Slaveholders Listed on this Page
- Randolph, Benjamin (Enslaved persons: Mark, un-named mother and her son)
- Ransted / Ranstead, Caleb (Enslaved persons: Un-named man)
- Read, Jacob, US Senator (Enslaved persons: Ned, Nelly, Pat, Clara, Dick, Amelia)
- Read, Sarah (Enslaved persons: Un-named woman)
- Reardon, Ann (Enslaved persons: Tom)
- Redman, John, Doctor (Enslaved persons: Gabriel)
- Redman, Joseph (Enslaved persons: Jack)
- Reed, Andrew (Enslaved persons: Two un-named boys)
- Reed and Pettit Company (Enslaved persons: Un-named boys and men)
- Reily, John (Enslaved persons: Un-named female)
- Renshaw, Thomas (Enslaved persons: Ben)
- Reynolds, John (Enslaved persons: Cato Montgomery, John Dosset, Samuel Nurich)
- Richards, Joseph (Enslaved persons: Un-named girl, man, women and boys)
- Richardson, John (Enslaved persons: Rose)
- Richardson, Joseph (Enslaved persons: Un-named young man)
- Richardson, Mrs. (Enslaved persons: Un-named teenaged girl, un-named young woman)
- Riche, Thomas (Enslaved persons: Christmas)
- Righton, Sarah (Enslaved persons: Gin)
- Roach, Nicholas (Enslaved persons: Un-named teenaged girl and her child, un-named woman)
- Roberts, Isaac (Enslaved persons: Un-named young family: man, wife and child)
- Robeson, Andrew, III (Enslaved persons: Ned)
- Robison, Ann (Enslaved persons: Dinah)
- Rodgers, Thomas (Enslaved persons: Un-named teenaged boys)
- Rogers, Edward (Enslaved persons: Two un-named men)
- Ross, John (Enslaved persons: Jude)
- Rowan, Captain (Enslaved persons: three un-named men)
- Rowan, John (Enslaved persons: Un-named girl)
- Rundle, Daniel & George (Enslaved persons: Un-named young man)
- Rush, John (Enslaved persons: Two un-named women and two un-named children)
- Rush, Widow (Enslaved persons: Un-named young woman)
- Rutherford, Alexander (Enslaved persons: Jack, three un-named males, a mother and child)
- Rutter, Thomas (Enslaved persons: Preaching Dick)
- Ryan, John (Enslaved persons: Un-named young woman)
- Ryan, William (Enslaved persons: Romeo)
- Schull, Mr. (Enslaved persons: Will)
- Scott, John (Enslaved persons: Un-named boy)
- Searle, John, Captain (Enslaved persons: Un-named men, women and boys)
- Shelley, Abraham (Enslaved persons: Un-named woman and young male)
- Shields, John (Enslaved persons: Sought to purchase a teenaged boy or girl)
- Shingle, Frederick (Enslaved persons: Un-named teenage boy)
- Shippen, Joseph (Enslaved persons: Un-named man)
- Shoemaker, Elizabeth (Enslaved persons: Dinah and daughters Hagar and Dinah)
- Shute, William (Enslaved persons: Ben)
- Sims, Joseph (Enslaved persons: Un-named woman, two un-named men)
- Sitgreaves, William (Enslaved persons: Un-named man)
- Smith, Clement (Enslaved persons: Un-named girl and un-named man)
- Smith, George (Enslaved persons: Jo, un-named young woman)
- Smith, Richard (Enslaved persons: Un-named woman)
- Smith, Robert (Enslaved persons: Un-named woman and three children)
- Smith, Thomas (Enslaved persons: Un-named man, Harry)
- Smyth, Capt. (Enslaved persons: George)
- Sober, Thomas (Enslaved persons: Un-named woman, man and girl)
- Somersall, Stafford, Capt. (Enslaved persons: Un-named men)
- Sonmans, Peter, Dr. (Enslaved persons: Un-named female)
- Spafford, William, Capt. (Enslaved persons: Several un-named men, women and girls)
- Spurrier, Theophilus (Enslaved persons: Un-named man)
- Stacy, Edmund (Enslaved persons: Un-named man)
- Standley, Susanna (Enslaved persons: Violet, Sharper)
- Standley, Valentine (Enslaved persons: Un-named man, un-named teenage boy)
- Stapleford, Mary (Enslaved persons: Two un-named men, one woman and a girl)
- Stedman, Charles (Enslaved persons: Un-named man)
- Steel, Rebecca (Enslaved persons: Un-named woman, Ben)
- Stewart, Andrew (Enslaved persons: Elisha)
- Stilly, John (Enslaved persons: Un-named man)
- Stocker and Wharton (Enslaved persons: Louis)
- Stone, Thomas (Enslaved persons: Bet)
- Stonemetz, Peter (Enslaved persons: Two un-named men, one girl)
- Story, Elizabeth (Enslaved persons: Un-named woman)
- Story, Enoch (Enslaved persons: Un-named teenaged boy)
- Strainge, Jonathan (Enslaved persons: Un-named woman)
- Stretch, Thomas (Enslaved persons: Jack)
- Strickland, Miles (Enslaved persons: Un-named teenaged girl)
- Stuart, James (Enslaved persons: Un-named girl and boy)
- Sturgeon, Rev. William (Enslaved persons: Tom)
- Sutter, Peter (Enslaved persons: Un-named woman)
- Swan, Richard (Enslaved persons: Cuffy, Un-named young woman and her 8-month-old son)
- Swift, Joseph (Enslaved persons: Un-named teenaged girl)
Enslavement Data
A Note on Slave Numbers
The listings below represent an ongoing effort to identify slaveholders with an emphasis on documenting as many details about their enslaved persons as possible. This is, however, only a small fraction of Philadelphia's slaveholders and enslaved persons. Published studies by prominent historians reveal that Philadelphia was home to thousands of enslaved people in the colonial period.
Historian Gary B. Nash estimated the total enslaved population of Philadelphia and Southwark during it's peak slaveholding years of 1767-1775, using tax asssessments, census records, burial records and comparisons with other reliable datasets from New York City and Boston, to come up with the following estimates of total enslaved persons in Philadelphia and Southwark in these years:
1767: 1392
1769: 1270
1772: 1069
1773: 945
1774: 869
1775: 672
The figures above clearly show that the listings on this page are far from complete. They also show a steady decline in the rate of slaveholding in Philadelphia due to increased abolition activity and sentiment, a significant increase in the importation of white redemptioners and indentured servants into the province after the Seven Years War, and the combination of a very high mortality rate and very low birth rate among enslaved Blacks.
Source: Nash, Gary B. “Slaves and Slaveowners in Colonial Philadelphia.” The William and Mary Quarterly 30, no. 2 (1973): 223–56. https://doi.org/10.2307/1925149.
- Slaveholder Name: Randolph, Benjamin
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Cabinetmaker, furniture maker, famous for working in the Philadelphia Chippendale style.
Notes: Located on Chestnut Street. The sale of the woman and child, documented below, initially occurred a year after his announced retirement and sale of his tools in 1779.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Mark
Sex: Male
Age: Age not reported in escape ad, but described as a "man."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life; self-emancipated October 1781
Description: "Negro Man"
Notes: Mark escaped from Randolph in early October 1781. Randolph published the following escape notice to recover him:
Eight Dollars Reward,
RAN away last Sunday morning, from the subscriber, A NEGRO MAN, named Mark, his hair remarkably long and black, has a good countenance: Had on when he went away, a blue coattee with a red cape, white jacket, knit yellow breeches, a cocked hat, &c. Whoever secures him, so as his master may have him again, shall have the above reward, and reasonable charges paid by
BENJAMIN RANDOLPH. Oct. 16, 1781.
Date of Record: 16 October 1781
Sources: The Freeman's Journal, or The North American Intelligencer, 17 October 1781.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in advertisement
Sex: Female
Age: "about twenty-two years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1759
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Wench"
Notes: Randolph advertised this woman and her child initially in December 1780, at the bottom of an extensive list of other possessions for sale. It appears he was unable to sell her at the time, and again offered her and the child for sale nearly a year later, in November 1781: "TO BE SOLD, A Young, healthy NEGRO WENCH about twenty-two years of age, together with her son, a child somewhat more than one year old. The wench would suit particularly well for any business in the country. Enquire of BENJAMIN RANDOLPH, in Chesnut street."
It may be significant that the second attempt to sell the woman and child came a month after the escape of an enslaved man from the household, Mark, listed above.
Date of Record: 12 December 1780, 14 November 1781
Sources: The Pennsylvania Packet, or the General Advertiser, 30 December 1780; The Freeman's Journal, or The North American Intelligencer, 14 November 1781.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in advertisement
Sex: Male
Age: "somewhat more than one year old"
Date of Birth: circa 1780
Status: Per described age, probably a slave to age 28
Description: "child"
Notes: Randolph advertised this child and his mother for sale in November 1781. See above listing for text of advertisement.
Date of Record: 12 December 1780, 14 November 1781
Sources: The Pennsylvania Packet, or the General Advertiser, 30 December 1780; The Freeman's Journal, or The North American Intelligencer, 14 November 1781.
- Slaveholder Name: Ransted, Caleb
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Chair maker; merchant
Notes: In a 1727 advertisement for a lost horse, Quaker Caleb Ranstead identified himself as "Caleb Ransted, Chair-maker in Philadelphia." This is consistent with some of the skills of the man he advertised for sale in June 1737 (below). Proof of his occupation may be found in receipt books of some of his customers, including cabinetmaker John Head, to whom Ransted sold "six Blak Chairs" in July 1729.
Seven years later, Ransted advertised he was "intending to remove to England, as soon as possible," and advertised to sell 13 houses and tenements on various streets around the city, ten of them being brick tenements, revealing a considerable wealth in real estate and property at the time.
His name does not appear in Philadelphia newspapers again until September 1746, when he advertises a large assortment of imported goods, including tea, coffee, spices, indigo, glassware and more, indicating that he had returned to Philadelphia as an importer and merchant. His location was "next Door to the King's Arms in Front-street, near the Bank Meeting." No mention is made of chair making in the later ads.
See also his links to the William Atlee family, of Lancaster.
Sources: Jay Robert Stiefel, "Philadelphia Cabinetmaking and Commerce, 1718-1753: The Account Book of John Head, Joiner," in APS (American Philosophical Society) Library Bulletin, Winter 2001, Vol. 1, No. 1., online at https://www.amphilsoc.org/bulletin/20011/stief11.htm, accessed 25 July 2025; The American Weekly Mercury, 17 August 1727; The Pennsylvania Gazette, 28 June 1744, 25 September 1746;
- Enslaved Person's Name: Age not given in ad
Sex: Male
Age: "about 35 Years of Age"
Date of Birth: circa 1702
Status: Slave for life;
Description: "Negro Man"
Notes: Advertised for sale in June 1737:
TO BE SOLD,
A NEGRO Man about 35 Years of Age, who is a Sober honest Fellow, and has been used to many sorts of Business, usch as hewing, turning, painting and bottoming of Chairs; grinding Colours and painting of Houses, tending the Bricklayers and Plaisterers: He can also Mow, and do several other sorts of Business.
Any Person inclining to purchase hiim may enquire of Caleb Ransted in Philadelphia.
Date of Record: 09 June 1737
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury, 09 June 1737.
- Slaveholder Name: Read, Jacob
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: United States Senator from South Carolina
Notes: Residence Fourth and Unions Streets; while congress was in session in Philadelphia (1790-1800). Read had several enslaved persons escape from him during his last two years serving as a US Senator in Philadelphia. The four that escaped from his household in the span of one week in 1800 undoubtedly knew of his failure to be re-elected to the U.S. Senate and, with his imminent return to South Carolina, saw this as their last best chance of gaining freedom.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Ned, a.k.a. Edward
Sex: Male
Age: "about 32 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1767
Status: Slave for life (South Carolina); self-emancipated while in Pennsylvania, April 1799.
Description: "Mulatto"
Notes: Ned and his wife Nelly escaped from the Read household in Philadelphia at mid-day on April 5, 1799.
One Hundred Dollars Reward.
RAN away from the subscriber this day, at noon, two mulatto house Servants, viz. Ned, but commonly called Edward among his companions, well known as the subscriber's coachman and waiting man for several years in this city and in New-York -- he is a tall strait made mulatto with a large bushy head of hair, about 32 years of age, has a low forehead, with small eyes, a sullen dark look and is much inclined to be abrupt and insolent, one of his legs something smaller than the other from a fracture in his youth; he generally wears a brown cloth coatee with read cuffs and cape; had on when he went away an old forest cloth surtout, mix'd brown and yellow, and has a box coat of light colored drab, with red and white livery lace, but as I do not know what other clothes he had on, may change his dress.
Nelly, calling herself Wife to the before named Ned, she is much above the middle stature, strait made with falling shoulders, has a remarkable ferocious countenance and is very passionate, quarrelsome, and noisy, she is rather a fair mulatto -- has lost one or two of her front teeth, which she supplies with wax, and has a large scar between her shoulders occasioned by a blister; she is about forty five years of age, has a very masculine air in her walk, she carried away with her several gowns of different colored cotton; the above reward will be given for apprehending and securing them in any Jail in the United States and giving notice to the subscriber; or fifty dollars for securing either of them. -- All persons are cautioned against harboring, entertaining, or concealing the above servants or either of them; and all masters of vessels and others are warned against carrying them from the United States.
JACOB READ.
A Senator of the United States from the State of South Carolina, corner of 4th and Union-street Philadelphia.
April 5
As the coach driver for Read "for several years in this city," Ned would have known the city and its surrounding communities very well, greatly increasing the chance for a successful escape for him and and wife.
Date of Record: 05 April 1799
Sources: The North American (Philadelphia), 06 April 1799.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Nelly
Sex: Female
Age: "about forty five years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1754
Status: Slave for life (South Carolina); self-emancipated while in Pennsylvania, April 1799.
Description: "Fair mulatto"
Notes: Nelly and her husband Ned/Edward escaped from the Read household in Philadelphia at mid-day on April 5, 1799. For a detailed description of Nelly and the full text of the escape advertisement placed by Read, see the entry for Ned, above.
Date of Record: 05 April 1799
Sources: The North American (Philadelphia), 06 April 1799.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Pat
Sex: Female
Age: "about fifty two years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1748
Status: Slave for life (South Carolina); self-emancipated while in Pennsylvania, June 1800.
Description: "Negro woman"
Notes: Pat and her daughter Clara escaped from the Read household in Philadelphia on June 18, 1800, exactly one week after the escape of fellow house servants Dick and Amelia. Senator Read published the following very detailed description of all four enslaved people:
300 Dollars REWARD.
RAN AWAY from the subscriber, on the 18th of June inst. TWO NEGRO SERVANTS; viz a negro woman named Pat, a washer woman and cook, of about fifty two years of age -- tall and well shaped, of a black complexion. She has bad teeth, those of her under jaw are much discoloured and project a good deal. She has a full head of wooly hair -- a very cross forbidding countenance, is very impertinent, and laughs and talks loud. Pat was born in South Carolina, and speaks bad English, with the negro dialect. She has on the upper part of her breast, two pretty large lumps of flesh resembling Wens, or rather with the appearance of the marks of a burn. She carried away with her several changes of cloaths, and gowns of white muslin, and of coloured and figured printed cottons fashionably made up. She also carried away with her,
CLARA her daughter -- a very stout, robust, strong made girl, of a short stature, and round shouldered -- appearing to be about 14 years of age. Clara has large staring eyes, a flat nose, an oval flat face, her under jaw projecting a little, and good teeth. She is very artful and impudent, has a great fluency of speech, uses good language, and has been taught to read. -- She has the appearance of ring worms on her left cheek and chin; the skin in spots appearing much paler than the rest of her complexion, which is much lighter than her mother's -- Her hair is short and wooly; She wore a pink grounded printed cotton with a small black figure, with new fore parts.
Also ran away, on Wednesday the 11th inst. June, DICK and AMELIA. Dick, or as he has lately called himself, Richard Weaver, is a house-servant, -- he is about 5 feet 7 inches high, rather small made, is about 25 years old, of a good smooth, black complexion -- has a flat nose, with very large open nostrils. He carried his head and neck as if he were stiff in the neck and shoulders, which are high and tolerably square, and his neck short -- his legs are straight but small and illy made, with scarce any calf. He has had bad teeth, is left handed, and exceedingly awkward -- he has a full head of wooly hair, which he plaits and dresses to the best advantage. His voice is small, his speech commonly mild and slow and his manner appears extremely simple, but he is at bottom an artful knave, and when spoken to is very apt to be passionate and impertinent. Dick is a native of South-Carolina, and speaks bad English -- he seduced and carried away with him Amelia, who he called his wife.
Amelia is a very complete, well instructed ladies maid, much below the common stature and of a small make -- her complexion is that of a dark mulatto or mestizoe, nearly resembling that of the Lascars of India, with black curling hair, and a very low forehead -- her right eye has a great weakness, owing to the small pox in her infancy -- under her eyes, very black -- a flat face, flat broad nose, with scarce any rising at the bridge; a large mouth, with thick lips and strong teeth. On the nape of her neck she has the marks of a Seton. Dresses with taste, and imitates the French style; is very sensible, and expresses herself well. She took with her a variety of clothes, fashionably made -- she has for more than two years past been liable to fits, which at times give her a wildness in her eyes -- her health is generally delicate -- she is at present likely to encrease her family, and is about 22 years of age -- she can dress hair, clear starch, has a taste for millinary and mantua-making; and as she is very ingenious, can turn her hand to anything and may probably offer herself to some milliner or mantua maker as a work-woman. As Amelia has heretofore been a great favourite of a very indulgent mistress and 'tis believed has been led away by the persuasions of her paramour Dick, if she will return to me, she will be forgiven and treated with the same tenderness she has always received.
FIFTY DOLLARS Reward for each will be paid for the delivery of Pat and Clara to the subscriber, or to any goal in the United States, so that I may get possession of them -- One Hundred Dollars each for Dick and Amelia, on the like delivery. The subscriber warns all master of vessels, from taking these Runaway servants from the United States, and requests such of his friends and acquaintance as it may not suit to arrest them, to give information, should they hear of either of the fugitives, to the subscriber by letter directed to the post office, Philadelphia, which will find him, wherever he may pass the summer, or to the Printer of the Gazette of the United States, who will communicate it to a friend in Philadelphia to act on his behalf.
JACOB READ,
of South-Carolina, corner of Fourth and Union-streets, Philadelphia.
June 25.
Note the difference in reward monies offered. Read offerend fifty dollars each for the return of cleaning and cooking slaves Pat and Clara, and one hundred dollars each for the return of house/body slaves Dick and Amelia.
Date of Record: 25 June 1800; this ad ran continuously through August 2, 1800.
Sources: The North American (Philadelphia), 03 July 1800.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Clara
Sex: Female
Age: "appearing to be about 14 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1786
Status: Slave for life (South Carolina); self-emancipated while in Pennsylvania, June 1800.
Description: "Negro girl"
Notes: Clara and her mother Pat escaped from the Read household in Philadelphia on June 18, 1800, exactly one week after the escape of fellow house servants Dick and Amelia. For a detailed description of her and the full text of the escape ad placed by Senator Read, see the entry for Pat, above.
Date of Record: 25 June 1800
Sources: The North American (Philadelphia), 03 July 1800.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Dick, a.k.a. Richard Weaver
Sex: Male
Age: "about 25 years old"
Date of Birth: circa 1775
Status: Slave for life (South Carolina); self-emancipated while in Pennsylvania, June 1800.
Description: "Black"
Notes: Dick and his wife Amelia escaped from the Read household in Philadelphia on June 11, 1800, and were followed exactly one week later by the escape of fellow house servants Pat and her daughter Clara. For a detailed description of Dick and the full text of the escape ad placed by Senator Read, see the entry for Pat, above.
Date of Record: 25 June 1800
Sources: The North American (Philadelphia), 03 July 1800.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Amelia
Sex: Female
Age: "about 22 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1778
Status: Slave for life (South Carolina); self-emancipated while in Pennsylvania, June 1800.
Description: "Dark mulatto or mestizoe, nearly resembling that of the Lascars of India"
Notes: Amelia and her husband Dick escaped from the Read household in Philadelphia on June 11, 1800, and were followed exactly one week later by the escape of fellow house servants Pat and her daughter Clara. For a detailed description of Amelia and the full text of the escape ad placed by Senator Read, see the entry for Pat, above.
Note that of the four escaped slaves, Amelia is the only one that Read offers to forgive and treat with "the same tenderness she has always received." She is identified as the favorite of his wife, but from Read's description of her, which is considerably more flattering than that of the other three -- she is the only one he does not describe as either "impertinent" or "impudent" -- it is clear she is also his favorite and the wording of the ad betrays his dismay at her escape.
Date of Record: 25 June 1800
Sources: The North American (Philadelphia), 03 July 1800.
- Slaveholder Name: Read, Sarah
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Widow; Apothecary
Notes: Widow of carpenter John Read. See the advertisement for her ointments and salves. "Widow Read" was the mother-in-law of Benjamin Franklin. Franklin married Deborah Read in a common law marriage ceremony in September 1730.
Source: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 12 August 1731 (apothecary ad)
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not mentioned in ad
Sex: Female
Age: Age not given in ad, but described as a "woman"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life;
Description: "Negroe Woman"
Notes: Offered for sale in April 1730: "A Likely Negroe Woman to be Sold. Enquire at the Widow Read's in Market-street, Philadelphia."
Date of Record: 09 April 1730
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 09 April 1730.
- Slaveholder Name: Reardon, Ann
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Tom
Sex: Male
Age: Age not given in ad, but described as a "man"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life; frequent escape attempts
Description: "Negroe man"
Notes: Tom escaped from Reardon in mid May 1770. This was about the time that Reardon placed an ad to let out the bakery, including the services of an enslaved man, most likely Tom. Anne Reardon's initial ad to let the business and enslaved labor is below:
TO BE LETT,
A COMMODIOUS well finished BAKE-HOUSE, with two Ovens, convenient Granaries, and every Thing necessary for carrying on said Business, with a Negroe Man, who understands Baking well, together with a two Story Brick House, a Kitchen and large Yard adjoining thereto, situate in Front-street, near Mr. John Hart's Corner, in Southwark. For Particulars, enquire of ANNE REARDON, at the aforesaid Place. May 7, 1770.
It seems probable that Tom, upon learning of Reardon's plans to let out his services along with the bakery, made his escape. Below is the ad placed by Reardon to attempt to find him, including a reminder that she was still looking to let out the bakery, but without mentioning the inclusion of an enslaved skilled baker:
RUN away, about 5 weeks ago, from the subscriber in Front-street, Society-hill, a Negroe man, named TOM, a likely fellow, about 5 feet 8 inches high, by trade a bisket baker; had on, and took with him, a blue cloth jacket, one of the skirts pieced, 2 ozenbrigs shirts, and a pair of trowsers, buckskin breeches, thread stockings, and new shoes; his hands a little crooked, speaks good English, was formerly the property of Mark Cook, biscuit baker, of Parson Sturgeon, and John Elton, carpenter; he was accustomed to elope, when he followed whitewashing; it is believed he is lurking about this city, all persons are forbid to employ or entertain him.
Whoever brings said Negroe to his mistress, shall have Fifteen Shillings reward, from ANN REARDON.
To be LETT, by said Ann Reardon, a new bake-house, with two new ovens, and all utensils necessary for the business.
July 16, 1770.
Ann Reardon was still advertising to let the bakery, minus any mention of enslaved labor, as late as June of 1771. This is an indication that she never recovered Tom.
Date of Record: 07 May 1770 (ad to let); 16 July 1770 (escape ad); 27 June 1771 (later ad to let)
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 10 May 1770, 02 August 1770; The Pennsylvania Journal, or Weekly Advertiser, 27 June 1771.
- Slaveholder Name: Redman, John, Doctor
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Physician
Notes: One of colonial Philadelphia's most prominent medical doctors.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Gabriel
Sex: Male
Age: Age not given in ad, but described as a "man"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Man"
Notes: Gabriel escaped from Dr. Redman in mid December 1777. Ad placed by Dr. Redman to attempt to find him:
EIGHT SILVER DOLLARS Reward,
RUN-AWAY from his Master last Sunday morning, a Negro Man named GABRIEL, about five feet five inches high, is a thick set broad shouldered fellow, strong made, and likely, has an open good countenance, has been bred in the country and used to farming, has rather a heavy air and somewhat slow in his motions, and but little acquainted with this city.
He was dressed in a compleat suit of light coloured homespun cloth, unlined, white metal buttons dented at the edge, his cloaths appear new, and cut rather short; grey yarn knit stockings, new shoes, and felt hat little worn, and which he generally uses flapped --
He also took with him a spare oznabrigs shirt and white ribbed yarn stockings. -- If he is not gone out of the lines or lurking about this city, it is suspected he may attempt to go off to York or elsewhere, therefore all masters of vessels are forbid receiving him at their peril: The above Reward in hard cash will be paid to any person who will bring and deliver him to Doctor Redman's, or lodge him with the Keeper of the old Gaol of this City.
Dec. 21, 1777.
Date of Record: 21 December 1777
Sources: The Pennsylvania Ledger, or the Philadelphia Market Day Advertiser, 24 December 1777.
- Slaveholder Name: Redman, Joseph
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Merchant
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Jack
Sex: Male
Age: Age not given in ad, but described as a "man"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Man"
Notes: Jack escaped from a sailing ship. Ad placed by Redman to attempt to find him:
RUN away from the Sloop Neptune, Thomas Cheesman Master, a Negro Man Named Jack a short well set fellow, Red Eyes, several Marks on his Back given with a Horse Whip, he had on a brown Jacket with Hearts sowed on the Skirts, and a pair of Ozingbrigs Trowsers.
Whoever can take up and secure said Negro, and give Notice to Mr. Joseph Redman Merchant in Philadelphia shall receive a Pistolea Reward, and reasonable Charges.
Note that Jack bore the scars on his back of being whipped.
Date of Record: 21 July 1720
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury, 21 July 1720.
- Slaveholder Name: Reed, Andrew
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Merchant
Notes: Established the mercantile firm of Reed and Pettit, with his son-in-law Charles Pettit. The firm went bankrupt in 1765. Andrew Reed died in 1769.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Names not provided in ad
Sex: Male
Age: "about 17 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1736
Status: Slaves for life
Description: "Negroe lads"
Notes: Two teenaged boys advertised for sale in July 1753: "To be SOLD, TWO likely stout Negroe lads, about 17 years of age, fit for town or country business. Enquire of Andrew Reed, in Water-street, or at the New-Printing-Office, in Market-street."
Date of Record: 12 July 1753
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 12 July 1753.
- Slaveholder Name: Reed and Pettit Company
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Charles Pettit, Andrew Reed and Joseph Reed, Merchants
Notes: Charles Pettit married Sarah Reed, daughter of Andrew Reed and half-sister of Joseph Reed. The firm of Reed and Pettit went bankrupt in 1765. Andrew Reed died in 1769. Charles Pettit was appointed Assistant Quartermaster-General for the Continental Army, and later became involved in politics, serving in the Pennsylvania state legislature and the United States House of Representatives. See also individual persons owned by Charles Pettit.
Sources: Worcester Art Museum, "Charles Willson Peale, Charles Pettit, 1792," online at https://eap.worcesterart.org/Artists/peale_c/pettit/discussion.html, accessed 27 November 2024.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not provided in ad
Sex: Male
Age: "about sixteen or seventeen Years old"
Date of Birth: circa 1744 or 1745
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Boy"
Notes: Advertised for sale in November 1761:
REED and PETTIT,
At their STORE in Front-street, have for SALE,
A Variety of European and East-India Goods, suitable for the Season; -- Amongst which are, low-priced Cloths, Rugs, Blankets, Irish Linens, Silk Handkerchiefs, Pewter and Tea Kettles.
Also, West-India and New-England Rum, Old Madeira and Fyall Wine by the Pipe or Quarter-Cask, Bees-wax. -- A Quantity of Jamaica Mahogany Plank.--
And a Negroe Boy, about sixteen or seventeen Years old, strong, healthy, and fit for Country Work.
Date of Record: 05 November 1761
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 05 November 1761.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not provided in ad
Sex: Male
Age: "about eleven years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1753
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Boy"
Notes: Advertised for sale in January 1764:
January 12.
BOSTON AND PHILADELPHIA RUM,
BOHEA TEA,
by the Chest; and
CAROLINA LEATHER,
to be sold by
REED and PETTIT,
ALSO, a strong, active, country born Negro Boy about eleven years of age; has had the small-pox, and is on sale for want of employ only. Enquire of Andrew Reed, at Trenton.
Date of Record: 12 January 1764
Sources: The Pennsylvania Journal and Weekly Advertiser, 01 March 1764.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not provided in ad
Sex: Male
Age: "about thirteen"
Date of Birth: circa 1751
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Boy"
Notes: Advertised for sale in March 1764, along with the boy previously advertised above:
March 15.
WEST-INDIA and PHILADELPHIA RUM,
Excellent LONDON PORTER, BRISTOL BEER,
Madeira WINE, bladder SNUFF, German SCYTHS, and a few MUSKETS,
To be sold by REED and PETTIT, at their store in Front-street.
Also two Negro boys, to be sold for want of employ only, one of which is about 11 years old, very strong and active. The other about thirteen, is very handy, an exceeding good waiter, and has lived some time with a barber. They have both had the small pox.
Date of Record: 15 March 1764; this ad appeared through April 1764. May 1764 ads from the company did not mention any enslaved persons for sale.
Sources: The Pennsylvania Journal and Weekly Advertiser, 22 March 1764.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Names not provided in ad
Sex: Male
Age: Ages not given in ad, but described as "men."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slaves for life
Description: "Negro men"
Notes: Advertised for sale in December 1764, at the end of a larger ad for household goods: "They have for sale (for want of employ) two negro men, both excellent waiters, and both know how to take care of horses. One is a compleat barber, and the other can dress hair."
Date of Record: 20 December 1764.
Sources: The Pennsylvania Journal and Weekly Advertiser, 20 December 1764.
- Slaveholder Name: Reily, John
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Merchant
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in source
Sex: Female
Age: Age not given in source. Described as a "wench."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Wench"
Notes: Offered for sale in October 1751. Listed at the end of Reily's ad for goods and services:
JOHN REILY
in Front Street, Opposite Norris's Alley
SELLS West-India Rum, Jamaica Spirits, Coffee, Tea, Chocolate, Cocoa, Muscovado, and Boston Loaf-Sugar, best Florence Oyl, Indigo, Hemp Seed, Powder, Shot, Nails and sundry other Things by Wholesale or Retail at the most reasonable prices.
N.B. Said Reily continues to draw DEEDS and other WRITINGS with usual Care, Dispatch and Attendance. Also has a Sober Honest Negro Wench to dispose of.
Date of Record: 24 October 1751
Sources: The Philadelphia Journal or Weekly Advertiser, 24 October 1751.
- Slaveholder Name: Renshaw, Thomas
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes: Named as a former owner of escaped slave Ben by the current owner, Daniel Badger, a ship's captain.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Ben
Sex: Male
Age: "24 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1746
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe man"
Notes: Ben escaped from the schooner Lovely Lass while it was docked at Marcus Hook. Ad placed by ship's captain Daniel Badger in an attempt to find him:
FORTY SHILLINGS Reward.
RAN away from DANIEL BADGER, Master of the Schooner LOVELY LASS, a Negroe man, named BEN, who has lately belonged to Thomas Renshaw, of this city; He is 24 years of age, a likely black fellow, about 6 feet high, well made, has lost 3 of his fore-teeth, speaks good English, understands the farming business, and is a good butcher: Had on, when he left the vessel, near Marcus-Hook, a blue pea jacket, ozenbrigs shirt and breeches, yarn stockings, leather shoes, yellow metal buckles, a silver broach, and old felt hat.
He made up towards the city, about which it is probable he is lurking.
All masters of vessels are forbid to carry him off. Whoever apprehends the said Negroe, and delivers him to said Badger, or, in his absence, to Mr. James Maccubbin, in Third-street, near Arch-street, shall receive the above reward.
Date of Record: 05 July 1770
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 05 July 1770.
- Slaveholder Name: Reynolds, John
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Jailer
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Cato Montgomery
Sex: Male
Age: Age not reported in notice, but described as a "man."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro man"
Notes: Cato Montgomery was personally enslaved by John Reynolds, unlike the other men listed who were prisoners in Reynolds' charge. Montgomery obtained keys or had duplicate keys made and at midnight on January 10, 1783 "effected the escape" of four prisoners, the two named and two who were captured by the time the jailer published the escape notice below:
BROKE jail last Friday night about twelve o'clock, the following prisoners, viz.
JOHN DOSSET, a Negro man, very black, about five feet eight inches high, wore a green jacket, blue overalls, and a dark camblet green coat lined with baize.
SAMUEL NURICH (alias Freeman) a Negro man about five feet six inches high, thick and clumsy made; had on an homespun coat, jacket and breeches, and a homespun cloth great coat of a lightish colour.
Also a Negro man, belonging to the subscriber, named Cato Montgomery, about the same size as Samuel Nurich, has uncommon thick lips, and in his throat the marks of the king's evil: he had on a light coloured homespun coat with red edging to it, a brown jacket, dun coloured leather breeches, a cocked bound hat, and a brown great coat with a red cape. This negro, with false keys, by the confession of two other prisoners since taken, effected their escape. They intend to go to New York, from whence the two first mentioned came as refugees, and are under sentence of death for burglary.
Whoever apprehends all the prisoners, and secures them in any jail, shall have the above reward, or Forty Dollars for each of them, from
JOHN REYNOLDS, jailer of Philadelphia city and county
Jan. 18, 1783.
Cato Montgomery was suffering from scrofula, a tuberculous infection of the lymph nodes in his neck, resulting in a noticeable swelling on one or both sides of his neck. Reynolds refers to his infection as displaying "marks of the king's evil." The term "king's evil" in reference to the disease dates to the 16th century, when it was believed that monarchs were given divine powers of healing. The king or queen's touch to the swollen neck, accompanied by a religious ceremony, was thought to cure the infection, which, because it was rarely fatal, often went into remission on its own, reinforcing the belief that it was the royal touch that had effected the cure. The royal touch was applied in England by Queen Anne as late as 1714 and the term "king's evil" persisted well into the 18th century.
Date of Record: 18 January 1783
Sources: The Freeman's Journal, or The North American Intelligencer, 22 January 1783.
- Enslaved Person's Name: John Dosset (Dorset)
Sex: Male
Age: Age not reported in notice, but described as a "man."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Escaped prisoner; recaptured
Description: "Negro man"
Notes: Dosset escaped from the Philadelphia jail at midnight on January 10, 1783, in company with three other prisoners and one man, not a prisoner, enslaved by the jailer. Two men were promptly captured but Dosset, Samuel Nurich, and the jailers' man Cato Montgomery remained at large. Jailer Reynolds believed they were all headed for New York. Reynolds notes that Dosset and Norich were both imprisoned under sentence of death for the crime of burglary, and that they were "refugees," referring to his belief that they had either traveled with or served with British forces that had retreated to their stronghold in New York. See above for the complete text of the jail break notice.
Dosset (or Dorset) and four other persons were convicted of burglary by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, and sentenced to death. News of that decision was published in Philadelphia newspapers in the first week of February:
At a court of oyer and terminar &c. at Philadelphia before the honourable Thomas M'Kean, esq. doctor of laws, chief justice, and the hon. George Bryan, esq. fourth justice of the supreme court,
Kimble Stackhouse, Lot Sulzey, Luz Sulzey, John Dorset, and John Freeman, alias Samuel Nurich (four of whom were negroes and mulattoes) were tried and convicted of burglary, and received sentence of death.
Kimble Stackhouse, Lot Sulzey and Samuel Nurich -- Nurich and Dorset were apparently captured after their jail break -- were publicly hanged on the Philadelphia Commons on the morning of Saturday, February 15, 1783. Dorset and Luz Sulzey, also scheduled to be hanged, were spared by a last-minute stay of execution. The Pennsylvania Packet reported the event:
On Saturday morning the criminals mentioned in our last were carried to the gallows, on the commons, near this city, when Stackhouse, Nurich and Lot Sulsey, were executed pursuant to the sentence. A few minutes previous to the dreadful moment, of these unhappy wretches being turned off, a respite was received, postponing the execution of Lus Sulsey and John Dorset for thirty days.
Date of Record: 18 January, 1783; 05 February 1783; 18 February 1783.
Sources: The Freeman's Journal, or The North American Intelligencer, 22 January 1783, 05 February 1783; Pennsylvania Packet and Weekly Advertiser, 18 February 1783.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Samuel Nurich (alias Freeman)
Sex: Male
Age: Age not reported in notice, but described as a "man."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Escaped prisoner; recaptured and hanged
Description: "Negro man"
Notes: Norich escaped from the Philadelphia jail at midnight on January 10, 1783, in company with three other prisoners and one man, not a prisoner, enslaved by the jailer. Two men were promptly captured but Nurich, John Dosset, and the jailers' man Cato Montgomery remained at large. Jailer Reynolds believed they were all headed for New York. Reynolds notes that Nurich and Dosset were both imprisoned under sentence of death for the crime of burglary, and that they were "refugees," referring to his belief that they had either traveled with or served with British forces that had retreated to their stronghold in New York. See above for the complete text of the jail break notice.
Nurich (or Freeman) and four other persons were convicted of burglary by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, and sentenced to death. News of that decision was published in Philadelphia newspapers in the first week of February:
At a court of oyer and terminar &c. at Philadelphia before the honourable Thomas M'Kean, esq. doctor of laws, chief justice, and the hon. George Bryan, esq. fourth justice of the supreme court,
Kimble Stackhouse, Lot Sulzey, Luz Sulzey, John Dorset, and John Freeman, alias Samuel Nurich (four of whom were negroes and mulattoes) were tried and convicted of burglary, and received sentence of death.
Kimble Stackhouse, Lot Sulzey and Nurich -- Nurich and Dorset were apparently captured after their jail break -- were publicly hanged on the Philadelphia Commons on the morning of Saturday, February 15, 1783. Dorset and Luz Sulzey, also scheduled to be hanged, were spared by a last-minute stay of execution. The Pennsylvania Packet reported the event:
On Saturday morning the criminals mentioned in our last were carried to the gallows, on the commons, near this city, when Stackhouse, Nurich and Lot Sulsey, were executed pursuant to the sentence. A few minutes previous to the dreadful moment, of these unhappy wretches being turned off, a respite was received, postponing the execution of Lus Sulsey and John Dorset for thirty days.
Date of Record: 18 January, 1783; 05 February 1783; 18 February 1783.
Sources: The Freeman's Journal, or The North American Intelligencer, 22 January 1783, 05 February 1783; Pennsylvania Packet and Weekly Advertiser, 18 February 1783.
Date of Record: 18 January 1783
Sources: The Freeman's Journal, or The North American Intelligencer, 22 January 1783.
- Slaveholder Name: Richards, Joseph
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes: Located on Chestnut Street (1720s), and on Water Street (1730s). In 1738 he was named as a person keeping several recently imported enslaved people from Barbados for the seller, Stanford Verhulst. (American Weekly Mercury, 17 May 1738).
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in ad
Sex: Female
Age: Age not given in ad, but described as a "girl"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Girl"
Notes: This person was advertised for sale at the end of 1722 by Richards: "A Very likely Negroe Girl to be Sold by Joseph Richards in Chesnut Street."
Date of Record: 31 December 1722
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury, 31 December 1722.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in ad
Sex: Male
Age: Age not given in ad, but described as a "man"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Man"
Notes: Among a group of enslaved people advertised for sale in September 1727 by Richards: "ONE likely Negroe Man, two Women and two Boys, To be Sold by Joseph Richards in Philadelphia."
Date of Record: 14 September 1727.
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury, 14 September 1727.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Names not given in ad
Sex: Female
Age: Ages not given in ad, but described as "women"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slaves for life
Description: "Negroe Women"
Notes: Among a group of enslaved people advertised for sale in September 1727 by Richards: "ONE likely Negroe Man, two Women and two Boys, To be Sold by Joseph Richards in Philadelphia."
Date of Record: 14 September 1727.
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury, 14 September 1727.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Names not given in ad
Sex: Male
Age: Ages not given in ad, but described as "boys"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slaves for life
Description: "Negroe Boys"
Notes: Among a group of enslaved people advertised for sale in September 1727 by Richards: "ONE likely Negroe Man, two Women and two Boys, To be Sold by Joseph Richards in Philadelphia."
Date of Record: 14 September 1727.
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury, 14 September 1727.
- Slaveholder Name: Richardson, John
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Shoemaker
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Rose
Sex: Female
Age: "about 16 or 18 Years of Age"
Date of Birth: circa 1716 to 1718
Status: Slave for life
Description: "New Negroe Girl"
Notes: Rose escaped from Richardson on June 13, 1734:
RUN away on Thursday last from the House of John Richardson, Shoemaker, a new Negroe Girl about 16 or 18 Years of Age, short Stature, branded upon the Breast N R. mark'd round the Neck with three Rows like Beads, suppose'd to be a Whedaw Negroe; had on a check'd Cotton Petticoat and a Seersucker Jacket. Her Name is Rose.
Whoesoever takes up the said Negroe, and brings her to John Richardson aforesaid, or B Franklin Printer, shall have Twenty Shillings Reward and reasonable Charges paid by
John Richardson.
Richardson describes Rose as a member of the "Whedaw" (Whydah or Oidah) cultural group of West Africa. He notes she is a "new Negroe," or one recently "imported" to North America directly from the coast of Africa. (See the article on slave importers for more information.) She had three rows "like beads" around her neck, being marks of tribal scarification/body modification. The brand "N R" on her breast represents one of the many horrors endured by enslaved people. The brand letters may represent ownership, or may be a punishment. We don't have enough information at this time to determine what the branded letters represent.
Date of Record: 20 June 1734
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 20 June 1734.
- Slaveholder Name: Richardson, Joseph
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Silversmith
Notes: Located on Front Street.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not provided in ad
Sex: Male
Age: "about 18 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1733
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe-lad"
Notes: Advertised for sale in December 1751: "TO BE SOLD, A Young able Negroe-lad, about 18 years of age, who has had the small-pox. Enquire of Joseph Richardson, silversmith, in Front-street, Philadelphia."
Date of Record: 24 December 1751
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 24 December 1751.
- Slaveholder Name: Richardson, Mrs.
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Widow
Notes: Residence "opposite the Governor's." In the summer of 1741, slave trader Dennis Leary offered a "parcel" of enslaved "Men, Women, Boys and Girls" at the Widow Richardsons. He sold enslaved people from her location the entire months of July, August and into the first week of September that year.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Unnamed teenaged girl
Sex: Female
Age: "about 16 or 18 Years old"
Date of Birth: circa 1723 to 1725
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Wench"
Notes: Offered for sale in January 1741, listed along with other goods:
TO BE SOLD,
At the House of the Widow Richardson in Front-Street, near the North-East Corner of Market-Street.
A LIKELY Negroe Wench about 16 or 18 Years old.
Single and double refin'd Loaf-Sugar, Barbadoes white and muscovado Sugar. Also Choice Barbadoes Limes in Barrels at reasonable Rates.
Date of Record: 15 January 1741
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 15 January 1741.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Unnamed young woman
Sex: Female
Age: "between 19 and 20 Years of Age"
Date of Birth: circa 1739 or 1740
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Wench"
Notes: Offered for sale in April 1759: "To be SOLD, A Likely healthy strong Negro Wench, between 19 and 20 Years of Age, has had the small Pox, fit for Town or Country Business. Enquire of Mrs. Richardson, opposite the Governor's."
Date of Record: 26 April 1759
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 26 April 1759.
- Slaveholder Name: Riche, Thomas
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Merchant, shipper and slaver (see Slave Merchants)
Notes: See also Thomas Riche's list of persons enslaved in Bucks County.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Christmas
Sex: Male
Age: Not stated, but described as a "man"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Man"
Notes: Christmas escaped from Riche on June 4, 1757. Riche advertised for his return:
Philadelphia, June 16, 1757.
RUN away on the 4th Instant, from Thomas Riche, of this City, a Negroe Man, named Christman, a very likely Fellow, five Feet four Inches high, or thereabouts: Had on when he went away, a blue Broadcloth Coat, very short, lined with white, Check or Ozenbrigs Shirt and Trowsers, no Shoes, Stockings, or Hat; his Teeth were filed, and can scarce speak English. Whoever takes up and secures said Negroe, so as his Master may have him again, shall have Forty Shillings Reward, and reasonable Charges, paid by
THOMAS RICHE.
Riche notes that Christmas's "Teeth were filed." This sharpening of the front teeth was not done by filing, but rather by striking the teeth to sculpt them into points. Teeth sharpening was a tribal body modification performed by some of the peoples of Africa, and is an indication of this person's origins. Riche also noted that this person "can scarce speak English," which is another clue that this man may have been newly "imported" by slavers directly from Africa to the North American mainland.
Date of Record: 16 June 1757
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 4 August 1757.
- Slaveholder Name: Righton, Sarah
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Gin
Sex: Female
Age: Not stated, but described as a "woman"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Woman"
Notes: Gin was offered for sale by Righton in December 1742: "To be Sold by Sarah Righton, in the Church-Alley, in Philadelphia, a likely Negro Woman called GIN, fit for every kind of Town Work."
Date of Record: 14 December 1742
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 14 December 1742.
- Slaveholder Name: Roach, Nicholas
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in ad
Sex: Female
Age: "about fifteen or sixteen Years of Age"
Date of Birth: Circa 1716 or 1717
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Wench"
Notes: Advertised for sale along with her young child in April 1732: "TO be Sold, a likely Negro Wench, about fifteen or sixteen Years of Age, fit for any kind of Work, she has a young Child, and has had the Small Pox, enquire of Nicholas Roach. Also good Three-Foot Shingles to be Sold by said Roach."
Date of Record: 20 April 1732
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury, 20 April 1732.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in ad
Sex: Sex not specified in ad
Age: Described only as a "young Child"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Child"
Notes: Advertised for sale along with it's mother in April 1732. See above for text of ad.
Date of Record: 20 April 1732
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury, 20 April 1732.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in ad
Sex: Female
Age: Age not specified in ad, but described as a "woman."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Woman"
Notes: Advertised for sale in August 1732: "To be SOLD, BY Nicholas Roach, a likely Negro Woman, fit for most sort of Houshold-Work, speaks good English; also good Bohea Tea, at a reasonable Rate."
Date of Record: 31 August 1732
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury, 31 August 1732.
- Slaveholder Name: Roberts, Isaac
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Bricklayer
Notes: Arch Street, "opposite the Quakers Burying-ground"
- Enslaved Person's Name: Unnamed man
Sex: Male
Age: Not stated, but described as a "young man"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: Young Negro Man
Notes: Offered for sale along with his wife and child. Text of the advertisement placed by Roberts:
To be SOLD,
THree Negroes, viz. A likely young man, his wife and child, country born and bred; he well acquainted with plantation work, and she with house-work, &c. Any person inclining to purchase them all, as the subscriber is not inclin'd to sell them separate, shall have them very reasonable for ready money, or short credit. Enquire of ISAAC ROBERTS, in Arch-street, opposite the Quakers Burying-ground.
In Lancaster, a man named Cuff escaped from the Grubb Iron Works in June 1751. The escape ad noted he was "formerly belonging to Isaac Roberts, bricklayer." This is possibly the same man.
Date of Record: 04 April 1751 (ad ran through April 25, 1751)
Sources: Pennsylvania Gazette, 04, 11, 25 April 1751.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Unnamed woman
Sex: Female
Age: Not stated, but probably young woman
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: Negro wife
Notes: Offered for sale along with her husband and child. Text of the advertisement is above.
Date of Record: 04 April 1751 (ad ran through April 25, 1751)
Sources: Pennsylvania Gazette, 04, 11, 25 April 1751.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Unnamed child
Sex: Sex not stated
Age: Not stated, but described as a "child"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: Negro Child
Notes: Offered for sale along with mother and father. Text of the advertisement placed by Roberts is above.
Date of Record: 04 April 1751 (ad ran through April 25, 1751)
Sources: Pennsylvania Gazette, 04, 11, 25 April 1751.
- Slaveholder Name: Robeson, Andrew, III
City or Township: Rocksborough (Roxborough)
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes: This is Andrew Robeson III, son of Andrew Robeson, Jr., the merchant. His father, Andrew Robeson, Jr., along with William Frampton, represented the financial interests of the Bristol, England slave traders in the Isabella, the slave ship that brought the first shipment of 150 enslaved Angolans from West Africa to Philadelphia in 1684. Frampton and Robeson Jr. were charged with recovering the amounts overdue from those who purchased enslaved people from that landing in Philadelphia. (See "Letter from Charles Jones & Co. to Andrew Robeson and William Frampton – September 28, 1685," National Park Service, Independence National Historical Park, online at https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/inde-1685-09-28-letter-charles-jones-to-robeson-frampton.htm, accessed 10 July 2025.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in ad
Sex: Male
Age: "about 21 Years of Age"
Date of Birth: circa 1711
Status: Slave for life;
Description: "Young Negroe Man"
Notes: Advertised for sale in June 1732: "To be SOLD, A Young Negroe Man about 21 Years of Age, bred to Husbandry, and can tend a Grist-Mill. Enquire of Andrew Robison near Scuylkil-Falls."
Date of Record: 15 June 1732
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury, 15 June 1732.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Ned
Sex: Male
Age: "about 27 Years of Age"
Date of Birth: circa 1712
Status: Slave for life; self-emancipated March 1739
Description: "Negro Man"
Notes: Ned escaped from Robeson on March 14, 1739. Robeson published the following escape notice in The Pennsylvania Gazette:
RUN away on the 14th Instant from Andrew Robeson of Rocksborough, near Philadelphia, a Negro Man, named Ned, about 27 Years of Age, middle siz'd and well set. Had on when he went away an old leather Jacket and Breeches with brass Buttons, and under lightish colour'd Jacket with brass Buttons, without Sleeves, white yarn Stockings, old Shoes, old felt Hat. Speaks the Dutch very well.
He was yesterday seen in Company with a very lusty Fellow, who goes by the name of Mullato Will,
Whoever secures the said Negro so that his Master may have him again shall have Thirty Shillings Reward, and reasonable Charges, paid by Andrew Robeson.
Philad. March 15. 1738,9.
Robeson used "double dating" at the end of his ad. This practice, in which two years are listed, bridged the use of the "Old Style" Julian Calendar, in which the new year began on March 25, and the "New Style" Gregorian Calendar, in which the new year began on January 1. England and its colonies still used the old Julian Calendar until 1752, while most of Europe had earlier adopted the new Gregorian calendar. Robeson listed the year as "1738,9" because his date of March 15 was still within the old Julian year of 1738, but was in the new Gregorian year of 1739.
The practice of double dating was also used on the mastheads of Pennsylvania colonial newspapers at that time.
Date of Record: 15 March 1739
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 15 March 1739.
- Slaveholder Name: Robison, Ann
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Dinah
Sex: Female
Age: "about nineteen or twenty years old"
Date of Birth: circa 1758 or 1759
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Woman"
Notes: Escaped when the British troops retreated from Philadelphia, July 1778. She was pregnant and close to delivering at the time of her escape.
Philadelphia, July 6, 1778.
TWENTY DOLLARS REWARD.
RAN AWAY with the last of the British troops from the city of Philadelphia, a servant Negro woman named DINAH, about five feet eight or ten inches high, tawney complexion, about nineteen or twenty years old; had received a cut on the forehead from one of the soldiers shortly before she went away; was big with child, and near the time of her lying in; She had on when she went away, a striped holland short gown and a striped lincey petticoat, but took with her several gowns and various other articles of cloathing. Whoever takes up the said Negro and secures her, so that her mistress may have her again, shall have the above reward and reasonable chareges, paid by
ANN ROBISON.
Date of Record: 06 July 1778
Sources: Dunlap's Pennsylvania Packet and General Advertiser, 16, 25 July 1778.
- Slaveholder Name: Rodgers, Thomas
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes: Name sometimes spelled Rogers. Located in Front Street (1740s) and Coat's Alley (1760s).
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in ad
Sex: Male
Age: "about 18 or 19 Years of Age"
Date of Birth: circa 1722 or 1723
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Young Negro"
Notes: Advertised for sale in December 1741:
To be SOLD,
A Likely young Negro, about 18 or 19 Years of Age, can make six or seven pair of Shoes a Week, or he is fit to go to Sea, or for any Country Business. Enquire of Thomas Rodgers, in Front-street, at the Sign of the Boot.
Date of Record: 03 December 1741 (This ad was published through January 31, 1742 in The American Weekly Mercury.)
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury, 03 December 1741; The Pennsylvania Gazette, 24 December 1741.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in ad
Sex: Male
Age: Age not specified in ad, but described as a "boy."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Boy"
Notes: Advertised for sale in July 1762: "To be SOLD, A LIKELY NEGROE BOY. Enquire of Thomas Rodgers, in Coat's Alley.
Date of Record: 29 July 1762
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 29 July 1762.
- Slaveholder Name: Rogers, Edward
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes: Located in Water Street
- Enslaved Person's Name: Names not given in ad
Sex: Male
Age: Ages not specified in ad, but described as "men."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slaves for life
Description: "Negroe Men"
Notes: Advertised for sale in April 1730: "TWO very likely Negroe Men, to be Sold by Edward Rogers, at the House of Capt. William Clymer's, in Water-street, very Reasonable."
Date of Record: 30 April 1730
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury, 30 April 1730.
- Slaveholder Name: Ross, John
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Merchant; purchasing agent for the Continental Army during Revolutionary War.
Notes: Married Clementine Cruikshank in 1768, daughter of Charles Cruikshank. In 1782 Ross purchased Cruikshank's estate, Clifton Hall, in Haverford Township, Delaware County, and renamed in The Grange.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Jude
Sex: Female
Age: "about twenty years old"
Date of Birth: circa 1762
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Wench"
Notes: Jude escaped from Ross about mid-July 1782. He advertised for her four weeks later:
Philadelphia, August 15, 1782.
Three Pounds Reward.
RANAWAY about four weeks ago, a NEGRO WENCH, named JUDE; about twenty years old, short and small, has a large scar over one of her eyes; had on when she went away, a striped linsey shortgown and petticoat, check apron and cap. She has been some time about this city; sometimes she says she is free, and at other times says she is looking for some person to buy her; she is supposed to be harboured in this place.
Whoever will take up said wench and bring her to Mr. JOHN ROSS, in Front-street, between Market and Arch-streets, shall have the above reward, and reasonable charges paid.
Date of Record: 15 August 1782
Sources: The Pennsylvania Packet, 22 August 1782.
- Slaveholder Name: Rowan, Captain
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Ship's captain
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Names not given in ad.
Sex: Males
Age: Ages not given but described as "men."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slaves for life
Description: "Negro Woman"
Notes: Three enslaved men advertised for sale at the end of a notice of ship's sailing:
For BARBADOS, The Ship CHARMING BECKIE, JOHN ROWAN, Commander,
A letter of marque, with twenty six and nine pounders and fifty men, river built, a prime sailor and fine accommodations for passengers, will sail by middle of March. For Freight or passage apply to Willing Morris and comp. or said commander on board, the ship lying at their wharf.
N.B. Capt. Rowan has to sell two Mullattoe's and on Negro man.
Date of Record: 19 February 1761
Sources: The Pennsylvania Journal, 19 February 1761.
- Slaveholder Name: Rowan, John
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes: Estate of
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in ad.
Sex: Female
Age: "about 14 Years Old"
Date of Birth: circa 1747
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Girl"
Notes: Offered for sale to settle estate. See ad below:
TO BE LETT For a TERM of YEARS,
A LARGE handsome brick House, on Society Hill, at the corner of South Street in Front Street, and opposite Mr. Alexander Alexander's (belonging to the Estate of John Rowan, deceased) having a good Kitchen, Stable and Chaise house, a Coopers shop that rents for 10 l. per Year, and a handsome Garden; the whole toe be well Repaired, for Terms apply to
JOHN MEIS, or
MARGARET ROWAN. Executors
N.B. All persons indebted to said Estate, are once more requested to pay their respective balances. To be sold by said Executors. A likely Negro Girl, about 14 Years Old, has been above 2 Years in this Country, and has had the Small Pox.
Date of Record: 12 February 1761
Sources: The Pennsylvania Journal, 12 February 1761.
- Slaveholder Name: Rundle, Daniel & George
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Merchants, Rum distiller (Daniel Rundle--distillery on Market Street above Seventh, 1767)
Notes: Shop on Water Street, eight doors above Market Street. Daniel Rundle lived 1725-1795. George Rundle left the business at the end of 1772 to move to the West Indies.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Unnamed man
Sex: Male
Age: Not stated, but described as a "young man"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Young Negro Man"
Notes: Offered for sale along with a variety of imported and domestic goods. Text of the advertisement placed by Daniel and George Rundle:
DANIEL AND GEORGE RUNDLE,
At their store in Water-street, the eight door above Market-street,
HAVE FOR SALE,
WEST India and Philadelphia rum, Molasses in hogsheads, tierces and barrels, Muscovado sugar, Cocoa and coffee, Train oil, Fresh lemons in boxes, Raisins in kegs and jars, Fall mackarel, New England and Carolina sole leather, Silver watches, German beads, Citrons in boxes, &c
N.B. They have also a likely young Negro Man to be disposed of.
Date of Record: 15 June 1771
Sources: Pennsylvania Packet, 20 April, 15 June 1771.
- Slaveholder Name: Rush, John
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Gunsmith
Notes: See also the ad from "Widow Rush," below.
- Enslaved Person's Names: Names not provided in ad
Sex: Females
Ages: Ages not provided, but described as "women"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slaves for life
Description: "Negro women"
Notes: Four enslaved persons, two women and two children, part of the estate of John Rush to be settled by his executors. Text of ad:
ALL persons indebted to the estate of John Rush, late of this city Gun-smith, deceased, are hereby desir'd to discharge the same: And those that have any demands against said estate, to bring in their accounts, that they may be adjusted by William Rush, Black-smith, and Susannah, Execut.
N.B. There are to be sold two Negroe women, one of which has two children, can do all manner of house-work, and is fit for town or country business. Likewise a parcel of Black-smith's and Gun-smith's tools, such as are fit for rifelling, to be disposed of; and a Smith's shop to be lett.
Date of Record: 24 October 1751
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 24 October 1751.
- Enslaved Person's Names: Names not provided in ad
Sex: Sex not specified in ad
Ages: Ages not provided, but described as "children"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slaves for life
Description: "Children" of one of the women being sold
Notes: Four enslaved persons, two women and two children, part of the estate of John Rush to be settled by his executors. Text of ad:
Date of Record: 24 October 1751
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 24 October 1751.
- Slaveholder Name: Rush, Widow
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes: Front Street. See also the ad regarding the estate of John Rush, above.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not provided in ad
Sex: Female
Age: Age not provided, but described as "young"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro wench"
Notes: Offered for sale in January 1753. Text of the advertisement placed by Rush: "To be SOLD, A Likely young country Negro wench, fit for either town or country business; very fit for a gentelman's country seat. for terms, enquire of the Widow Rush, in Front-street."
Date of Record: 30 January 1753
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 30 January 1753.
- Slaveholder Name: Rutherford, Alexander
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Tanner and shoemaker
Notes: Lived 1739-1791. Located "near the Draw-bridge"
- Enslaved Person's Name: Jack
Sex: Male
Age: "about nineteen or twenty years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1760 or 1761
Status: Slave for life; self-emancipated November 1780
Description: "Mulatto Slave"
Notes: Text of the escape notice placed by Rutherford:
Four Hundred Dollars Reward.
RAN AWAY from the Subscriber, on Wednesday the 15th instant (November) a Mulatto Slave named JACK (perhaps may change his name) by trade a shoemaker, about nineteen or twenty years of age, five feet eight or nine inches high, well set, and very smart and active. He had on, when he went away, a light blue coat edged with red, white cloth waistcoat and breeches, and a round hat much worn. Whoever secures said Mulatto so that his master gets him again, shall have the above reward and all charges.
ALEXANDER RUTHERFORD.
N.B. All masters of vessels and others are desired, on their peril, not to harbour or carry him away.
Date of Record: 22 November 1780
Sources: The Pennsylvania Journal or Weekly Advertiser, 22 November 1780.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not provided in ad
Sex: Male
Age: "about 26 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1755
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Slave"
Notes: A tanner and currier. Initially offered for sale in January 1781 along with an adult female and her child. Offered five months later for sale along with two other enslaved males in May 1781. Text of the January advertisement placed by Rutherford:
TO BE SOLD,
By the SUBSCRIBER,
A STOUT healthy young NEGRO MAN, a slave, about 26 years of age, by trade a good Tanner and Currier, has had the small pox and measles; Also a young NEGRO WENCH and CHILD. Whosoever inclines to purchase either of them or the whole, may know the terms by applying to ALEXANDER RUTHERFORD, near the Draw-bridge, Philadelphia.
Below is the May 1781 sale ad. The woman and child are no longer listed, presumably sold, but two additional enslaved males are described for sale:
To be SOLD by the Subscriber,
THREE NEGRO SLAVES, viz. one by trade a tanner and currier, about 26 years old; one a very good shoemaker, about 19 years old; the other a smart boy, about 12 years old; all of them very strong and healthy, and have had the small pox and measles.
For terms apply to ALEXANDER RUTHERFORD, near the Draw-bridge.
Philadelphia, May 22, 1781.
Date of Record: 03 January 1781 (first ad); 22 May 1781(second ad)
Sources: The Pennsylvania Journal or Weekly Advertiser, 03 January 1781, 23 May 1781.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not provided in ad
Sex: Female
Age: Age not given in ad, but of childbearing age and described as a "young wench."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Wench"
Notes: Offered for sale along with her child in January 1781. See above for full text of the advertisement placed by Rutherford.
Date of Record: 03 January 1781
Sources: The Pennsylvania Journal or Weekly Advertiser, 03 January 1781.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not provided in ad
Sex: Sex not indicated in ad
Age: Age not given in ad, but described as a "child."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Not determined
Description: "Negro Child"
Notes: Offered for sale along with the mother in January 1781. See above for full text of the advertisement placed by Rutherford.
Date of Record: 03 January 1781
Sources: The Pennsylvania Journal or Weekly Advertiser, 03 January 1781
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not provided in ad
Sex: Male
Age: "about 19 years old"
Date of Birth: circa 1762
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Slave"
Notes: A shoemaker. Offered for sale along with two other enslaved males in May 1781. The estimated age of this young man matches that of Jack, above, who escaped from Rutherford in November 1780 (see that entry above). See also above for full text of the sale advertisement placed by Rutherford.
Date of Record: 22 May 1781
Sources: The Pennsylvania Journal or Weekly Advertiser, 23 May 1781.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not provided in ad
Sex: Male
Age: "about 12 years old"
Date of Birth: circa 1769
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro boy"
Notes: Offered for sale along with two other enslaved males in May 1781. See above for full text of the advertisement placed by Rutherford.
Date of Record: 22 May 1781
Sources: The Pennsylvania Journal or Weekly Advertiser, 23 May 1781.
- Slaveholder Name: Rutter, Thomas
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Dick, also called Preaching Dick
Sex: Male
Age: "aged about 27 Years"
Date of Birth: circa 1719
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Man"
Notes: Dick escaped from Rutter in July 1746. Text of the advertisement placed by Rutter to recover him:
Philadelphia, Sept. 4, 1746.
RUN away on the 16th of July, from Thomas Rutter, of this City, a Negro Man, named Dick, commonly call'd Preaching Dick, aged about 27 Years; Had on when he went away, a Bearskin Jacket, and a light Duroy Jacket, without Sleeves, Oznabrigs Shirt and Trowsers, and one Pair of brown Linnen Trowsers, blue Stockings, new Shoes, a new Castor Hat, and blue Worsted Cap. Whoever takes up and secures the said Negro, so that his Master may have him again, shall have Thirty Shillings Reward, and reasonable Charges, paid by
THOMAS RUTTER.
Date of Record: 04 September 1746
Sources: Pennsylvania Gazette, 11 September 1746.
- Slaveholder Name: Ryan, John
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Merchant
Notes: Shop located on Second Street
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in ad
Sex: Female
Age: No age included in ad, but described as a "young wench."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "young Negroe Wench"
Notes: Advertised for sale, along with the time of a white boy, in November 1740:
Just imported, and to be sold very cheap, By JOHN RYAN, at his Store, the Upper-End of Second Street,
[List of imported goods]
As likewise, a fine young Negroe Wench; a Parcel of choice Rice; and a smart white Boy, who has six Years to serve, and is fit for House and Stable Business, or going to a Trade, being but 14 Years of Age.
N.B. It's for no Fault he sells the Boy or Wench; but having a sufficiency of Servants besides.
Date of Record: 27 November 1740
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 27 November 1740.
- Slaveholder Name: Ryan, William
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes: Located on Fourth Street
- Enslaved Person's Name: Romeo
Sex: Male
Age: No age included in ad, but described as a "man."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro man"
Notes: Romeo escaped from Ryan in February 1777. Text of the brief advertisement placed by Ryan to recover him:
RAN away from the subscriber, on the 14th instant, a Negro man named ROMEO. Whoever secures said Negro, so that his master gets him again, shall have TWO DOLLARS reward.
WILLIAM RYAN, in Fourth-street. Feb. 18.
Date of Record: 18 February 1777
Sources: The Pennsylvania Evening Post, 18 February 1777.
- Slaveholder Name: Schull, Mr.
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes: Purchased a young boy named Will, possibly from a commercial slave trader, in Philadelphia in the early 1760s. Sold Will to Patrick Crawford in Virginia about 1762 or 1763.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Will
Sex: Male
Age: "twenty eight years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1750
Status: Slave for life -- self-emancipated slave
Description: "Negro man"
Notes: Born in the West Indies, brought to Philadelphia and sold to a Mr. Schull. Sold by Schull to Patrick Crawford of Virginia about 1762 or 1763. Escaped from a Virginia iron works in July 1778:
FIFTY DOLLARS REWARD.
RAN AWAY from Mossy Creek Iron Works, Augusta county, Virginia, on the first of July last, a Negro man named WILL, twenty eight years of age, about five feet eight or nine inches high, of a clear black, has a down look, droop nose, good teeth, cleanly made but stoops a litte in the shoulders, speaks good English, was born in the West-India Islands, and sold in Philadelphia (as he says) to a gentleman of the name of Schull, and then purchased by one Patrick Crawford, who lives in Virginia; this purchase was made about fifteen or sixteen years past. Whoever takes up the said Negro man and secures him in any gaol, shall have the above Reward and reasonable charges, paid by
HENRY MILLER.
Date of Record: 24 December 1778
Sources: Dunlap's Pennsylvania Packet and General Advertiser, 24 December 1778.
- Slaveholder Name: Scott, John
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in ad
Sex: Male
Age: "12 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1756
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe boy"
Notes: Offered for sale in September 1768:
TO be SOLD, by the subscriber, living on 'Squire Stamper's place, at the bottom of Shippen's lane, a quantity of OATS in the straw. Also, a likely active Negroe boy, 12 years of age, has had the small-pox. Any person inclining to purchase any or all the said oats, or said boy, may know the terms, by applying on the premises, to JOHN SCOTT.
N.B. Said boy has no fault; sold altogether for the want of employ, the subscriber purposing to leave the place.
Date of Record: 15 September 1768
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 15 September 1768.
- Slaveholder Name: Searle, John, Captain
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not given in ad
Sex: Men and women
Age: Ages not given, but described as men, women and boys
Date of Birth: Varies, not known
Status: Slaves for life
Description: "Negro men, women and boys"
Notes: Searle advertised a lot of "several" enslaved men, women and boys in July 1742: "TO be Sold, several likely Negros, Men, Woman and Boys; also Junk for Ships in small Parcels by Capt. John Searle, below the Draw-Bridge in Philadelphia."
The term "junk" here refers to worn out ropes and rigging from a ship, which could be picked apart and re-used for oakum.
Date of Record: 8 July 1742
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury (Philadelphia), 8 July 1742
- Slaveholder Name: Shelley, Abraham
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Thread Throwster (a person who twists fibers into thread); thread maker, weaver, oakum merchant, workhouse keeper
Notes: Shelley began advertising in Philadelphia as a "thread throwster" in 1740, and by 1742 had expanded his craft and moved his operations to the Work House as Keeper, a post he held until selling all his machinery, servants, slaves and implements and leaving the city for Europe in 1747. By 1750 he was back in Philadelphia, again producing thread and other products, and also acting as the point person for those looking to purchase imported European workers.
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 22 May 1740, 23 September 1742, 05 May 1743, 31 May 1750; The Pennsylvania Journal and
Weekly Advertiser, 29 May 1746.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Female
Age: "about 18 or 20 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1727 to 1729
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro wench"
Notes: Offered for sale along with a white servant man in November 1746 by Shelley as keeper of the workhouse. She and the white servant may have been owned by someone else while imprisoned at the workhouse:
Philadelphia, Nov. 27, 1746.
To be SOLD,
A Likely servant Lad, has four years to serve; and a negro wench, both about 18 or 20 years of age, and used to country work. Enquire of Abraham Shelley, keeper of the work-house, in Philadelphia.
Date of Record: 27 November 1746
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 09 December 1746.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: Age not indicated in ad, but described as a "lad."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe lad"
Notes: Offered for public auction in July 1747 as part of the belongings of Abraham Shelley, who was liquidating his assets prior to leaving for Europe. The enslaved boy was listed near the end of a long list of items, including a white servant man:
Philadelphia, July 23, 1747.
WHEREAS Abraham Shelley, of this city, intends shortly for Europe, This is to give notice, that there will be sold by publick vendue, at the work-house, a choice parcel of new walnut furniture, a good clock, a thread mill, with all utensils necessary for making of thread and twisting of worsted, beds and bedding, all sorts of kitchen furniture, a new bathing tub, iron bound and painted, a quantity of oakum, flax, hemp, and logwood, two large lye casks, iron bound, an iron kittle, that holds five barrels, fit for a tallow-chandler, taylors thread, hat linings, of different sorts, a servant-man, who understands all the branches of stamping, printing, dying on linen, and glazing of hat linings, a glazing engine, a choice parcel of stamps, iron bound dye fats, a Negroe lad, a set of joyners tools, with sundry articles besides. The sale to begin at 10 o'clock on Monday the 27th instant, and to continue every day till the whole is sold.
Date of Record: 23 July 1747
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 23 July 1747.
- Slaveholder Name: Shields, John
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Merchant
Notes: Shop on Second Street below Chestnut. In 1798, Shields ventured into real estate and attempted to create a village called New Hightstown in East Windsor Township, New Jersey by selling lots to tradesmen and mechanics. The venture was unsuccessful.
Sources: "Places in East Windsor History...A Historical Gazatteer. 17th century - 1830: before the Railroad," Historical Society News, Winter, 2016-2017, p. 6. Hightstown-East Windsor Historical Society,
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male or female
Age: "about twelve, fourteen, or sixteen years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1761 to 1765
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro boy or girl"
Notes: Advertised to buy a child in May 1777:
JOHN SHIELDS in Second-street, the fourth door below Chesnut-street, has for sale a parcel of platillas, Roan linens, checks, brown and white Russia drillings, ravens duck and Russia sheetings; also a quantity of writing paper, with a neat assortment of shop goods, the whole of which will be sold as low as the times will admit.
N.B. Wanted a Negro boy or girl about twelve, fourteen, or sixteen years of age, for which a price in proportion to their qualities will be given.
Date of Record: 31 May 1777
Sources: The Pennsylvania Evening Post, 31 May 1777.
- Slaveholder Name: Shingle, Frederick
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: skinner, skin dresser (prepared animal fur and hides for processing)
Notes: Owned several properties in the city
Sources: "Mapping West Philadelphia; Landowners in October 1777," University of Pennsylvania Archives, accessed online 3 November 2023 at http://maps.archives.upenn.edu/WestPhila1777/map.php.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: "about 16 Years old"
Date of Birth: circa 1746
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Lad"
Notes: Offered for sale in July 1748: "To be SOLD, A Likely Negroe Lad, about 16 Years old. Enquire of Frederick Shingle, at the Sign of the Three Gloves and Breeches, near the Indian Queen, in Market-street, Philadelphia."
Date of Record: 24 June 1762; ad ran through July 1762.
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 24 June 1762.
- Slaveholder Name: Shippen, Joseph Jr.
City or Township: Philadelphia and Germantown
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes: Joseph Shippen, Jr., son of Joseph Shippen I. Co-owner with Jonathan Robeson of Oxford Furnace in Warren County, New Jersey. The Shippen family owned numerous slave workers at Oxford Furnace and at the Shippen Manor for decades, while maintaining homes in Pennsylvania.
Sources: Susan P. Morgan, "Shippen Manor and Oxford Furnace: An Eighteenth Century History of Two Warren County Landmarks," unpublished thesis, Rutgers University, 1995, online at https://history.rutgers.edu/files/201/1995/55/Shippen-Menor-and-Oxford-Furnace-Morgan-1995.pdf.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: Age not provided, but described as a man
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe man"
Notes: Offered for sale in August 1751: "TO BE SOLD, A Likely young Negroe man, a very good Forgeman by trade. Any person inclining to purchase, may apply to Joseph Shippen, in Philadelphia. He has had the small-pox."
Date of Record: 15 August 1751
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 15 August 1751.
- Slaveholder Name: Shoemaker, Elizabeth
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Widow of Jacob Shoemaker, shopkeeper
Notes: Will abstract mentions children and executors Thomas and Jonathan Shoemaker, and grandchilden Jacob, Sarah, Joseph, Elizabeth, Thomas, and Susanna Shoemaker. Witnesses were George Asheton, Samuel Howell, Junr., and Robert Haydock.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Dinah
Sex: Female
Age: Age not provided, but described as a "woman"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Undetermined
Description: "Negro woman"
Notes: Mentioned in the will abstract of Elizabeth Shoemaker: "Dinah and her two Daughters, Hagar and Dinah."
Date of Record: Will written 8 mo. 5, 1777 (05 August) and proved 22 December 1778.
Sources: Will of Elizabeth Shoemaker, widow of Jacob Shoemaker, Shop Keeper, "Wills: Abstracts, Book R: 1777 - 1781: Philadelphia Co, PA," USGenWeb Archives, http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/pafiles.htm, accessed 14 May 2025.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Hagar
Sex: Female
Age: Age not provided, but described as the "daughter"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Undetermined
Description: "Daughter"
Notes: Mentioned in the will abstract of Elizabeth Shoemaker: "Dinah and her two Daughters, Hagar and Dinah."
Date of Record: Will written 8 mo. 5, 1777 (05 August) and proved 22 December 1778.
Sources: Will of Elizabeth Shoemaker, widow of Jacob Shoemaker, Shop Keeper, "Wills: Abstracts, Book R: 1777 - 1781: Philadelphia Co, PA," USGenWeb Archives, http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/pafiles.htm, accessed 14 May 2025.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Dinah (the daughter of Dinah)
Sex: Female
Age: Age not provided, but described as the "daughter"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Undetermined
Description: "Daughter"
Notes: Mentioned in the will abstract of Elizabeth Shoemaker: "Dinah and her two Daughters, Hagar and Dinah."
Date of Record: Will written 8 mo. 5, 1777 (05 August) and proved 22 December 1778.
Sources: Will of Elizabeth Shoemaker, widow of Jacob Shoemaker, Shop Keeper, "Wills: Abstracts, Book R: 1777 - 1781: Philadelphia Co, PA," USGenWeb Archives, http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/pafiles.htm, accessed 14 May 2025.
- Slaveholder Name: Shute, William
City or Township:
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Ben
Sex: Male
Age: Age not specified in document, but described as a "man."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Man"
Notes: Sold to Rebecca Steel (see note of back of appraisment, below). Appraised in July 1752:
"We whose Names are underwritten at ye Request of William Shute & Rebecca Steel have Vallued and Appraised a certain Negro Man Ben formerly belonging to ye sd Shute but now to sd Steel and are of opinion that the sd Negro is worth fifty pounds Current money of Pennsylvania.
Witness our hand this 28th July 1752.
Standh fforde
S. Jones
Chas Stow Jur
Samuel Cheesman."
Endorsed on the back is the following: "Note -- these Bill Sale were only intended to keep the Negroes out of other persons hands, & the Money Paid by Reba Steel tho she did not get the Negroes -- so the sums are charged."
Date of Record: 28 July 1752
Sources: "Appraisment of a Negro Slave, 1752," in William Henry Egle, "Notes and Queries," Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography, Vol. 33, No. 2 (1909), p. 252.
- Slaveholder Name: Sims, Joseph
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Merchant
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Female
Age: Age not provided, but described as a "woman"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe woman"
Notes: Advertised for sale in September 1747: "To be SOLD, A Likely Negro woman, fit for town or country business. Enquire of Joseph Sims in Front-street; said Sims has sundry European and East India goods to sell very reasonable."
Date of Record: 24 September 1747
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 24 September 1747.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: Ages not provided, but described as "men"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slaves for life
Description: "Negroe men"
Notes: Two men offered for sale in September 1748: "Philadelphia, September 15, 1748. TO be sold by JOSEPH SIMS, below the Draw-bridge, two likely young Negroe men."
Date of Record: 15 September 1748
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 15 September 1748.
- Slaveholder Name: Sitgreaves, William
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Merchant, auctioneer; Shop on Market Street, opposite the London Coffee House
Notes: In addition to his shop sales of general merchandise, Sitgreaves conducted regular "vendues" or public auctions of good consigned to him. He advertised that these vendues occurred weekly. Being located across the street from the London Coffee House, a popular location for public auctions, it is likely that Sitgreaves held his auctions there.
Sources: The Pennsylvania Journal, or, Weekly Advertiser, 01 November 1764.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: Age not provided, but described as a man
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe man"
Notes: Offered for sale by a commission agent along with a white indentured servant in April 1769: "To be SOLD, on CREDIT, (description of two different real estate parcels, followed by)
...Likewise a strong young Negroe man, fit for town and country; and a likely servant lad, who has 6 years and a half to serve."
William Sitgreaves appears to have been selling these men on commission for anonymous sellers. The "servant lad" would be a white indentured servant, most likely held to a typical seven years of service.
Date of Record: 06 April 1769
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 06 April 1769.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: Age not provided, but described as a "fellow."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Fellow"
Notes: Offered for sale in November 1781, listed after a long list of merchandise:
WILLIAM SITGREAVES, Has removed his STORE from the house he lately occupied in Third-street, to Market-street, between Front and Second-streets, the corner of Laetitia-Court, where he has just opened a large and neat assortment of MERCHANDIZE, which he will sell by WHOLESALE, on the most reasonable terms. Among which are the following:
[Long, two-column list of various clothing and fabrics]
Also a handy NEGRO Fellow, suitable for either town or country, to be SOLD;
Date of Record: 03 November 1781
Sources: The Pennsylvania Journal, or, Weekly Advertiser, 03 November 1781.
- Slaveholder Name: Smith, Clement
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Work House Keeper
Notes:
Sources:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Female
Age: "about 19 years of age"
Date of Birth: Circa 1765
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro girl"
Notes: Imprisoned in the Work House and advertised for sale in August 1784: "TO BE SOLD. A healthy negro girl about 19 years of age, and registered according to law, fit for town or country work. Enquire of Mr. Smith, keeper of the Work-house, or of the Printer. August 6."
The Work House Keeper, Clement Smith, is probably not be the actual slaveholder. Enslaved persons were imprisoned in the Work House for many reasons, including as captured runaways, persons guilty of minor crimes, or enslaved persons offered for sale who might be at risk of running away.
Date of Record: 06 August 1784.
Sources: The Pennsylvania Packet, 07 August 1784.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: "about 23 years of age"
Date of Birth: Circa 1762
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Man"
Notes: Imprisoned in the Work House and advertised for sale in January 1785:
TO BE SOLD,
A LIKELY NEGROE MAN, about 23 years of age, now lying in the Work-house. He has had the small-pox and measles, and is very capable of driving a carriage. For terms of sale, apply to Mr.
CLEMENT SMITH, Work-house keeper.
N.B. The terms will be made easy.
The Work House Keeper, Clement Smith, may or may not be the actual slaveholder. Enslaved persons were imprisoned in the Work House for many reasons, including as captured runaways, persons guilty of minor crimes, or enslaved persons offered for sale who might be at risk of running away.
Date of Record: 5 January 1785.
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 5 January 1785.
- Slaveholder Name: Smith, George
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes: On Arch Street
- Enslaved Person's Name: Jo
Sex: Male
Age: "about 22 Years of Age"
Date of Birth: Circa 1718
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Fellow"
Notes: Born in Bermuda. Ran away from Smith on 8 April 1740.
RUN away the 8th Instant from George Smith in Arch-Street, Philadelphia, a Negroe Fellow of about 22 Years of Age, of middle Stature, born in Bermuda, and speaks good English; named Jo. Had on a wollen Jacket. It's suppos'd he will endeavor to get off in some Bermudas Vessle. Whoever secures or brings him to the said Smith shall be reasonably rewarded.
Date of Record: 10 April 1740.
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 10 April 1740.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in ad
Sex: Female
Age: Age not specified in ad, but described as a "young wench."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Young Bermudian Negro Wench"
Notes: Born in Bermuda. Advertised for sale in July 1741: "TO BE SOLD, A LIKELY young Bermudian Negro Wench, fit for any kind of House Business. Enquire of George Smith in Arch-Street."
Date of Record: 23 July 1741
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 23 July 1741.
- Slaveholder Name: Smith, Richard
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes: Listed in ad as Richard Smith, minor.
Sources:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Female
Age: Not stated, but described as a "woman"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe woman"
Notes: Offered for sale in July 1748: "Philadelphia, July 21, 1748. TO BE SOLD, A Negroe woman, fit for town or country business, that has had the small-pox and meazles. Enquire of Richard Smith, minor, or John Pole, merchant in Philadelphia, and know further."
Date of Record: 21 July 1748; ad ran through August 1748.
Sources: Pennsylvania Gazette, 21 July 1748.
- Slaveholder Name: Smith, Robert
City or Township: Southwark
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Sail maker
Notes: Sail loft on Hamilton's wharf
Sources:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Female
Age: Not stated, but of child-bearing age
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Wench"
Notes: Offered for sale in September 1779 along with her infant daughter and two male children: "TO BE SOLD, A NEGRO WENCH with her child; the child is fifteen months old, and a girl. Likewise two BOYS, one ten years old and the other five, both have had the small pox and measles. Enquire of ROBERT SMITH, in Southwark, near Mr. Thomas Penrose's, or at his Sail-loft on Hamilton's wharf."
Date of Record: 21 September 1779
Sources: Dunlap's Pennsylvania Packet and General Advertiser, 21 September 1779.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Female
Age: fifteen months old
Date of Birth: June 1778
Status: Slave for life
Description: "child; girl"
Notes: Offered for sale in September 1779 along with her mother: "TO BE SOLD, A NEGRO WENCH with her child; the child is fifteen months old, and a girl. Likewise two BOYS, one ten years old and the other five, both have had the small pox and measles. Enquire of ROBERT SMITH, in Southwark, near Mr. Thomas Penrose's, or at his Sail-loft on Hamilton's wharf."
Date of Record: 21 September 1779
Sources: Dunlap's Pennsylvania Packet and General Advertiser, 21 September 1779.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: Ten years old
Date of Birth: 1769
Status: Slave for life
Description: "boy"
Notes: Offered for sale in September 1779: "TO BE SOLD, A NEGRO WENCH with her child; the child is fifteen months old, and a girl. Likewise two BOYS, one ten years old and the other five, both have had the small pox and measles. Enquire of ROBERT SMITH, in Southwark, near Mr. Thomas Penrose's, or at his Sail-loft on Hamilton's wharf."
Date of Record: 21 September 1779
Sources: Dunlap's Pennsylvania Packet and General Advertiser, 21 September 1779.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: five years old
Date of Birth: 1774
Status: Slave for life
Description: "boy"
Notes: Offered for sale in September 1779: "TO BE SOLD, A NEGRO WENCH with her child; the child is fifteen months old, and a girl. Likewise two BOYS, one ten years old and the other five, both have had the small pox and measles. Enquire of ROBERT SMITH, in Southwark, near Mr. Thomas Penrose's, or at his Sail-loft on Hamilton's wharf."
Date of Record: 21 September 1779
Sources: Dunlap's Pennsylvania Packet and General Advertiser, 21 September 1779.
- Slaveholder Name: Smith, Thomas
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: "about 25 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1726
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe man"
Notes: Offered for sale in July 1751: "TO BE SOLD, A Likely Negroe man, about 25 years of age, fit for town or country business. Enquire of THOMAS SMITH."
Date of Record: 18 July 1751
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 18 July 1751.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Harry
Sex: Male
Age: "20 Years of Age"
Date of Birth: circa 1742
Status: Slave for life; self-emancipated July 1762.
Description: "New Negroe man"
Notes: Harry escaped by jumping ship while it was in port. Described as a "New Negroe Man," he was likely just from Africa.
Philadelphia, July 5, 1762.
Three Pounds Reward.
RUN away Yesterday, fron on board the Sloop Wolfe, lying at Thomas Clifford's Wharff, a New Negroe Man, named Harry; he is a likely, well-set Fellow, about 5 Feet 4 Inches high, and 20 Years of Age; he is remarkable for an uncommon Rising of Flesh in the Pole of his Neck. It is uncertain what Cloaths he may appear in. Whoever secures said Negroe, and delivers him to Thomas Smith, Commander of the above-mentioned Sloop, or Jeremiah Smith, in Front-street, shall receive the above Reward from either of them.
Date of Record: 05 July 1762
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 08 July 1762.
- Slaveholder Name: Smyth, Capt.
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Soldier, The Queen's Rangers
Notes: Probably Captain John Ferdinand Dalziel Smyth of The Queen's American Rangers, an American Loyalist military unit named for Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III, was formed in New York and western Connecticut in 1776. It participated in most of the campaigns in the north and spent about a year in Philadelphia during the British occupation of 1777-1778. The unit covered the rear of British occupying forces during the retreat from Philadelphia in June1778. It was also informally known as "Simcoe's Rangers" after Lieutenant-General John Graves Simcoe assumed command.
Sources: "Queen’s Rangers 1775-83," The Queen's York Rangers' Virtual Museum, https://qyrangmuseum.com/queens-rangers-1775-1783/, accessed 22 October 2024.
- Enslaved Person's Name: George
Sex: Male
Age: Age not given in ad, but described as a "boy."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life, escaped
Description: "Negro boy"
Notes: George escaped from Captain Smyth on May 4, 1778 during the British occupation of Philadelphia. Smyth placed the following ad in the Pennsylvania Ledger, a Loyalist newspaper that published in Philadelphia during the occupation:
Four Dollars Reward.
RAN AWAY on the night of the 4th of May, a negro boy named GEORGE, with recent marks of the small-pox on his face: His cloaths are a brown coat with white facings; also a dark brown coat with gilt buttons; red crimson breeches; white waistcoat and breeches; a hat with a gold button and loop, and sundry other cloathing not remembered. Whoever takes and delivers him either to the old gaol, or brings him to Capt. Smyth of the Queen's Rangers, shall have the above reward. Every person is desired not to harbour or entertain him.
Date of Record: 06 May 1778
Sources: The Pennsylvania Ledger, or the Philadelphia Market Day Advertiser, 06 May 1778.
- Slaveholder Name: Sober, Thomas
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Merchant, slave dealer
Notes: Sober died circa 1740. See also the entry for Thomas Sober on the Slave Dealers page.
Sources:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Names not provided in ad
Sex: Male and female
Age: Men, a boy age 13, a girl age 17
Date of Birth: Varies
Status: Slaves for life
Descriptions: "Negroe Men; boy, Negroe Wench"
Notes: Offered for sale in March 1727: "To be Sold by Thomas Sober, four very likely young Negroe Men, and a Boy about Thirteen Years lately Arrived from Barbadoes. Also a Negroe Wench about Seventeen Years old this Country born."
Date of Record: 07 March 1727
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury (Philadelphia), 07 March 1727.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not provided in ad
Sex: Female
Age: Age not given in ad, but described as a "woman."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Woman"
Notes: Offered for sale in June 1728: "CHOICE good Madeira Wine to be Sold, very reasonable by the Pipe, or smaller Quantity; also a Negroe Woman for House Business, by Thomas Sober."
Date of Record: 27 June 1728
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury (Philadelphia), 27 June 1728.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not provided in ad
Sex: Male
Age: "about Twenty five Year of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1704
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Man"
Notes: Offered for sale in May 1729: "To be Sold by Mr. Thomas Sober. TWO very likely Negroe's, one a Man, about Twenty five Year of age, the other a Girl, about Sixteen; both speaks good English."
Date of Record: 14 May 1729
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury (Philadelphia), 14 May 1729.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not provided in ad
Sex: Female
Age: "about Sixteen"
Date of Birth: circa 1713
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Girl"
Notes: Offered for sale in May 1729: "To be Sold by Mr. Thomas Sober. TWO very likely Negroe's, one a Man, about Twenty five Year of age, the other a Girl, about Sixteen; both speaks good English."
Date of Record: 14 May 1729
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury (Philadelphia), 14 May 1729.
- Slaveholder Name: Somersall, Stafford, Capt.
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Ship's captain, 1730s-1750s
Notes:
Sources:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: Age not given in ad, but described as a "man"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Mulatto Man Slave"
Notes: Offered for sale in October 1733: "To be SOLD, BY Capt. Stafford Somersell, at the Sign of King George in Water-street, a very likely Mulatto Man Slave, he is a very good Cook, and fit for House work. Also very good Clay'd and Muscovado Sugar, reasonably."
Date of Record: 18 October 1733
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury (Philadelphia), 18 October 1733.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: "22 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1727
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe man"
Notes: Offered for sale in August 1749: "To be SOLD, A Likely young Negroe man, 22 years of age, has had the small-pox, and is fit for town or country business. Enquire of Capt. Stafford Somersall, at James Keappock's, instrument-maker, in Front-street."
Date of Record: 17 August 1749
Sources: Pennsylvania Gazette, 17, 24 August 1749.
- Slaveholder Name: Sonmans, Peter, Dr.
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Physician, Druggist
Notes: Beginning in the 1730s Sonmans advertised a wide variety of drugs, from the older traditional "chymical" or chemically derived preparations, to "galenical" medicines, which are derived from plants and herbs as opposed to medicines refined from chemical or mineral sources. The Sonmans family were large landowners in East Jersey and Pennsylvania, owning thousands of acres, some of which was subject to intense ownership disputes. Peter Sonmans lived 1709 to 1776 and is buried in Christ Church Burial Ground, Philadelphia.
Sources:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Female
Age: Age not given, but described as a "young Negroe wench," likely a young adult
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Young Negroe wench"
Notes: Offered for sale in May 1752:
Just imported from London, and to be sold cheap, by
PETER SONMANS,
At his house in Front-street, near the Sign of the Platter,
A Large parcel of drugs, chymical and galenical medicines.
Also a healthy young Negroe wench, fit for town of country, she has had the measles and small-pox.
Date of Record: 14 May 1752
Sources: Pennsylvania Gazette, 14 May 1752.
- Slaveholder Name: Spafford, William, Captain. Name also spelled "Spofford."
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Sea Captain, ship owner, merchant
Notes: Captain Spafford advertised mulitple times for lots of "several Negroe Men and Women" from his location in Front Street. These are likely enslaved Blacks purchased or obtained in trade for merchandise in the Caribbean on a recent voyage. His ornate home in Philadelphia is still standing and is being restored.
Sources: A good biography of Spafford is at https://philahistory.org/2012/01/10/captain-william-spafford-sold-slaves-rum-and-ship-provisions-in-early-philadelphia/
- Slave Names: Not named
Sex: Female
Age: "about Sixteen Years of Age"
Date of Birth: Circa 1709
Status: Slave for life
Description: "young Negro Woman"
Notes: Offered for sale in December 1725: "A Likely young Negro Woman about Sixteen Years of Age, to be sold by Capt. William Spofford, in the Front-Street, or Inquire of Andrew Bradford."
Date of Record: 02 December 1725
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury (Philadelphia), 02 December 1725
- Slave Names: Not named
Sex: Female and male
Slave Ages: Ages not given, but described as a "Men and Women"
Slave Dates of Birth: Not known
Status: Slaves for life
Description: "Negroe Men and Women"
Notes: Offered for sale in December 1726: "Several Negroe Men and Women to be Sold, by Capt. William Spafford in Front-street, very Reasonable."
Date of Record: 13 December 1726
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury (Philadelphia), 13 December 1726
- Slave Names: Not named
Sex: Male and female
Slave Ages: Ages not given, but described as a "Man and Girl"
Slave Dates of Birth: Not known
Status: Slaves for life
Description: "Negro Man" and "Negro Girl"
Notes: Offered for sale in August 1741: "TO BE SOLD, By WILLIAM SPAFFORD, in Front Street. A Likely young Negro Man, and a very Likely Negro Girl, also West-India Rum and Muscovado Sugar Reasonable."
Date of Record: 06 August 1741
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury (Philadelphia), 06 August 1741
- Slaveholder Name: Spurrier, Theophilus
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Baker?
Notes:
Sources:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: Not stated, but described as a "man"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Man"
Notes: Offered for sale in February 1724: "A Very likely Negroe Man, by Trade a Baker, he can make Doe [dough], and break Doe, Mould, Drive and Set. To be Sold by Theophilus Spurrieor over against the 3 Tons in Chesnut-Street."
Date of Record: 25 February 1724
Sources: The American Weekly Mercury (Philadelphia), 25 February 1724.
- Slaveholder Name: Stacy, Edmund
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes:
Sources:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: Not stated, but described as a "man"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Man"
Notes: Offered for sale in August 1749: "To be SOLD, A Likely Negroe man, fit for town or country business, understands the butcher's business, and has had the small pox. Enquire of Edmund Stacy, at Capt. Child's, in Chestnut-street, Philadelphia."
Date of Record: 17 August 1749
Sources: Pennsylvania Gazette, 17, 31 August 1749.
- Slaveholder Name: Standley, Susanna
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Widow
Notes: Widow of Valentine Standley. Nee Chevelier. See Standley, Valentine, below. The will of Susanna Standley mentions two enslaved persons.
Sources: "Wills: Abstracts, Book 1 - Part B: 1805 - 1806: Philadelphia Co, PA," US GenWeb Archives, Contributors: Thera, Jack Bowman, and Judy, http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/pafiles.htm.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Violet
Sex: Female
Age: Not stated, but described as a "woman"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life; manumitted circa May 1806.
Description: "Negro woman"
Notes: Manumitted upon the death of Susanna Standley, per her will, proved 02 May 1806.
Date of Record: Will dated 21 December 1793, proved 02 May 1806.
Sources: "Wills: Abstracts, Book 1 - Part B: 1805 - 1806: Philadelphia Co, PA," US GenWeb Archives, Contributors: Thera, Jack Bowman, and Judy, http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/pafiles.htm.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Sharper
Sex: Male
Age: Not stated, but described as a "man"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life;
Description: "Negro man"
Notes: Mentioned in the will of Susanna Standley, per her will, proved 02 May 1806.
Date of Record: Will dated 21 December 1793, proved 02 May 1806.
Sources: "Wills: Abstracts, Book 1 - Part B: 1805 - 1806: Philadelphia Co, PA," US GenWeb Archives, Contributors: Thera, Jack Bowman, and Judy, http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/pafiles.htm.
- Slaveholder Name: Standley, Valentine
City or Township: Philadelphia; Northern Liberties
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Merchant and importer, shop on Market Street, 1750s; Went into beer-making business circa 1763.
Notes: Brewery listed on tax records. Owned a "brew house" in the Northern Liberties. Husband of Standley, Susanna, above.
Sources:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: Not stated, but described as a "man"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Man"
Notes: Offered for sale in November 1743: "To be Sold, A Negro Man, fit for Town or Country Business, by Valentine Stanley."
Date of Record: 27 October 1743
Sources: Pennsylvania Gazette, 27 October, 03 November 1743.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: "about seventeen years of age"
Date of Birth: Circa 1760
Status: Slave for a term of years
Description: "Mulatto Boy"
Notes: Offered for sale in February 1777 as part of a larger advertisement:
To be Sold for Continental Money,
ONE moiety, or half part of a noted BREW HOUSE, with the Utensils thereunto belonging, situate on the north side of Noble's-street, near the Barracks, in the Northern Liberties, to be entered upon directly; with the advantage of a number of good customers. Also, a convenient Malt-House and Brick Tenement adjoining the same. Enquire of Valentine Standley in Market-street, four doors above Fourth-street.
N.B. The water is excellent for malting and brewing.
A Maltster and Brewer who understands the business, and can be well recommended, will meet with good encouragement.
Also to be SOLD, the time of a healthy young MULATTO BOY, about seventeen years of age.
WANTED, a quantity of Barley, for which the highest price will be given.
Two Crates of enamell'd, and two of plain Queens Ware to be Sold.
Date of Record: 19 February 1777
Sources: The Pennsylvania Journal, or Weekly Advertiser, 19 February 1777.
- Slaveholder Name: Stapleford, Mary
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Widowed from Thomas Stapleford by 1740
Notes: Advertised four enslaved persons for sale in July 1741. Mercantile shop on Second Street.
Sources: Thomas Stapleford from his shop on Second Street acted as an agent, prepapring passage or freight for ships preparing to sail. Beginning in 1740 those ads referred to Mrs. Stapleford, Widow Stapelford, or Mary Stapleford, on Second Street.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male; female
Age: Not stated, but two are described as a "man," one "woman," and a "girl."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slaves for life
Description: "Negro Man"
Notes: A number of enslaved persons of both sexes and varying ages were advertised for sale in July 1741:
TO BE SOLD,
At Mrs. STAPLEFORD'S, in Second Street,
A Negro Man who understands Cookery and Butchering, a Negro Woman and Negro Girl, who can work well at the Needle, or any Houshold Work; also another Negro Man for for any labouring Business; all choice slaves. Also good Bohea and Green Tea, Indigo, Cinnamon, double refin'd Sugar, and Streights Capers either by the Pound or in Bottles.
Date of Record: 9 July 1741
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 9 July 1741; The American Weekly Mercury (Philadelphia), 30 July 1741.
- Slaveholder Name: Stedman, Charles
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Merchant and shipping magnate.
Notes: Lived 1713-1784. Born in Scotland into a family in the shipping business, Charles Stedman shipped supplies from Rotterdam and made a fortune shipping German immigrants into Philadelphia. He built the Powel House in Philadelphia, but suffered financial setbacks and sold the house to Samuel Powel in 1769. Several years prior, Stedman had purchased half-ownership of Charming Forge in Berks County with his brother Alexander, the other half being owned by Baron Stiegel. Charles bought out Alexander's portion in 1770 to become fully half-owner. Stiegel, experiencing financial troubles, sold his half of the forge in 1773 to an investor who sold it immediately to Stiegel's son-in-law Michael Ege. Stedman wound up in debtor's prison in 1774 and Ege eventually bought Stedman's half in 1781 to become full owner of the forge.
Sources: Library of Congress, "Historic American Buildings Survey, Charming Forge, Iron Master's House," National Park Service, August 1958. Accessed online on 16 October 2023 at https://tile.loc.gov/storage-services/master/pnp/habshaer/pa/pa0200/pa0203/data/pa0203data.pdf
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: "about 27 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1747
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Man"
Notes: Offered for sale in August 1774. Text of the advertisement placed by Stedman:
TO BE SOLD,
A STOUT healthy Negro Man, about 27 years of age; he has had the small pox and measles, and is a good farmer. Any person inclined to purchase may be informed of the reasons for his being sold, and the price asked for him, by applying to Mr. CHARLES STEDMAN, merchant, in Philadelphia.
Date of Record: 22 August 1774
Sources: Pennsylvania Packet, 22 August 1774.
- Slaveholder Name: Steel, Rebecca
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Shop keeper, sold imported goods, teas, fabrics.
Notes: Widow of James Steel. Shop originally on Race Street, moved to Third Street circa 1766.
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 09 October 1766.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Female
Age: "about 28 Years of Age"
Date of Birth: circa 1714
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Woman"
Notes: Offered for sale in December 1742. Text of the advertisement placed by Steel:
To be SOLD,
A likely Negro Woman, about 28 Years of Age, fit for every kind of Country Business, and has no Husband: Enquire of Rebecka Steel in Philadelphia, or William Shute 4 Miles from Philadelphia.
Steel specifically noted in this ad that the woman "has no Husband." This detail appears is rare in ads for enslaved women and appears to be included as a positive selling point. This indicates that family relations extending outside of the slaveholder's estate were problematic.
Date of Record: 14 December 1742
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 14 December 1742.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Ben
Sex: Male
Age: Age not specified in document, but described as a "man."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Man"
Notes: "Formerly belonging to [William] Shute." Appraised in July 1752:
"We whose Names are underwritten at ye Request of William Shute & Rebecca Steel have Vallued and Appraised a certain Negro Man Ben formerly belonging to ye sd Shute but now to sd Steel and are of opinion that the sd Negro is worth fifty pounds Current money of Pennsylvania.
Witness our hand this 28th July 1752.
Standh fforde
S. Jones
Chas Stow Jur
Samuel Cheesman."
Endorsed on the back is the following: "Note -- these Bill Sale were only intended to keep the Negroes out of other persons hands, & the Money Paid by Reba Steel tho she did not get the Negroes -- so the sums are charged."
Date of Record: 28 July 1752
Sources: "Appraisment of a Negro Slave, 1752," in William Henry Egle, "Notes and Queries," Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography, Vol. 33, No. 2 (1909), p. 252.
- Slaveholder Name: Stewart, Andrew
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes: Acting agent for Tapley Gathright.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Elisah
Sex: Male
Age: "20 years of age or thereabouts"
Date of Birth: circa 1787
Status: Slave for life; escaped
Description: "Negro" and "lightish black man"
Notes: Virginia slave Elisha escaped by jumping ship while in port in Philadelphia. Local man Andrew Stewart acted as the agent for Virginia slaveholder Tapley Gathright by posting the following ad and offering to handle rewards:
TWENTY DOLLARS REWARD.
RAN AWAY,
FROM on board the sloop Betsey, of Richmond, Henry Dennington master, on the night of the 22d inst. ELISHA, (a slave,) a lightish black man, about 5 feet high, 20 years of age or thereabouts, small hands and feet. Had on when he eloped, a light coloured coarse coatee, made of country cloth, white dimity trowsers and wool hat; he also took with him, a short green jacket and a pair of trowsers, made of coarse country cotton. The above mentioned negro, was born near Richmond, and is the property of Tapley Gathright. The above reward will be paid, for apprehending the said negro, and lodging him in any convenient jail, so that his owner may get him again, and all reasonable charges by applying to
ANDREW STEWART,
Corner of Race and Water streets
Philadelphia.
N.B. Masters of vessels, and others, are forewarned from harboring the said runaway, otherwise they will be dealt with as the law directs.
June 26.
Date of Record: 26 June 1807; ad ran through September 11, 1807.
Sources: Aurora General Advertiser, 28 July 1807.
- Slaveholder Name: Stilly, John
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes: Surname possibly also spelled Stille.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not provided in ad
Sex: Male
Age: "about 21 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1758
Status: Slave for life;
Description: "Negro Man"
Notes: Offered for sale in November 1779 because he tried to escape to British lines. As part of the sale requirements, Stilly notes that he will not sell the man to anyone "residing within forty miles of Philadelphia."
TO BE SOLD,
A NEGRO MAN, about 21 years of age, brought up to house work, a compleat cook, can wash, bake, clean house, make soap, candles, &c. He is as compleat a waiting man, either in the house or to travel with, as may be:
The owner will engage, that he has the above qualifications, and is only sold for having once run to the English. Enquire of Mr. JOHN STILLY, in Front-street, near Chesnut-street.
N.B. He will be sold to no person residing within forty miles of Philadelphia.
Date of Record: 17 November 1779
Sources: The Pennsylvania Journal or Weekly Advertiser, 17 November 1779.
- Slaveholder Name: Stocker and Wharton
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Mercantile Firm
Notes: Anthony Stocker and Thomas Wharton, Jr.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Louis
Sex: Male
Age: "about 14 or 15 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1760 or 1761
Status: Slave for life; escaped
Description: "Negro Boy"
Notes: Louis escaped by jumping ship while in port in Philadelphia. the following ad was placed to recover him:
RUNAWAY last night from the Sloop Hawke, John Milne, Master, A NEGRO BOY, named Louis, about 14 or 15 years of age, about 4 feet 10 inches high, is not a very black complexion, but is a stout well made boy. His cloathes are not particularly known. Whoever takes up said boy and delivers him to Messrs. STOCKER and WHARTON, or secures him in any gaol that he may be had again, shall have TWENTY SHILLINGS Reward, and reasonable charges. June 23.
Date of Record: 23 June 1775
Sources: The Pennsylvania Ledger or the Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and New Jersey Weekly Advertiser, 24 June 1775.
- Slaveholder Name: Stone, Thomas
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Lawyer, politician (Maryland)
Notes: Maryland delegate to the Continental Congress in Philadelphia, 1775-1776. Signed the Declaration of Independence. Stone's plantation, Haberdeventure, was in Charles County, Maryland.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Bet
Sex: Female
Age: Age not stated in advertisement, but described as a "Young woman"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life in Maryland; escaped in Philadelphia
Description: "Young Negro woman"
Notes: Maryland slave Bet escaped while in Philadelphia as part of the household of Maryland delegate to the Continental Congress Thomas Stone. Stone was making preparations to return to Maryland with his household and enslaved persons when Bet made her escape. Stone placed the following ad in at least two local Philadelphia newspapers, and also enlisted the aid of Philadelphia innkeeper Michael Clark as his local agent. Clark also placed ads on Stone's behalf to recover Bet.
RAN away on Friday the third inst. a young Negro woman named BET, of middling stature, thick, fat, and likely, and her ears bored for rings. She had on a black alamode bonnet with lace, an old blue shalloon jacket and petticoat, white linen shift, handkerchief and apron, pale blue worsted stockings with red clocks, high heel black leather shoes and silver buckles. She took with her a half worn scarlet cloak, new purple and yellow checked stuff jacket and petticoat, white linen ditto, blue and white stamped linen ditto, cambrick apron, red and white calico short gown, and black bombazeen quilted petticoat. I have been informed that a Negro woman, answering her description, was seen at Brunswick, in Jersey, with some soldiers, but to this I do not give intire credit. Any person delivering the said Negro woman to Mr. Michael Clarke in Chesnut-street, Philadelphia, to any of the Maryland officers at camp, or to the subscriber in Charles county, Maryland, shall have TWENTY DOLLARS reward and reasonable charges.
THOMAS STONE.
Philadelphia, October 16.
A detailed analysis of Bet's escape, social status, possible motivations, and background on the lives of African Americans at Stone's Haberdeventure plantation was researched by Dr. Amy Speckart as part of a larger study of the Thomas Stone National Historic Site in Port Tobacco, Maryland, for the National Park Service and published online by them in February 2022. See below for the url.
Date of Record: 16 October 1776
Sources: The Pennsylvania Evening Post (Philadelphia), 19 October 1776; Poulson's American Daily Advertiser (Philadelphia), 22 October 1776; Amy Speckart, PhD, New Perspectives on Haberdeventure Plantation in Charles County, Maryland, 1770–1787, National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, February 2022, online at https://www.nps.gov/thst/learn/historyculture/upload/508_THST-Final-508-3.pdf.
- Slaveholder Name: Stonemetz, Peter
City or Township: Point-no-Point
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Farmer
Notes: Placed farming implements, livestock and three enslaved persons up for public auction in August 1774.
Sources: Pennsylvania Packet, 26 July 1773.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: age not given
Date of Birth:
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Man"
Notes: Advertised for public sale in August 1774. Text of the public auction notice:
To be SOLD at PUBLIC VENDUE,
At the house of PETER STONEMETZ, on JOHN GIBSON's farm, at Point-no-Point, near the city of Philadelphia, on Saturday the 14th of August, at two o'clock in the afternoon,
A VALUABLE breeding mare, with two half blooded colts, a milch cow, two broad wheeled carts, shod with iron, a number of farming utensils and a wheat fan. Likewise will be sold at the same time, if not before disposed of at private sale, a valuable negro man, a compleat farmer, who has had the care of a farm for several years. Another valuable strong negro man, about 27 years of age, who hath been used to farming, and can ditch. Also a smart lively negro girl, nine years of age. Credit will be given to the purchasers, on their giving security if required.
Date of Record: 22 August 1774
Sources: Pennsylvania Packet, 22 August 1774.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Male
Age: "about 27 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1747
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Man"
Notes: Advertised for public sale in August 1774. See text of the public auction notice above.
Date of Record: 22 August 1774
Sources: Pennsylvania Packet, 22 August 1774.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Not named
Sex: Female
Age: "nine years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1765
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Girl"
Notes: Advertised for public sale in August 1774. See text of the public auction notice above.
Date of Record: 22 August 1774
Sources: Pennsylvania Packet, 22 August 1774.
- Slaveholder Name: Story, Elizabeth
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Widow
Notes: Elizabeth nee Houlston, widow of Enoch Story II, who died 1747.
Source:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not stated in record
Sex: Female
Age: "about 31 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1722
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Molattoe woman"
Notes: Scheduled for public auction on May 12, 1753 to settle estate of Elizabeth Story. Text of the advertisement placed by her executors: "TO be sold, the 12th of this instant May, at two a clock in the afternoon, by publick vendue, at the sign of the George, in Second-street, A Molattoe woman, about 31 years of age, by the subscribers, executors of Elizabeth Story deceased. EDWARD EVANS, THOMAS SAY."
Date of Record: 10 May 1753
Source: Pennsylvania Gazette, 10 May 1753.
- Slaveholder Name: Story, Enoch
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Broker
Notes: In January 1775 Enoch Story partnered with Daniel Humphreys to publish the Pennsylvania Mercury. Story and Humphreys published their first issue in April 1775, making it the sixth newspaper available in the city. During the British occupation of Philadelphia, September 1777 to June 1778, Enoch Story worked with the British as a Loyalist, and subsequently fled the city with the British withdrawal.
Source: Wilbur H. Siebert, The Loyalists of Pennsylvania, Columbus, Ohio, 1920, pp.43-44, 53, 58.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not stated in record
Sex: Male
Age: "about 17 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1754
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Boy"
Notes: Advertised for sale in September 1771: "ENOCH STORY, BROKER, At the corner of Market and Second-streets, hath for sale, on the very lowest terms for cash,
A Variety of MERCHANDIZE suitable for the season. Also, a Negro Boy, about 17 years of age; has had the small-pox and measles, and is suitable for country business."
Date of Record: 26 September 1771
Source: The Pennsylvania Journal, or Weekly Advertiser, 26 September 1771.
- Slaveholder Name: Strainge, Jonathan
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes:
Source:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not stated in record
Sex: Female
Age: Age not stated in record, but described as a "woman."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Woman Slave"
Notes: Strainge purchased this person from William Tough of New Jersey but discovered she suffered from seizures.
WHEREAS I the Subscriber on or about the 25th of October last past, purchased of a certain William Tough, of Salem, in West-New-Jersey, a Negro Woman Slave, which he the said William warranted to be Sound and in good Order; in consideration whereof I pass'd my Note to him for the Payment of Twenty five Pounds next May: The next Day after the Purchase of said Negro I discovered she was much troubled with Fitts, where by she is rendered unable to perform any Service, and I am much Deceived and imposed upon in the Purchase: These are therefor to forewarn all Persons not to be concern'd with, or take any Assignment of the said Note from the said William Tough for I am determined not to pay the same, until a Trial at Law be had thereupon.
Jonathan Strainge.
Date of Record: 04 December 1740
Source: The American Weekly Mercury (Philadelphia), 04 December 1740.
- Slaveholder Name: Stretch, Thomas
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Clockmaker
Notes: Thomas Stretch built the first clock in the Philadelphia State House (Independence Hall) in 1752.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Jack
Sex: Male
Age: "aged about 21 Years"
Date of Birth: circa 1718
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Man"
Notes: Formerly owned by Joseph England. Upon England's death, Thomas Stretch sued England's estate for a debt and received Jack. Jack was "stolen" from the snow Drake and the ship's owner, Edward Bradley, advertised for his return:
STOLEN, on the 15th Inst. from on Board the Snow Drake, James White, Master, at Philadelphia, a Negro Man named Jack, aged about 21 Years, very black, with large Lips, wide Mouth, speaks good English, can read and figure a little, formerly belonging to the Estate of Joseph England, taken at the Suit of Thomas Stretch for a Debt of said England's Widow.
Whoever will inform Messrs. Edward Bradley and Company, Owners of said Snow, where said Negro is, shall have Forty Shillings Reward and reasonable Charges paid by
Edward Bradley,
Philad. May 31, 1739.
Date of Record: 31 May 1739
Source: Pennsylvania Gazette, 21 June 1739.
- Slaveholder Name: Strickland, Miles
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Shop keeper, store on Market Street, "near the courthouse."
Notes: Residence on Fourth Street; died in 1751
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not stated in record
Sex: Female
Age: "about 17 years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1730
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe girl"
Notes: advertised for sale in October 1747. Text of the advertisement: "To be SOLD, A Young likely, Negroe girl, about 17 years of age, fit for town or country business. Enquire of Miles Strickland, or the widow Hilburn, in Fourth-street."
Date of Record: 29 October 1747
Source: Pennsylvania Gazette, 29 October 1747.
- Slaveholder Name: Stuart, James
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation:
Notes: Residence on Water Street, near Walnut Street
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not stated in record
Sex: Female
Age: "about 18 Years of Age"
Date of Birth: circa 1745
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Wench"
Notes: advertised for sale in March 1763 along with an 8-year-old boy. Text of the advertisement:
To be SOLD,
A LIKELY Negroe Wench, about 18 Years of Age, has had the Small-pox and Measles, a notable Servant, and can be well recommended for Honesty, has no Fault, only she is likely to have a Child. Also a smart Negroe Boy, about 8 Years old, has had the Small-pox and Measles. Enquire of JAMES STUART, in Water-street, near Walnut-street.
Date of Record: 03 March 1763
Source: Pennsylvania Gazette, 03 March 1763.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not stated in record
Sex: Male
Age: "about 8 Years old"
Date of Birth: circa 1755
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Boy"
Notes: advertised for sale in March 1763 along with an 18-year-old girl. Text of the advertisement:
To be SOLD,
A LIKELY Negroe Wench, about 18 Years of Age, has had the Small-pox and Measles, a notable Servant, and can be well recommended for Honesty, has no Fault, only she is likely to have a Child. Also a smart Negroe Boy, about 8 Years old, has had the Small-pox and Measles. Enquire of JAMES STUART, in Water-street, near Walnut-street.
Date of Record: 03 March 1763
Source: Pennsylvania Gazette, 03 March 1763.
- Slaveholder Name: Sturgeon, Rev. William
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Cleric
Notes: Assistant rector at Christ Church. Named as a former enslaver of the man Tom, noted below by Ann Reardon.
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 02 August 1770.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Tom
Sex: Male
Age: Age not given in ad, but described as a "man"
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life; frequent escape attempts
Description: "Negroe man"
Notes: Tom escaped from Ann Reardon in mid May 1770. In her published escape notice, she identified several former enslavers of Tom, noting: "was formerly the property of Mark Cook, biscuit baker, of Parson Sturgeon, and John Elton, carpenter; he was accustomed to elope, when he followed whitewashing."
Date of Record: 16 July 1770
Sources: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 02 August 1770.
- Slaveholder Name: Sutter, Peter
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Hatter
Notes: Located near the drawbridge "at the sign of the Crown and Hats," Front Street.
Sources:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not given in ad
Sex: Female
Age: "about thirty-five years of age"
Date of Birth: circa 1742
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negro Wench"
Notes: Advertised for sale in February 1777:
TO be sold, a likely NEGRO WENCH, about thirty-five years of age, can wash, iron, cook, spin and knit, is fit for either town or country, and sold for want of a master. Inquire of Peter Sutter, hatter near the Draw-bridge, Philadelphia. Feb. 8.
Date of Record: 08 February 1777
Sources: The Pennsylvania Evening Post, 13 February 1777.
- Slaveholder Name: Swan, Richard
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Hatmaker, located on Market Street
Notes: Richard Swan also acted as a local agent for Richard Haynes, who was seeking to sell a young woman in 1744.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not stated in record
Sex: Female
Age: Age not stated in ad, but described as a "young Negro Woman;" she has a child, so is of childbearing age.
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Young Negro Woman"
Notes: Advertised for sale along with her infant son in March 1741. Text of the advertisement: "TO be Sold, a likely young Negro Woman, fit for Town or Country Business and is a good Cook; she has a Male Child about eight Months old. Inquire of Richard Swan, Hatmaker, in Market-street, Philadelphia, or of the Printer hereof."
Date of Record: 11 March 1741
Source: The American Weekly Mercury (Philadelphia), 11 March 1741.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not stated in record
Sex: Male
Age: "about eight Months old"
Date of Birth: circa July 1740
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Male Child"
Notes: Advertised for sale along with his mother in March 1741. Text of the advertisement: "TO be Sold, a likely young Negro Woman, fit for Town or Country Business and is a good Cook; she has a Male Child about eight Months old. Inquire of Richard Swan, Hatmaker, in Market-street, Philadelphia, or of the Printer hereof."
Date of Record: 11 March 1741
Source: The American Weekly Mercury (Philadelphia), 11 March 1741.
- Enslaved Person's Name: Cuffy, a.k.a Billy Farrell
Sex: Male
Age: Age not given in the description, but described as a "man."
Date of Birth: Not known
Status: Slave for life; self-emancipated, May 1747
Description: "Negro man"
Notes: Cuffy escaped from Swan on May 13, 1747. The following ad was placed by Swan to recover him:
Philadelphia, May 21, 1747.
RUN away from Richard Swan of Philadelphia, on the 13th instant, a negro man, named Cuffy, he has a large scar on his forehead, and both feet sore; he is a Creole, born at Montserrat, and speaks good English and French: He had on when he went away, a blue great Coat, and a blue Pea Jacket, an ozenbrigs shirt and trowsers. Whoever takes up the said negro, and brings him home, shall have Ten Shillings reward, and reasonable charges, paid by
Richard Swan.
N.B. And be it at their peril that entertains him.
In August Swan had not yet captured Cuffy, so he updated his ad, adding that Cuffy "sometimes goes by the name of Billy Farrell." He also upped the reward to forty shillings.
Date of Record: 21 May 1747 (original ad)
Source: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 21 May, 04 June, 13 August 1747.
- Slaveholder Name: Swift, Joseph
City or Township: Philadelphia
County: Philadelphia County
Occupation: Merchant, partner with his brother John Swift. Store on the North side of Market Street, "opposite the Lower-End of the Jersey Market" selling goods imported from England.
Notes:
- Enslaved Person's Name: Name not stated in record
Sex: Female
Age: "about Sixteen Years of Age"
Date of Birth: circa 1747
Status: Slave for life
Description: "Negroe Girl"
Notes: Advertised for sale in April 1763. Text of the advertisement: "To be SOLD, A LIKELY healthy Negroe Girl, about Sixteen Years of Age, who has had the Small-pox. Enquire of JOSEPH SWIFT."
Date of Record: 07 April 1763
Source: The Pennsylvania Gazette, 07 April 1763.
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Enslavement
