expresses views on racial segregation in marriage and community dynamics.

Slave Narrative of Naisy Reece

Naisy Reece, born into slavery in Williamson County, Tennessee, reflects on her life at age 80. She describes her family, including her parents, Mary and Ennock Brown, and her masters, Polly and Randall Brown. Reece recalls being set free with no resources, working in the fields, and primarily doing laundry. Although she did not attend school, she expresses concern over generational differences. She shares her spiritual life, mentioning the Baptist Church and traditional songs, and reveals her lack of political engagement and knowledge of slavery’s history.

Slave Narrative of Fanny Smith Hodges

Fanny Smith Hodges, a former slave from Berglundtown, Mississippi, recounts her experiences under the ownership of Hiram Cassedy. Despite the harshness of slavery, Hodges describes Cassedy as relatively kind, providing for slaves and forbidding excessive punishment. She worked as a maid for his daughter, maintaining a bond with fellow slaves through music and community. Post-Civil War, she transitioned to wage labor and faced hardships, yet found solace in church. Now elderly and battling cancer, she relies on a small pension and occasional washing work for survival.

Slave Narrative of Wayne Holliday

Wayne Holliday, born in 1853 in Aberdeen, Mississippi, reflects on his life as a former slave and railroad worker. His family belonged to the Holliday plantation, where they lived comfortably and were treated kindly. Holliday recalls his childhood, playing with both Black and white children, and describes his parents’ roles and his father’s skills as a carpenter. After the Civil War, he worked on the I.C. Railroad, raised a family, and sent his children to school, expressing gratitude for their success and his peaceful memories.

Slave Narrative of James Lucas

James Lucas, an ex-slave born in 1833, recounts his life under various masters, including Jefferson Davis. He describes his experiences in slavery, the roles of both kind and cruel masters, and the limited freedoms post-Civil War. Lucas discusses the transition to freedom, noting the hardships faced, including poverty and disease. He reflects on the relationships with his fellow slaves, the impact of the war, and the challenges of adjusting to freedom. Now elderly, he lives alone, reminiscing about a life filled with both difficulty and moments of joy.

Slave Narrative of Henry Ryan

Henry Ryan, born around 1854 in Edgefield County, South Carolina, recounts his experiences as a slave under Judge Pickens Butler. He describes a relatively benign upbringing, with ample food and a prayer house for worship. Despite the harsh realities of slavery, Ryan recalls some good treatment and opportunities to work personal plots. He reflects on community life, including Sunday church, holiday celebrations, and traditional games. After emancipation, he married and raised a family, eventually appreciating the freedoms gained compared to his past.

Slave Narrative of Mary Veals

Mary Veals was born in Newberry, South Carolina, and, though she does not remember the era of slavery, she recounts her parents’ experiences as enslaved individuals under Judge J.B. ONeall. Veals highlights her family’s traditions, including fishing and hunting for food, and describes her journey to education. She recalls the founding of colored churches after the Civil War and shares insights into community life, games, and herbal medicine. Veals expresses respect for influential figures like Abraham Lincoln and Booker T. Washington and emphasizes her faith and commitment to the church.

Slave Narrative of Emoline Wilson

On May 21, 1937, Emoline Wilson, a former slave from Newberry, South Carolina, recounted her life under slavery on Lemuel Lane’s plantation. She described her family background, her mother’s sewing skills, and the harsh realities of slave life, including limited freedom and meager compensation. Despite occasional kindness from Lane, she faced strict control and physical punishment. Emoline spoke of church attendance, community activities, and traditional remedies. Reflections on the Civil War and notable figures like Abraham Lincoln were included, illustrating her understanding of history shaped by her experiences.

Slave Narrative of Emoline Wilson

Emoline Wilson, born in Newberry County, South Carolina, was enslaved by Lemuel Lane, who was killed shortly after emancipation. Following freedom, her mistress provided some food. Now elderly and unable to work much, she lives with her son in a rented cottage. Wilson notes that she never heard of former slaves receiving the promised 40 acres and a mule, and they had to seek work from others. She recalls no issues with the Ku Klux Klan or political involvement in her community.

Slave Narrative of Julia Woodberry

In a 1937 interview with Annie Ruth Davis, Julia Woodberry shares her memories of growing up in slavery and the experiences of her family. She recounts her mother’s origins as a Chee Indian and her capture by a white man, which led to their life as house servants. Julia reflects on her mother’s strong character and independence, noting that she did not tolerate disrespect. She also discusses her granddaughter’s illness, referred to as “straw fever,” demonstrating her continued connection to family and tradition.

Slave Narrative of Julia Woodberry

In a November 1937 interview, Julia Woodberry recalls the terrifying earthquake that struck while she was an adult in Marion, South Carolina. She vividly describes the sudden dark clouds, the chaos, and the fear that gripped the community that night. Woodberry contrasts past and present living conditions, noting that people had better provisions and clothing, often made at home, compared to modern times. She expresses concern over the decline in morals and self-sufficiency among people today, reminiscing about a time when community and family values were stronger.

Slave Narrative of Julia Woodberry

In a November 1937 interview, Julia Woodberry reflects on her life, born in Brittons Neck but raised on Mr. Jim Brown’s plantation. She recounts her mother’s past as an enslaved person and her struggles after freedom, including the hardships of courtship during her youth. Woodberry expresses deep gratitude for Mrs. Louise Brown, who treated her with kindness amidst the challenges she faced. She dismisses beliefs in conjuring and spirits, emphasizing her faith in the Bible and her experiences of hardship and resilience throughout her life.

Slave Narrative of Mom Jessie Sparrow

In a December 1937 interview, 83-year-old Jessie Sparrow reflects on her life in Marion, South Carolina. She talks about her daily routine, including her health, visits from neighbors, and memories of loved ones. Sparrow expresses gratitude for her independence, despite her declining strength. She reminisces about her children, particularly her daughter Evelyn, who visits from the North. The conversation also touches on local traditions, community concerns, and the passage of time, illustrating her connection to both family and the wider community.

Slave Narrative of Mom Jessie Sparrow

In September 1937, 83-year-old Jessie Sparrow reflected on her life in Marion, South Carolina, during an interview with Annie Ruth Davis. Living alone, she described her humble circumstances, relying on minimal income from laundry work. Jessie recounted her experiences growing up on a plantation, the Civil War’s impact, and her father’s efforts for family stability. She noted the changes in her community and emphasized the importance of education and manners among the younger generation. Despite her challenges, Jessie found peace in her faith and the kindness of others.

Slave Narrative of Mom Jessie Sparrow

In a May 1937 interview, 83-year-old Jessie Sparrow recounts her memories of life as a child of a house girl in Marion, South Carolina. She reflects on her mother Sallie Bowens’ early marriage and work in the white household, where they lived in a separate room. Sparrow describes their diet, cooking methods, and the care provided by her Missus, noting the absence of money. She also recalls church attendance and the community’s connection to the white Methodist Church, illustrating aspects of her past and family history.

Slave Narrative of Nettie Henry

Nettie Henry, an 82-year-old ex-slave from Meridian, Mississippi, recounts her life from being born in Alabama and moving to Meridian with her family. Her mother worked for Miss Lizzie, and Nettie describes the changes in society following the Civil War, including the arrival of Union soldiers and the aftermath of slavery. Despite hardships, she reflects on positive experiences, such as education through local white families. Nettie also details family life, community ties, and her enduring Christian values. She remains proud of her family’s resilience and contributions to her community.

Slave Narrative of Pet Franks

Pet Franks, a 92-year-old ex-slave from Aberdeen, Mississippi, reflects on his life and experiences during slavery and the Civil War. He recalls his childhood near Bartleys Ferry and the kindness of his white owners, particularly Mr. Harry Allen and Jimmy Tatum. Pet describes his active lifestyle, tending to his garden and chickens, and his disdain for current societal behaviors. He shares memories of community gatherings, religion, and life post-war, emphasizing his loyalty to his white employers. Despite challenges, he finds contentment in solitude and interactions with familiar white neighbors.

Slave Narrative of Dora Franks

Dora Franks, an ex-slave from Aberdeen, Mississippi, recalls her life under slavery and the significant events surrounding the Civil War and her subsequent freedom. Born to a mother from Virginia and a father who was her young master, she faced discrimination due to her lighter skin. She describes the harsh realities of slave life, including punishment and limited freedom, yet also highlights moments of kindness from her white mistress. After the war, she struggled with life in the fields before marrying. Franks reflects on her faith and concerns for the younger generation’s moral decline.