(SLAVERY) Pair of letters concerning the loan of enslaved ra

Sale 2663 - Lot 405

Price Realized: $ 688

?Final Price Realized includes Buyer’s Premium added to Hammer Price

Estimate: $ 1,000 - $ 1,500

(SLAVERY.) Pair of letters concerning the loan of enslaved racehorse jockeys. Pair of Autograph Notes Signed from A.T.B. Merritt to Thomas B. Williamson of Southampton, VA. Each about 4 x 8 inches; folds, minor wear, one with address panel on verso (no postal markings). No place, 10 September 1848 and undated

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Horse racing was a tremendously popular sport through much of the antebellum South, and the bulk of the actual racing was done by enslaved jockeys. These two notes discuss the transfers of jockeys by Dr. Alexander Thomas Belfield Merritt (circa 1795-1870), a leading horseman who operated the Hicks Ford stud farm in what is now Emporia, VA.

In 1848: "Mr. Green claims John as a part of my bargain with him. I have let him remain with you till now, but as you can at this time well spare probably, I hope you can send him up tomorrow. I am afraid Mr. Green will complain of me, as he wants John to ride, & I am anxious to send him over tomorrow night."

Undated: "I have sent you Joshua, who is said to be a very good exercise boy. He has also ridden trials well. You can have him as long as you held him for seven dollars a month."