African Americana

3pp, 9¼ x 7½ in. (toning, some separations at folds). Docketed on verso with endorsements dated 1855.

Document signed proving and registering the release of a claim by the heirs of the late Brig. General James M. Mangum (1796-1854) on the enslaved infant Elizabeth. In his will, Mangum bequeathed to his minor granddaughters “...one negro woman named Amanda, and her child Hepseba, together with all her increase; and two negro girls Silvia and Cary to be divided between them….” The document further indicates that "the said negro woman Amanda ... has since the date of the last will and testament, and before the death of the said testator, James M. Mangum, brought forth and had born of her a negro girl child named Elizabeth which is now living....“ The document, which is signed by Mangum's heirs Thomas I. Rogers, John W. Byrd, Joseph M. Mangum, and Mary S. Mangum,  releases their claim on the enslaved infant child.  

Planter and enslaver James M. Mangum was one of the wealthiest men in North Carolina, owning over 1000 acres and 24 enslaved men, women, and children. He served in the North Carolina House of Commons in 1838 and 1840, and was elected a brigadier general in the 17th Brigade, 7th Division, North Carolina Militia in May, 1842.