[AFRICAN AMERICANA]. Manuscript listing fees assessed for the trial of a "negro man" who was "Tried & convicted" for robbery. Washington County, Pennsylvania. 22 September 1810.

"Commonwealth v Benjamin Spencer / a negro man. Indict for a Robbery / Tried & convicted." 4 x 7 1/2 in. (creasing, toning). Benjamin Spencer's case was heard during the July 1810 session. Among the expenses listed for his case are "Clk [clerk]" and "Transcripts."

It is possible that Benjamin Spencer was a free Black man, as the numbers of enslaved men, women, and children were decreasing in Pennsylvania due to the 1780 Act for the Gradual Abolition of Slavery. Black Pennsylvanians, even if free, were not considered citizens and did not enjoy the full rights of citizenship. They were denied the right to vote and were barred from testifying against white citizens in court. This limitation made it incredibly difficult for Black individuals to mount a defense or pursue legal claims when a white person was the opposing party.

This lot is located in Cincinnati.

To request further details about this lot, please email [email protected]

Please contact the Auction Specialist for details.

Katie Horstman

VP, Head of Department, American Historical Ephemera and Early Photography

[email protected]513.666.4958

Ms. Horstman has spent over a decade specializing in historic photography and Americana at auction. During her tenure, she has overseen several notable single owner auctions, including property from the inventory of celebrated Americana and antique arms expert Norm Flayderman. During her time with the firm, she has maintained an active membership in the Daguerreian Society. Ms. Horstman holds an MA in Art History from the University of Cincinnati and a BA in Art History from The Ohio State University.

American Historical Ephemera and Early Photography, including The Larry Ness Collection of Native American Photography

[AFRICAN AMERICANA]. Manuscript listing fees assessed for the trial of a "negro man" who was "Tried & convicted" for robbery. Washington County, Pennsylvania. 22 September 1810.

Lot Description

Condition Report

Preview

Auction Contact

Shipping | Pickup