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 Easter Sudie Campbell

Easter Sudie Campbell, a 72-year-old midwife from Hopkinsville, Kentucky, recounts her life experiences, including her upbringing as the child of slaves. For 40 years, she has served her community, using traditional remedies and natural medicines to care for patients, particularly children. She shares stories of childbirth and superstitions surrounding pregnancy, revealing insights into health practices and community beliefs. She also describes encounters with the supernatural, illustrating her deep connection to heritage and tradition in a post-Civil War Southern context.

Slave Narrative of Amelia Jones

In an interview conducted by Perry Larkey, Amelia Jones, an 88-year-old former slave from Manchester, Kentucky, recounts her experiences under her master, Daw White. She describes him as relatively benevolent, providing adequate food and shelter, yet capable of selling slaves without hesitation. Jones details the painful separations caused by sales, including the loss of her father and sister at a young age, emphasizing the emotional toll of slavery despite some material comforts. Her memories reflect the harsh realities faced by many enslaved individuals.

Slave Narrative of Mandy Gibson

In a Kentucky interview with Mandy Gibson, she recounts the harsh realities of slavery, including auction blocks where slaves were sold as property, often for their ability to bear children. While some slaves endured brutal conditions, Mandy recalls that her own owners treated them kindly. She shares poignant stories of separation, like that of Aunt Suzy, who was sold away from her children but eventually returned to her plantation after the war. The narratives illuminate the complex nature of slavery and its emotional toll on individuals.

Slave Narrative of Elizabeth Alexander

In an interview conducted by Cecelia Laswell, Elizabeth Alexander recounts an old Negro sermon from a scrap book dated 1839. The sermon reflects on themes of sin and divine judgment, emphasizing that a “wicked nigger” faces inevitable vengeance from the Lord. The preacher uses vivid imagery to convey the dangers of sin and warns the congregation against complacency. The message emphasizes the urgency of repentance and supporting the preacher. Alexander’s family history intertwines with the sermon, suggesting its significance in her upbringing.

Slave Narrative of George Henderson

George Henderson, born on May 10, 1860, in Woodford County, Kentucky, recalls his life as a slave on a 400-acre plantation. He describes the living conditions in log cabins, daily chores, and the family dynamics among the 21 children born to his father, Bradford Henderson. Work included feeding animals and maintaining vegetable gardens. While he never earned money, he recalls special occasions like Christmas and the community dances. After emancipation, he continued to stay with his former master for a time and later married, having a total of eight grandchildren.

Slave Narrative of Sophia Word

Sophia Word, a former slave born in 1837, shares her experiences of nearly two decades in bondage. She recounts witnessing the Mexican War and her family’s history, including her grandmother’s auction from Africa. Describing her relatively kinder master, she contrasts his approach to slave sales with harsher practices elsewhere. She offers vivid accounts of daily life, including cooking for special events and the brutality of other masters. Word notes the varied treatment of slaves and the presence of soldiers during the tumultuous Civil War era.

Slave Narrative of Mary Wright

Mary Wright, born on August 1, 1865, in Gracey, Kentucky, recounts her early life experiences, including her childhood, clothing, and family traditions. She reflects on the harsh realities of her youth, such as the violence of the Ku Klux Klan and the challenges faced by enslaved people. Wright shares memories of community gatherings, games, and superstitions prevalent during her upbringing. Although she claims not to be superstitious, her narrative reveals a deep connection to the customs and beliefs of her past, underscoring the complexities of her identity.

Slave Narrative of George Dorsey

George Dorsey, born on June 16, 1860, in Owen County, Kentucky, recounts his experiences growing up as a slave. Raised by the Duvall family, he shares vivid memories of early life, including encounters with soldiers post-Civil War, fishin’ and huntin’ adventures with friends, and the loyalty of his pets. Dorsey narrates the challenges and joys of his childhood, illustrating the interconnectedness of people and animals in rural life, as well as the community spirit that existed during and after slavery.

Slave Narrative of Harriet Mason

In her interview, 100-year-old Harriet Mason recounts memories from her childhood as a slave in Kentucky, including her longing to reunite with her mother and a near encounter with danger from a snake. She recalls social events like dances, the sternness of her mistress, and experiences involving her peers, including playful but painful incidents. Despite lessons in obedience and the harsh realities of her life, she expresses gratitude for her longevity and the desire to remain with her daughter, Lilly.

Slave Narrative of Peter Bruner

Peter Bruner, born in 1845 in Winchester, Kentucky, endured severe hardship as a slave under various masters. Initially treated well, he faced cruelty and deprivation from John Bell Bruner and Jimmy Benton. Despite multiple escape attempts, he was repeatedly captured, severely punished, and endured conditions of bondage. His fortunes changed during the Civil War when he joined a regiment. Afterward, he worked various jobs, eventually becoming an engineer and janitor at Miami University. As of 1936, at 91 years old, he reflected on a life marked by resilience and faith.

Slave Narrative of Dan Bogie

In an interview conducted by Eliza Ison on May 5, 1858, Dan Bogie recounts his life as a slave in Garrard County, Kentucky. Born on the same day as the interview, he shares details about his family, living conditions, and daily tasks on the Wheeler plantation. He describes the simplicity of their cabin, the food prepared, and his experiences with education, which was unavailable to him as a slave. Bogie notes the kindness of his masters and reflects on community gatherings and family events, emphasizing a life marked by both hardship and companionship.

Slave Narrative of Charlie Richmond

In an interview with John I. Sturgill, W.S. Wallen recalls the last ex-slave in Floyd County, Charlie Richmond, who served the Richmond family after being brought from Virginia around 1862. Following the Civil War, Richmond continued as a hired servant. Wallen, who had previously written about Richmond for a local newspaper, noted that the archives of this work were lost in a fire in 1928. Richmond died in 1910 and was buried in Prestonsburg.

Slave Narrative of George Scruggs

George Scruggs, born in Murray, Kentucky, recounts his life as a slave under Ole Man Vol Scruggs, a horseman. After being taken from his birthplace, he worked in various roles, including assisting a doctor in Lexington. Scruggs describes witnessing enslaved individuals being sold and expresses his affection for his boss, who treated him well and ensured he was cared for. Eventually, he ended up with family after his boss relocated. Scruggs reflects on his long journey and current residence near his birthplace, claiming to be 100 years old.

Slave Narrative of Martha J. Jones

Martha J. Jones, born in Buckingham County, Virginia, in 1847, shared her memories of the Civil War during an interview at age 90. She recounted her upbringing on a large farm and her father’s involvement in West Virginia’s legislature. Three of her brothers fought for the Confederacy, with one dying in battle. Married to Union Army lieutenant John R. Jones, she eventually settled in New Castle, Kentucky. Jones noted her father’s humane treatment of their three slaves, contrasting with her uncle’s practices of buying and trading slaves.

Slave Narrative of Clayton Holbert

Clayton Holbert, an 86-year-old ex-slave born in Linn County, Tennessee, shares his experiences working on a large plantation during the Civil War. He recounts daily life, including home-spun clothing, communal butchering, and the close-knit community among enslaved families. Holbert details his family’s struggles post-emancipation, particularly his mother’s challenges after the war. He moved to Kansas in 1877, where he farmed successfully and engaged with the local community. Holbert’s narrative reflects on the resilience and adaptability of enslaved individuals and their families in a changing world.

Slave Narrative of Jim Taylor

Jim Taylor, born in 1847 in Talbot County, Maryland, recounted his experiences as a child laboring on boats owned by Mr. Davis. He described a daring escape attempt to Pennsylvania by fellow enslaved men on July 4th, which was thwarted but led to eventual freedom. After years in Philadelphia, where he received an education, Taylor returned to Maryland, eventually settling in Baltimore. He worked in the furniture business and became a dedicated family man and church member, valuing education and reading throughout his life.

Slave Narrative of Alice Lewis

Alice Lewis, an 84-year-old former slave from Wilkes County, Georgia, recounts her experiences growing up on the Wakefield plantation. She describes her family’s relative comfort, with sufficient food and clothing, and the education they received. Alice recalls her transition to Baltimore, where she worked as a dressmaker for prominent families. She also reflects on her life during the Civil War, witnessing Union soldiers and the upheaval it brought. Throughout her narrative, she emphasizes her sense of community and resilience despite the hardships of slavery.

Slave Narrative of Dennis Simms

Dennis Simms, born on June 17, 1841, on a tobacco plantation in Maryland, recounts his experiences as an enslaved person during a 1937 interview. He describes the harsh realities of plantation life, including daily labor from sunrise to sunset, severe punishments for disobedience, and prohibitions on education and congregation. Simms highlights the cruelty of laws against enslaved individuals, including brutal punishments for runaways. His narrative reflects the struggle for dignity and freedom, as well as the cultural life of enslaved people, marked by song and resilience.

Slave Narrative of Mary Moriah Anne Susanna James

Mary James, interviewed in 1937, recounts her life as an enslaved person on the Randolph Manor plantation in Virginia. Her parents were owned by Silas Thornton Randolph, a relative of Patrick Henry. Mary describes harsh living conditions, with families housed in stable-like quarters, and the brutality of her master and overseer. She reflects on family separations, her work as a child, limited freedom, the absence of education, and the annual Christmas gifts. Mary also shares a haunting story about Union soldiers and the lingering presence of the overseer’s spirit.

Slave Narrative of Rev. Silas Jackson

Rev. Silas Jackson, born around 1846 or 1847 in Virginia, recalls his life as a slave on a plantation owned by Tom Ashbie. He details harsh labor conditions, frequent abuse by overseers, and the minimal provisions given to slaves. Despite the brutality, moments of community and faith prevailed, such as secret prayer meetings and seasonal revivals. Jackson’s family history includes a grandfather who escaped with Harriet Tubman’s help. His account highlights the struggle for dignity amid oppression, the fear of being sold, and the resilience of enslaved people.