A Slave’s life in the 1800’s

What was the state of slavery in the early 1800’s? The economy still depended on slave labor to flourish. By 1830, 1/3 of NC residents were slaves! Some counties had more slaves than free persons

How were slaves treated in the 1800’s? Slaves were treated poorly and had few legal rights. Owners could whip, abuse, or kill slaves– and some did. However, slave owners soon learned that treating the slaves slightly better would produce the best work.

Did slaves have any time for themselves? Slaves were allowed minimal time for recreation after the day’s work had ended. Many slaves enjoyed fishing, hunting, and growing food. Over time, slaves earned privileges in return for good work. Some even earned enough money on the side to buy freedom.

How was slave life “after dark” ? Slaves would travel by foot through the woods to meet with family members after dark. Many married slaves belonged to different owners so they had to travel to see each other at night. Slaves caught traveling without a pass from their Master would receive 39 lashes on their bare back.

Could families stay together? Often times, slaves would watch family members be sold away to a different plantation. Many would never see that family member again. When rumors spread of an upcoming sale, many families would hide in the woods to avoid being sold.

A slave master’s“For Sale” Sign

Were there any free Blacks? Slowly, the number of free Blacks grew throughout NC and the rest of the country. Free Blacks were often former slaves who had been freed by their masters or had bought freedom with money from side-jobs.