Tallahassee Florida

Slave Narrative of Florida Clayton

Florida Clayton, interviewed at 82, recounts her life shaped by the legacy of slavery despite never being enslaved herself. Born in a context of miscegenation, she reflects on her family’s history, where her white great-grandfather freed his children except one. Clayton recalls the dangers of her childhood, including encounters with notorious “nigger hunters” and the fear surrounding child stealers. She witnessed the surrender of Tallahassee during the Civil War and later moved to Jacksonville, where she now resides in an Old Folks Home.

Slave Narrative of Margrett Nickerson

Margrett Nickerson, an interviewee aged about 89-90, recounts her early life as a slave on William A. Carr’s plantation in Leon County, Florida. She shares her memories of labor, family, and the oppressive environment, highlighting the harsh realities faced by enslaved individuals, including beatings and limited personal freedom. After the Civil War, she worked for pay and eventually settled in Gadsden County with her family. Now residing in Jacksonville, Nickerson, who has never read or written, continues to piece quilts while reflecting on her past.

Slave Narrative of Luke Towns

Luke Towns, born in December 1835 in Georgia to enslaved parents, recounts his life from slavery to freedom. He was sold multiple times before becoming a young man and later worked as a farmer and laborer. After the Civil War, he established his own life in Albany, married Mary Julia Coats, and became a deacon in various Baptist churches throughout his life. Now over 100 years old, he resides in Jacksonville, Florida, maintains a strong memory, and enjoys reading.

Slave Narrative of Shack Thomas

Shack Thomas, a 102-year-old former slave, recounts his life’s journey, beginning in 1834 on a plantation in Florida owned by Mister Jim Campbell. He shares vivid memories of his childhood, family hardships, and the conditions of enslaved life. Despite the challenges, Thomas describes Campbell as a relatively kind master, noting better treatment than at other plantations. Post-emancipation, he worked for $5 a month and has spent his life traveling throughout Florida. Now residing in Jacksonville, his humor and spirit remain strong despite his advanced age.

Slave Narrative of Willis Williams

Willis Williams, born on September 15, 1856, in Tallahassee, Florida, recounts his life as the son of enslaved parents under Thomas Heyward. He recalls a relatively benign childhood, stating he was well-fed and cared for. Williams’ father learned carpentry from a white craftsman, while his mother worked as a cook. Post-Civil War, he describes the joy of emancipation and the transition to seeking education and job opportunities. Eventually, he became a railway mail clerk, serving for four decades until retirement.

Slave Narrative of Rev. Squires Jackson

Rev. Squires Jackson, born in Madison, Florida, in 1841, shared his life story as a former slave and preacher in Jacksonville. He described following his mother in the cotton fields and the kindness of his master, though they were prohibited from reading. He recounted his escape during the Civil War and experiences that led him to avoid military service. After the war, he became a bricklayer, eventually felt called to preach, and married, having fourteen children. At ninety-six, he remains lively and grateful for his freedom.

Apalachee Indians

The Apalachee Indians, part of the Muskhogean linguistic family, were primarily located near present-day Tallahassee, Florida. Their history includes early encounters with Spanish explorers in the 16th century and significant resistance to colonization. By the 17th century, they experienced missionary efforts, rebellions, and conflicts with neighboring tribes. The Apalachee faced severe decline following attacks in the early 18th century, with most eventually migrating to Louisiana. Their population dwindled significantly, and today, few descendants remain, though their name persists in various geographic locations.