This was the condition of "the land of the free" 200 years ago.

Estate sale for negroes and slaves....

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A Slave named MARY,

Says she belongs to Lewis Blake, residing near Abbeville Court House, (S C) She is 5 feet 1 inch high, and appears to be about 16 years of age. The said Slave not having been claimed by her owner, will be sold for the payment of Work House fees and charges.

Conditions cash; the purchaser to pay for Sheriff's Bill of Sale.

W. LAVAL, City Sheriff.

November 1826




source: The Charleston Mercury Nov 17 1826 • Charleston, Charleston County, South Carolina, USA

full page of archived newspaper