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 Rev. John R. Cox

During an interview on December 23, 1936, Rev. John R. Cox, born in 1852, discussed the high cost of slave ownership compared to free labor, sharing a story of a young girl who escaped slavery and lived in the wilderness for two years. After her capture, she was sold to Dr. Cox, who later married her to another slave. Rev. Cox detailed the oppressive conditions faced by enslaved individuals, including prohibitions on education and marriage, and highlighted the enduring impact of these experiences on labor conditions in Kentucky.

Slave Narrative of Mary Wooldridge

Mary Wooldridge, born a slave in Washington County, Kentucky, recounts her experiences during slavery, including being sold multiple times. She describes her former masters, particularly Mr. Thomas McElroy, as relatively kind. After emancipation, she expresses confusion about freedom and fondly remembers her former mistress. Wooldridge worked various jobs, including as a midwife. She shares traditional birthing practices and her belief in planting by the moon. At around 103 years old, she reflects on her life and views on politics, attributing distinct roles to race in the context of voting.

Slave Narrative of Mrs. Heyburn

In an interview with Mrs. Heyburn, she recounts stories from her grandmother about life during the Civil War in Union County, Kentucky. She recalls the excitement of a young slave boy witnessing Union soldiers, and highlights a contrasting memory of her grandfather’s farm, where freed slaves chose to remain after emancipation. Some slaves were treated well, while others faced brutal punishment. This narrative illustrates the complexities of the master-slave relationship and the varied experiences of African Americans during this tumultuous period.

Slave Narrative of Cora Torian

Cora Torian, interviewed by Mamie Hanberry in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, shares memories of her life as a slave, born to Belle Childress, who was owned by Andrew Owen. Cora recounts superstitions and beliefs, such as dreaming of fish as a sign of money and seeing ghosts. She describes the conditions of her childhood, including good treatment from her masters, while noting the harsh realities faced by other enslaved individuals. Cora’s narrative reflects a blend of cultural traditions and the enduring impact of slavery on personal experiences.

Slave Narrative of Ann Gudgel

In her narrative, Ann Gudgel reflects on her life as a child enslaved by Master Ball in Anderson County, Kentucky. She recalls the day Abraham Lincoln freed them, although they continued to live with the Ball family. Ann shares her childhood memories, including playing with the master’s daughter and an incident involving bees that led to punishment. She also mentions a vaccination that failed for her, revealing her resourcefulness by treating the wound with ashes. Ann’s story offers insight into the complexities of life during and after slavery.

Slave Narrative of Wes Woods

Wes Woods, born on May 21, 1864, in Garrard County, Kentucky, shared his experiences as a former slave during an interview with Eliza Ison. He described his early life on a plantation owned by Mrs. Eliza Kennedy and later John Yeakey, where he lived with his family in log cabins. Woods recounted his fond memories of work, hunting, and fishing, and noted the absence of harsh punishment under his master. He shared his religious beliefs and the joy of freedom, emphasizing a life of faith and preparation for the afterlife.

Slave Narrative of Edd Shirley

Edd Shirley, a 97-year-old janitor from Tompkinsville, Kentucky, recounts his experiences as a slave, having been owned by three families. He describes the varied treatment of slaves, noting some were treated well if compliant, while others faced severe cruelty. Shirley shares a harrowing account of witnessing brutal whippings, contrasting these experiences with occasional festivities held by slaves after work. He reflects on the relative kindness of some slave owners and mentions his grandfather, who lived to be 115 without ever being sick.

Slave Narrative of Scott Mitchell

Scott Mitchell, a former slave in his 70s or possibly near 90, recounts his early life in Christian County, Kentucky, under Captain Hester. He remembers the Civil War and the pain of family separations, as Hester traded his mother and sister before ultimately bringing them back. Scott describes his upbringing, his work in coal mines starting at age 20, and his fondness for employer Mr. Davis, who provided for him and ensured a stable work environment until his death.

Slave Narrative of Belle Robinson

The interview with Belle Robinson, born in Garrard County, Kentucky, on June 3, 1853, reveals her experiences as a former slave. She recounts her life spent with the Brady family, emphasizing her close relationship with them and her upbringing. Belle describes being well cared for, wearing similar clothing to her white counterparts and enjoying shared meals. Despite her young age during slavery, she reflects on her family’s roles, her mother cooking for the family, and her father’s work, noting a lack of punishment among neighboring slaves.

Slave Narrative of Nannie Eaves

Nannie Eaves, aged 91 and born in McLain County, Kentucky, recounts her experience as a slave under her father, William Eaves. Freed at approximately 21, she describes her husband Ben’s escape to join the U.S. Army during the Civil War, assuring her a pension. Nannie reflects on superstitions regarding death signs and the changing times. She also mentions local slave traders, Judge Houston and Dr. Brady, who collected unruly slaves for trade in New Orleans. Her home is described as neat and well-furnished.

Slave Narrative of Will Oats

Will Oats, born in 1854 in Wayne County, Kentucky, reflects on his life as an enslaved child. He lived with his family on the property of wealthy owners, the Oats family, where they worked and had basic comforts. Though they faced strict discipline and lacked education or church access, they enjoyed simple pleasures like playing marbles. After the Civil War, Will’s family obtained their freedom and eventually settled in Mercer County, where they worked to build a life together.

Slave Narrative of Kate Billingsby

Kate Billingsby, born in 1828 and formerly enslaved by Frank and Sarah Buckner, reflects on her life in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. Living dignified in her own home, she possesses a rich cultural heritage from the Buckner family, known for their refinement. Despite her lack of formal education, Aunt Kate conveys a sense of pride, claiming quality origins and expressing gratitude for the Buckners’ kindness. Her memories include marriage to a fellow servant and a life marked by connections to her former owners, who still support her.

Slave Narrative of Esther Hudespeth

Esther Hudespeth recounts a story told by her slave mother about a rabbit and a raccoon. The raccoon invites the rabbit to meet some girls, but the rabbit feels humiliated as the raccoon and the girls mock his short tail. The next day, the rabbit pretends to be sick but ultimately agrees to ride the raccoon, only to humiliate him further by making him wait while he enjoys the company of the girls, leaving the raccoon feeling used and disregarded.

Slave Narrative of Joana Owens

Joana Owens, an elderly former slave, recounts her life in Kentucky. Born to enslaved parents, she lived under the harsh rule of Master Nolan Barr in Hawesville, where she and her family faced brutal treatment. At around fourteen, she witnessed the severe punishments meted out to slaves. After emancipation, Joana married and relocated to Louisville. She recalls childhood memories of watching red hospital boats bringing wounded soldiers and singing with her sister along the river. Her narrative reflects the struggles and resilience of enslaved individuals.

Slave Narrative of Bert Mayfield

Bert Mayfield, born on May 29, 1852, in Garrard County, Kentucky, reflects on his life as an enslaved person on Smith Stone’s plantation. He describes the living conditions, including cabins with lofts and communal meals centered around simple foods like bacon and pone bread. Mayfield recalls seasonal activities such as sugar harvesting and community gatherings. He shares memories of learning to read, attending church, and the care provided by his owners. After emancipation, he expressed gratitude for his freedom and admiration for Abraham Lincoln’s stance against slavery.

Slave Narrative of John Anderson

John Anderson, born in Clinton County, PA, recalls his childhood as a slave. His mother practiced herbal medicine, using roots to keep the family healthy. During the Civil War, soldiers camped nearby, prompting his mother to hide her children from approaching soldiers. After the war, Anderson discovered a cavalry gun on a battlefield. He remembers life in a log cabin on a farm, reflecting on both fortunate and unfortunate experiences during his youth.

Slave Narrative of Aunt Harriet Mason

Aunt Harriet Mason, born on April 14, 1847, in Garrard County, Kentucky, shares her experiences as an ex-slave. Owned by B.M. Jones, she recounts her family background and life on a plantation in Texas, where she worked as a nursemaid and housemaid without pay, receiving food similar to that of the family. Harriet describes the kind treatment from her masters, General Gano and Miss Nat, including educational opportunities. After the end of slavery, she returned to Kentucky and eventually settled in Lancaster, where she raised nine children and remained active in her church.

Slave Narrative of Annie Morgan

Annie Morgan, 65, recounts her childhood as the daughter of enslaved parents who served the Payne family in Kentucky. She fondly remembers celebratory gatherings on Proclamation Day and the joy of family reunions. Annie reflects on her belief in dreams, sharing a poignant account of a vision she had about her son’s fate, which brought her peace about his passing. She also recalls her marriage, where she and her husband jumped over a broomstick, a common practice among Black couples at the time.

Slave Narrative of Jenny McKee

Jenny McKee, an 85-year-old former slave, recounts her life in a narrative captured by interviewer Perry Larkey in London, Kentucky. Born in Texas, she shares memories of her mother’s sale in Louisiana and her adoption by Martha Tillet after her mother’s death. Aunt Jenny recalls childhood experiences of slavery, including her scar from an incident with another slave child. She married David McKee, a soldier, and continues to receive a pension from his military service. Her narrative encompasses personal history intertwined with the broader context of slavery and war.

Slave Narrative of Uncle Dick

In an interview set in Christian County, Kentucky, Uncle Dick, a skilled fiddler and servant, recounts a harrowing journey to a wedding. Dressed in his finest, he travels through a snowy forest, only to be pursued by howling wolves. Using his fiddle to fend them off, he plays tirelessly atop an old cabin for hours until the wedding guests find him. Despite the terror, Uncle Dick demonstrates resilience and composure, fulfilling his role as a vital entertainer within his community.