manumission
noun | man • u • mis • sion |
\man-yə-’mi-shən\
:the act or process of manumitting;
especially: formal emancipation from slavery
Note: Research is being conducted on an on-going basis. Currently working on the county of Newport.
The Rhode Island Manumissions Project is a genealogy tool dedicated to documenting the identities of slaves in the state of Rhode Island with the goal of finding manumission records.
The gradual abolition of slavery in Rhode Island began in the mid-1700s. Before the early 1800s, Rhode Islanders of African descent were responsible for building the state’s economy with free labor, but were mostly absent in town and vital records. Attitudes and morality about slavery began to shift due to religious beliefs and activism of abolitionist Quakers.
In a time period where the Black community consisted of both enslaved and free people, tracing one’s African American ancestors is partly achieved by browsing documents of their owners and paying close attention to mentionings of the word Colored, Negro, Slave, Mulatto, Mustee or Indian. While freedom was achieved in a variety of ways this project focuses on transcribing records documented in wills, probates and town council records.
1757
Captain Christopher Phillips, inventory
- Negro man Jacke
- Negro man Henly
- Negro boy London
- Negro boy Silas
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 18
1757
David Green, will
- I give to my daughter Patience my Negro … Newport
- I give to my daughter Weight my Negro boy Robin
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 28
1757
Joseph Stafford, inventory
- Nathaniel valued at nothing
- Charles
- Moses
- Joseph
- Dimas
- Newport
- Dublin
- Mingo
- Clara
- James
- Seasar
- Dominic at Nothing
- Paul two years old
- Prince
- ???
- Lilia(?) & child
- Bridget
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 32
1761
Sambo Drake [free Negro], will
- My beloved wife Merey Sambo
- a Neagro man being weak and lo in body … mind and memory thanks be to god …
...Five daughters Barbery Patience Marey Nancy and Sarah fifty … three sons namely Samuel and Thomas & George
1765
Nicolas Northup, will
- I will and bequeath unto my beloved wife [???] Northup my Negro Man named Benjamin Mingo
- Furthermore I give to my said wife my Negro woman named Rose
.. after the death of my wife or if my said wife shall marry again I then give my Negro Woman Rose to my daughter that lives at Newlond
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 152
1765
Nicolas Northup, inventory
- Negro Man named Benjamin Bump
- Negro Woman named Rose
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 156
1765
Frances Congdon
- Negro girl named Desire
- old Negros Tom & Teeny priced at nothing
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 385
1765
John Congdon
- Negro man named Coff ... 1200
- Negro Boy named Roshad(?) ...1000
- Negro boy named Tom ... 600
… named Cato ... 500
… named Fortune(?) ... 300
… Woman nam’d Tent ... 900
… named Jimie(?) ... 200
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 231
1765
Robert Hall, will
... also give [to Daniell Hall] my team the labour of two young Neagros one named Newport … [name]d London each of them to serve for himself till the ... of thirty years and then to sett them free.
... Give to my son Daniell Hall a negro man named … Black Boy named Jo both to serve till they … the age of thirty years and then be set
- the labor of a Negro woman named D??? … being under 30 years old at my decease to serve my [sons?] … arises to that age at which time IO do order her to be sett free from bondage well clothed by them
- I give and bequeath to my well beloved daughter ??? Hall the service or labour of my Negro Girl Named … to be solely at her discretion & Disposal until the … shall arrive to the age of thirty years and then to … free from all bondage well clothed
- I give and bequeath to my well beloved daughter Ruth Hall all the service or labour of my Negro Ceasar to be solely at her discretion and disposal until he arrive to the age of thirty years and then to … free from all bondage well clothed
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 140-142
1767
Thomas Eldred, will
- I give and bequeath unto my Beloved [wife?] … my Negro named Cuff also my … woman named Rhoda
- [to son, Ezra] also one Negro Felllow named Mintus together with one feather bed and one gun
- unto my son Weeden one Negro boy ??rry
- [to wife] also one Negro boy named Cezar
- also the s’d Negro Ceazar to be equally divided …
- also the above named Negro Cezar to them [Wait and Lucia] and their heirs forever
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 168-169
1767
Thomas Eldred, inventory
- One Negro Cuff 22
- 1 Negro Mint 45
- 1 Negro Rhode 37
- 1 Negro Jack 30
- 1 Negro Harry 18
- 1 Negro Seazar 15
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 172
1768
Jeremiah Hasard, will
- I give unto my well beloved wife Sarah ... also two Negro Women Named ??? & Vilet and all of my household goods
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 183
1775
Ephraim Gardner, inventory
- Negro man named Phillip
- Negro woman named Tent
- ... named Bethany
- ... girl named Cloe
- ... Flora
1775
Jeremiah Gardner, inventory
- Negro woman named with a young child 120 dollars ...36 [pounds]
Negro Boy named … 80 dollars ...24 [pounds]
Negro boy named … 50 dollars ... 15 [pounds]
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 382
1775
George Tibbits, inventory
- one Negro Man slave ... 30
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 388
1777
Joseph Congdon, inventory
- Negro boy named Thomas
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 501
1783
Caleb Allen, will
- my will is that my Negro woman named Raina(?) … her freeddom ammediately after my decease with all … clothes and of she shall become inable to main[tain] herself then my will is that she maintained … my two sons Joshua Allen and Benjamin
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 563
1789
Brian Brown, will
- I also give to my said wife the service of … negro girl named Phillis until she shall … the age of twenty five years and then … bee free
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 719
1790
Immanuel Northup
- I order my executor to this my will to cause … Negro man named Seasar & my Negro woman Named Rose to be set free within one year after my death
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 9-13, 1756-1795; image 693
1798
William Hammond, will
... my Negro servant called Friday be set at liberty and have his freedom immediately on my decease and not be held in bondage by my heirs.
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 14-20, 1756-1795; image 63
1732
Henry Gardner, will
I give and bequeath to abigail my dearly beloved Wife … one Negro wench such as she choose out of my negro servants …
I give and bequeath to my grand daughter Hannah Potter, the wife of Thomas Potter, one Negro Girl called Patience to be delivered to her in convenient time after my decease
I give and bequeath to my grand daughter Dorcas Gardiner the daughter of Ephraim one other Negro Girl named Sarah to be delivered to her in convenient time after my decease
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 4-5, 1743-1772; image 58-59
1742
George Hazard, will
… I also give to my beloved son Oliver Hazard three Negros (?) Cezar, Mingo & Prish(?)
I give and bequeath to my beloved grand daughter Penelope Niles one Negro girl called Betty and also one hundred pounds in money to be paid by Executor hereafter mentioned.
I give and bequeath to my beloved grand daughter Abigail a Negro Girl called Jenny and also one hundred pounds in money to be paid as aforsaid
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 4-5, 1743-1772; image 41-42
1743
Ichabod Pottter, inventory
1 Negro Boy & bedding ... 100 : 0 : 0
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 4-5, 1743-1772; image 52
1743
William Clark, will
... I also give to my s’d son Latham Clarke my two Neagros called Moses and Prince
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 4-5, 1743-1772; image 93
1743
George Hazard, inventory
Negroe Jo ... 150 : 0 : 0
Negroe Jack ... 150 : 0 : 0
Negro Pero ... 140 : 0 : 0
Negroe Harry... 120 : 0 : 0
Negroe Will ... 110 : 0 : 0
Negroe Jacob ... 70 : 0 : 0
Negroe John ... 50 : 0 : 0
Negroe Dinah ... 40 : 0 : 0
Negroe Jamey ... 130 : 0 : 0
Negroe Betty ... 100 : 0 : 0
Negroe Cuff an infant ... 20 : 0 : 0
Negroe Mall ... 120 : 0 : 0
1744
Henry Gardner, inventory
one Negro Woman called Betty & her child … 120 : 0 : 0
one Negro Woman called Patience & her child … 130 : 0 : 0
one Negro Girl called Charity … 120 : 0 : 0
one Negro Boy about nine years old and called Joseph … 70 : 0 : 0
one Negro Girl called Sarah … 130 : 0 : 0
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 4-5, 1743-1772; image 62
1746
Nicolas Gardner, will
I give to my said son Nathan one Negro Boy called Sharper
I give to my s’d sons Henry and Caleb one Molatto man called Jeffrey and one Negro Man called Sippeo and one Negro Girl called Prew
I give to my well beloved Daughter Lidia Spencer my Negro Woman called Phillis
I give to my well beloved Daughter Tabitha Gardner my Negro Woman called Patience but I reserve and give to my s’d wife the use of the s’d Phillis and Patience during the time of her widowhood
I give to my said Daughter Lydia Spencer my Negro girl called Silver(?)
I give to my s’d daughter Tabitha Gardner my Negro girl called Rufus(?)
I give to my well beloved grand daughter Mary Tripp my negro Girle called Dille
I give to my well beloved grand daughter Lydia Tripp my negro Girle called Jemima
I give to my well beloved grand daughter Tabitha Tripp my negro Girle called Freedom
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 4-5, 1743-1772; image 101
1746
Nicolas Gardner, inventory
one Molato Man called Jeffrey … 60 : 0 : 0
one Negro man called Sippeo … 100 : 0 : 0
one Negro Boy called Sharper … 170 : 0 : 0
one Negro Woman called Patience … 150 : 0 : 0
one Negro Woman called Phillis … 120 : 0 : 0
one Negro Girl called Prew … 90 : 0 : 0
one Negro girl called Jemima 40 : 0 : 0
one Negro girl called Dilla … 20 : 0 : 0
one Negro girl called Freedom … 5 : 0 : 0
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 4-5, 1743-1772; image 98-99
1746
Jonathan Hazard, will
... I also give unto my said son (Thomas Hazard) these Negroes … A Negro man named Jeffrey, another named old Cezar, another named Joe, another named Sam Jon, another named Hedd??, another named Lymon,and a Negro woman named Leah to him and his heirs.
... I also give unto my said son Jonathan Hazard a Negro Boy named Little Dick to him and his heirs
... I give unto my beloved son George Hazard … a Negro Boy named Little Cezar to him his heors and assigns forever
... I also give unto my said daughter Susannah Hazard a Negro Woman named Cate to her, her heirs and assigns forever … Negro Woman named Betty
... I also give unto my said Daughter Abigail Hazard a Negro Girl named Lucy
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 4-5, 1743-1772; image 132–133
1749
George Hazard, inventory
- one Negro man named Ceser
- one Negro woman named Cate
- one Negro woman named Peg
- one Negro boy named olford
- one Negro boy named Coddie
- one Negro boy named Jolin
- one Negro girl named Easter
- one Negro girl named Jane
- one Negro girl named Rose
- one Negro girl named Bina
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 4-5, 1743-1772; image 128
1760
Martha Clarke, inventory
- 2 Negros
- 1 Negro ["woman" crossed out] wench named Charity
- 1 Negro Boy
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 22
1771
John Watson
... also my will is that my Negro Woman Zipporah shall have her Freedom after my decease under care & discretion of my Executor
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 24
1772
Benjamin Perry, will
- I give and devise unto my beloved son Benjamin Perry … my two Negroes Jenny & Tom after my life shall have done, with said Negroes together with all my personal Estate which I shall have at the time of my decease not particularly given away ...
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 20
1772
Abigail Robinson, will
- My will is that my Negro Woman named Moroco be set free after my decease and also my Negro Man Mingo after he arrive to the age of thirty years.
- I give and bequeath unto my two executors hereafter named the service of the afornamed Mingo until he shall arrive to the age of thirty years in consideration that way said two Executors giving bond immediately after my decease for the manumitting & setting free my said servant woman named Moroco agreeable to Law & also my Negro man Mingo after he arrives to the age of Thirty years and upon their refusal I hearby impower any or either of my rest of my Children to manumit and set free my aformentioned Negros an he or they to of use ??? improvement of Negro Man Mingo until he shall arrive to age of thirty years that is to say they complying in giving Bond for their manumittance to keep ???Town indemnified agreeable to Law.
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 21-22
1770
William Browning, will
- I give and bequeath unto my loving wife Mary Browning the use of my house wherein I now live … also the use of all of my household goods and of use of two of my Negroes Binah & Bristol the use of which I give to my said wife so long as she remain my widow
- I give and devise unto my beloved son William Browning … and also my Negro man named Cezar
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 25-26
1773
William Browning, inventory
- 1 Negro called Sesor [Cesar] 37 [pounds]
- 1 Negro Boy called Hiram 30 [pounds]
- 1 Negro Boy called Bristol 30 [pounds]
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 29
1772
Thomas Stadman, will
- I also give to my said wife the use of my Negro woman named Eff during of life of my said wife and after my wife deceases I give said Negro woman equally between my two daughters Hannah Stedman and Sarah Stedman
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 30
1772
Isaac Fowler
- I give and bequeath unto my well beloved daughter Haim all Milliman? & to her heirs & assigns my Negro Girl named Roco ...
- I give and bequeath unto my well beloved daughter Deborah Fowler one Negro Girl named Clary …
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 31,32
1773
Gideon Bently, inventory
- one Negro Girl named Diner
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 33
1774
William Browning, inventory
- amount of a Negro Fellow called Seasar given me in my fathers will agreeable to inventory
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 36
1774
James Perry, will
- I give & bequeath unto my said son James Perry the use and improvement of my Mustee Servant Man named Job for eight years next after my decease & at the expiration of said eight years my said servant shall be a Freeman and shall remain a slave no longer
- I give & bequeath unto my beloved son n law Sylvester Robinson the use and improvement of my Mustee Servant called John until my said Servant shall arrive to the age of forty years & when the said Servant shall arrive to the said age of forty years he shall be a Freeman & shall remain a Slave no longer
- I give & bequeath unto my said son Jonathan Perry use and improvement of Servant man called Jacob for a sum of six years next after my decease & at expiration of said six years of said Jacob shall be a Freeman and shall remain a Slave no longer. Also I give & bequeath to my son Jonathan Perry of use & improvement of Servant Man called Henry for a sum of twenty years next after my decease & after expiration of said twenty years of said Henry shall be a Slave no longer but shall be a Freeman. Also I give & bequeath to my said son Jonathan Perry my Servant Sarah & her two children & my Servant boy called Daniel
- I give & bequeath to my said son Samuel Perry the use & improvement of my two Servants (to will?) Peter & George, Peter for a time of ten years next after my decease, said George for a time of twenty years next after my decease & when they arrive to said times respectively they shall be both free men & shall no longer remain slaves. Also I give & bequeath to my son Samuel my Servant called Hannah & her child called Mercy
- I give & bequeath unto Anna my well beloved wife … Also with my Servants (to wil) Binah, Abigail, & Phyllis together with all my household goods
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 40-41
1774
Thomas Gardner, will
- I give & bequeath unto my beloved son Henry Richmond Gardner my Negro boy Prince...
- I give & bequeath unto my beloved son Samuel Gardner my Negro girl Lydia
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 44
1775
Thomas Rodman
- 1 Negro Man named Cuff
- 1 Negro man named Sly
- 1 negro woman named Cate
- 1 Negro fellow named Jack
- 1 Negro fellow named Abraham
- 1 Negro Boy named Isaac
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 52
1775
Anna Carpenter, inventory
- 1 Negro Man named Casggo
- 1 Negro Boy named Josiah
- 1 Negro Girl named Dinah
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 62
1777
Samuel Rodman, inventory
- 1 Negro Boy names Prince (given to Robert Rodman)
- 1 Negro Boy named Ming (given to William Rodman)
- 1 Negro Girl named Gipporah (given to Katharine Rodman)
- 2 Negro Boys named Moses and Aaron (given to William Rodman)
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 66
1777
Charles Spooner, inventory
- 1 Negro Girl named Naney
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 68
1777
Job Card, inventory
- An old Negro wench which we Esteam of no value
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 68
1779
Henry Gardner, will
- And also I give unto my said Daughter Mary the use of my Negro Girl called Dinah during the natural life of my said daughter.
- I give and bequeath unto my grandson Henry Champlain my Negro Boy called Bristol but it is my will and intent that my daughter Hannah Champlin have the use of said Negro Boy Bristol during her natural life
- I give unto my granddaughter Abigal Gardner wife of William Gardner my Negro Girl Dinah after the decease of my daughter Mary Stanton
- I give and bequeath unto my granddaughter Abigail Palmer my Negro girl called Tamar
- I give and bequeath to my grandson William Champlin my negro girl Phibo but my will & intent is that his mother Hannah Champlin shall have the use of the said Negro Girl Phibo during the sail Hannah’s natural life
- Whereas my Nergo Man Prince & Cuff have served me with fourth fullness I do hereby Manumit & free them the said Prince & Cuff from slavery & bondage and do direct & order that in case either of them should become unable to maintain themselves that they be maintained out of my Estate, which I shall leave
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 150-151
… I give and bequeath unto my said Wife … and my Negro Girl called Violet to be to her forever...
1781
William Garnder, inventory
- One Negro Man called Phillip
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 79
1781
Mary Browne, will
- I give and bequeath unto my Negro wench named Roker all of my everyday clothing, (that is) my homespun wolling & linnen gowns, and two of my homespun shifts, and spickle aprons. I also give to my said Negro Roker her child named Jenny immediately after my death. I also give to said Roker one bed, two blankets & two sheets.
- I give and bequeath unto Negro Slaves, named Roker, Nanny (that I hired out to my kindsman Benjamin Gardner), Sambo, Newberry, Fisher, Dina & Dill their Freedoms and times when they shall arrive to the age of thirty years respectively, and my wills is that my two Nephews namely George & Rowland, their Heirs and assigns, that if any of the said Negros shall become helpless of changeable, that they support and maintain said Negros out of my Estate given them in this my will.
- I give and bequeath unto my said two nephews George and Rowland all the Hire and Labour of all of my Negros as well thost that is hired out as those that lives at home ...
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 80
1781
Samuel Fayerweather, will
- I give my Negro Girl called Phillis to my Sister Hannah Winthrop of Campridge in the Massachusetts Bay New England also …
- I give and bequeath my Negro Boy called Ceasar to my Sister Anne Mason the wife of Thaddeus Mason Esq. of Cambridge in the Province aforsaid …
- I give and bequeath to my friend Matthew Robinson of South Kingstown aforsaid my Negro Man called George
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 81
1782
John Smith, will
One Negro Man named Cuff
Two small Negro girls named Rose and Pach
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 85
1783
George Gardner, will
- I give to my valid daughter Abigail Potter my Negro Boy named Lee ??? and unto my said daughter Elizabeth Potter my Negro Boy Noro with her named Hartleys
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 111
1784
Nicolas Gardner, inventory
- one Negro Woman named Peg
- one Negro Boy named Dick
- one Negro Boy named Prince
- one Freeborn 2 weeks old
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 101
1785
Joseph Hull, will
-I give and Bequeath unto my well beloved Son Joseph Hull my Negro Girl Freelove until she shall arrive to the age of twenty five years when she shall be free.
-My will is that I hearby order that my Negro Girl Sarah be free at the day of my death.
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 102
1785
Capt. Francis Carpenter, inventory
- 1 Negro Boy named Kingston, 1 Negro Boy named Handson
- 1 Negro Girl named Phillis
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 104
1785
Samuel Dayton, town council minutes
- Voted that Prince a Negro child bound to Samuel Dayton of Newport until he arrive to the age of twenty one years he being about 2 months old and that Dayton learn said child to read
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 302
1785
George Hazard, will
- I give and bequeath my Negro Boy called Simon to my son George Hazard
- I give and bequeath my Negro Boy called Richard to my son Thomas Hazard
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 116
1786
John L. Gardner
1 Negro Boy 20[pounds]
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 114
1787
Ephraim Carpenter, will
1 Negro Girl 12 [pounds]
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 120
1788
George Hazard, inventory
- Jean a Negro Girl Ten years of age
- Dick a Negro Boy twelve years old
- Elizabeth a Negro Girl nine years old
- Jacob a Negro Boy seven years old
- Pero a Negro Boy seven years old
- James a Negro Boy two years old
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 128
1789
Mary Hazard, will
- “Further my will is & I do order my Negro woman Lidia shall be a free woman after my decease and that my Executor to see it done”
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 128
1789
Joseph Perkins, will
- Also i make it known that my will is that if my Negro Man called Phillip should return that he be at his own disposal and that no person call on him for any service or servitude in consequence of his bondage to me and that my Executor never send to reclaim him to service
- I give and Devise unto my trusty Labourer Javin Niles a Negro Man whom I now hire the House and Lot of Land that I bought of Joshua Greene lying about One Mile South of Little Rest Hill the which House and Lot of Land I give and Devise unto the said Javin to hold to him and his heirs forever, agreeably to the Tenor of my Deed from s’d Greene
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 132
1790
Joseph Hazard, inventory
- 1 Negro Boy Jack
- 1 Negro Woman Katherine
- 1 Negro Woman Phyllis
- 1 Negro Girl named Marcy
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 138
1790
Elisha Reynolds, will
- I also give to my said daughter Elizabeth Potter my two Negroes Jesse and Ceasar so long as my daughter shall live and after her decease. I give the said Negro Man Ceasar to my grandson Thomas Potter and the said Negro Woman Jesse to my grandson Elisha R Potter
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 144-145
1790
Benjamin Peckam, will
...I also give & bequeath to my son Josephus the use & improvement of my Negro Man called Philo till s’d Philo shall arrive thirty thirty three years of age he now being twenty six years of Age my son Josephus shall then Manumit & make him free from slavery & I hearby declare de shall be free from slavery & my son Josephus shall then give him Ten Silver Spanish Milled Dollars
...I do hearby give unto my Negro Man Cuff his Freedom from Slavery
... I do also give unto my Negro Woman Phyllis her Freedom from Slavery
... I give and bequeath unto my wife the use and improvement of my Negro Boy Quom during the time she shall remain my widow and after she shall decease to be my widow. I give Quam to my daughter Mary Perry if she chooses to have him but if she shall not choose to have him I then give him to my s’d son Josephus the said Quom was born blind & remains blind to this day and is thereby rendered incapable of getting his living & in whose hands he may fall. I desire he may be treated kindly.
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 156-157
1793
Carder Hazard, inventory
1 Negro Woman and child
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 168
1795
Matthew Robinson, will
- - I give and bequeath unto my Negro Slave called Sylvia Cuff Tourey’s wife her freedom and do also give her Daughter called Patience may have her freedom but that the during her life Assist her Mother in all services.
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 188
1797
George Gardner, inventory
- 1785 Negro Will when he ran away for which I had Gardiner verbal order .18
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 211
1798
Jeffrey Champlin, will
- I give and bequeath my three Negro Girls to which Patience, Unice & Sarah unto Pero Potter (so called) their Father he not to take them nor the profits of them nor either of them until after the death or second marriage of my said wife
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Council Records, Vol 6-7, 1772-1854; image 223
1800
Stephen Hassard, inventory
- One Negro Woman by the name of Pegg ... 3 [pounds]
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Town Council Records Index, 1704-1917; image 116
1802
James Sherman, will
- I give to my son John K Sherman the labor of my Negro Boy Pero until the said Pero arrives to the age of twenty eight years at which time I heareby manumit and set free the said Pero as tho he had never been in Bondage
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Town Council Records Index, 1704-1917; image 222
1743
Nicolas Gardner, will
- I give and bequeath unto my son Solvester Gardner my Negro boy named Cuffe to him his heirs and assigns forever
- I give and bequeath unto my loving daughter Amy Gardner … Also one Negro girl named Pegg ...
- I give and bequeath unto my loving daughter Susannah Gardner ... also one Negro girl named fillis and my will is that my Negro fillises child
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 1-4, 1743-1786; image 101
1759
John Rathbun, will
- My will is that my Negro Man behold(???) after my wife decease of marriage which shall first happen by my executor an the money to be equally divided among my children than ???
John Rathbun, inventory
- one Negro man naimed Newport
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 1-4, 1743-1786; image 238, 239, 240
1762
Isaac Gardner, inventory
- One Negro Man called Exeter
- One negro woman called Flora
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 1-4, 1743-1786; image 296
1766
William Sunderlin, will
- I give and bequeath to my dearly beloved daughter Mary Sweet one neagro girl named Merean
- I give and bequeath to my dearly beloved daughter Mary Sweet one neagro girl named Merean
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 1-4, 1743-1786; image 518
William Sunderlin, inventory
- Neagro woman
- Neagro Boy
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 1-4, 1743-1786; image 521
1771
John Reynolds, will
- I give and bequeath unto my son Jonathen my Negro Boy named Ceasar
- I give to my son Benjamin Reynolds my Negro girl named Countess(?)
- I give to my son John Reynolds my Negro man named Pero
- I also order that my Negro woman named Countess have her liberty to live with either of my four sons and to have her bed that she now lies on and that if she lives to become changeable that she be well maintained equally between my four sons
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 1-4, 1743-1786; image 539
1771
John Reynolds, will
- Negro man called Pero 37 pounds, Negro boy named Ceasar 30 pounds, Negro girl named Countess 22 pounds
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 1-4, 1743-1786; image 542
1771
John Reynolds, inventory
- the Negro man named Pero to John Reynolds as by the receipt
- one Negro boy named Seasar to Jonathan Reynolds as by receipt
- a Negro gall delivered Benjamin Reynolds
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 1-4, 1743-1786; image 564
1772
John Champlin, will
- I give to my well beloved wife … I also give her my Negro girl named Cynthia the which I gove her in lue of her third(???)
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 1-4, 1743-1786; image 555
1773
Jeffrey Champlin, will
I also give to my said son Christopher my Negro man named Prince and my two Negro woman Tony and Pegg and my Negro Girl named Patience
1 Negro man named Prince given to Christopher, 2 Negro Women named Tony and Pegg, 1 Negro Man called Prince
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 1-4, 1743-1786; image 567
Jeffrey Champlin, inventory
- the Negro Man named Prince given for the support of Jeffrey Champlin and children 45lbs
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 1-4, 1743-1786; image 588
1773
Jeremiah Hasard, inventory
- One Neagro fellow 40 [pounds]
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 1-4, 1743-1786; image 575
1776
John Weight, will
- I give and bequeath unto my true and loving wife Sarah Weight my three Neagros namely Jacob, Fortain and Cate to be of her own proper estate
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 1-4, 1743-1786; image 705
1782
John Whitford
- I also give unto my said son John Whitford my Negro Man named Seazer, my Negro Woman named Mereah, and one negro boy named Prince
- I give unto my daughter Martha Arnold … my Neagro gall called Naneey
- I give and bequeath my true and loving wife Martha Whitford … the use of my Negro gall called Bethaney so long as she shall remain my widow and after my wife deceases or marage then I give the said Neagro gall Betheny unto my daughter Lydia Thames free and clear
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 1-4, 1743-1786; image 753-754
1792
Isaac Chapman, will
- this winter my three Negros Tom, Jean and Quom all which is my free gift to my loving sister Mary Chapman and to her Heirs and assigns forever
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 1-4, 1743-1786; image 181
1797
Caleb Arnold, will
- Furthermore my will is that my Negro woman named Silvia after the death of my wife be & is hereby maid free & if Negro woman shall hereafter become changeable that she be maintained equally by my seven sons
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 5-8, 1786-1816; image 398
1798
Hannah Arnold, will
- “& Negro woman which was given me by my honored husband in his last will”
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 5-8, 1786-1816; image 417
1801
Nicholas Gardiner, will
- I give to my Negros namely Pero, Tabitha, Lucinda, Dock & Rachel their freedom immediately after my decease and to be liberated accordingly by my executors
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Council and Probate Records, Vol 5-8, 1786-1816; image 491
1765
Jeremiah Boss, will
- I give and bequeath unto my son Solvester Gardner my Negro boy named Cuffe to him his heirs and assigns forever
- I give and bequeath unto my loving daughter Amy Gardner … Also one Negro girl named Pegg ...
- I give and bequeath unto my loving daughter Susannah Gardner ... also one Negro girl named fillis and my will is that my Negro fillises child
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Records, Vol 1-3, 1747-1783, 1812-1818; image 350
1765
Jeremiah Boss, inventory
- 1 Negro Woman named Judah
- 1 Nero Boy named Ceasar
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Records, Vol 1-3, 1747-1783, 1812-1818; image 352
1756
John Stanton, will
… And further I give unto my beloved wife [Susanna] all of my Neagroes as also all of my stock of whatsoever kind …
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Records, Vol 1-3, 1747-1783, 1812-1818; image 204
1756
John Stanton, inventory
Moses at … 1300 - 00 - 0
Jack at … 5 - 00 - 0
Giffey at … 900 - 00 - 0
Bridget at … 400 - 00 - 0
Peg at … 150 - 00 - 0
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Records, Vol 1-3, 1747-1783, 1812-1818; image 207
1778
Bartholomew Phillips, inventory
- the Negro man Ceasar
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate and Town Records, Vol 1-3, 1747-1783, 1812-1818; image 410
1767
George Babcock, will
- I also give to him my said son George Babcock my Negro Boy named Sudrick
- I give and bequeath unto my beloved son Christopher Babcock my Negro man Named Ceasor to him
- I give to my said son Hezekiah Babcock my molatto man servant Named James to him his heirs and assigns forever
- I give and bequeath to my Beloved son Rouse Babcock my Negro Boy Named Bristol
- I give and bequeath to my two Daughters Namely - Elizabeth and Martha each of them a Negro woman or girl which they shall choose after their mother hath chose her first and they to agree in theirs which I give to them their heirs and assigns forever
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Probate Records, Vol 1-6, 1751-1841; image 79–80
1768
Susannah Babcock, will
- Received of my son Samuel Babcock Executor to the last will and Testament of my loving husband George Babcock late … and a Negro woman Named Rose I having chose her.
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Probate Records, Vol 1-6, 1751-1841; image 90
1768
Rouse Babcock, will
- Received of Samuel Babcock Executor to the last will and Testament of my Honored father George Babcock late of said Hopkinton deceast a Negro boy Named Bristol
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Probate Records, Vol 1-6, 1751-1841; image 91
1768
Christopher Babcock, will
- Recd of Samuel Babcock Executor to the last will and Testament of my Honored father George Babcock late of said Hopkinton deeds a Negro man Named Cesar
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Probate Records, Vol 1-6, 1751-1841; image 91
1768
George Babcock, will
- Received of Samuel Babcock Executor to the last will and Testament of my Honored father George Babcock late of said Hopkinton deceast a Negro boy Named Sudrick
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Probate Records, Vol 1-6, 1751-1841; image 91
1777
Jedediah Davis, will
… And my will is that ny Negro man James shall be free from slavery & not be held as a slave after my decease and I give unto my said Negro mand James the two thirds of the profits on improvement of my afores’d farm lying in Charlestown During his life he not to make waste or sell of the wood and he to be under the care of Benjamin Hoxie Junior and Isaac Saunders(?) to see that he does not make foolish bargains and waste what I give him but that the same be used purely for his comfort
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Probate Records, Vol 1-6, 1751-1841; image 147
1778
Desire Hannah
… Further my will is that my Negro Jane be free and I give her her time
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Probate Records, Vol 1-6, 1751-1841; image 167
1808
Benjamin Hoxsie, will
… and my will is that my wife make provisions for Negrow Phebe as I have given her sufficient to do it.
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Probate Records, Vol 1-3, 1798-1837; image 151
1809
Benjamin Hoxsie, inventory
- Negrows Phebe & Bead … $8
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Probate Records, Vol 1-3, 1798-1837; image 154
1809
Caleb Littlefield, will
...further is that my negro man Nepton have his choice to live with either of my children that he may change and he is not to be held as a slave
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1582-1932;
Probate books, vol A-C, 1798-1840; image 45
1777
Jonathan Eason, will
- I also give him [son John Easton] two guns and my Negro Boy named Cato all to be delivered him when he arrives at the age of twenty one years
- I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Ruth Easton the sum one one thousand silver milled dollars to be paid in twelve months of my decease also my Negro Girl named Amy
- I give and beaqueath unto my Daughter Ruth Easton the sum one one thousand silver milled dollars to be paid in twelve months of my decease also my Negro Girl named Phyllis
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Probate Records, Vol 1-3, 1779-1802; image 497-498
1787
Robert Shearman, inventory
- One Negro Man with a wooden leg named Pompey
- One Negro Man very infirm named named Mintas
- One Negro Man very infirm named named Cash
- One Negro Woman named Jenny with her two children one blind
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Probate Records, Vol 1-3, 1779-1802; image 279
1788
Abigail Redwood, will
...I give and bequeath to MY Negro Man Pompey the sum of thirty silver Spanish Milled Dollars and a decent suit of Mourning, and my will is that he be Manumitted and set free if he chooses to have his freedom, otherwise to live with and to be supported by one of my sons which he may choose to live with.
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Probate Records, Vol 1-3, 1779-1802; image 324
1786
Daniel Weeden, will
-I give unto my three Negro Men named Ben, Tom and Toby & my Negro Woman named Betty there freedom at my decease and order my executors herein after named to manumit and set free said three Negro Men named Ben, Tom and Toby and Negro Woman named Betty at my decease but if either or all of my Negros shall refuse to take their freedom my mind & will is that he she or they so refusing shall be taken care of by my executors hereafter named.
-I order my executors here after named to manumit & set free my two Negro Boys called York & London when they shall arrive respectively to the age of twenty three years and my mind is that they faithfully serve my said son John Weeden till they respectively arrive to that age
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Town Council Probate Records and Index, Vol 2-4, 1767-1874; image 233
1788
Robert Hull, will
- I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Thankful Hull … Also my Negro woman named Jenny
-I give and bequeath unto my daughter Sarah … and I also give to my daughter Sarah my Negro girl named Bethany
-I also give to my sin Tiddeman Hull, my malato man servant named Isaac
I give to my grandson Robert Hull Hazard, the son of my daughter Alice Hazard … my malato boy named Javin
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Town Council Probate Records and Index, Vol 2-4, 1767-1874; image 152-153
1799
Daniel Weeden, probate
Voted that Dick Weeden a Black Man who served his time with John Weeden appeared before the Town Council of Jamestown and the said Town Council being of the opinion that said Dick be and is a proper object to me manumitted and also coming within the Tennits of the Law … Manumit and set Free said Dick
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Town Council Probate Records and Index, Vol 2-4, 1767-1874; image 316
1802
John Almy, town council
Voted that the Manumition of vilet a Negro Woman belonging to John C Almy br exepted and that s'd Negro woman is Hereby manumitted and set free by the Town Council aforsaid
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Town Council Probate Records and Index, Vol 2-4, 1767-1874; image 321
1802
Daniel Weeden, town council
It is voted that Peter Weeden a Black man and Lucy Weeden a Black woman have been manumitted agreeable to laws of this State in presence of the Town Council of Jamestown
Source: Ancestry.com; Rhode Island, Wills and Probate Records, 1751-1841;
Town Council Probate Records and Index, Vol 2-4, 1767-1874; image 320