(SLAVERY AND ABOLITION) Manuscript Document Letter from the

Sale 2239 - Lot 25

Price Realized: $ 420

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

Estimate: $ 600 - $ 800

(SLAVERY AND ABOLITION.) Manuscript Document. Letter from the part-owner of a slave who was beaten to death, addressed to "Colo. Thomas," attempting to absolve himself of any responsibility in the death. Folio leaf, folded to form four pages; written on three and folded and addressed on the fourth; some wear, a few splits at the folds repaired. Harmon, KY, 1854

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A slave who was apparently hired by several farmers to share equally, was beaten to death by one of them. The writer of the present letter attempts to absolve himself and explain how the slave came to die. In part: "He (Moore) hired the Negro now dead, the foundation of the suit. . . I did not. He gave his notes with Hampton Bugg security--I did not--nor did I authorize him on my part--nor did I know he intended to hire him--until he informed me. He fed him and clothed him. I paid his tax and hire. And he I presume will not controvert the above statemint (sic)--if he has done he will be out of the facts of the case. He whipped this Negro for some days before his death, and Ward done the finishing lick and the Negro died in his hands."