(MILITARY--CIVIL WAR.) Pair of compensation applications by owners of soldiers who enlisted in the United States Colored Troops. 2 packets of 3 documents each, the largest being 14 x 8½ inches, tipped together at the top edge, with various signatures, revenue stamps, embossed seals, and docketing; moderate wear, partial separations at folds. Maryland, April 1865
Border-state slave owners who allowed their enslaved workers to enlist in the Union Army were entitled to monetary compensation. Slavery in the Union states was unaffected by the Emancipation Proclamation, but was ended in Maryland by a new state constitution on 1 November 1864.
Each of these applications consists of 3 partially printed forms, certifying a soldier's service along with a "proof of ownership" affidavit signed by witnesses who knew the owner.
The first packet certifies the service of John H. Bowyer in the 9th United States Colored Troops from November 1863 onward, and his ownership by Ann Boyer of Snow Hill, Worcester County, MD. Her claim was submitted on 8 April 1865 as the war wound down, and was approved for payment on 27 April.
The second packet is for Minos James, who served in the same regiment, and was owned by Elisha P. Parker of Worcester County. His claim was paid on the same day as Boyer's.
