Southampton County Virginia USGenWeb Archives Court.....Southampton Insurrection, 1831
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Southampton County Virginia USGenWeb Archives Court Records
Proceedings against those charged in the Southampton Insurrection,
Aug 1831 - Nov 1831
[Southampton Co. Court Minute Book, 1830-1835]
[p.] 72
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Summoned and held for the County of
Southampton at the Courthouse on the 31.st day of August 1831 for the trail [sic; 'trial']
of Daniel a negro man Slave the property of Richard Porter, Jack the
property of Everett Bryant, Moses the property of Thomas Barrow, Tom
the property of Caty Whitehead, Jack late the property of Caty
Whitehead, Andrew late the property of Caty Whitehead, Davy late
the property of Elizabeth Turner, Stephen the property of Thomas
Ridley, and Curtis the property of Thomas Ridley, charged with fe=
loniously Consulting, advising & conspirnig [sic; 'conspiring'] with each other and divers
other Slaves to rebel and make insurrection and making insurrection and
taking the lives of divers free white persons of this Commonwealth _
Present. Jeremiah Cobb, James D. Massenburg, Alexander P. Peete
James Trezvant and Orris A. Browne. Gent. Justices
Meriweather B. Brodnax attorney for the Commonwealth filed an
Information against the prisoners above named. ["and the Court doth assign" struck]
["Walter C. Parker Esq. Atto at Law to defend the prisoners" struck]. And there=
upon Daniel a negro man Slave the property of Richard Porter in the
said Information mentioned was brought into Court and Set to the Bar in
and the Court doth assign Walter C. Parker Esq Atto at Law to defend the prisoner
^ the prisoner
Custody of the Jailor of this County ^ and ^ being duly arraigned of the
premises pleaded not guilty to the Information, and Levi Waller a
witness on behalf of the Commonwealth was sworn and deposed as follows
That on monday the 22.d August 1831 a number of negroes, say between,
40 and 50, came to the house of the witness mounted on horse back and
swords
armed with guns ^ and other weapons _ the Witness and all his family
witness
attempted to make their escape _ and the ^["prisoner" struck] did make his escape
but did not proceede far from his house before he hid himself in sight
of the house where he could see nearly all things that transpired at the
named Aaron &Sam
house._ That the witness saw the prisoner Daniel & two other negroes ^ go
and a Small girl
into a Log house, where the witnesses wife ^ had attempted to Secrete themselves
he saw the negroes come out of the house and the prisoner Daniel had his
witness
the ["prisoner" struck"] then made for a swamp ["near" struck] farther from the house and was pursued
by two of the negroes but they did not overtake him
the witnesses wifes, scissors chain in his hand ^ _ after the negroes had left
the witnesses house, the witness returned to the house and found his wife &
the Small girl ["were murdered" struck] as well as many other members of his family
murdered and an infant child mortally wounded who died the Wednesday
evening following.
Nathaniel Francis also a witness for the Commonwealth was Sworn
and deposed in the following facts _ That a number (say between 50 &
on
60 free white persons were murdered ^ Sunday night the 21.st & Monday
morning the 22.d day of August 1831. by a number of negroes, and
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 73
it was generally believed that there was insurrection among the negroes of
this County.-
Sampson C. Reese also a witness for the Commonwealth being sworn Says
that he was in company with a number of other gentlemen and in pursuit of
from report
a company of negroes who were ^ in a State of insurrection in this County _
that they came up with the insurgents at Mr. James W. Parkers _ the first
negro he Saw after getting to Mr. Parkers gate was the prisoner at the bar
on Dr. Musgraves horse _ the witness shot at the prisoner._ the prisoner had
no arms.- that the witness saw _
Richard Porter a witness on behalf of the prisoner being Sworn _ Says.
he was told the prisoner had surrendered himself and was going to his
the witnesses house _ and the prisoner was at home Monday morning _ he saw
nothing uncommon about the prisoner.
The Court after hearing the testimony and on due consideration thereof are
unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form
and it being demanded of him if any thing for himself he had or knew to Say why the Court
should not proceede to pronounce Judgment against him and nothing being offered or alledged in delay of
as in the information against him is set forth.^. judgment, it is considered by
the Court that the prisoner be hanged by the neck until he be dead and that
execution of this judgment be done upon him the said Daniel by the Sheriff of
this County, on Monday the 5.th day of September next between the hours
of ten oClock in the forenoon and two oClock in the afternoon of the same
day at the usual place of execution. And thereupon the prisoner is remanded
to Jail. Memo: The Court value the said Slave Daniel to the Sum of
one hundred dollars.
#Absent Jeremiah Cobb & Alex:P. Peete. Present Robert Goodwin & James W. Parker _ Gent
Moses late the property of Thomas Barrow was Set to the bar in custody of the
Jailor of this County ["Court" altered] and being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to
the Information. And on the motion of the said Moses by William C. Parker
his Attorney appointed by the Court to defend him, his trial is adjourned till to-
morrow. And thereupon the said prisoner is remanded to Jail _
Absent Robert Goodwin Present. Alex:P. Peete. Gent:
Tom late the property of Caty Whitehead named in the said Information was
then Set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this Court and being arraigned
of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information. and ["the Court doth assign" struck]
James S. French Esq: attorney at Law is by the Court appointed to defend
the prisoner; And thereupon the Court after hearing the testimony are
of opinion and doth accordingly order that the said Tom be discharged
from further prosecution for the said supposed Offence.
Jack late the property of Caty Whitehead named in the said Information was
then Set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County and being arraigned
of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information. Whereupon for reasons
[page break]
[p.] 74
appearing to the Court the trial of the said Jack is adjourned till
to morrow
Ordered that this Court be adjourned till to morrow morning Eight
oClock.
J.D. Massenburg
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjournment and held for
the County of Southampton on The first day of September 1831. for the trial
Moses a slave late the property of Thomas Barrow.
of ^ Jack late the property of Caty Whitehead, Andrew late the property of
Caty Whitehead, Davy late the property of Elizabeth Turner, Stephen the
property of Thomas Ridley, Curtis the property of Thomas Ridley and Jack
the property of Everitt Bryant. charged with having on the 22.d day of
feloniously
August 1831, at this County ^ Consulted, advised & Conspired with each
other and with divers other Slaves to rebel and make insurrection and for
making insurrection and taking the lives of divers free white persons of this
Commonwealth _
Present, Carr Bowers. James D. Massenburg, James W. Parker
James Trezvant and Orris A. Browne. Gent. Justices
[margin notes] Record copied &
Sent by express
Friday Morning.
2.d Septem: 1831_
Jack a negro slave late the property of Caty Whitehead who hath been
heretofore arraigned and pleaded not guilty to the information filed against the
Said Jack. and others., was again led to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this
County, and Venus a negro slave was sworn charged and examined as a Witness
for the Commonwealth and deposes as follows. That the prisoner Jack. and one
named Andrew the witnesses
other slave of M.rs Whitehead ^ came to her ^ Masters house (Mr. Rich.d Porters) on
&said all the white people were killed
Monday before the last about 9 oClock in the morning ^ and enquired ["for" struck]
if the negroes had killed their white people there, she told them they had not, for they
["the People and she informed them they were not at home" struck], they then enquired
were gone before the negroes. got there there
where the black people were (meaning that had been ^ and were in
gone
insurrection) she told them that they had ^, the prisoner and Andrew - were going to
both
join the insurgents they were ^ on one horse
Hubbard a slave being charged and Sworn_ Says the negroes came to his
Mistresses and murdered her and family. that the prisoner and two other negroes
the prisoner & Andrew
belonging to his mistress went from home, aftersometime ^ returned. and asked
if the negroes were gone _ and the prisoner and Andrew caught a horse and
rode off. the witness thought they went to join the insurgents. the prisoner
appeared to be
^ Much distressed.
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 75
Wallace a negro Slave being charged and Sworn. as a Witness on behalf of the
prisoner. States. that he was at home at the house of his Mistress M.rs Caty
Whitehead, when a band of insurgent negroes rode up., Jack and Andrew
ran off before any murder was Committed_ went off and eturned Several
and said they had been to M.r Booths & M.r Powells, the prisoner & andrew appeared
hours after. much distressed ^ greatly grieved. but took a horse and rode off -
Thomas Hathcock afree man of Colour being charged &Sworn as a Witness
for the prisoner _ Says the prisoner and Andrew came to his house, asked
what they Should do, much grieved _ went with him to Several houses -
George
^ ["John" struck] Booth also a Witness for the prisoner. being Sworn. says he found
the prisoner and Andrew at his house, they came when ["when" struck] called very
humble, and much grieved _ they went with him to the Cross keys_ and were
there taken into Custody _
["Hubbard a negro Slav" struck]
The Court after hearing the testimony and the prisoner by James S.
French Esq: assigned Counsel for the prisoner in his defence, are unanim=
ously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the infor=
mation against him is set forth. and it being demanded of the prisoner if any
thing for himself he had or knew to Say why the Court should not proceede to
pronounce judgment against him and nothing being Offered or alledged in
delay of Judgment, it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken
hence to the place from whence he came there to be Safely kept until Monday
instant
the twelfth day of September ["next" struck], on which day between the hours of
nine oClock in the forenoon and two oClock in the afternoon. the prisoner
is to be taken ["to be taken" struck] by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and
there be hanged by the neck until he is dead. And the Court values the
said Jack to the sum of four hundred and fifty dollars __ And the Court
for Sufficient reasons appearing doth recommend to the Governor to Commute the punishment
of the prisoner_
[margin notes] Record Copied &
Sent by express
Friday Morning.
Sep: 2.d 1831_
- Andrew a negro Slave late the property of Caty Whitehead was Set
to the bar in Custody of the Jailor of this County and being arraigned plead=
ed not guilty to the information, was again led and Venus a negro slave was charged and
Sworn as a Witness for the Commonwealth, says that the prisoner &
Jack a slave of M.rs Whitehead came to her Masters (Richard Porters, house on
the Monday before the last, about 9 oClock, in the morning and Said all the
white people were killed and enquired where the black people were -
(meaning the negroes that had been there and were in insurrection) She told
[page break]
[p.] 76
them they were gone. the prisoner and Jack said they were going on
after them, that the negroes had left word for them to go on after them
and they did not know what else to do, and they went off and the witness
understood that the prisoner and Jack were going to join the insurgents _
they were on one horse.
Hubbard a Slave was charged and Sworn _ Says the negroes came
to his mistresses and murdered her and family _ that the prisoner and two
other negroes belonging to his mistress went from home, after sometime the
prisoner and Jack and asked if the negroes were gone. and the
prisoner and .Jack caught a horse and rode off, the witness thought they
went off to join the insurgents. the prisoner appeared to be much distressed.
Whereupon the Court after hearing the testimony and the prisoner by James S.
unanimously
French his Counsel assigned him by the Court in his defence, are ^ of opinion that the
prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is set
forth. and it being demanded of the prisoner if any thing for himself he had or
knew to say why the Court should not proceede to pronounce judgment against
him according to Law and nothing being Offered or alledged in delay of Judg=
ment. it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the place
from whence he came, there to be Safely kept until Monday the twelfth day of
September Instant on which day between the hours of ten oClock in the
forenoon and two oClock in the afternoon. the prisoner is to be taken by the
Sheriff to the usual place of execution, and there be hanged by the neck until
he be dead. And the Court doth value the said slave Andrew to the sum
of four hundred dollars. And the Court for Sufficient reasons Shewn doth recom=
mend to the Governor to commute the punishment of the prisoner.
Carr Bowers. Robert Goodwin}
Absent James D. Massenburg Present. Alexander P. Peete.} Gent:
[margin notes] Record Copied &Sent
by express Sep:
2.d 1831.
Moses late the property of Thomas Barrow who hath heretofore been arraigned and
pleaded not guilty to the information was again Set to the bar in custody of the Jailor
of this Court and Shadrach Futrell a witness sworn in behalf of the Common
wealth, Says that about twenty five negroes made an attack on Doctor
on Tuesday morning the 22.d August 1831.
Blunts ^ a little after day break when it was light, that he Witness was
Standing at the portch when he Saw them coming in at the gate about
Seventy five or eighty yards off; the prisoner rode foremost within
thirty feet of the porch dismounted and charged a negro girl with a
little child into the Garden _ that he the Witness is positive the
prisoner is the man _ that the prisoner remained in the garden
about fifteen or Sixteen minutes until he was taken _ the others being
fired on and dispersed while he was charging the woman & child
Frank a negro Slave ["being sworn & charged as a witness for the" struck]
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 77
["Commonwealth" struck] pursued the prisoner into the garden and took him and
delivered him to the Witness, he was then Secured and Sent to jail _
the negroes were all mounted and prisoner was the only negro who went
into the garden_ that the prisoner was lame and Could not run_ the
Witness says that it is impossible that the person who jumped into the
garden could have been the one who was Shot _
Mary a Slave being Sworn and charged as a Witness for the Comlth:
Says that when the alarm was given of the attack made by the negroes
on her Master Doctor Blunts house._ her Mistress M.rs Blunt told her to
take her child and make her escape with her, that she ran down in
the garden, became so fatigued and frightened that she put the child
down and told her to get in the bushes _ that she then returned to+
ward the house and met a negro man, who asked her who she was
that he appered to be a Small man, with a light coloured Cap. on
Frank a slave being sworn as a Witness on behalf of the Commlth.
Says that the prisoner was taken in the garden fifteen or twenty
minutes after ["was" struck] the attack on Doctor Blunts house, by the Witness
and brought up with a cap on Such as described by Mary _ that
he the Witness was Standing in the yard when the negroes rode up
that the foremost of them had on light breeches and the others
dark ones _ that the foremost one held up his gun flashed it
threw it down. dismounted and jumped. over the garden fence
Saying .Oh god dam you have I got you to Mary and two or
three Women who wer [sic] running in the garden_ that he was
looking in the garden found the prisoner Concealed in the corner
of a house, took him and brought him up.- that his breeches cor=
responded with those which the foremost man had on _ that the
prisoner Said that Newet Drew had Sent him to M.rs Vaughans
to See what the news was _ that before he got there the negroes took
him and forced him ["them" altered] to join them _
Hark a Slave was charged and Sworn as a witness for the Dft
and stated that he was one of the insurgents that the prisoner joined
them voluntarily _ that they were together Some time that he was in
the Company that went to D.r Blunts. but that the Witness did not
get to the house, but the prisoner went on and he saw nothing
Dalsy a Slave was charged and Sworn on behalf of the prisoner
who states that she lived at M.rs Vaughan _ that the prisoner
came there Monday evening the day before the attack was made
[page break]
[p.] 78
at Doct. Blunts the next morning, that after being there about
three quarteers of an hour, the insurgents were seen Coming about
three hundred yards off _ that the prisoner remained until they
Came up altho' he was mounted _ that they rquired the prisoner to
go with them which he objected to that they threatened him gave
him arms and he went off with them. witness thinks prisoner could
have escaped while the insurgents were coming up.
Newit Drew was sworn and examined_ who stated that he gave
no such orders to the prisoner as he spoke of but on the Contrary
that he the witness met with the prisoner shortly before he was at M.rs
Vaughans and ordered him to go home_ _
Whereupon after hearing the testimony and the prisoner by his
Counsel, the Court are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner
is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him
is Set forth. and it being demanded of him if any thing for him=
self he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceede to pro=
nounce judgment against him according to Law. and nothing
being offered or alledged in delay of Judgment it is considered by the
Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the place from whence he
came where he is to be safely kept until Monday the fifth day of
September instant, on which day between the hours of ten oClock in
the forenoon and two oClock in the afternoon he is to be taken by
the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and there be hanged by
the neck until he be dead. And the Court doth value the said
Slave Moses to the Sum of four hundred dollars _
# ["Ordered that this Court be adjourned till to morrow morning
Eight oClo" struck]
-
late
Jack the property of Everett Bryant. Davy ^ the property of Eliza=
beth Turner & Stephen & Curtis the property of Thomas Ridley who
stand committed to the Jail of this County upon a charge of conspir=
ing to rebel and make insurrection. were this day brought into Court
and for reasons appearing to the Court the trial of the said prisoners
is adjourned till to morrow -
Ordered that this Court be adjourned till to morrow morning
nine oClock.
# Robt. Goodwin
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 79.
At a Court summoned and held for the County of Southampton at the
Courthouse on the first day of September 1831. for the trial of Jacob and
Isaac the property of George H. Charlton of the County of Greensville, for
consulting advising and conspiring.to rebel and make insurrection -
Prest. Robert Goodwin James W. Parker. James Trezvant, Orris A.
Browne and Alexander P. Peete. Gent:
The above named Jacob & Isaac were set to the bar in custody of the
Jailor of this County and for reasons appearing to the Court the trial of
the said Jacob & Isaac is adjourned till to morrow _ and thereupon they
are remanded to Jail _
@
Ordered that this Court be adjourned till to morrow morning nine
oClock.
Robt. Goodwin
At a Court summoned and held for the County of Southampton on
1831
the first day of September ^ for the trial of Nathan the property of
Benjamin Blunts est: of this County. & Nathan, Tom & Davy the
property of Nathaniel. Francis of this County. for making insurrection
Present. Robert Goodwin, James W. Parker, James Trezvant
Alexander P. Peete & Orris A. Browne. Gent.
The above named Nathan, Nathan, Tom and Davy were set
to the bar in Custody of the Jailor of this County, and for reasons ap=
pearing to the Court the trial of the said prisoners is adjourned till
to morrow, and thereupon they are remanded to Jail _
Ordered that this Court be adjourned till to morrow morning Nine
oClock.
Robt. Goodwin
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjournment and held for
the County of Southampton on the 2.d day of September 1831 for the trial of Davy
late the property of Elizabeth Turner, Stephen the property of Thomas Ridley, Curtis
the property of Thomas Ridley, & Jack the property of Everitt Bryant, charged
with having feloniousley on the 22.d day of August 1831 at this County, consult=
ed, advised and Conspired with each other and with Divers other Slaves to rebel
and make insurrection and for making insurrection and taking the lives of
divers free white persons of this Commonwealth_
Present. Thomas Pretlow, Samuel B. Hines, James W. Parker,
James Trezvant & Alexander P. Peete Gent:
late
The Court being thus constituted the above named Davy ^ the property of
Elizabeth Turner was set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County
[page break]
[p.] 80
[margin notes] Record Copied &
Sent by express
Sep. 4.th 1831.
and Thomas R. Gray is by the Court appointed Counsel for the
prisoner in his defence, and thereupon the prisoner being arraigned of the
premises pleaded not guilty to the Information. and Hubbard a slave
was being Sworn and charged as a Witness for the Commonwealth, Says that he
is the property of the late M.rs Caty Whitehead, that a company of insurgent
negroes came to his mistresses and murdered her and family _ that the prison=
er Davy was in the company with them _ the witness is possitive [sic] that the
prisoner was there because he has known him well for Several years &
Spoke to him.
Moses a Slave being charged and Sworn as a Witness for the prisoner
Says that he was with the insurgent negroes that went to M.rs Elizabeth
Turners where the prisoner lived, and murdered M.rs Turnerand fam=
ily that the prisoner took no part in murdering his mistress and family _
the prisoner was told by the insurgents if he did not join them he
Should die there, the prisoner put on his clothes and went of [sic; 'off'] with the
insurgents _ the company divided and some went to Henry Bryants and
Some to M.rs Whiteheads the witness was with those that went to M.rs
Whiteheads and the prisoner was one of the Company that went to M.r Bryants
witness says prisoner was not at M.rs Whiteheads._
Nathan a Slave being charged and Sworn as a Witness for the pris=
oner, Says he was with the insurgent negroes above mentioned, that the pri=
oner was with the Company who went to M.r Bryants, (they were on foot,) but
came to the other party at M.rs Whiteheads _ the prisoner came with ^ _ M.rs White=
head & family were murdered before the party that went by M.r Bryants
Came up _.witness says the prisoner was at M.rs Whiteheads _ the witness
heard one of the party say that M.r Bryant and family were murdered.
The witness further says that the prisoner told a negro belonging to John C.
Turner that he had been forced .to join and he the negro Should also Join.
The Court after hearing the testimony _and from all the circumstances
of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner
and form as in the information against him is set forth. and it being
demanded of the prisoner if any thing for himself he had or knew to
Say why the Court here should not proceed to pronounce judgment
against him according to Law. and nothing being offered or alledged
in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be
taken hence to the place from whence he came where he is to be safely
kept until Monday the twelfth day of September instant on which day
between the hours of ten oClock in the forenoon and two oClock in
the afternoon the prisoner is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 81
place of execution and there be hanged by the neck until he be dead_
And the Court doth value the said Slave Davy to the Sum of four hundred
and fifty dollars _
# Absent. James Trezvant, James W. Parker and Alexander P. Peete Gent:
Present. Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers & Willia B. Goodwyn _ Gent_
[margin notes] Record Cop.d &Sent
by Express. Sep: 4.th
1831.
Curtis a Slave the property of Thomas Ridley was Set to the bar in custody of
the Jailor of this County. and the Court doth [assign] William C. Parker Esq: Counsel for the
prisoner in his defence, and the said Curtis being arraigned of the premises pleaded not
guilty to the information _ and John C. Turner a witness for the Commonwealth was
Sworn and examined Says that, at ,8 or 9 oClock tuesday morning 23.d August 1831
he met the prisoner and another near Dick Dardens mounted on mules_ prisoner
admitted that he lived at Major Ridley quarter that he was with the in=
Surgents at that place Monday night _ that he had been with the party that
visited Cap.t Harris's the Second time _ that he was on his way home _ witness states
that the place where he met prisoner ["he" struck] was in the opposite direction from his
home _ that he the Witness took him to the Cross keys. where the prisoner. ad=
mitted that the leader of the insurgents told him to go to Newsums and
Allens quarter to get other negroes to join them and that he was on the way
for that purpose _ that the prisoner seemed to have been drinking, and he
told the witness that the insurgents gave him drink_ that the prisoner and the
were
other negro gave the Same Confession _ that no promises or threats ["ade" struck] made to
them _ That the prisoner made no effort to escape and that if they had they
could easily have been Shot as witness and his party were well mounted &
armed _ Witness asked the prisoner how he expected to get M.r Newsums
prisoner answered that Nat (the head of the insurgents) had told him the
white people were too much alarmed to interrupt them
Scipio a Slave Sworn on behalf of the prisoner_ Says that he was at home
when the insurgents came up._ they took Curtis with them and he did not
appear to go willingly_ that Curtis the prisoner could not have escaped because
the insurgents Surrounded him.
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are
unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in
the information against them is set forth and it being demanded of the
prisoner if any thing for himself he had or knew to say why the Court here
Should not proceede to pronounce judgment against him according to Law. and
nothing being offered or alledged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court
that the prisoner be taken hence to the place from whence he came There
to be safely and securely kept until Monday the twelfth day of September
Instant on which day between the hours of ten oClock in the forenoon &
two o.Clock in the afternoon the prisoner is to be taken by the
[page break]
[p.] 82
Sheriff to the usual place of execution and there be hanged by the neck
until he be dead. And the Court value the said Slave Curtis to the sum
of four hundred dollars _
[margin notes] #
Record Cop.d &
sent by express
Sep: 4.th 1831.
Stephen a Slave the property of Thomas Ridley was then set to the bar
in custody of the Jailor of this County and the Court doth assign William
C. Parker esq: Counsel for the prisoner in his defence, and ["the" struck] thereupon
the prisoner was duly arraigned of the premises and pleaded not guilty to
the information, and John C. Turner a Witness for the Commonwealth
being sworn says that 8. or 9 oClock tuesday morning 23.d August 1831 he
met the prisoner and another near Dick Dardens mounted on mules _
prisoner admitted that he lived at Major Ridleys quarter _ that he was with
the insurgents at that place Monday night _ that he had been with the
party that visited Cap.t Harris's the second time- that he was on his way
home _ witness states that the place where he met prisoner was in the
opposite direction from his home _ that he the witness took them to the
Cross keys where the prisoner admitted that the leader of the insurgents
told him to go to Newsums and Allens quarter to get other negroes to join
them and that he was on the way for that purpose _ that the prisoner
Seemed to have been drinking and told the witness the insurgents gave
him drink _ that the prisoner and the other negro gave the Same _
Confession _ that no promises or threats were made to them _ That the
prisoner made no effort to escape and that if they had they could have
easily been Shot as witness and his party were well mounted and armed
Witness asked him how he expected to get M.r Newsums, prisoner an=
swered that Nat (the head of the insurgents) told him the white people
were too much alarmed to interrupt them_
Scipio a Slave was Sworn and charged as a Witness for the prisoner._ and
Says that he was at home when the insurgents came up. they took Stephen
with them and he did not appear to go willingly _ that the prisoner could
not have escaped because the insurgents Surrounded them.
The Court after hearing the testimony and all the circumstances of the case
are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form
as in the Information against him is set forth and it being demanded of the
prisoner if any thing for himself he had or knew to Say why the Court should
not proceede to pronounce judgment against him according to Law and nothing
being offered or alledged in delay of Judgment it is considered by the Court that
the prisoner be taken hence to the place from whence he came, there to be safely
and securely kept until Monday the twelfth day of September instant
on which day between the hours of ten oClock in the forenoon and two
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 83
o.Clock in the afternoon the prisoner is to be taken by the Sheriff of this County
to the usual place of execution and there be hanged by the neck until he be dead
And the Court value the said Slave Stephen to the sum of four hundred and
fifty dollars.
#
Ordered that Richard Porter pay to William C. Parker the sum of ten
dollars for a fee for defending his slave Daniel who has been tried and convicted
of Conspiring to rebel and make insurrection.
-
Ordered that William C. Parker be allowed the sum of ten dollars for his fee
Moses
for defending a negro slave ["Tom" struck] belonging to the Estate of Thomas Barrow; to be
paid out of the said Barrows estate, charged with insurrection and murder.
-
Ordered that James S. French be allowed the sum of thirty dollars as his fee
for defending three negroes named Tom, Jack, & Andrew belonging to the Estate of
Caty Whitehead, charged with insurrection and murder.
Ordered that Thomas R. Gray be allowed the sum of ten dollars as his fee
for defending a Slave belonging to the Estate of Elizabeth Turner, named Davy
charged with insurrection and murder
-
Ordered that William C. Parker be allowed the sum of twenty dollars as
his fee for defending two negroes belonging to Thomas Ridley named Stephen &
Curtis charged with insurrection and murder
Jere. Cobb ~
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Continued by adjournment and held for the
County of Southampton on the Second day of September 1831 for the trial of Jacob
and Isaac negro men Slaves the property of George H. Charlton of the County of
Greensville, who stand charged with consulting, advising and Conspiring to rebel
and make insurrection _
Present. Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers, William B. Goodwyne, Thomas
Pretlow and Alexander P. Peete. Gent:
The Court being thus constituted ["the prisoner was set to the bar in custody of" struck]
["the keeper of the Jail of this County. and thereupon" struck] Meriweather B. Brodnax
Attorney for the Commonwealth filed an Information against the said Jacob and
Isaac, and thereupon the said Isaac was Set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of
this County and being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the Infor=
mation. James S. French esq is by the Court appointed Counsel for the prisoner
in his defence, and Nancy Parsons being sworn as a Witness for the Commonwealth
Says that she was on her way With her Sister to Belfield on the 22.d day of
August last _ that in passing by M.r Charlton's plantation in the upper end of
this County she saw several negroes standing near the road which road was
[page break]
[p.] 84
also near M.r Charlton's field _ that the prisoner was lying some distance
off out side of the field kicking up his heals _ that witness had heard of a
disturbance in the County but did not know of what character - heard that
the british were in the Country - Witness asked the prisoner he was not afraid
prisoner answered that he was not _ that if they came by he would join them &
assist in killing all the white people _ that if they Succeeded he would have as
much money as his master _
a Slave the property of George H. Charlton was examined as a Wit=
ness in behalf of the prisoner Said that the prisoner Said to Miss Parsons
if the negroes came that way he would join them and kill all the whites
and if he had been Set free two Courts ago this would not havehappened
prisoner offered to take Miss Parson's child and preserve it and father it.
says the prisoner was sick in the morning but news of the insurrection
brought him out _ the prisoner very head long _
The Court after hearing the testimony and all the circumstances of the case
are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and
form as in the information against him is set forth and it being demand=
ed of him if any thing for himself he had or knew to Say why the Court
should not proceede to pronounce judgment against him according to Law
and nothing being offered or alledged in delay of judgment it is considered
by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from whence he
came there to be safely and Securely kept until tuesday the 20.th day of
September instant ["between" struck] on which day between the hours of ten
oClock in the forenoon and two oClock in the afternoon the prisoner
is to be taken by the Sheriff of this County to the usual place of execution
by the neck
and there be hanged ^ until he be dead. And the Court values the said
Slave Isaac to the sum of three hundred dollars._ And the Court from
all the circumstances of the case doth recommend to the Governor to
Commute his punnishment to transportation _
#
Ordered that George H. Charlton pay to James S. French the sum of
ten dollars as a fee for defending his slave Isaac. And for reasons appearing
to the Court it is
^ Ordered that this Court be adjourned till the next County Court in course _
Benj Griffin
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 85
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Continued by adjournment and held for the
County of Southampton on the 2.d day of September 1831 for the trial of Nathan a
Slave the property of Benjamin Blunts Est: of this County, Nathan, Tom and
Davy Slaves the property of Nathaniel Francis. charged with making in=
surrection
Present. Benjamin Griffin, William B. Goodwyne, James D. Massen-
burg James W. Parker & Alexander P. Peete. Gent:
The Court being thus constituted the above named Nathan, Nathan, Tom
and Davy were brought into Court. Whereupon for reasons appearing to
the Court the trial of the said prisoners is adjairned [sic] till tuesday next and
thereupon they are remanded to jail.
Benj. Griffin
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Summoned and held for the County of
Southampton on the 2.d day of September 1831 for the trial of Hardy &
Isham negro men Slaves the property of Benjamni [sic] Edwards, charged
with Consulting advising and Conspiring to make insurrection and com=
mit murder _
Present. Benjamin Griffin, William B. Goodwyne, James D. Massen-
burg James W. Parker & Alexander P. Peete. Gent.
The Court being thus constituted the above named Hardy & Isham were
Set to the bar in Custody of the jailor of this County. Whereupon for rea=
Sons appearing to the Court the trial of the said prisoners is adjourned till
tuesday next and thereupon they are remanded to jail
Benj. Griffin
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Summoned and held for the County of
Southampton on Saturday the 3.d day of September 1831 for the trial of
Sam a negro man Slave belonging to [blank] Francis of this County charged
with insurrection and murder.
Present. Carr Bowers, William B. Goodwyne, Robert Goodwyn, James
Trezvant and Orris A. Browne. Gent: Justices.
[margin notes] Record Cop.d &Sent
by Express Sep:
4.th 1831.
The Court being thus constituted, Meriweather B. Brodnax Attorney prosecuting
for the Commonwealth filed an information against the said prisoner Sam,
and thereupon the said Sam was set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this
County and being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information, the
Court having appointed Thomas R. Gray esq. Counsel for the prisoner in his de=
fence, and Levi Waller a witness for the Commonwealth being Sworn Says
that the prisoner Same [sic] was one of the insurgent negroes that came to the Witnesses
house on Monday the 22.d day of August last. the Witness is positive that the
[page break]
[p.] 86
prisoner was present for he saw him there and he knew him well for
Several years. and he saw the prisoner go with others in the house in which the
witnesses family was murdered_
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case
are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as
in the information against him is alledged and it being demanded of him
if any thing for himself he had or knew to Say why the Court should not
proceede to pronounce judgment against him according to Law and :nothing
being offered or alledged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court
that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from whence he was taken
wherein he is to be securely kept until Friday the ninth day of September
instant on which day between the hours of ten oClock in the forenoon and.
two oClock in the afternoon of the same day the prisoner is to be taken by the
Sheriff of this County to the usual place of execution and there be hanged by the neck
until he be dead. And the Court value the said slave Sam to the sum
of four hundred dollars.
#
The Court doth allow Thomas R. Gray the sum of ten dollars as his fee
for defending the above prisoner Sam _
Carr Bowers,
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Summoned and held for the County
of Southampton on the 3.d day of September 1831 for the trial of Hark,
a negro man Slave the property of Joseph Travis's Est. Moses a boy. the property
of Joseph Travis's est. Davy the property of Levy Waller & Nelson the property
of Jacob Williams charged with insurrection
Present. Carr Bowers, William B. Goodwyne Robert Goodwyne
James Trezvant and Orris A. Browne. Gent:
The Court being thus constituted, Merewither B. Brodnax Attorney prosecuting
for the Commonwealth filed an information against the said Hark, Moses,
Davy and Nelson, Whereupon the said Hark was Set to the bar in custody
of the Jailor of this County, and the Court doth assign William C. Parker esq
[margin notes] Record Cop.d &Sent
by express Sep:
4.th 1831.
Counsel for the prisoner in his defence, and the prisoner being /arraigned of
the premises pleaded not guilty to the information, and Levi Waller was
Sworn as a Witness for the Commonwealth and Says that he saw the
prisoner Hark in his yard with a number of insurgent negroes on Monday
22.d August 1831 with a gun in his hands. that the prisoner acted as one of
the Company of insurgents _ he heard the rest of the insurgents call the
prisoner Capt. Moore_
Thomas Ridley a Witness for the Commonwealth being Sworn Says he
saw the prisoner after he was arrested at D.r Blunts in this County on the day
after the morning on which the attack was made by the insurgents at
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 87
D.r Blunts. _ that the prisoner admitted he was in the company that went
to D.r Blunts _ found a pocket book in the possession of the prisoner which. he
believed to have been Trajan Doyal _ the prisoner had. powder and shot and some
Silver in his pockets
The Court after hearing the testimony and all the circumstances of the case are
unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in
the information against him is set forth. and it being demanded of him if any
thing for himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceed to
pronounce judgment against him according to Law. and nothing being offered
or alledged in delay of Judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner Hark
be taken hence to the place from whence he came where he is to be securely confined
until Friday the ninth day of September Inst on which day between the hours
of ten oClock in the forenoon and two oClock in the afternoon he is to be taken by
the Sheriff to the usual place of execution, and there be hanged by the neck until he
be dead. And the Court value the said Slave to four hundred and fifty dollars_
[margin notes] #
Record Cop.d &Sent
by express Sep: 4.th
1831.
Nelson a negro man Slave belonging to Jacob Williams, was then set to the bar
in custody of the jailor of this County, and the Court doth assign James S. French Esq
Counsel for the prisoner in his defence, and the prisoner being arraigned of the
premises pleaded not guilty to the information_ and Jacob Williams a Witness for
the Commonwealth being Sworn Says he returned to his own home on the morning
on which the insurrection took place in this County, about eleven oClock, from some
business which had carried him out. _ he saw the prisoner, who is the witnesses slave,
dressed in his best clothes. from the manner of the prisoner at the time a suspi=
cion occured to the Witness that the prisoner had some intention of attacking him
witness had not heard of the insurrection _ witness went to the woods to measure
some timber _ returned in the evening and found that his family had been
murdered _ after remaining some time he saw the insurgents again approaching
and distinctly saw the prisoner among the foremost _ witness made his escape
and did not See the prisoner any more.
Caswell Worrell also a Witness being Sworn says he that he overlooks for
Jacob Williams the ower [sic; owner] of the prisoner _ that on thursday preceeding the monday
on which the insurrection broke out the prisoner told the witness that they
might look out and take care of themselves _ that something would happen
before long - that any body of his practice could tell these things_ that on
came
monday August 22.d he ^ in the morning by Jacob Williams's where the
prisoner resided and found him from home _ Went to the new ground where
the rest of the negroes were at work _ that at about one hour after the
prisoner came to the new ground dressed in his best clothes _ Complained that
he was too Sick to work _ put on his old clothes he had with him and
desired Witness to go to the house with him which he did and ["directed"? struck] returned
[page break]
[p.] 88
just before the insurgents arrived and believes the prisoner wished to
con
[? struck] witness home that he might be killed _
on which the insurrection took place in this County, about eleven oClock, from some
business which had carried him out. _ he saw the prisoner, who is the witnesses slave,
dressed in his best clothes. from the manner of the prisoner at the time a suspi=
cion occured to the WItness that the prisoner had some intention of attacking him
witness had not heard of the insurrection _ witness went to the woods to measure
some timber _ returned in the evening and found that his family had been
murdered _ after remaining some time he saw the insurgents again approaching
and distinctly saw the prisoner among the foremost _ witness made his escape
and did not See the prisoner any more.
Cynthia a Slave being charged and Sworn as a Witness States that on
Monday the 22.d of August last the prisoner came home early in the
seemingly
morning ^ very Sick. Went to his house, dressed himself very clean, while
the negroes were in the yard, came into the kitchen asked for some meat
took his Mistresses meat out of the pot _ Cut a piece off Said "Cynthia you
do not know me _ I do not know when you will see me again _ Steped [sic] over
the dead bodies without manifestation of grief_
Stephen a Slave being Sworn and charged Says he and M.r Edmund
Drewry went to Jacob Williams's on Monday the 22.d of August last for corn
while consulting about who Should go for a corn measure. M.r Drewry
Said "Lord who is that coming"; immediately the negroes rode up. killed M.r
Drewry, M.r Williams's wife and children _ told Nelson to go with them
he seemed unwilling to go _ but insisted upon dressing before he went _ was
forced to go with them _ lagged behind when he was guarded _ went to M.rs
Vaughans, but did not participate in the murder _ that the prisoner drank
with them and had his tickler filled by his own request
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances
of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in man=
ner and form as in the information against him is set forth and it
being demanded of him if any thing for himself he had or knew to say
why the Court Should not proceede to pronounce judgment against him
according to Law. and nothing being offered or alledged in delay of judg=
ment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the
jail from whence he came wherein he is to be securely confined until Friday
the ninth day of September Inst. on which day between the hours of ten
is to
oClock in the forenoon and two oClock in the afternoon he ^ be taken by
the Sheriff to the usual place of execution, and there be hanged by the neck
until he be dead.- And the Court values the said Slave Nelson to the
sum of four hundred dollars_
[margin notes] #
Record Cop.d &Sent
by express Sep: 4.th
1831.
Davy a negro man Slave the property of Levi Waller was then set to the
bar in custody of the Jailor of this County ["and the Court doth appoint William" struck]
D. Boyle" Counsel for the prisoner in his defence" struck], and the said prisoner
Davy being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the Information
and Levi Waller being sworn as a witness, Says that on monday the 22.d
of August 1831 a band of negroes came to his house, killed all his family
but that Davy the prisoner was not at the house._ he came up while the
negroes were there dressed himself clean_ drank with them, rode his masters
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 89.
horse off in good Spirits_ was called brother Clements by one of the company_
left here in great glee
Jarratt W. Judkins. being Sworn as a Witness _ says that Davy was caught on
Thursday night after the insurrection broke out _ and on Friday morning made
the following voluntary confession Viz. That he went with the negroes from his
masters _ was present where the families of Jacob Williams, & William Williams's
were murdered _ was also at M.rs Vaughans where the family was murdered
got drunk there _ Says that Capt. Nat in passing a house where some very
poor people lived Said he would not kill them because he thought no better
of themselves than they did of the negroes_
Jacob a Slave being sworn and charged _ says he saw the prisoner at W.m
Williams's _ and the prisoner was fully heard by William D. Boyle his Counsel
["and" struck]
The Court after hearing the testimony^ and from all the circumstances of the
case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form
as in the information against him is Set forth and it being demanded of him
if any thing for himself he had or knew to Say why the Court should not
proceed to pronounce judgment against him according to Law. and nothing being
offered or alledged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the
which
prisoner be taken hence to the jail from ^ he was taken therein he is to be Safely confin=
on which day
ed until Friday the ninth day of September instant ^ between the hours of ten
oClock in the forenoon and two oClock in the afternoon he is to be taken by the
Sheriff of this County to the usual place of execution and there be hanged by the
neck until he be dead _ And the Court values the said Slave Davy to the
Sum of three hundred dollars_
#
Absent Robert Goodwin. Present. Benjamin Devany Gent:
Absent [erased] Present. [erased] Gent.
Moses a negro man Slave the property of Joseph Travis was Set to the bar in
custody of the Jailor of this County Whereupon for good causes shewn it is ordered
that the Court be adjourned till thursday the 8.th day of the present mont and the
prisoner is remanded to Jail
Carr Bowers,
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Summoned and held for the County of South=
ampton on the 3.d day of September 1831. for the trial of Nat a negro man
Slave the property of Edmund Turner dec.d and Jack a negro man Slave the
property of William Reese dec.d charged with making insurrection_
Present. Jeremiah Cobb, Benjamin Devany, William B. Goodwyne,
James Trezvant, & Orris A. Browne. Gent:
The Court being thus constituted Merewither B. Brodnax Attorney prosecu=
ting for the Commonwealth filed an Information against the above named
[page break]
[margin notes] [p.] 90
Record Cop.d &Sent
by express Sep:
4.th 1831.
Nat and Jack and thereupon the said Jack the negro man Slave the
property of William Reese dec.d was Set to the bar in custody of the Jailor
of this County and the Court doth assign Thomas R. Gray esq. Counsel for the
prisoner in his defence, and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded
not guilty to the information. and
Moses a Slave being Sworn and charged as a Witness for the Commonwealth
Says that the prisoner came to the house of the witnesses master, M.r Joseph
Travis, on Sunday night preceding the murder of M.r Travis & family _
Complained of being sick and wanted to go home but said Hark would not
let him go _ Witness did not know exactly when the prisoner came, but saw -
him first with his head between his hands resting on his knees _ Hark
had Jacks sister for a wife _ Witness says his master M.r Travis &family
went abroad on that day and did not get back until it was dark _
The prisoner was in the kitchen when the witness went to Sleep _ and when
witness awoke a few hours after the prisoner was in the yard Sick._
the Witness says Jack went off with the negroes who came to M.r Travis's &
murdered him and family _ the negroes went from M.r Travis's to Salathial
Francis and M.rs Reeses they made the prisoner go with them_
Thomas C. Jones being Sworn as a Witness Say's [sic] that _ when the prisoner
was brought here in custody he was delivered to him. and made the fol=
lowing Voluntary Confession _ That on Sunday prededing the insurrection
Hark. one of the insurgents came to him and asked him if he would go
with him, Hark took the prisoner to a place where Several other
negroes were assembled and a dinner prepared _ that they explained
to him the witness that they intended to rise and kill all the white peo=
one of the Company.
ple _ that ["the prisoner" struck] objected and said their number was too few. Hark
repplied [sic] and Said as they went on and killed the whites the blacks would
join them_ and it appearing to be necessary for the prisoners defence
that other witnesses should be in attendance the Court doth suspend
further proceeding in this case _
[margin notes] [Record] Certified
[Sep.] 4.th 1831.
Nat a negro man Slave the property of Edwin Turners Est was then
Set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County, and the Court doth
assign William C. Parker Counsel for the prisoner in his defence, and
the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the
information. and Mary T. Barrow being sworn as a Witness says
that the prisoner was one of the negroes that came to her husbands house
on the day that her husband was murdered that the prisoner fired off
a gun in the yard and threw it down, That she knows the prisoner he
lived at her house the last year and she was within thirty steps of
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 91
of him when he fired off the gunn _
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the
case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner &
form as in the information against him is Set forth and it being demanded
of him if any thing for himself he had or knew to Say why the Court
Should not proceede to pronounce judgment against him according to Law
and nothing being offered or alledged in delay of Judgment it is consid=
ered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the place from
whence he came therein he is to be safely confined until Friday the ninth
day of September instant on which day between the hours of ten oClock
in the forenoon and two oClock in the afternoon he is to be taken by the
Sheriff of this County to the usual place. of execution and there be hanged
by the neck until he be dead. And the Court value the said Slave
Nat to the Sum of four hundred and fifty dollars.
#
For good Cause shewn this Court is adjourned till Monday the
fifth day of September instant nine oClock A.M.
Carr Bowers,
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Continued by adjournment and held for the
County of Southampton on the 5.th day of September 1831 for the trial of Jack
a negro man the property of the Estate of William Reese dec.d charged with
having on the 22.d day of August 1831 at this County, with force and arms
feloniously, consulted advised and conspired with divers other slaves to rebel &
make insurrection, and for making insurrection and for plotting to take the
lives of divers free white persons, citizens of this Commonwealth_
Present Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers, William B. Goodwyne, James
Trezvant and Orris A. Browne Gent.
[margin notes] Record Certified
Sep: 8.th 1831
The prisoner Jack was again Set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this
County, and Sampson C. Reese of full age being sworn as a witness, and confirms
the evidence given in this case by Thomas C. Jones, ["and" struck] further that the prisoner
when arrested had on a pair of shoes and socks which the Witness believes to
be William Reeses who has been murdered.
Jordan Barnes being sworn as a Witness, says On monday the 22.d day
of August last he left his house in the morning and went into his field
while from the house the Witness heard of the murders which had been com=
mitted and returned home and the prisoner who had been absent from home
for Several days, by permission of the Witness to see his Master William
Reese had returned. the prisoner ["had" struck] informed Witness of the murder of
M.rs Whitehead and family and Said that he the prisoner had been
[page break]
[margin notes] [p.] 92
informed of the murder of M.rs Whitehead &family by one of M.rs
Whiteheads negroes
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances
of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in man=
ner and form as in the information against him is Set forth and it benig [sic; being]
demanded of the prisoner if any thing for himself he had or knew to Say
why the Court Should not proceede to pronounce judgment against him
according to Law and nothing being offered or alledged in delay of judgment
it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the place
from whence he came there to be safely confined until Monday the 12.th
day of September instant, on which day between the hours of ten oClock
in the forenoon and two oClock in the afternoon he is to be taken by the
Sheriff to the usual place of execution and there be hanged by the ["head" struck] neck
until he be dead. and the Court doth value the said Slave to the Sum
by a majority of one.
of three hundred and fifty dollars. And the Court ^ from all the
Circumstances of the case doth recommend to the Governor to Commute the
punnishment of the prisoner to transportation _
#
The Court doth allow to Thomas R. Gray. esq: the sum of ten dollars [as] a
fee for defending Jack a negro slave belonging to the estate of William Reese
#
and to William C. Parker the sum of ten dollars as a fee for defending
Turners.
Nat belonging to Edmund ["Reese" struck] est:
Jere, Cobb
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Summoned and held for the County of South=
ampton on the 5.th day of September 1831 for the trial of Dred a negro man
Slave the property of the Estate of Nathaniel Francis of this County for making insurrection
and conspiring [to take] the lives of sundry free white persons of this Commonwealth
Present, Carr Bowers, James D. Massenburg, Benjamin Griffin, Orris
A. Browne and James Trezvant. Gent_
[margin notes] Record Certified
Sep: 8/1831
The Court being thus constituted Merewether B. Brodnax Attorney prosecuting
for the Commonwealth filed an information against the above named Dred, and
thereupon the said Dred was set to the bar in custody of [the Jailor of] this County and benig
arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information and
Levi Waller of full age being sworn as a witness _ States that the prisoner was
one of the insurgents who came to his house on Monday 22.d August 1831 and
killed his family _ Witness was near him and knew him Well _ prisoner
was mounted armed with a gunn or /rifle _ Witness does not know which
Witness Cannot be mistaken in his person and prisoner rode up on one
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 93
Side of the fence in Search of him while he was concealed on the other _
that he afterwards crept to within about 60 yards of the house and saw the prisoner drinking with the others
And the prisoner was heard in his defence by James S. French his Counsel
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the
case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form
as in the information against him is Set forth and it being demanded of him
if any thing for himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not
proceede to pronounce judgment against him according to Law and nothing
being offered or alledged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that
the prisoner be taken hence to the place from whence he came where he is to
be Securely confined until Monday the twelfth day of September instant on
which day between the hours of ten oClock in the forenoon and two oClock in
the afternoon the prisoner is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of
execution and there be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the
Court values the said slave Dred to the sum of four hundred dollars.
The Court doth allow James S.French Esq: the sum of ten dollars for his
fee for defending the above named Slave _
#
Carr Bowers,
At a Call. Court Summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the
fifth day of September 1831 for the trial of Arnold Artis a free man
of Colour charged with Consulting, advising and Conspiring to rebel
Present. Jeremiah Cobb, James D. Massenburg, Benjamin Griffin
James Trezvant and James W. Parker. Gent:
The Court being thus constituted the above named Arnold Artis was set to the
bar in custody of the Jailor of this County and Sundry witnesses were Sworn
and examined and the prisoner by his Counsel fully heard. The Court after
hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are of opinion
that the prisoner ought to be discharged from further prosecution for the said
Offence. and it is ordered that the prisoner be discharged from custody -
Jere, Cobb
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Continued by adjournment and held for the
County of Southampton on the 6.th day of September 1831 for the trial of Nathan
a negro man Slave belonging to the Estate of Benjamin Blunt dec.d & Nathan
Tom and Davy negro boys Slaves belonging to Nathaniel Francis. charged with
consulting, advising and conspiring with divers other Slaves &to rebel and make
insurrection and making insurrection &for plotting to take the lives of divers
free white persons citizens of this Commonwealth
[page break]
[p.] 94
Present. William B. Goodwyne, James W. Parker, James Trezvant.
Alexander P. Peete & Joseph T. Claud. Gent_
[margin notes] Record Certified
Sep: 8/1831
M.B. Brodnax atto: for the Commonwealth filed an Information against the prisoner &
The Court being thus constituted ^ the prisoner Nathan the property of the Estate
of Benjamin Blunt dec.d was Set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County
and the Court doth assign James S. French Esq: Counsel for the prisoner in his
defence, and the said Nathan being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty
to the information, and
Daniel a negro boy slave being Sworn and charged as a Witness for the
Commonwealth Says that he ["and the prisoner" struck] was confined in the jail of
as a runaway at the time the prisoner was also confined in
Greensville County ["during which confinement the prisoner was relating to" struck]
Said jail . that the prisoner said he had been present when the murders
had been committed by the insurgents _ the prisoner had blood on his
breeches which he said he had told the white people was cider
Moses a negro boy Slave was Sworn and charged as a Witness for the
prisoner. and Says that the prisoner went unwillingly _ that he com=
mitted no murder. and he thinks had no opportunity to escape and
remained with the negroes till they dispersed _
And the prisoner was heard in his defence by James S. French his Counsel
[margin notes] Record Certified
Sep: 8/1831.
The Court after hearing hearing [sic] the testimony and from all the cir=
cumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is
guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is set
forth and it being demanded of the prisoner if any thing for himself
he had or knew to Say why the Court should not proceede to pronounce judg=
ment against him according to Law and nothing being offered or alledged
in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be
taken hence to the jail from which he was taken therein to be Safely
Confined until Monday the twelfth day of September instant on which
day between the hours of ten oClock in the morning and two o.Clock in
the afternoon the prisoner is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place
of execution and there be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the
Court value the said slave Nathan to the sum of three hundred and
Seventy five dollars._
Nathan, Tom and Davy negro boys Slaves the property of Nath.l
Francis was then Set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County
and being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the informa=
Thomas R. Gray
tion ^ William C. Parker and James S. French being assigned by the
Court Counsel for the prisoners. and
Moses a negro boy slave being charged and Sworn as a Witness for the
Commonwealth _ Says that the three prisoners were taken from Nath.l
Francis's and placed one behind each of the Company _ that they went
unwillingly but continued with them the whole of Monday _ Witnessed
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 95
many of the murders but were constantly guarded by negroes with guns who
were ordered to Shoot them if they attempted to escape_ they remained until
the whole troop were dispersed. _ questions being asked by the Court relative
to the ages of the prisoners. it appearred that the oldest was not more than 15
years _ the other two much younger. the eldest very badly grown _
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of
are
the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoners ["is" struck] guilty in manner
and form as in the information against them is set forth and it being demand
ed of each of them if any thing for themselves they had or know to say
why the Court should not proceede to pronounce judgment against him accor=
ding to Law and nothing being offered or alledged in delay of judgment it is
considered by the Court that the prisoners be taken hence to the jail from
which they were taken therein to be safely confined until Tuesday the 20.th day
of _ September instant on which day between the hours of ten oClock in the
morning and two oClock in the afternoon they be taken by the Sheriff to
the usual place of execution and there to be hanged by the neck until each
of them be /dead.. And the Court from all the circumstances of the case
do recommend to the Governor to commute the punnishment of the said
Nathan, Tom and Davy to transportation _ And the Court doth value
the said Slaves to the sum of three hundred dollars each.
-
The Court doth allow James S. French the sum of ten dollars his fee
for defending Nathan a Slave the property of Benjamin Blunt
and to James S. French, William C. Parker & Thomas R. Gray the sum
of ten dollars each for defending Nathan. Tom and Davy negro slaves
belonging to Nathaniel Francis _
It having been intimated to the Court that the military force assembled
at this place will be discharged in a few days, the Court believing that a
Strong guard is necessary to the Safe keeping of the prisoners now in jail
until Such as are condemned may be executed, respectfully solicit General
Eppes the Commanding Officer to retain at this place fifty men as a
guard for the jail, and the Clerk of this Court is directed to deliver to
General Eppes a copy of this order _
# Wm.B. Goodwyn
[page break]
[p.] 96
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjournment and held for
the County of Southampton on the Sixth day of September 1831 for the trial
of Hardy and Isham negro men Slaves the property of Benjamin Edwards
for consulting, advising and conspiring to make insurrection and commit
murder.
Present. William B. Goodwyn, James D. Massenburg, James Trezvant
Alexander P. Peete and Joseph T. Claud. Gent:
The Court being thus constituted M.B. Brodnax attorney prosecuting for
the Commonwealth filed an information against the prisoners and thereupon
the prisoner Hardy was Set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County
and the Court doth assign James S. French Counsel for the prisoner in his
defence. and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty
to the information and the Court for good cause shewn doth suspend further
proceedings in this cause for the present.
Isham a negro man Slave was Set to the bar in custody of the jailor
of this County and for good cause shewn this Court is adjourned till
to morrow morning nine oClock.
Wm.B. Goodwyn
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjournment and held for the
County of Southampton on the 7.th day of September 1831. for the trial of
Hardy and Isham negro men Slaves the property of Benjamin Edwards
for consulting advising and conspiring to make insurrection & murder
Present. Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowere , Robert Goodwin, Orris
. Browne and Joseph T. Claud. Gent:
[margin notes] Record Certified
Sep: 8/1831
Hardy a negro man Slave belonging to Benjamin Edwards was again
Set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County . and
Henry a Slave being Sworn as a Witness for the Commonwealth says that on
Saturday preceeding insurrated [sic] Isham told witness that Gen.l Nat was
going to rise and murder all the whites and that witness must join them
or that if he did not they would kill him if they caught him _ Witness
went to new ground monday morning found the prisoner &Bery Newsum _
Berry stated that the dam'd Rascal, meaning witnesses master, has been
there and that they would get him before night _ Prisoner was lying down
at some distance asleep _ Witness went about a quarter of a mile to M.r Jones'
to get some water . heard at M.r Jones' that the English were in the
to
County killing the white people _ that he told ["the" struck] prisoner & Berry New=
som_ prisoner made light of it and said it was nothing it ought to have
been done long ago. _ that the negroes had been punished long enough _
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 97
Witness does not know where prisoner was monday night. that on Tuesday
prisoner and others were sent to M.r Wallers to bury the dead _ M.r Edwards the
prisoners master came home . Wednesday morning and ordered the prisoner not to
go out of the yard . M.r Edwards went away a short time afterwards and
prisoner left home shortly after and returned about one hour by sun in the
evening . that while prisoner was at Wallers Thomas Hathcock &four boys came
to M.r Edwards' and said Gen.l Nat would be there Wednesday or Thursday
and M.r Edwards had 4 likely boys that he would take with them . prisoner and
two others said they would join.
Harry a Slave also sworn and charged as a Witness for the Commonwealth says
that Henry Stated in the presence of the prisoner Gen.l Nat had sent
them word that he would be at their home on Wednesday or thursday
next for them to join him _ that prisoner and two others said they would
join them_
Eliza Crittenton a free woman being charged & sworn as a Witness for the
prisoner _ Says the prisoner and two others told her they meant to join
Gen.l Nat and She disuaded them from it_
Hark a negro man Slave being charged and Sworn as a Witness for the
prisoner Says Tom Hathcock and four boys came to M.r Edwards still &
said they had Seperated from Nat. and they were going to join them again.
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the
case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and
form as in the information against him is set forth and it being demanded
of the prisoner if any thing for himself he had or knew to say why the Court
should not proceede to pronounce judgment against him according to Law &
nothing appearing or being alledged in delay of judgment it is considered
by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from which he was
taken therein to be safely confined until tuesday the 20.th day of Septem=
ber instant on which day between the hours of ten oClock in the fore=
noon and two oClock in the afternoon he is to be taken to the usual
place of execution and there to be hanged by the neck until he be dead.
And from all the circumstances of the case, the Court doth recommend
to the Governor to commute the punnishment of the prisoner to transpor=
tation _ And the Court values the said Slave Hardy to the sum of four
hundred and fifty dollars_
#
Isham a negro man Slave the property of Benjamin Edwards was
set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County, and the Court doth
assign William C. Parker Counselfor the prisoner in his defence, and the
prisoner being arraigned of the premise's pleaded not guily to the infor=
[page break]
[p.] 98
mation and Henry a Slave being charged and Sworn as a Witness for the
Commonwealth says that on Saturday night preceing [sic; preceeding] the day on which the
insurrection broke out . the prisoner told him that Cap.t Nat was going to
and wanted witness to join, but witness declined doing so. made no communication to any one-
Collect his company and rise and kill all the white people^- and that on
Tuesday morning Thomas Haithcock & Nathan and three boys came to
M.r Edwards and told the witness and others that Cap.t Nat and company
had had a fight with the white people at Parkers field_ that Capt Nat
was then making towards Belfield and would return and be at M.r Edwards
on Wednesday of [sic] Thursday. that M.r Edwards had
four likely negroes that should join them _ that prisoner when informed
of it Said he would join them.
Harry a Slave being also charged and sworn as a Witness for the Commonlth.
Says that Henry Stated in Presence of the prisoner that Gen.l Nat had
sent them word that he would be at their house on Wednesday or thursday
next for them to join him _ that prisoner and two others said they would join
him.
[margin notes] Record Certified
Sep: 8/1831
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of
the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner
and form as in the information against him is set forth and it being
demanded of him if any thing for himself he had or knew to say why the
Court should not proceed to pronounce judgment against him according to law
and nothing being offered or alledged in delay of judgment it is considered
by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from which he
was taken and therein to be confined until Tuesday the 20.th day of September
instant on which day between the hours of ten oClock in the forenoon and two
oClock in the afternoon he is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of
execution and there to be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the
Court from all the circumstances of the case [doth] recommend to the Governor to
Commute the punnishment of the prisoner to transportation_ And the Court
values the said slave to the sum of three hundred and fifty dollars_
#
The Court [doth] allow James S. French the sum of ten dollars his fee for defending
Slave Hardy the property of Benjamin Edwards and to William C. Parker
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 99
ten dollars fee for defending negro Isham the property of Benj.a Edwards -
Carr Bowers,
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Summoned and held for the County of South=
ampton on the Seventh day of September 1831 for the trial of Sam a negro man
Slave the property of James W. Parker. Fery a negro man Slave the property of
James W. Parker. & Arnold the property of James W. Parker _ Jim late the
property of Wm. Vaughan. and Wright, late the property of Rebecca Vaughan
charged with insurrection and murder
Present. Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers, Benjamin Devany, Thomas Pretlow
and Orris A. Browne _ Gent.
The Court being thus constituted Merewether B. Brodnax attorney prosecuting for
the Commonwealth filed an information against the prisoners and thereupon
Sam a Slave the property of James W. Parker was set to the bar in custody
of the jailor of this County _ and the prisoner being arraigned of the prem=
ises pleaded not guilty to the information - and. the Court after hearing the
testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion
that the prisoner is not guilty as in pleading he hath alledged. and proclama=
tion being made as the manner is and nothing further appearing or being
alledged against the prisoner it is orderd that he be discharged from custody
["Ferry and Arnold negro men Slaves the property of James W. Parker" erased]
Jim a negro man Slave the property of William Vaughan was set
to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County ["and the Court doth assign" struck]
Willliam C. Parker ^ Counsel for the prisoner in his defence and the prisoner _
being arraigned of the premises pleaded Not guilty to the information, the
Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the
case are of opinion that the prisoner is not guilty as in pleading he hath
alledged and proclamation being. made as the manner is and nothing
further appearing or being alledged against the prisoner it is orderd that
the prisoner be forthwith discharged from custody _
Jere, Cobb
[page break]
[p.] 100
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Summoned and held for Southampton
County the Seventh day of September 1831 for the trial of Bob a negro
man slave the property of .Temperance Parker. Davy a negro man slave
the property of Joseph Parker and Daniel a negro man Slave the
property of Solomon Parker. for conspiring to rebel and make insurrection
Present. Jeremiah Cobb, Benjamin Devany. Carr Bowers, Thomas
Pretlow and Orris A. Browne _ Gent.
The Court being thus constituted Merewether B. Brodnax filed an infor=
mation against the prisoners . and for reasons appearing the Court is
adjourned till to morrow morning nine oClock.
Jere, Cobb
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjournment and held for the
County of Southampton on the 8.th day of September 1831 for the trial of Bob a negro
man Slave the property of Temperance Parker, Davy a negro man Slave the property
of Joseph Parker and Daniel, a negro man slave the property of Solomon Parker for
consulting, advising and conspiring to rebel and make insurrection and for plotting [to take] the
lives of sundry free white persons.
Present. Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers, Benjamin Devany, Thomas
Pretlow and Benjamin L. Drew _ Gent
The Court being thus constituted the prisoners were set to the bar in custody
of the jailor of this County and being arraigned of the premises pleaded not
guilty to the information. and the prisoners were heard in their defence by
James S. French their Counsel. the Court after hearing the testimony and
from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the
prisoners are not guilty/ as in pleading they hath alledged. and proclamation
being made as the manner is and nothing further appearing or being alledged
against them it is orderd that they be discharged from further prosecution
for the said Offence Jere, Cobb
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjournment and held for
the County of Southampton on the eighth day of September 1831 for the trial of
Moses a negro boy slave the property of Joseph Travis charged with conspiring
to rebel and make.insurrection.
Present . Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers, Benjamin Devany, Thomas
Pretlow and Benjamin L. Drew - Gent.
The said Moses was again were set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this
County and for reasons appearing the Court is adjourned till .Friday the
16.th of September instant. and the prisoner is remanded to jail
Jere, Cobb
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 101
At a Court Summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the 12.th day
of September 1831 for the Examination of Thomas Haithcock a free man of colour
charged with Conspiring to rebel and make insurrection.
Present. Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers, James W. Parker, Alexander P.
Peete and James Trezvant.. Gent.
The Court being thus constituted the above named Thomas Haithcock was set to
the bar in custody of the jailor of this County.. Whereupon for reasons appearing
to the Court it is ordered the examination of the said Thomas Haithcock be
adjourned till the first day of the next County Court in course to be held for
this County . and thereupon the prisoner is remanded to jail _
Jere, Cobb
At a Court held for Southampton at the Courthouse the 19.th day of Septem=
ber 1831
Present. Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers, William B. Goodwyne & Alex.r Myrick. Gent:
- and James Clayton_ Gent:
A List of the Deeds &c which have been admitted to record in the Office since
the last Court was this day ret.d & OR.
-
Acc.t & Com.rs report of. Robert Goodwin's Guardianship of Rob.t Blow ret.d & OR.
-
Elizabeth Dake widow of Amos Drake, dec.d relinquished her right to the
admon of her dec.d husbands est. in favour of Edward Butts and thereupon the
said Butts. made oath and gave bond and Security according to Law -
-
Ordered that Dan.l W. Simmons, Zeb. L. Simmons, Jesse Drewry &Rob.t
Goodwyne or any .3 of them appraise . Said estate &.c
#
Ordered that the Sheriff of this County out of any contingent monies in his
hands not otherwise appropriated pay to Thomas Hundley two dollars & 43
Cents and to Jason Rowe the sum of ten dollars and seventy Cents. and
account with the Court.
#
Ordered that Master Comr. Cobb settle H.B. Vaughans acc.t of his Guardian=
and William A. Vaughan
Ship of George Vaughan ^ and make rep.t to the Court &.c
#
Admon on Rebecca Vaughans est: granted to James W. Parker who made
oath and gave bond &Security according to Law -
-
Ordered. that . James Trezvant, Henry B. Vaughan, & W.m H. Nicholson and
Joseph Reese or any three of them appraise said estate _
#
George G.G. Gray is by the Court unanimously appointed Com.r of the Revenue
in Nottoway Parish in this County for the ensuing year and thereupon he
gave bond and Security according to Law _
-
John M. Gurley is by the Court unanimously appointed Com.r of the Revenue
in S.t Lukes Parish in this County for the ensuing year -
-
Adm'on on James Grays est. granted to Everett Bryant who made oath and
gave bond and Security according to Law _
Ordered that James D. Bryant, John R. Bryant, Henry Kindred and
[page break]
[p.] 102
John Bryant or any 3 of them app. said Est: & rep.t &.c
#
Certificates of the Registers of Davy Ricks, Everett Ricks & Monroe Mad=
Elias Williams, Arnold Artist,
dison ^ exam.d & certified to be correct
-
On motion of Francis M. Boykin ad'r of Henry Briggs dec.d Ordered that
one of the Com.rs of this Court do settle an account of the said Boykins.
adm'on on his intestate's estate & make rep.t &.c-
#
Fielding J. Mahone qualified to his Commission as Lieu.t Colonel of the
65.th Regt. V.a M.a according to Law
-
Milchia Williams's will proved by the .witnesses & O.R. the Ex'or therein
named qualified and gave bond &Security according to Law
~
Ordered. that John T. Cross, Edw.d Crumpler, Simon Murfee & Jesse Gardner or
any three of them appraise said estate_
# Infantry in
Pitt Thomas qualified to his Commission as Major of ^ the 65.th Regiment
V.a M.a according to Law.
-
Albert Drewry app.d in Court and declared he would not Longer act as
Constable in this County and desired his resignation be entered of record.
-
[margin notes] Record sent by
express. Sep: 22.d
1831:
Joe a negro man Slave the property of John C. Turner who stands charged with
Conspiring to rebel and make insurrection was this day set to the bar in custody
of the jailor of this County (the Court Summoned for his trial having failed to
meet) and Merewether B. Brodnax Attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth
filed an Information against the said prisoner. and the prisoner being arraigned
of the premises pleaded not guilty to the Information and
Hubbard a Slave being charged and Sworn as a Witness for the Commonwealth
Says that about one hour by sun monday morning 22.d Aug: last the
prisoner came to his Mistresses house (M.rs Caty Whitehead) with Nat (who
has been hung) bringing a racoon, Said he had been hunting) just after the
family had been murdered _ did not ask who had committed the murder or
why it had been committed _ prisoner lived about a mile off and had a wife
at M.rs Whiteheads _ prisoner appeared reluctant to go with the murderers but
were told by them he should go. and he went with them
Christian a Slave was also charged &Sworn as a Witness for the Commonwealth and
Says that the prisoner came to her Masters (M.r Elisha Atkins) about 8 or 9
morning
oClock on Monday ^ 22.d Aug: last with Turners Davy who has been hung as
one of the insurgents, & another- that prisoner. was armed with a Sword _ enquired
where her master was _ that she answered he was gone. prisoner said he might
go on. Davy enquired if there was any gun or ammunition in the house &
proposed to break in the house . prisoner said no, we have enough amuni=
tion to do with without _ the prisoner & Davy ["went off" struck] were armed, the
other not_ they carried off one other negro. who returned Shortly after_
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 103
And the prisoner was fully heard in his defence by James S. French his
Counsel. The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circum=
stances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in
manner and form as in the information against him: is Set forth : and it being
demanded of the prisoner if any thing for himself he had or knew to say why
the Court Should not proceed to pronounce judgment against him according to
Law and nothing being offered or alledged in delay of judgment it is con=
Sidered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from whence
he was taken and therein safely confined until Monday the 26.th Septem=
ber instant on which day between the hours of ten oClock in the forenoon &
two oClock in the afternoon he is to be taken by the Sheriff of this County
to the usual place of execution there be hanged by the neck until he be dead.
And the Court value the said Slave Joe to the sum of four hundred &fifty
dollars _
#
[margin notes] Record Sent
by express
Sep: 22/1831_
Lucy a negro Woman Slave late the property of John T. Barrow who
Stands charged with Conspiring to rebel and make insurrection, was this day
Set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County (the Court Summoned
for her trial having failed to meet) and the Court doth assign W.m C. Parker
Counsel for the prisoner in her defence _ and Merewether. B. Brodnax atto'y
prosecuting for the Commonwealth filed an Information against the said Lucy
and thereupon the said Lucy being arraigned of the premises pleaded not
guilty to the information _ and.
Mary T. Barrow a Witness for the Commonwealth being sworn says that on
the 22.d of Aug: last . when the insurgents came to the house of her late husband,
(John T. Barrows.) and were entering the yard and she the witness was making
her escape the prisoner a girl about 20 years of age Seized and held her
about one minute and until another negro took her away _ that she does not
know certainly what her intentions were _ but thought it was ["her" overwritten] to detain her.
Bird a negro slave being charged and Sworn as a Witness for the Commlth _
Says that he found Several Weeks after the murder at M.r Barrows.
four pieces of money in a bag of feathers and covered with a handker=
chief, that the room was occupied by the Prisoner and another (Moses
since hung)
Moses a Slave was Sworn and charged as a Witness for the Commlth. &
Says that after the murder was committed he saw the prisoner in Company
with the insurgents at the door.
Robert T. Musgrave being Sworn as a Witness for the Commonwealth says
that after his examining the prisoner she stated that she had fled thro' the
kitchen and concealed herself in the corn field _
[page break]
[p.] 104
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of
the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner
and form as in the information against her is set forth and it being demanded
of the prisoner if any thing for herself she had or knew to say .why the Court
Should not proceede to pronounce judgment against him according to Law &
nothing being offered or alledged in delay of judgment it is conSidered by the
Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from whence she was taken,
therein to be safely confined until Monday the 26.th September instant
on which day between the hours of ten o.Clock in the forenoon and two oClock
in the afternoon the prisoner is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual
place of execution and there be hanged by the neck until she be dead.
two
And the Court value the said Slave Lucy to the sum of ["three" struck] hundred
and Seventy five dollars.
#
Admon on. Louisa Williams est. granted to John R. Williams who made
oath and gave bond and Security according to Law-
-
The las [sic] Will and. Testament of Robert Ricks dec.d was proved by the oath of
Tho.s Camp
Aubin Middleton & Jere: Cobb & ^ Witnesses thereto and the said Will & codicil
O.R. the Executors therein named made oath and gave bond according to Law.
the Will directing that no Security should be required _
-
Thomas Grays Will proved &O.R.
-
Absent William B. Goodwyne. Present Orris A. Browne. Gent:
-
Boon to Claud _ Po: of Atto: with the Certificate annexed &OR.
Ż
Matt a negro man Slave the property of Thomas Ridley who. stands
charged with conspiring to rebel and make insurrection: was this day set to
the bar in custody of the jailor of this County. (the Court Summoned for his
trial having failed to meet) and Merewether B. Brodnax Attorney for the
Commonwealth filed an Information against the prisoner and the prisoner
being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information and
Sundry witnesses being sworn and examined and the prisoner by William C. Parker
his Counsel fully heard . It is the opinion of the Court ["and accordingly ordered" struck]
that the prisoner is not guilty as in pleading he hath alledged . and
proclamation being made as the manner is and nothing further appearing or
being alledged against the prisoner it is ordered that the prisoner be forthwith
discharged from custody
-
Barrow vŻ Parker &Wife Chy. heard and decreed as pr. decree filed &.c
#
On the motion of Benjamin D. Chapman Ordered that the Estate of Joseph
Travis dec.d be committed to the hands of Clements Rochelle Shff of this
County for administration according to Law _
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 105
Absent. Jeremiah Cobb. & Orris A. Browne. Gent-
Present. William B. Goodwyne & Joseph T. Claud. Gent:
- by John C. Turner one of the witnesses _
Mildred Balmers Will proved ^ & O.R. ["and Adm'on with the Will annexed" struck]
["granted to Britton Bryant who made oath and gave bond &Security according" struck]
["to Law_" struck]
Adm'on on Henry Bryants est. granted to Britton Bryant who made oath and
gave bond and Security according to Law _
#
Ordered that Master Comissioner Cobb settle an account of Benj.a Hines's
adm'on on Benjamin Hines est and make rep.t &.c
#
Thomas Haithcock a free man of colour charged with conspiring to rebel &
make insurrection was again Set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this Court
the Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the
Case are of opinion that the prisoner ought to be tried for the said Offence at
Circuit
the next ^ Superior Court to be held for this County and thereupon the prisoner
is remanded to jail
-
Jim a negro man Slave the property of Richard Porter who stands charged
with Conspiring to rebel and make insurrection was this day Set to the bar in
Custody of the jailor of this County, the Court Summoned for his trial having failed
to meet) and Merewether B. Brodnax attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth
filed an information against the prisoner. and the Court doth assign James
S. French Counsel for the prisoner in his defence, and the prisoner being
arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information and Sundry
witnesses being Sworn and examined it is the opinion of the Court that the
prisoner is not guilty as in pleading he hath alledged . and proclamation
being made as the manner is and nothing further appearing or being alledged
against the prisoner it is ordered that the prisoner be forthwith discharged.
from Custody _
-
Ordered that James Jackson, Rich.d Porter, George Booth and John C. Turner
or any three of them do appraise Henry Bryants est & make rept. &.c
#
Adm'on on William Artis's (fn) est. granted to Howell Harris who made
oath and gave bond and Security according to Law _
-
Ordered that Henry Moore, Richard Porter and Peter Edwards appraise
said est & make rept. &.c
#
Ordered that Alexander Myrick and Lewis Worrell being Sworn be
appt.d Com.rs to settle John Barrett's executorial proceedings on Catharine
Barretts est. and that they examine the same & make rept. &.c
#
Admon on Catharine Whiteheads est. granted to Edwin Whitehead
who made oath and gave bond and Security according to Law _
-
Ordered that John C. Turner, Rich.d Porter, James Powell & Peter Edwards or
any three of them appraise said Est: &.c
#
[page break]
[p.] 106
Absent. Carr Bowers. Present James W. Parker. Gent.
Absent. James Clayton Present. James Trezvant _ Gent .
Alexander P. Peete qualified as Captain of Cavalry in fourth
Regiment, eight Brigade & fourth division according to Law
Absent. Alex: Myrick. Present. Alexander P. Peete. Gent:
-
The Court doth allow James S. French ten dollars for his fee for
defending Jim a negro Slave belonging to Rich.d Porter.
-
The Court doth allow William C. Parker ten dollars for his fee for
defending Lucy a Slave belonging to the Est of John T. Barrow dec:
Ordered that the Court be adjourned till to morrow Morning nine
oClock.
W.m B. Goodwyn
At a Court Summoned and held for the County of Southampton on
the 19.th day of September 1831 for the examination of Exum Artist
a free man of colour charged with conspiring to rebel and make
insurrection
Present. William B. Goodwyn, James W. Parker, James Trezvant
Alexander P. Peete and Joseph T. Claud. Gent:
The Court being thus constituted the above named Exum Artist was
set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County. and thereupon
Sundry witnesses ["to wit B" struck] were Sworn and examined, and for
reasons appearing to this Court adjourned till to morrow Morn=
ing ["ten" struck] o.Clock and the prisoner is remanded to jail _
W.m B. Goodwyn
["At a Court Summoned for trial of " struck]
At a Court summoned and held for the County of Southampton on
the 19: day of September 1831 . for the trial of Joe the property
of Richard P. Briggs. charged with conspiring to rebel and make
insurrection and for plotting to take the lives of Sundry free
white persons citizens of this Commonwealth.
Present William B. Goodwyn, James Trezvant, James W. Parker
Alexander P. Peete & Joseph T. Claud. Gent.
For reasons appearing to the Court the trial of the said Joe is
adjourned till to morrow and this Court is adjourned till to morrow
morning nine o-Clock.
W.m B. Goodwyn
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 107
At a Court summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the 19.th
day of September 1831. for the trial of Jack a negro man Slave the
property of Everett Bryant charged with Conspiring to rebel and make
insurrection.
Present. W.m B. Goodwyne . James W. Parker, James Trezvant,
Alexander P. Peete. & Joseph T. Claud. Gent.
For reasons appearing to the Court the trial of the said Jack is adjourned
till to morrow . and this Court is adjourned till to morrow morning nine oClock.
W.m B. Goodwyn
At a Court continued and held for the County of Southampton on the 20.th
of September 1831.
Present William B. Goodwyne, James W. Parker, Alex.r P. Peete, Joseph
T. Claud and Alexander Myrick. Gent.
Ordered that Aubin Middleton be added to the persons appointed to ap=
praise Catharin Whiteheads est: & that any three of them make rep.t &.c_
#
Berry Newsum an indented apprentice to Peter Edwards was this day set to the
bar in custody of the Jailor of this County (the Court Summoned for his exam=
ination having failed to meet) and Harry & Henry negro slaves were charged.
Sworn and examined as witnesses . The Court after hearing the testimony are
that the prisoner
unanimously of opinion ^ ought to be tried for the said offence at the next Cir=
cuit Superior Court to be held for this County and thereupon the Prisoner is
remanded to jail.
Sam a negro man the property of Peter Edwards was this day set to the bar
in Custody of the jailor of this Court. (the Court Summoned for his trial having
failed to meet) Whereupon for reasons appearing to the Court the trial of the
said Sam is adjourned till the next Court _
-
Absent James W. Parker. Present Robert Goodwin. Gent:
-
On motion of John C. Turner adm'or of Nancy Drewry dec: Ordered that Master
Cobb settle an account of the said John C. Turner adm'or on his intestates Est:
and make rep.t &.c
//-
Jack a negro man Slave the property of Everett Bryant. was this day
Set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County (the Court Summon'd
for his trial having failed to meet) charged with conspiring to rebel
and make insurrection, and Merewether B. Brodnax attorney for
the Commonwealth filed an information against the prisoner. and. the
Court doth assign William C. Parker Counsel for the prisoner in his
defence. and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded
not guilty to the information . The Court after hearing the testimony
and from all the circumstances are of opinion that the prisoner is
[page break]
[p.] 108.
not guilty as in pleading he hath alledged and proclamation being
made as the manner is and nothing further appearing or being alledg=
ed against the prisoner it is ordered that the prisoner be forthwith
Alex P. Peete
discharged from custody _ Absent W.m B. Goodwyne & Jo.s T. Claud &
- Present James W. Parker & James Tezvant _ Gent_ & Orris A. Browne_ Gent.
On motion of John C. Turner . Ordered that the Estate of Piety Reese be com=
mitted to the hands of Clements Rochelle Shff of this County and that he
administer the same according to Law.
#
Ordered that Henry Moore, John C. Turner, Rich.d Porter and Willie Francis
or any three of them appraise Piety Reeses est & make rept &.c
#
Ordered that the Court be adjourned till to morrow morning 9 oClock
Robt Goodwin
ŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻ ŻŻ
At a Court continued and held for the County of Southampton on the 20.th
day of September 1831 for the examination of Exum Artist a free man of
colour charged with conspiring to rebel and make insurrection.
Present. Robert Goodwyn, James W. Parker. James Trezvant. Orris A.
Browne and Alexander Myrick - Gent:
The said Exum Artist was again Set to the bar in custody of the Jailor
of this County. and the Court after hearing the testimony and from all
the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner
ought to be tried for the Said offence at the next Circuit Superior Court of
Law to be held for this County and thereupon the prisoner is remanded
to jail.
Williams Vick here in Court acknowledged himself to be indebted to
John Floyd Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia in the sum of
three hundred dollars .of his goods and chattels lands and tenements
to be levied and to the said Governor and his successors for the use of the
Commonwealth rendered. Yet upon this Condition .that if the said
Williams Vick Shall have his Slaves Burwell and Ben before the
judge of our Circuit Superior Court of Southampton County at the
Courthouse on the first day of the next Term then and there to give such
evidence as they or either of them know against Exum Artist a free
man of colour charged with felony then this recognizance to be void
or else to remain in full force and virtue _
Robt. Goodwin
ŻŻŻŻŻ ŻŻŻŻ
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 109
At [a] Court continued and held for the County of Southampton on the 20.th
day of September 1831 for the trial of Joe a slave the property of Rich.d
P. Briggs. charged with conspiring to rebel and make insurrection & for
plotting to take the lives of sundry free white persons citizens of this Com=
monwealth .
Present Robert Goodwin. James W. Parker. James Trezvant Orris A.
Browne. & Alexander Myrick _ Gent.
For reasons appearing to the Court the trial of the said
Joe be adjourned till the first day of the next Court in course to be held
for this County
Robt. Goodwin
ŻŻŻ ŻŻŻŻ
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Summoned and held for the County of Southampton
on the 21.st day of September 1831 for the trial of Stephen a negro man Slave the
property of James Bell charged . with conspiring to rebel and make insurrec=
tion _
Present James W. Parker. Jacob Barnes, James Trezvant. Alexander P.
Peete and Alexander Myrick. Gent:
The Court being thus constituted the prisoner was Set to the bar in custody
of the jailor of this County. and Merewether B. Brodnax Attorney prosecuting
for the Commonwealth filed an information against the prisoner and the
prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the informa=
tion . and Sundry witnesses were Sworn & examined . The Court after hearing the
testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion
that the prisoner is not guilty as in pleading he hath alledged and proclama=
tion being made as the manner is and nothing. further appearing or being
alledged against the prisoner it is ordered that the prisoner be forthwith dis=
charged from further Custody _
James W. Parker
At a Court of Oyer. and terminer Summoned and held for Southampton
County the 21.st day of September 1831 for the trial of Jim and Isaac
negro men Slaves the property of Sam.l Champion. and Preston a negro
Slave the property of Hannah Williamson, charged with conspiring to
rebel and make insurrection
Present James W. Parker. Robert, Goodwin, Jacob Barnes, James Trez=
vant. and Alexander Myrick. Gent:
The Court being thus constituted the prisoners above named were set
to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County -Whereupon for reasons
appearing to the Court the trial of the said prisoners is adjourned
till to Morrow, and the prisoners are remanded to Jail, and this
[page break]
[p.] 110.
Court is adjourned till to morrow Morning nine. oClock.
Robt. Goodwin
ŻŻŻŻŻŻ ŻŻŻ
At a Court held for the County of Southampton by adjournment on the
21.st day of September 1831.
Present . James W. Parker. Robert Goodwin, James Trezvant, Jacob
Barnes. Alexander Myrick. Gent:
["Ordered that" &c erased & overwritten]
It is the opinion of the Court that the Sheriff of this County shall
Summon a guard consisting of twenty five effective men for the pur=
pose of guarding the prisoners already confined to Jail or which may
be hereafter committed.
Ordered that the Court be adjourned till to morrow morning nine
oClock.
Robt Goodwin
ŻŻŻŻ ŻŻŻ
At a Court of Oyer. and terminer continued by adjournment and held for the
County of Southampton on the 22.d day of September 1831 for the trial of Jim
and Isaac negro men Slaves the property of Samuel Champion and Preston
a negro Slave the property of Hannah Williamson charged with conspir=
ing to. rebel and make insurrection.
Present James W. Parker. Jacob Barnes, James Trezvant Orris A. Browne
and Alexander Myrick. Gent:
The Court being thus constituted Merewether B. Brodnax Attorney prosecuting for
the Commonwealth filed an Information against the said Jim, Isaac & Preston &
prisoner and thereupon the Said Jim and Isaac were set to the bar in custody of the jailor of
this County and being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the
information and. Beck a slave being charged and Sworn as a Witness for the
Commonwealth says that on the 15.th [sic; altered] day of August last. at a black persons
house at Solomon Parkers she heard the prisoners say that if the black people
came they would join and help kill the white people . it was after they had
been taking [sic; talking] Some time that she went in. and did not hear the Commence=
ment of the conversation _ there were Several Slaves present and one of them
Stated that his master had crossed him and he would be crossed before the
end of the year _ Witness had heard three other Slaves make use of
the same declaration Some time previously in the neighbourhood _ prisoners
lived about a mile from Solomon Parkers. They told her it was a Secret
and if she told the white persons would Shoot her _ Witnesses Mistress
went to Sussex upon the alarm of the late insurrection and while
there witnesses Mistress . said She wondered if her negroes were concerned
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 111
upon which witness made the above Statement in Substance. Witness states .
that the reason of her not telling before was that She did not understand it.
States that Jim denied he knew the witness on his examination before the
Magistrate in Sussex _ Witness States she is a house servant and is Seldom in
the outhouses _
Bob a Slave being Sworn and charged as a Witness for the Commonwealth
Says that the Monday night of the insurrection Isaac one of the prisoners left
home and on his return stated he had been to Solomon Parkers, and on Mon=
August
day before after the [sic; "May" struck] meeting both prisoners went to Solomon
Parkers _ Witness States that Jim frequently went to Solomon Parkers _
And the prisoners were fully heard in their defence by James S. French their
Counsel: the Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances
are
of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoners ["is"] guilty in manner
and form as in the information against them is set forth , and it being
demanded of each of them if any thing for themselves they had or knew to
Say why the Court should not proceede to pronounce judgment against
them according to Law and nothing being offered or alledged in delay of
judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoners be taken hence
to the jail from whence they came therein to be Safely confined until
Friday the 30.th day of September instant, on which day between the hours
of ten oClock in the forenoon and four oClock in the afternoon they are
to be taken by the Sheriff of this County to the usual place of execution &
there be hanged by the neck until each of them be dead. And the Court
value the said Slave Jim to the sum of three hundred dollars and
the said Slave Isaac to the sum of four hundred dollars _ .
#
["Preston a negro man Slave the property of Hannah Williamson was then
set to the bar" erased and overwritten]
Absent Orris A. Brown. Present , James D. Massenburg_ Gent:
Preston a negro man Slave the property of Hannah Williamson
was then set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County. and being ar=
raigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information the Court after
hearing the testimony and the prisoner in his defence by James S. French his
Counsel are of opinion that the prisoner is not guilty as in pleading he hath
alledged and proclamation being made as the manner is and nothing further
appearing or being alledged against the prisoner it is ordered that he be
forthwith discharged from custody _
J.D. Massenburg
__
[page break]
[p.] 112
At a Court Continued and held for the County of Southampton on the 22.d
day of September 1831 for the trial of Jim
Present J.D. Massenburg. Jacob Barnes. Robert Goodwin, James Trezvant
and Alexander Myrick. Gent:
An account Current of William Bryants adm'on on Sally Bryants est.
was returned & O.R.
-
Frank a negro Slave the property of Solomon Parker was [?; struck] set
to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County and Merewether B. Brodnax
Attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth filed an information against the
prisoner and thereupon the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded
not guilty to the information and Beck [-"y" erased] a Slave being charged &Sworn
Says that on the 15.th day of August last the day on which the insurrection
broke out in this County, [sic!] she heard at a black persons house at Solomon
D. Parkers the prisoner say that if the black people came that way
he would join and help kill the white people, it was after
they had been talking some time before the Witness went in _ she did
not hear the Commencement of the conversation _ there were Several
Slaves present and the prisoner said his master had crossed him and
he Would be crossed before the end of the year: That the slaves the
Witness heard conversing told the witness it was a Secret and if she told
the white persons ["they" struck] would Shoot her . Witnesses Mistress went to
Sussex upon the alarm of the late insurrection and while there Wit=
nesses Mistress said She wondered if her negroes were concerned upon
which the witness made the above Statement in Substance _ Witness
States that the reason of her not telling before was that she did not
understand it. And the prisoner was fully heard in his defence by
James S. French his Counsel. The Court after hearing the testimony &
from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the
prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him
is set forth and it being demanded the prisoner if any thing for
himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceede to
pronounce judgment against him according to Law and nothing being
offered or alledged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that
the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from whence he was taken
therein to be safely confined until Friday the 30.th day of September
instant on which day between the hours of ten oClock in the forenoon
and four oClock in the afternoon he is to be taken by the Sheriff to
the usual place of execution and there be hanged by the neck
until he be dead . And the Court from all the circumstances of
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 113
the case recommend to the Governor to commute the punnishment
of the prisoner to transportation. And the Court in consideration that
the said salve Frank is a blacksmith value him to the sum of six
hundred dollars _
#
Ordered that the Sheriff send an express to the Executive with copies
of the record of the convictions of Jim and Isaac. slave belonging to
Sam.l Champion & Frank a Slave blonging to Solomon D. Parker
Joe belonging to John C. Turner & Lucy belonging to the Est: of John T. Barrow.
Ordered that the Court be adjourned till the first day of the next Term_
J.D. Massenburg
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Summoned and held for the County of South=
ampton on the 28.th day of September 1831 for the trial of Jack and Shadrack
negro men Slaves belonging to Nathaniel Simmons . charged with treason
against the Commonwealth _
Present. Carr Bowers, Benjamin Devany, James D. Massenburg, James
Trezvant and Orris A. Browne. Gent.
The Court being thus constited [sic; constituted] the prisoners above named were set to the bar in custody
of the Jailor of this County. Whereupon for reasons appearing the trial of the said
Jack &Shadrack is adjourned till friday the 30.th day of September instant &
thereupon they are remanded to jail and this Court is adjourned Friday
Morning Nine oClock.
Carr Bowers,
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Summoned and held for the County of
Southampton on the 28.th day of September 1831. for the trial of Nelson a
negro man Slave belonging to the Est. of Benjamin Blunt dec.d charged
with Conspiring to rebel and make insurrection _
Present. Carr Bowers. Benjamin Devany, James D. Massenburg, James
Trezvant; & Orris A. Brown. Gent:
The Court being thus constituted the Attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth
filed an Information against the said Nelson, and the said Nelson was Set to
the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County, and the Court doth assign
James S. French Counsel for the prisoner in his defence, and the prisoner
being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information. and
Sundry witnesses being Sworn and examined on behalf of the Commonwealth
the Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances. are of
opinion that the prisoner is not guilty as in pleading he hath alledged &
proclamation being made as the manner is and nothing further appear=
ing or being alledged against the prisoner it is ordered that he be
[page break]
[p.] 114
forthwith discharged from custody _
-
The Court [doth] allow James. S. French the sum of ten dollars as a fee for
defending Nelson and it is ordered that Silas Summerell adm'or &.c of
Benjamin Blunt pay the Same_
Carr Bowers,
At a court held for the county of Southampton on the 17.th day of October 1831-
Pres.t Jeremiah Cobb, Benjamin Griffin, Jeptha Darden, & Jos: T. Claud. Gent.
-
On the motion of Thomas Hunley adm'r of Harrison J. Griffin dec.d it is ordered
that M.[C.] Cobb. examine state and settle an acc.t of said Hunleys adm' on said
estate and make report &.c
//-
Clements Rochelle sheriff of this county this day returned a list of delinquents
in the land Tax for this county for the years 1830. & 1831. which is ordered to be
certified -
-
Ordered that the accounts of Clements Rochelle Sheriff of this county amounting
to $7:34 also an account amounting to $46:26 cents also an account amounting
to $74:50 cents also an account amounting to $247:80. be severally certifies
to the Auditor of Public accounts for his examination & payment
//-
The registers of Levi Ricks, Edney Diggs & Silky Diggs is ordered to be certified as
Truly made
-
Ordered that Jacob Barnes & Mills W. Vick, being first sworn as the law directs examine
state and settle an account of Matthew Vicks adm' on joel Vicks est. & rep.t
//-
List of Insolvents ["& non residents" struck] in the Revenue Tax returned by Clements Rochelle sheriff of
this county for the year 1830 & 1831- and ordered to be certified
-
Daniel vs Doles &.c Ch.y. Decreed & ordered that the clert of this court deliver to the
parties the original papers in this cause
-
Barrow vs Parker &.c Ch.y. Report ret.d & final Decree by consent
-
Inv.y. & apprais.t of Rebecca Vaughans est. ret.d & OR.
-
Anderson vs Anderson ad: &.c Ch.y. Amended Decree as filed -
-
Absent Benj.a Griffin Pres.t James D. Massenburg Gent.
Chappell vs Chappell &.c Ch.y. Decree as filed
-
Absent James D. Massenburg Pres.t Benj.a Griffin Gent
-
Adm'n on Sam.l Browne est. is granted to Lafayette Browne who gave bond &
Sec.y. and qualified acc.g. to Law
-
Ordered that Fielding J. Mahone, Benj.a Whitfield, Henry Jones & John Caton
or any 3 appraise said estate
//-
On the motion of Nicholas Edmunds Ex'or of Carter Edmunds dec.d It is ordered
that the account of said Carter Edmunds as Trustee to a deed in Trust executed
by William E. Daughtrey for the benefit of Sundry persons, be re-comm=
-itted to M.C. Cobb, that he reexamine state & settle the same & and make rep.t
#
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 115
Adm'n on Sally Drapers est. is granted to Jeremiah Chappell who gave bond & sec.y.
and qualified acc.g. to Law _
-
Ordered that Benjamin Griffin, Sam.l Denson, Thomas Hunley, & Silas Draper or any
Three appraise said estate -
//-
Absent Jeremiah Cobb Pres.t James D. Massenburg Gent
Acc.t of Robert Goodwyns Guardianship of Robert Blow ret.d & OR & Recp.t from
Rob.t Blow to Rob.t Goodwyn proved by 3 wit: & OR
-
Ordered that the Overseers of the por for Nottoway Parish bind out Diddy Bird, Nancy
Bird, Henry Bird, Ann Bird and Jane Bird poor children according to Law
/-
Adm'n on Joseph Travis's est. is granted to Henry Moor & Nathaniel Francis who gave
bond and security and qualified according to Law
-
Ordered that Rich.d Porter, Peter Edwards, Giles Reese & Robert T. Musgrave or any
Three appraise said estate
//-
Adm'n on Salathiel Francis est. is granted to Nath.l Francis who gave bond and
security and qualified according to Law
-
Ordered that Rich.d Porter, Peter Edwards, Henry Moor & Giles Reese or any 3 appraise
said estate -
//-
Ordered that Zeb: Washington & Thomas B. Worrell being first sworn as the law
directs examine state and settle an acc.t of Lewis Worrells adm' on Polly Whitfields
estate & make report &.c-
//- Jones
Com.l vs James ["James" struck] Recognizance The deft appeared in court according to the
condition of his recognizance entered into and for reasons appearing to the court it
is ordered that the Deft. be discharged from further prosecution in this behalf
-
Ordered that Henry Moor Guardian to Joseph W. Reese settle before M.C. Cobb an
acc.t of his guardianship afores.d & that he examine state & settle the same & make
rep.t &.c
//-
Adm' on Clifton Harrisons est. is granted to Rowell Harrison who gave bond and
Security and qualified according to Law
-
Ordered that John A. Person, William L. Everitt, Henry Moor & Benj.a Turner
or any 3 appraise said estate
//-
Anderson Furgason orphan of Zachariah Furgason dec.d chose Joshua Thorpe
his guardian who gave bond & Security, acc.g. to Law
-
Ordered that Thomas B. Worrell examine state and settle an account of Levi
Furgasons guardianship of Anderson Furgason & make report &.c
//-
Adm' with the will annexed of Thomas Gray dec.d is granted to Orris A. Browne
who gave bond & sec.y. & qualified acc.g. to Law. _ The Ex'ors & Ex'rx named in said
will refusing to qualify -
-
Ordered that Shadrach Boykin, Henry J.B. Kello, John Simmons &
Daniel W. Simmons or any 3 appraise said estate
#
[page break]
[p.] 116
John Morris will proved by 2 wit & OR
-
Ordered that M.C. Cobb examine state & settle an acc.t of Alexander P. Peets [sic; Peete's]
Guardianship of James A. Jones orphan of Howell Jones dec.d & make report &.c
-
Inventory & apprais.t of Harrison J. Griffin est. ret.d & OR
-
Absent James D. Massenburg Pres.t Alexander P. Peete Gent
-
Adm'n on Thomas Camps est. granted to George Camp who gave bond & security &
qualified acc.g. to Law
-
Ordered that James D. Massenburg, William E. Lawrence & Elisha Joyner ["or any 3" struck]
appraise said estate
//-
Thomas's adm' vs Tillar &.c Mot on F.C.B. notice proved & Judg.t acc.g. to bond with costs
-
Newsum vs Hines &.c Mot on F.C.B. notice proved & Judg.t acc.g. to bond with costs
-
Drewry vs Branch &.c Mot. on F.C.B. notice proved & Judg.t acc.g. to bond with costs
-
Booths Ex'or for &.c vs Lane &.c Mot on F.C.B. notice proved & Judg.t acc.g. to bond with costs
-
Boykins Ex'or &.c for &.c vs Holleman &.c Mot on F.C.B. notice proved & Judg.t acc.g. to bond with costs
-
Fitchets adm'or for &.c vs Bailey &.c Mot on F.C.B. notice proved & Judg.t acc.g. to bond with costs
-
Booths Ex'or for &.c vs Booth &.c Mot on F.C.B. notice proved & Judg.t acc.g. to bond with costs
-
Drewry Davis's will a copy with the certificates thereto annexed ret.d & OR
-
Davis to Gay Power of Attorney & certificates thereto annexed ret.d & OR
-
Thomas Ridley qualified to a commission appointing him first Lieu.t of Cavalry in
the 4.th Reg.t & 8 Brigade & 4.th Division of Virginia Militia acc.g. to Law
-
Inv.y. & apparais.t of David J. Boykins est. ret.d & OR
-
Acc.t of Sales of David J. Boykins est. ret.d & OR
-
John B. Young Guardian to Mary Louisa Cobb orphan of George B. Cobb dec.d
this day ret.d an acc.t of Said wards estate which is OR
-
John B. Young Guardian to Eliza Ann Cobb, & Georgeanna Cobb orphans of
George B. Cobb dec.d this day ret.d an acc.t of said wards estates which are OR
-
Adm' on Joseph W. Reese dec.d is granted to John W. Reese who gave bond
and Security & . qualified acc.g. to Law [erasure overwritten]
-
Ordered that Peter Edwards,- Nath.l Francis, Henry Moor & Willie Francis
or any 3 appraise said estate
//-
Richard E. Worrell qualified to a commission appointing him Cap.t of a
company of Infantry in the 65.th Reg.t of the V.a Militia acc.g. to Law
-
Inv.y. & apparais.t of John R. Kelly, est. ret.d & OR
-
The registers of, Zelpha Jones, Giles Scott, Mary Diggs, Hannah Browne
Milly Whitfield, Betsey Whitfield, Fortune Scott, Penny Copland, Isham
Whitfield, Sally Whitfield, Sophia Jones, Dolly Butler, Mike Roberts,
Anthony Browne, & Milly Browne are ordered to be certified as Truly
made
-
A List of Deeds proved & ack.d in the clerks office & admitted to
record
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 117
Ordered that the account of Albert Drewry amounting to $15. be certified to
the auditor of public accounts for his examination and payment
//-
Pres.t Jacob Barnes Gent.
Jack & Shadrach negro men slaves the proprty of Nath.l Simmons who stand
Indicted for Treason &.c were again set to the bar by the Sheriff of this county into
whose custody they were heretofore committed; And the court being of opinion that
a Slave cannot be tried in this court for Treason, Therefore it is ordered that the
said Jack & Shadrach be discharged from further prosecution in this behalf
-
Adm' on George Epps' est. is granted to Williamson Epps who gave bond
and Security and qualified acc.g. to Law
-
Ordered that Benjamin Williamson, George Ivy, Lewis Harris, & John Shepherd
or any 3 appraise said estate
//-
James D. Massenburg is by the court assigned Guardian to Antonette
Stith orphan of Griffin Stith dec.d who gave bond & sc.y. acc.g. to Law
-
["Absent Benjamin Griffin Pres.t James W. Parker Gent" struck]
Dismissed
Com.l vs Cordy Whitfield Recognizance for a breach of the peace ["cont.d" struck]
["ill the next court" struck] and rule against Matthias Williams prosecutor in this
case
-
Ordered that the estate of Thadeus Powell be committed to [the hands of] Clements
Rochelle Sheriff of this county and that he administer thereon accor=
=ding to Law-
//-
Ordered that Carr Bowers, Jesse Lankford & William Lankford app=
=raise said estate
- ["Abs" erased] Present James W. Parker
Sam a negro man Slave the property of Peter Edwards who stands
Charged with feloniously conspiring to rebel with divers other slaves and
did on the 23.rd of August 1831 rebel & make inserrection, and M.B.
Brodnax attorney for the com.l filed his information against the said
Sam who was thereof arraigned pleaded not guilty, ["and James S." struck]
["French was assigned counsel for the prisoner," struck] and thereupon divers
witnesses were were [sic] sworn and examined Touching the premises (to wit)
Ben a negro man Slave the property of Newit Harris, being sworn
and charged, States that on monday morning August 23.rd about
10 O'clock he saw the insergeants approaching his masters house
that the prisoner, was with them and had Something which he
does not Know whether it was a gun or a stick, that the
prisoner was mounted and rather in the rear, that Sam and
the Insergeants with the prisoner among them pursued him, that
he
he does not know whether ^ could have escaped from the
others if he had been so disposed -
[page break]
[p.] 118. :
Nath.l Francis of full age being sworn saith that with several
where lives
others, went to Peter Edwards's (the master of the prisoner) about 10 OClock
Tuesday night, after the Sunday of the Insurrection that one of the
party went to a negro house, the mother of the prisoner & insisted
that some- body was there, he does not know whether she denied it
but heard the other insisting that some of the negroes were there-
that the next he saw they had the prisoner in custody, he being
under the house, during the remarks of the ["prisoner" struck] persons enquiring for
him. _ That [he] does not know when the prisoner went under the house-
["upon cross examination States that he lives about 8 or 9 miles f" struck]
Peter Edwards a witness introduced for the prisoner States that the prisoner
was a negro of good character, ["that his Overseer told him that the" struck]
["prisoner got home, Two hours by Sun monday morning" struck]
he lives
Upon being cross examination States that ["it is" struck] about 8 or 9 miles from
Parkers field, and that the prisoner might have gotten home about
about 2 hours by Sun
["the time his Overseer stated" struck] and have left Parkers field after the
insurgeants had retreated -
Levi Waller of full age was sworn states that he was hid in
the bushes some part of the time that the insergeants were at his
house, that he Saw two of them engaged in murdering his family
that he did not see the prisoner engaged, but Saw him at Some
distance wiping his eyes, That he heard Nat tell the prisoner
to get on his horse, when they were about to Start, the prisoner
Seemed not disposed to get up, but did get up and go off with
them, that he does not know whether he was forced to go with
them, that he does not know whether he cou'd have escaped
if he had been so disposed _
The evidence being thus closed & the prisoner being fully heard ^
by counsel, The court after hearing the Testimony and all the
circumstances of the case unanimously of opinion that the
prisoner is guilty of the offence whereof he Stands charged
Therefore it is ordered that he be taken from hence to the jail
from whence he came, There to remain till friday the 4.th of
November next, On which day between the hours of 10 Oclock
in the fore noon and four Oclock in the afternoon_ It is ordered
that he be taken by the sheriff of this county to the place
of usual execution & then & there be hanged by the neck
till he is dead -
And the court value the said Slave to four hundred and
Twenty five Dollars _
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 119
["James S. French is by the Court allowed the sum of Ten dollars for defending" struck]
["said slave" struck]
- Ordered that the court be adjourned till Tomorrow morning nine OClock
James W. Parker.
by adjournment
At a Court of oyer and Termini [sic] continued ^ and held for the county of
Southampton on the 17.th day of October 1831 for the Trial of Joe a negro man
slave the property of Rich.d P. Briggs' est. charged with Insurrection
Pres James W. Parker, Jeptha Darden, Alexander P. Peete,
Joseph T. Claud and Jacob Barnes
For reasons appearing to the court it is ordered that the Trial of said
Joe be adjourned till Tomorrow __ And it is ordered that this court
be continued till tomorrow ___
James W. Parker.
At a court of continued and held for the county of Southampton on the 18.th day of
October 1831.
Pres.t James Trezvant, James W. Parker, Joseph T. Claud
Alexander P. Peete and Jacob Barnes Gent.
On the motion of Jacob Barnes & Joseph Jordan Securities for Bolling Vicks guard=
=ianship of the orphans of Sam.l Vick dec.d It is ordered that the said Bolling Vick
be Summoned to the next court to give counter Security for his guardianship aforesaid
-
Ordered that the clerk of this court deliver to Pleasant Catton a free woman of
colour a certificate of her register, It appearing to the Satisfaction of the court that
certificate
her former ["register" struck] has been mislaid or lost
-
James Bell This day appeared in court and qualified to a commission appointing
him Second Lieutenant of Cavalry in the 4.th Reg.t & Brigade & fourth Division of
the virginia militia according to Law
-
Archer a negro man Slave the property of Arthur G. Reese of this county who
Stands charged with having on the 22.nd day of August 1831 feloniously consulted
advised and conspired with divers Slaves to rebel & make insurrection & plot to Murder
Sundry white persons of this com.l was this day set to the bar by the Sheriff of this
county into whose custody he was heretofore committed (The court Summoned for his
Trial having failed to Meet) And M.B. Brodnax attorney prosecuting for the
Comm.l filed an Information against the prisoner, and the prisoner being arr=
=aigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the Information, and James S.
French was assigned counsel for the prisoner and thereupon divers witnesses were sworn
and examined Touching the premises_ The court after hearing the testimony and
all the circumstances of the case are of opinion that the prisoner is not guilty of
the felony whereof he stands charged & thereupon proclamation being made as the manner
is and nothing further appearing or being alledged against the prisoner it is ordered that he be
[page break]
[p.] 114
forthwith discharged from further prosecution in this behalf
-
Ordered that Hardy Harris Guardian to Arthur G. Reese pay to James. S. French the sum
of Ten Dollars for defending a negro man Archer the property of said Reese charged
with Insurrection -
-
Reese &.c vs Harris &.c Ch.y. Decree as filed by counsel
-
Isham Turner a free man of colour late of the county of Southampton who stands
charged with ["with" struck] conspiring consulting and advising to rebel and make insurrection
and plotting to take the lives of free white persons ["of" struck] citizens of this Comm.l
was heretofore committed and charged the felony aforesaid (The court Summonded
for his examination not having met) and Thereupon divers witnesses were
sworn and examined Touching the premises - and the prisoner being fully heard
James S. French his
by ^ counsel,- The court after hearing the testimony and all the circumstances
of the case are of opinion that the prisoner that the prisoner [sic] ought to be
Tried for the said offence at the next Superior court to be holden for this county
and thereupon, it is ordered that he be remanded to jail
-
Ordered that the registers of Frank Vines, Eley Vines, & Paul Vines be certified as
Truly made
- ravis
Moses a negro boy Slave the property of the estate of Joseph T["urner" struck] dec.d who stands
charged with having on the 22.nd of August 1831. feloniously consulted advised & conspired
to rebel & make insurrection and plot to murder Sundry free white persons citizens
of this com.l was this day set to the bar by the Sheriff of this county into whose
custody he was heretofore committed, and M.B. Brodnax attorney for the com.l filed
his information against the prisoner, and Thomas R. Gray was by the court assigned
counsel for the prisoner, and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises & pleaded
not guilty and thereupon ["Edward" overwritten] divers witnesses were examined touching the premises
Jesse Drewry
(to wit) ["Edward Butts" struck] of full age being sworn Saith that .he was present
on Several occasions when the prisoner was examined as a witness on previous
Trials, Some times for the commonwealth and some times on behalf of
prisoners,- that his evidence was given freely and voluntarily after being
told that he was not compelled to give Testimony & that nothing which
he said would be of any advantage to him, that the prisoner stated
that he had been compelled to go with the insergeants, that he continued
with them them, [sic] untill after the insurgeants were repulsed & forced to
retreat from Parkers field_ that he does not know whether the prisoner
continued with them longer or whether he availed himself of that
first opportunity of leaving them -
The evidence being thus closed and the prisoner being fully heard
by counsel_ The court after hearing the testimony and all the
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 121
circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty
of the offence whereof he stands charged - Therefore it is ordered that he be taken
from hence to the place from whence he came and from thence on the 17.th of
November next between the hours [of] 10 Oclock in the fore noon and 4 Oclock in
the afternoon of that day that he be taken to the place of usual execution
and then and there be hanged by the neck till he is dead _
Mem.d The court value the said negro boy Moses to Three hundred Dollars -
and the court unanimously recommend to the Executive to commute the punnish=
=ment of the said negro boy Moses _
#
Ordered that the estate of Salley Newsum widow of James B. Newsum dec.d
be committed to the hands of Clements Rochelle sheriff of this county
and that he administer thereon according to Law
//-
Ordered that Willie Francis, Nath.l Francis, & Peter Edwards appraise
said estate -
//-
Ordered that the account of Walter Blunt amounting to $12 be
Cetified [sic] to the auditor of public accounts for his examination & pay.t
//-
["Ordered that the court be adjourned till court in course" struck]
Ordered that the registers of Matilda Ricks, Fanny Ricks, Rebecca Butler
and Dolly Butler be certified as Truly made
-
Ordered that the court be adjourned till court in course
James W. Parker..
//
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer Summoned and held for the County
of Southampton on Saturday the fifth day of November 1831- for the trial
of Nat alias Nat Turner a negro man Slave late the property of Putnam
Moore an infant. charged with conspiring to rebel and making insurrection_
Present. Jeremiah Cobb Samuel B. Hines. James D. Massenburg . James
W. Parker, Robert Goodwin, James Trezvant & Orris A. Browne _ Gent.
Carr Bowers, Thomas Pretlow & Rich.d A. Urquhart.
For reasons appering to the Court it is ordered that the Sheriff summon
a Sufficient additional guard to repel any attempt that may be made to rescue
Nat alias Nat Turner from the custody of the Sheriff _
-
The prisoner Nat alias Nat Turner was Set to the Bar in custody of
the Jailor of this County, and William C. Parker, is by the Court assigned
Counsel for the prisoner in his defence, and Merewether B. Brodnax
Attorney for the Commonwealth filed an Information against the
prisoner, who upon his arraignment pleaded not guilty . and.
[page break]
[p.] 122.
Levi Waller being sworn as a witness stated that on the morning of the
9 &
22.d day of August last between ^ 10 oClock he heard that the negroes had
risen and were murdering the whites and were coming. Witness Sent
school off
his son Tho.s to the ^ house ["he living" struck] about a quarter mile ^ to let it be
School Master came with Witnesses children. witness told him to go to the house & load the guns, but
before the guns were loaded prisoner came to to the still where witness was
known & set his children to come home _ M.r Crocker the ^ ["retturned" struck] and Said they
were in Sight _ Witness retreated and concealed himself in the
corner of the fence in the weeds on the opposite Side of the house _
["behind the garden" erased]
^ Several negroes pursued him but he escaped them by falling among
the Weeds over the fence _ One negro rode up and looked over, but did
not observe him _ the attention of the party he thinks were called
off from him by some of the party going in pursuit of another, which
he thinks they took for him but who turned out to be his blacksmith.
Witness then retreated into the Swamp which was not far off _ after
Witness crept up near the house to see what they were doing and
concealed himself by getting in the plub orchard behing [sic; behind] the garden _
the negroes were drinking _ Witness saw prisoner whom he knew very
well, mounted (he thought on D.r Musgraves horse) _ States that the
prisoner Seemed to command the party _ made Peter Edwards negro
man Sam who seemed disposed to remain, mount his horse and go with
them _ prisoner gave command to the party to "go ahead" when they
left his house _ Witness states that he cannot be mistaken in the
identity of the prisoner -
James Trezvant being Sworn : Said that M.r James W. Parker and
himself were the Justices before whom the prisoner was examined previous
to his commitment _ That the prisoner at the time was in confinement but
no threats or promises were held out to him to make any disclosures,.That
he admitted that he was one of the insurgents engaged in the late insur=
rection and the chief among them _ that he gave to his Master & Mistress
his
M.r Travis &^wife the first blow before they were dispatched,- that he
killed Miss Peggy Whitehead _ That he was with the insurgents
from their first movements to their dispersion on the Tuesday morning
after the insurrection took place, _ That he gave a long account of the
motives which lead him finally to commence the bloody scence [sic] which
took place _ That he pretended to have had intimations by signs &
omens from God that he should embark in the desperate attempt
That his comrades and even he was impressed with a belief that he
could by the imposition of his hands cure diseases _ That he related
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 123
a particular instance in which it was believed that he had in that manner
affected a cure. upon one of his comrades. And that he went on to detail a
medley of incoherent opinions about his communications with
God, his command over the clouds &.c &.c which he had been entertaining as far
back as 1826.
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of
the case unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and
form as in the Information against him alledged. and it being demanded of him
if any thing for himself he had or knew to say why the Court to judgment
execution
and ^ against him of and upon the premises Should not proceede _ he said he had
nothing but what he had before said. Therefore it is considered by the Court that
he be taken hence to the Jail from whence he was taken therein to remain until
Friday the 11.th of November instant. on which day between the hours of
ten oClock in the forenoon and four oClock in the aftern,oon he is to be taken
by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and then and there be hanged
by the neck until he be dead. And the Court value the said slave to
the sum of three hundred and seventy five dollars_. .
#
Ordered that William C. Parker be allowed the Sum of ten dollars as a
fee for defending Nat alias nat Turner. late the property of Putnam Moore an
infant_ JereCobb
//
[end of that Court's proceedings]
[p.] 124 [...]
At a Court of Quarterly Session held for Southampton County at the Court
house the 21.st day of November 1831_
Present. Benjamin Griffin, Jacob Barnes, Joseph T. Claud & A.P. Peete _ Gent,
-
[...]
[in modern pen, p.] 127
Ordered that Jo.s G. Council, Benj.a Crumpler & Jesse Lowe appraise
Mildred Harts est. & rep.t &.c
//-
Ordered that it be certified to the Auditor of Public Accounts that
Jack a negro man Slave who was tried and convicted by a Court of
belonging to
Oyer & Terminer held in this County on the 5.th of September 1831. as ^ the
Estate
["property" struck] of William Reese dec.d and who was valued by them at the
Sum of $350: did in truth belong to the Estate of Joseph William
Reese dec.d
//-
[...]
//- ~
A Paper writing purporting. [to be] the last Will & Testament of John
T. Barrow dec.d was produced in Court in order to be proved and
George W. Vaughan the subscribing Witness thereto being dead. Sundry
Witnesses were introduced Sworn and examined. from whose testimony
it appeared to the Court that the body of the said Writing as well
as his name thereto was wholly written by the said John T. BArrow
the testator' and that the name of George W. Vaughan the Witness
was in the proper hand writing of him the said Geo: W. Vaughans
Whereupon the said Writing is established and ordered to be recorded
as the last Will & Testament of the said John T. Barrow dec.d
["&.c" struck] Admon with the Will annexed is granted to Rob: T. Musgrave
who made oath & gave bond & Secty according to Law .
-
Ordered that Nath.l Francis, Peter Edwards. Burwell Murfee
& Drew: Bittle or any. 3 app: said Est: &.c
//- ~
Admon on John Marchants Est: granted to Jacob Jordan
who made oath & gave bond &Secty. according to Law .
-
Ordered that Henry Jones, John Catton, Joshua Tharp & Benj.a
Whitfield or any 3 app: said Est &.c
//-
Admon on William Williams's Est: granted to Kinchen Will=
iams who made oath & gave bond &Secty. according to Law .
~
[page break]
[p.] 128.
Ordered that Jacob Williams, Nathan Pope, Drewry Waller. &
Levi Waller or any 3 app: said Est &.c
//-
[...]
[p. 129]
[...]
//-
Ben a negro man Slave belonging to the Estate of Benjamin Blunt dec.d
who Stands committed to the jail of this County upon the charge of
Conspiring to rebel & make insurrection was this day set to the bar in
Custody of the Jailor of this County (the Court Summoned for his trial
having failed to meet). And Merewether B. Brodnax Attorney for
the Commonwealth filed an information against the prisoner and
the prisoner upon his arraignment of the premises pleaded not guilty. and
Sam a negro man Slave being charged &Sworn as a Witness Says
that the prisoner came to his Masters Drew Bittles, Monday Morning
[page break]
[p.] 130
last the
August ^ 22.d about two hours by Sun. Witness did not know where from -
and Said there was going to be a War and that Witness would See _
About an hour after the prisoner made these remarks M.r Barnes came
by and Said the negroes are behind Killing the white people. Ben (the
prisoner) as soon as M.r Barnes had passed) Said ah: did not I tell
you there would be war _ how did I know:_
Drewry Bittle was Sworn & examined as a Witness. and Says that he
Sam (the witness,
is the owner of the Slave^_ that he ^ was from home when the insurrection
broke out _ he went home _ hid his family. left his negroes to guard them _
he went off _ returned. & carried his family off and left his negroes at
home and directed them not to go off on any account unless to run
from the negroes._
Luke a negro man Slave being charged &Sworn as a Witness _ States
August 23.rd 1831. (a leader of the insurgents,
that on Tuesday morning ^. Billy Artist ^ &his wife came by _ Witness
asked Artist the news &.c Artist asked Witness to go with him _
but Witness refused _ Artist Said nothing to prisoner but prisoner
[margin notes] Record Sent by
Mail Nov. 26.th
1831_
went off with him _ Artist returned about 3 or 4 oCLock in the
evening with the prisoner. and Thomas Haithcock & 3 boys. with him,
&Said he would Cut This way, he would kill & cripple as he went.
they were So far off that witness did not hear them except when
they spoke loud . and Artist flourished his hatred when he spoke of
killing &.c
Charlotte a negro woman Slave _ being charged &Sworn. Says that
been
who has ^ convicted as an Insurgents
about three hours by sun in the morning of tuesday Nathan ^ the
Brother of the prisoner came to her Masters, Peter Edwards's and told
prisoner his, Nathans, money was in the field -Ben made no reply
and in a Short time _Nathan, Billy Artist &his wife &, Ben the prisoner
& two ["others" struck] boys went off together
Cherry a negro woman slave was charges &Sworn_ &States that
she lives at M.r Francis's, that about 12 oClock. tuesday 23.d.August
Billy Artist &his wife.
last the prisoner & ^ Nathan & the two boys came to the house of
M.r Francis; Ben the prisoner staid in the yard but the others
went into the house they brought out 3 bundle of clothes and asked
the prisoner to carry some of them and he Said he would.
The evidence being closed and the prisoner being fully heard in
his defence by Robert Birchett esq: his Counsel. The Court after
hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case
are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner &
form as in the Information against him is alledged and it
[page break]
[in modern pen, p.] 131.
being demanded of him if any thing for himself he had or knew to say
why the Court Should not proceede to pronounce judgment against him
according to Law. he said he had nothing but what he had before said
Therefore it is considered by the Court that he be taken from hence to the
Jail from whence he came . and that on Tuesday the 20.th of December
next between the hours of ten Oclock in the forenoon & four Oclock
in the afternoon of the same day. he be taken by the Sheriff of this
County to the usual place of execution and then and there be hanged by
the neck until he be dead..
-
Memo. the Court value the said Slave Ben to the sum of four hundred dollars_
//-
ordered that the Court be adjourned till to Morrow Morning. 9 oClock_
Tho.s Pretlow
[end of that Court's proceedings]
[At a Court of quarterly Sessions continued and held for Southampton
County the 24.th day of November 1831..]
[p.] 142.
[...]
On motion of Henry Moore adm'or of Putnam Moore dec.d It is ordered
to be certified that Moses a negro boy slave, who was tried and convicted
by a Court held for this County on the 18.th day of October 1831, for
Conspiring to rebel and make insurrection was the property of the estate of
Putnam Moore dec.d and not the property of the Est. of Jo.s Travis dec.d _
[...]
[At a Court of held for Southampton County the 20.th day of February 1832.]
[p. 153]
From evidence introduce to the Court, Ordered that it be certified that Nat
a negro man slave who was found guilty of making insurrection &Sentenced
to be hanged by a Court held for this County on the 3.d September 1831, was not
the property of Edmund Turner dec.d as is stated in the record of his conviction but
is the property of James & Elizabeth Turner orphans of said Edmund Turner dec.d_
//-
[...]
[At a Court held for Southampton County the 16.th day of July 1832.]
[p. 194]
[...]
-
The Register of Thomas Haithcock was examined & certified to be correct._
-
Ordered that the Sheriff procure a good lock and cause the same to put to the door
of the jail of this County where it is wanting and present the acct to the Court for payment
-
[...]
[end of proceedings directly related to the Insurrection]
Southampton Co., VA, Court Minute Book, 1830-1835,
pp. 73-123, 124, 127-28, 129-31, 142, 153, 194
The Library of Virginia (LVA), Richmond, VA
LVA, Southampton Co. Microfilm Reel 34
Contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
Matt Harris (zoobug64@aol.com) [brackets mine]
file at:
http://files.usgwarchives.net/va/southampton/court/ol_nat.txt