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 Annie Young Henson

Annie Young Henson, born in Northumberland County, Virginia, recounts her experiences as a slave on Doctor Pressley Nellum’s plantation, known as Travelers Rest. She describes her family’s structure and living conditions, including a distinct cabin for her family. As a second nurse for the doctor’s family, she had better clothing and was seldom punished. Henson recalls the lack of education for slaves and the communal living on the plantation, ultimately detailing her emancipation and subsequent relocation to Baltimore.

Slave Narrative of Page Harris

Page Harris, born in 1858 in Charles County, Maryland, recounted his early life as a slave on the farm of Burton Stafford, known for training bloodhounds to capture runaways. His parents were freed in 1859 after his father rescued the Stafford family from drowning. Following emancipation, Harris’s family moved to Annapolis, where his father worked at the Naval Academy. After schooling, Harris also worked there and eventually purchased a farm in Camp Parole, where he raised vegetables and remained active in his community.

Slave Narrative of Caroline Hammond

Caroline Hammond, born in 1844 in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, was the child of a free man and a slave woman. Her mother worked as the head cook on the farm owned by Thomas Davidson. Following Davidson’s accidental death, his wife denied the family’s freedom, leading them to escape via the Underground Railroad to Pennsylvania. There, the family found work and Hammond received an education. She eventually became a cook and, at 95, reflects on her life surrounded by family, enjoying a modest yet independent existence.

Slave Narrative of Menellis Gassaway

Menellis Gassaway, interviewed in 1937, recounts his childhood in Carroll County, Maryland, born around 1850 or 52. He describes his family’s small farm, where they grew crops like corn and wheat and kept a few livestock. Gassaway recalls the relative friendliness of white people towards his family and notes that they were not subjected to harsh treatment or the sale of slaves. Education was lacking in his family, and health issues were managed with homemade remedies.

Slave Narrative of Thomas Foote

Thomas Foote, born in Cockeysville, Maryland, in 1865, recounts his family’s legacy. His mother, Eliza, a free woman of color, gained recognition as a healer and midwife among both whites and Blacks, despite being accused of Voodooism. After being imprisoned for helping an escaped slave, she left Baltimore County, only to return in 1865. The Foote family has since remained prominent in the area, with Thomas continuing the tradition of community involvement and belonging to various local organizations.

Slave Narrative of Mrs. M. S. Fayman

Mrs. M. S. Fayman, born in St. Nazaire Parish, Louisiana, in 1850, recounts her kidnapping at age five and subsequent enslavement on Beatrice Manor near Frankfort, Kentucky. She served as a tutor for the children of Pierce Buckran Haynes, a slave trader, while enduring the oppressive conditions faced by enslaved individuals on the plantation. After escaping in 1864 with assistance from a sympathetic woman, she later completed her education, graduating from Fisk University and leading a diverse career in education across several cities.

Slave Narrative of Tom Randall

Tom Randall, born in 1856 in Ellicott City, Maryland, recalls his childhood experiences with his mother, Julia Bacon, a cook at the local Howard House. Randall never knew his father and was often referred to as Tomy or Randy. He recounts the story of Joe Nick, a skilled worker on a nearby farm who escaped to join the Union Army, prompting a manhunt that became a notable local tale. Joe’s return in Union uniform and subsequent arrest sparked significant community interest.

Slave Narrative of James V. Deane

James V. Deane, born May 20, 1850, in Charles County, Maryland, provides a detailed account of his life as a slave. He describes living in a log cabin on a plantation managed by Thomas Mason, where he worked in fields and engaged in various tasks. Deane recounts the simplicity of slave life, including homemade clothing, communal gatherings, and work routines. He describes the absence of brutal punishment, the occasional slave weddings, and the interplay of cultural practices. His narrative highlights the challenges and community bonds among slaves, as well as their limited freedom.

Slave Narrative of Richard Macks

Richard Macks, born in 1844 in Charles County, Maryland, recalls his life as a slave on a tobacco plantation. He describes the harsh living conditions, working alongside his family in tobacco fields and doing household chores. Macks recounts witnessing the brutality of the slave system, including auctions and mistreatment of slaves. He details the limited freedom allowed to slaves, their struggle for dignity, and the deep-seated cultural and social issues faced by the enslaved. Macks later became a waiter and butler in Baltimore, reflecting on the changes in society over his lifetime.

Slave Narrative of Perry Lewis

Perry Lewis, an 86-year-old ex-slave from Kent Island, Maryland, reflects on his early life as the child of a slave mother and a free father. He describes growing up on a small farm owned by Thomas Tolson, where his mother worked tirelessly yet had no opportunity for education. Lewis recounts the presence of patrolers and the tensions they created within the community. His memories include simple childhood games and the few herbal remedies used for illness, highlighting the challenging conditions of enslaved life on the Eastern Shore.

Slave Narrative of George Jones

George Jones, born in 1853 in Frederick County, Maryland, recounts his life as the child of enslaved parents. He reflects on the harsh treatment his father faced from their master, who was known for his cruelty. Jones shares memories of hunting and the seasonal farm work typical of the area, noting the kindness of many local white residents towards Black people. He highlights the strong community ties and the enduring legacy of his family, despite the challenges of slavery.

Slave Narrative of Charles Coles

Charles Coles, born in 1851 in Charles County, Maryland, recounts his experiences as a slave on Silas Dorsey’s farm. Dorsey, a benevolent Christian man, treated his more than 75 slaves with care, refraining from harsh discipline and fostering a respectful community. The slaves enjoyed proper clothing, religious services, and educational opportunities provided by visiting priests. Coles describes living conditions as adequate and mentions that the Dorseys maintained strong family bonds with their slaves, ensuring their well-being and medical care.

Slave Narrative of Phillip Johnson

Phillip Johnson, a 90-year-old former slave, shares his life story during an interview in Poolesville, Maryland. Born in December 1847, he recalls his early years under the care of Doctor White and the harsh conditions imposed by a cruel overseer. Johnson describes witnessing the Civil War, his family’s struggles, and his journey to becoming a Methodist preacher. Despite his advanced age, he remains active and reflects on the changing role of the church in his community, emphasizing the importance of preaching the gospel.

Slave Narrative of Lucy Brooks

Lucy Brooks, an ex-slave living in Forest Glen, Maryland, shares her experiences from before and after the Civil War. Originally owned by Missus Ann Garner, she performed various household tasks and witnessed significant historical events, like the arrival of soldiers and the Great Eastern steamship. Now, at approximately ninety years old, Lucy lives with her son, Lafayette Brooks, after enduring personal loss and hardship. Their modest home reflects the struggles of former slaves navigating life post-emancipation in a changing society.

Slave Narrative of James Calhart James

James Calhart James, an ex-slave born on August 23, 1846, on the Randolph plantation in South Carolina, recounts his upbringing as the son of Franklin Pearce Randolph and Lottie Virginia James. Raised in a privileged household, he was largely shielded from the harsh realities faced by other slaves. Despite his father’s kindness, the plantation operated under severe conditions for field workers. After emancipation in 1865, he pursued education at Howard University, eventually becoming a teacher and contributing to the A.M.E. educational board. James reflects on his experiences and the lives of those around him.

Slave Narrative of Mrs. Celestia Avery

In an interview conducted on May 8, 1937, 75-year-old Celestia Avery recounts her life as a slave on the Heard plantation in Troupe County, Georgia. She describes the harsh conditions, including cruel treatment from her master, limited food, and the lack of autonomy in naming their children. Avery’s family endured forced labor, with each slave required to contribute to the plantation’s crops. Despite the oppressive environment, they found moments of joy in communal activities. Avery’s narrative emphasizes both the brutality of slavery and the resilience of those who lived through it.

Slave Narrative of “Parson” Rezin Williams

Parson Rezin Williams, born March 11, 1822, in Maryland, is regarded as the oldest living Negro Civil War veteran at 116 years old. A freeman from birth, he served as a teamster for Union forces during the war and is known for his contributions to Negro spirituals. Williams recalls life before and during slavery, revealing both his family’s history with George Washington and the harsh realities faced by enslaved individuals. He preached extensively, married many couples, and overcame numerous challenges throughout his remarkable life.

Slave Narrative of James Wiggins

James Wiggins, born in Anne Arundel County around 1850, recounts his early life as a slave of the Revell family. He was raised without knowing his parents, and given the nickname “Gingerbread.” Wiggins describes his duties and experiences, including performing for pennies and being sold multiple times before escaping with the help of a German shoemaker. He eventually adopted his father’s surname, Wiggins, and highlights the conflicts between free and enslaved individuals in his community, as well as his childhood activities and health.

Slave Narrative of Laura Ramsey Parker

Laura Ramsey Parker, an 87-year-old former slave from Nashville, recalls her life under the ownership of Mack Ramsey, who she remembers as a fair master. Freed after the end of slavery, she describes her early work as a spinner and weaver before becoming a nurse. Parker recounts her long residence in Nashville and her various occupations, including chambermaid and dressmaker. While she reflects on the past and the challenges faced by the younger generation, she emphasizes her commitment to faith and community.

Slave Narrative of Andy Odell

Andy Odell, a 96-year-old former slave from Spring Hill, Tennessee, shares his experiences of slavery and freedom. He recounts being born into slavery, losing his mother, and being passed between white masters. Odell discusses his religious beliefs and memories of the Civil War, including losing a brother. After emancipation, he worked various jobs but received little in terms of land or money. He also reflects on voting and evolving views on women’s suffrage. His narrative offers insight into the complexities of life during and after slavery.