Author: W. W. MCLESTER
Title: 1842 Alabama Slave Contract Referencing the Potential Sale of a Black Woman and Her Child in Talladega County
Description: Talladega, Alabama, 1842. Ephemera. On offer is an important piece of American history – a contract where two Black people who were being held as slaves are used as collateral for a loan. This 1842 legal contract documents a loan that is outstanding between one James Wheeler and the estate of Horatio McLester for the sum of $430.00. The estate is represented by a W. W. McLester. The contract states that a W. W. Hendrick is the guarantor of the note. Of particular interest is the security that Wheeler has given for the note, which is transcribed here: “... To which note W. W. Hendrick is security and was given for a negro woman named Daphne and her child about six years old named Hannah…”In the note, Wheeler is attempting to retrieve his slaves but he must first repay the debt. Failure to repay the debt would permit McLester, after a 30 day waiting period, to sell the woman and her child at the local courthouse in Talladega County. Talladega County is in central Alabama and was created from lands seized from the local Creek Indian tribe. The area was prime agricultural land and home to many plantations. The economy was very much based on slave labour. Following the terms of the contract are two attestations signed by the local County Clerk confirming the legitimacy of the agreement. Our informal research has not been able to find any biographical information about the individuals named in the contract. For a social historian, this is an excellent primary document referring to one of the most significant aspects of American society at the time and a direct precursor to the Civil War. This remarkable document measures 12.5 inches by 7.75 inches. It is a 4-page document created from a single sheet of paper that had been folded lengthwise. It is 100% complete. The document is in overall good condition but is fragile given its age and folds. The handwriting is quite clear and legible. ; Manuscripts; 4to 11" - 13" tall; 4 pages; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

Keywords: Slavers Slavery Americana