Full Trial Record: of Southampton County Court of Oyer and Terminer Proceedings Relating to the Slave Revolt Led by Nat Turner
August 31-November 21, 1831
(Southampton County Court Minute Book, 1830-1835, pp. 72-131)
Days of court sessions and names of defendants in boldface.
Trial of: Daniel (slave of Richard Porter), Jack (Everett Bryant), Moses (Thomas Barrow), Tom (Caty Whitehead, deceased), Jack (Caty Whitehead, deceased), Davy (Elizabeth Turner, deceased), Stephen (Thomas Ridley), Curtis (Thomas Ridley)
At a court of Oyer and Terminer summoned and held for the County of Southampton at the Courthouse on the 31st day of August 1831 for the trial of Daniel, a negro man slave the property of Richard Porter, Jack, the property of Everett Bryant, Moses, the property of Thomas Barrow, Tom, late the property of Caty Whitehead, Jack, late the property of Caty Whitehead, Andrew, late the property of Caty Whitehead, Davy, late the property of Elizabeth Turner, Stephen, the property of Thomas Ridley, and Curtis, the property of Thomas Ridley, charged with feloniously consulting, advising & conspiring with each other and divers other slaves to rebel and make insurrection and making insurrection and taking the lives of divers free white persons of this Commonwealth—
Present: Jeremiah Cobb, James D. Massenburg, Alexander P. Peete, James Trezvant and Orris A. Browne. Gent. Justices.
Meriwether B. Broadnax, attorney for the Commonwealth filed an information against the prisoners above mentioned [struck through: and the court doth appoint William C. Parker, Esq., Att. at Law to defend the prisoners.]
And thereupon Daniel a negro man slave the property of Richard Porter in the said information mentioned was brought into Court and set to the Bar in Custody of the Jailor of this county and the Court doth assign William C. Parker, Esq., Atto to defend the prisoner and as the prisoner being duly arraigned of the premises pleaded Not Guilty to the Information and Levi Waller a witness on behalf of the Commonwealth was sworn and disposed as follows. That on Monday the 22d August 1831 a number of negroes, say between 40 and 50, came to the house of the witness mounted on horse back and armed with guns swords and other weapons—the witness and all his family attempted to make their escape and the witness did make his escape but did not proceed far from his house before he hid himself in sight of the house where he could see nearly all things that transpired at the house—That the witness saw the prisoner Daniel & two other negroes named Aaron & Sam go into a log house where the witnesses wife and a small girl had attempted to secrete themselves—he saw the negroes come out of the house and the prisoner Daniel had his the witnesses wifes, scissor chair in his hand—the witness then made for a swamp farther from the house and was pursued by two of the negroes but they did not overtake him—After the negroes had left the witnesses house the witness returned to the house and found his wife & the small girl as well as many other members of the family murdered and an infant child mortally wounded who died the Wednesday evening following.
Nathaniel Francis also a witness for the Commonwealth was sworn and deposed to the following facts—that a number, say between 50 and 60 free white persons were murdered on Sunday night the 21st & Monday morning the 22d of August 1831 by a number of negroes, and it was generally believed that there was insurrection among the negroes of this county.
Sampson C. Reese also a witness for the Commonwealth being sworn says that he was in company with a number of other gentlemen and in pursuit of a company of negroes who were from report in a State of insurrection in this County—That they came up with the insurgents at Mr. James W. Parkers—the first negro he saw after getting to Mr. Parkers gate was the prisoner at the bar on Dr. Musgraves horse—the witness shot at the prisoner—the prisoner had no arms that the witness saw—
Richard Porter a witness on behalf of the prisoner being sworn—says he was told the prisoner had surrendered himself and was going to his the witnesses house and the prisoner was at home Monday morning—he saw nothing uncommon about the prisoner.
The court after hearing the testimony and on due consideration thereof are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is set forth and it being demanded of him if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the court should not proceed to pronounce judgment against him and nothing being offered or alleged in delay of judgement it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be hanged by the neck until he be dead and that execution of this judgment be done upon him the said Daniel by the Sheriff of this County, on Monday the 5th day of September next between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two o’clock in the afternoon of the same day at the usual place of execution. And thereupon the prisoner is remanded to jail. Memo: The Court value the said slave Daniel to the sum of one hundred dollars.
Absent Jeremiah Cobb & Alex P. Peete. Present Robert Goodwin and James W. Parker Gent.
Moses late the property of Thomas Barrow was set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County and being arraigned of the premises pleaded Not guilty to the information. And on the motion of the said Moses by William C. Parker his attorney appointed by the court to defend him, his trial is adjourned till tomorrow. And thereupon the said prisoner is remanded to jail—
Absent Robert Goodwin Present Alexander P. Peete Gent.
Whereupon hearing the testimony and the prisoner by his Counsel, the Court unanimously of the opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the Information against him is set forth and it being demanded of him if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceed to pronounce judgment against him according to law and nothing being offered or alleged in delay of Judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the place from whence he came where he is to be safely kept until Monday the fifth day of September instant, on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two o’clock in the afternoon, he is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and there be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the Court doth value the said Moses to the sum of four hundred dollars—
Jack the property of Everitt Bryant, Davy late the property of Elizabeth Turner & Stephen & Curtis the property of Thomas Ridley who stand committed to the Jail of this county upon a charge of conspiring to rebel and make insurrection were this day brought into Court and for reasons appearing to the Court the trial of the said prisoners is adjourned till tomorrow—Ordered that this Court be adjourned till tomorrow morning nine o’clock.
At a Court summoned and held for the County of Southampton at the Courthouse on the first day of September 1831 for the trial of Jacob and Isaac the property of George H. Charlton of the County of Greensville, for consulting, advising, and conspiring to rebel and make insurrection—
Present. Robert Goodwin, James W. Parker, James Trezvant, Orris A. Browne, and Alexander P. Peete. Gent.
The above named Jacob and Isaac were set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County and for reasons appearing to the Court the trial of the said Jacob and Isaac is adjourned till tomorrow morning and thereupon they are remanded to jail.
Ordered that this Court be adjourned till tomorrow morning nine o’clock.
ROBT. GOODWIN.
At a court summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the first day of September 1831 for the trial of Nathan the property of Benjamin Blunts est. of this County and of Nathan, Tom, and Davy the property of Nathaniel Francis of this County for making insurrection.
Present. Robert Goodwin. James W. Parker. James Trezvant. Alexander Peete & Orris A. Browne. Gent.
The above named Nathan, Nathan, Tom, and Davy were set to the bar in the custody of the Jailor of this County, and for reasons appearing to the Court the trial of the said prisoners is adjourned till tomorrow, and thereupon they are remanded to jail—
Ordered that this Court be adjourned till tomorrow morning nine o’clock.
ROBT. GOODWIN.
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjournment and held for the County of Southampton on the 2d day of September 1831 for the trial of Davy late the property of Elizabeth Turner, Stephen the property of Thomas Ridley, Curtis the property of Thomas Ridley, & Jack the property of Everitt Bryant charged with having feloniously on the 22d day of August 1831 at this County consulted, advised and conspired with each other and with Divers other slaves to rebel and make insurrection and for making insurrection and taking the lives of divers free white persons of this Commonwealth.
Present Thomas Pretlow, Samuel B. Hines, James W. Parker, James Trezvant & Alexander P. Peete. Gent.
The Court being thus constituted the above named Davy late the property of Elizabeth Turner was set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County and Thomas R. Gray is by the Court appointed Counsel for the prisoner in his defense and thereupon the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information and Hubbard a slave being sworn and charged, as a witness for the Commonwealth, says that he is the property of the late Mrs. Caty Whitehead, that a company of insurgent negroes came to his Mistresses and murdered her and family—that the prisoner Davy was in company with them the witness is positive that the prisoner was there because he had known him well for several years & spoke to him.
Moses a slave being charged and sworn as a witness for the prisoner says that he was with the insurgent negroes that went to Mrs. Elizabeth Turners where the prisoner lived and murdered Mrs. Turner and family that the prisoner took no part in murdering his mistress and family-- the prisoner was told by the insurgents if he did not join them he should die there, the prisoner put on his clothes and went of[f] with the insurgents—the company divided and some went to Henry Bryants and some to Mrs. Whiteheads the witness was with those that went to Mrs. Whiteheads and the prisoner was one of the company that went to Mr. Bryants witness says prisoner was not at Mrs. Whiteheads.
Nathan a slave being charged and sworn as a witness for the prisoner, says he was with the insurgent negroes above mentioned, that the prisoner was with the company who went to Mr. Bryants (they were on foot) but came to the other party at Mrs. Whiteheads—the prisoner came with them. Mrs. Whitehead & family were murdered before the party that went by Mr. Bryants came up—witness says the prisoner was at Mrs. Whiteheads—the witness heard one of the party say that Mr. Bryant and family were murdered. The witness further says that the prisoner told a negro belonging to John C. Turner that he had been forced to join and he the negro should also join.
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is set forth. And it being demanded of the prisoner if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the Court here should not proceed to pronounce judgment against him according to law and nothing being offered or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the place from whence he came where he is to be safely kept until Monday the twelfth day of September instant on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two o’clock in the afternoon the prisoner is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and there to be hanged by the neck until he be dead—and the Court doth value the said slave Davy to the sum of four hundred and fifty dollars--
Absent. James Trezvant, James W. Parker and Alexander P. Peete, Gent.
Present. Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers & William B. Goodwyne, Gent.
Curtis a slave the property of Thomas Ridley was set to the bar in the custody of the Jailor of this County and the Court doth appoint Willilam C. Parker Esq. Counsel for the prisoner in his defence, and the said Curtis being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information—and John C. Turner a witness for the Commonwealth was sworn and examined says that at 8 or 9 o’clock Tuesday morning 23d August 1831 he met the prisoner and another near Dick Dardens mounted on mules—prisoner admitted that he lived at Major Ridley quarter that he was with the insurgents at that place Monday night—that he had been with the party that visited Capt Harris’ the second time—that he was on his way home—witness states that the place where he met prisoner was in the opposite direction from his home—that he the witness took him to the Cross Keys where the prisoner admitted that the leader of the insurgents told him to go to Newsoms and Allens quarter to get other negroes to join them and that he was on the way for that purpose—that the prisoner seemed to have been drinking and he told the witness that the insurgents gave him drink—that the prisoner and the other negro gave the same confession—that no promises or threats were made to them—that the prisoner made no effort to escape and that if they had they could easily have been shot as witness and his party were well mounted & armed—witness asked the prisoner how he expected to get to Mr. Newsom’s prisoner answered that Nat (the head of the insurgents) had told him the white people were too much alarmed to interrupt them.
Scipio a slave sworn on behalf of the prisoner--says that he was at home when the insurgents came up—they took Curtis with them and he did not appear to go willingly—that Curtis the prisoner could not have escaped because the insurgents surrounded him.
The Court after hearing the testimony and all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of the opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against them is set forth and it being demanded of the prisoner if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the Court here should not proceed to pronounce judgment against him according to law. And nothing being offered or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the place from whence he came there to be safely and securely kept until Monday the twelfth day of September Instant on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon & two o’clock in the afternoon the prisoner is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and there be hanged by the neck until he be dead and the Court values the said slave Curtis to the sum of four hundred dollars.
Stephen a slave the property of Thomas Ridley was then set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of the County and the Court doth assign William C. Parker Esq. Counsel for the prisoner in his defence and thereupon the prisoner was duly arraigned of the premises and pleaded not guilty to the information, and John C. Turner a witness for the Commonwealth being sworn says that at 8 or 9 o’clock Tuesday morning 23d August 1831 he met the prisoner and another near Dick Dardens mounted on mules—prisoner admitted he lived at Majr Ridley’s quarter—that he was with the insurgents at that place Monday night—that he had been with the party that visited Capt Harris’ the second time—that he was on his way home—witness states that the place where he met prisoner was in the opposite direction from his home—that he the witness took them to the Cross Keys where the prisoner admitted that the leader of the insurgents told him to go to Newsoms and Allens quarter to get other negroes to join them and that he was on the way for that purpose—that the prisoner seemed to have been drinking and told the witness the insurgents gave him drink—that the prisoner and the other negro gave the same--confession—that no promises or threats were made to them. That the prisoner made no effort to escape and that if he had they could easily have been shot as witness and his party were well mounted and armed witness asked him how he expected to get to Mr. Newsom’s, prisoner answered that Nat (the head of the insurgents) told him the white people were too much alarmed to interrupt them--
Scipio a slave was sworn and charged as a witness for the prisoner—and says he was at home when the insurgents came up. They took Stephen with them and he did not appear to go willingly. That the prisoner could not have escaped because the insurgents surrounded them.
The Court after hearing the testimony and all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is set forth and it being demanded of the prisoner if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceed to pronounce judgment against him according to law and nothing being offered or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the place from whence he came, there to be safely and securely kept until Monday the twelfth day of September instant on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two [p. 83] o’clock in the afternoon the prisoner is to be taken by the Sheriff of the County to the usual place of execution and there be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the Court values the said slave Stephen to the sum of four hundred and fifty dollars.
Ordered that Richard Porter pay to William C. Parker the sum of ten dollars for a fee for defending his slave Daniel who has been tried and convicted of conspiring to rebel and make insurrection.
Ordered that William C. Parker be allowed the sum of ten dollars for his fee for defending a negro slave Moses belonging to the estate of Thomas Barrow, to be paid out of the said Barrow estate, charged with insurrection and murder.
Ordered that James S. French be allowed the sum of thirty dollars as his fee for defending three negroes named Tom, Jack, & Andrew belonging to the estate of Caty Whitehead charged with insurrection and murder.
Ordered that Thomas R. Gray be allowed the sum of ten dollars as his fee for defending a slave belonging to the estate of Elizabeth Turner, named Davy charged with insurrection and murder.
Ordered that William C. Parker be allowed the sum of twenty dollars as a fee for defending two negroes belonging to Thomas Ridley named Stephen & Curtis charged with insurrection and murder.
JMG COBB
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjournment and held for the County of Southampton on the second day of September 1831 for the trial of Jacob and Isaac negro men slaves the property of George H. Charlton of the County of Greensville, who stand charged with consulting, advising and conspiring to rebel and make insurrection--
Present—Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers, William B. Goodwyne, Thomas Pretlow and Alexander P. Peete—Gent:
The Court being thus constituted the prisoner was set to the bar in custody of the keeper of the Jail of this County and thereupon Meriwether B. Broadnax Attorney for the Commonwealth filed an information against the said Jacob and Isaac, and thereupon the said Isaac was set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County and being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the Information.
James S. French esq. is by the Court appointed Counsel for the prisoner in his defence and
Nancy Parsons being sworn as a witness for the Commonwealth says that she was on her way with her sister to Belfield on the 22d day of August last--that in passing by Mr. Charlton’s plantation in the upper end of this county she saw several negroes standing near the road which road was also near Mr. Charlton’s field—that this prisoner was lying some distance off outside of the field kicking up his heels—that witness had heard of a disturbance in the County but did not know of what character—heard that the British were in the country—witness asked the prisoner if he was not afraid prisoner answered that he was not—that if they came by he would join them & assist in killing all the white people—that if they succeeded he would have as much money as his master.
A slave the property of George H. Charlton was examined as a witness on behalf of the prisoner said that the prisoner said to Miss Parsons if the negroes came that way he would join them and kill all the whites and if he had been set free two Courts ago this would not have happened prisoner offered to take Miss Parsons child and preserve it and father it. Says the prisoner was sick in the morning but news of the insurrection brought him out—the prisoner very headlong.
The Court after hearing the testimony and all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is set forth and it being demanded of him if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceed to pronounce judgment against him according to law and nothing being offered or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from whence he came there to be safely and securely kept until Tuesday the 20th day of September instant between on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two o’clock in the afternoon the prisoner is to be taken by the Sheriff of this County to the usual place of execution and there be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the Court values the said slave Isaac to the sum of three hundred dollars.—and the Court from all the circumstances of the case doth recommend to the Governor to commute his punishment to transportation.
Ordered that George H. Charlton pay to James S. French the sum of ten dollars as a fee for defending his slave Isaac. And for reasons appearing to the Court it is ordered that this Court be adjourned till the next County Court in course.
BENJ. GRIFFIN
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjornment and held for the County of Southampton the 2d day of September 1831 for the trial of Nathan a slave the property of Benjamin Blunts Est. of this county, Nathan, Tom and Davy Slaves the property of Nathaniel Francis charged with making insurrection.
Present: Benjamin Griffin, William B. Goodwyne, James D. Massenburg, James W. Parker & Alexander P. Peete. Gent:
The Court being thus constituted the above name Nathan, Nathan, Tom and Davy were brought into Court. Whereupon for reasons appearing to the Court the trial of the said prisoners is adjourned till Tuesday next and thereupon they are remanded to jail.
BENJ. GRIFFIN
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the 2d day of September 1831 for the trial of Hardy & Isham negro men slaves the property of Benjamin Edwards, charged with consulting, advising and conspiring to make insurrection and commit murder--
Present: Benjamin Griffin, William B. Goodwyne, James D. Massenburg, James W. Parker, & Alexander P. Peete, Gent.
The Court being constituted the above named Hardy and Isham were set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this county. Whereupon, for reasons appearing to the court the trial of the said prisoners is adjourned till Tuesday next and thereupon they are remanded to jail.
BENJ. GRIFFIN
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer summoned and held for the County of Southampton on Saturday the third day of September 1831 for the trial of Sam a negro man slave belonging to Francis of this county charged with insurrection and murder.
Present: Carr Bowers, William B. Goodwyne, Robert Goodwyn, James Trezvant and Orris A. Browne. Gent. Justices.
The court being thus constituted Meriwether B. Broadnax Attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth filed an information against the said prisoner Sam, and thereupon the said Sam was set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County and being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information, the court having appointed Thomas R. Gray esq. counsel for the prisoner in his defense and
Levi Waller a witness for the Commonwealth being sworn says that the prisoner Sam was one of the insurgent negroes that came to the witnesses house on Monday the 22d day of August last, the witness is positive that the prisoner was present for he saw him there and has known him well for several years and he saw the prisoner go with others in the house in which the witnesses family was murdered.
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is alleged and it being demanded of him if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceed to pronounce judgment against him according to law and nothing being offered or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from whence he was taken wherein he is to be securely kept until Friday the ninth day of September instant on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two o’clock in the afternoon of the same day the prisoner is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and there to be hanged by the next until he be dead. And the Court values the said slave Sam to the sum of four hundred dollars.
The Court doth allow Thomas R. Gray the sum of ten dollars as his fee for defending the above prisoner Sam--
CARR BOWERS
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the 3rd day of September 1831 for the trial of Hark a negro man the slave property of Joseph Travis’s Est. Moses a boy the property of Joseph Travis’s Est. Davy the property of Levi Waller & Nelson the property of Jacob Williams charged with insurrection.
Present: Carr Bowers, William B. Goodwyne, Robert Goodwyne, James Trezvant, and Orris A. Browne, Gent.
The Court being thus constituted Meriwether B. Broadnax Attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth filed an information against the said Hark, Moses, Davy and Nelson. Whereupon the said Hark was set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County and the Court doth assign William C. Parker Esq. counsel for the prisoner in his defence, and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information, and Levi Waller was sworn as a witness for the Commonwealth and says that he saw the prisoner Hark in the yard with a number of insurgent negroes on Monday 22d August 1831 with a gun in his hands that the prisoner acted as one of the company of the insurgents—he heard the rest of the insurgents call the prisoner Capt. Moore.
Thomas Ridley a witness for the Commonwealth being sworn says that he saw the prisoner after he was arrested at Dr. Blunts in this county on the day after the morning on which the attack was made by the insurgents at Dr. Blunts—that the prisoner admitted that he was in the company that went to Dr. Blunts—found a pocket book in the possession of the prisoner which he believed to have been Trajan Doyal’s—the prisoner had powder and shot and some silver in his pockets.
The Court after hearing the testimony and all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of the opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is set forth and it being demanded of him if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceed to pronounce judgment against him according to law and nothing being offered or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner Hark be taken hence to the place from whence he came where he is to be securely confined until Friday the ninth day of September Inst. on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two o’clock in the afternoon he is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution, and there be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the Court values the said slave to four hundred and fifty dollars.
Nelson a negro man slave belonging to Jacob Williams was then set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this county and the Court doth assign James S. French Esq. Counsel for the prisoner in his defence and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information, and
Jacob Williams a witness for the Commonwealth being sworn says he returned to his own home on the morning on which the insurrection took place in this County about eleven o’clock from some business which had carried him out and he saw the prisoner, who is the witnesses slave, dressed in his best clothes, from the manner of the prisoner at the time a suspicion occurred to the witness that the prisoner had some intention of attacking him—witness had not heard of the insurrection—witness went to the woods to measure some timber—returned in the evening and found that his family had been murdered—after remaining some time he saw the insurgents again approaching and distinctly saw the prisoner among the foremost—witness made his escape and did not see the prisoner any more.
Caswell Worrell also a witness being sworn says that he overlooks for Jacob Williams the owner of the prisoner—that on Thursday preceeding the Monday on which the insurrection broke out the prisoner told the witness that they might look out and take care of themselves—that something would happen before long—that any body of his practice could tell these things—that on Monday August 22d he came in the morning by Jacob Williams’s where the prisoner resided and found him from home—went to the new ground where the rest of the negroes were at work—that at about one hour after the prisoner came to the new ground dressed in his best clothes—complained that he was too sick to work—put on his old clothes which he had with him and desired witness to go to the house with him which he did and returned just before the insurgents arrived, and believed that the prisoner wished to decoy witness home that he might be killed.
Cynthia a slave being charged and sworn as a witness states that on Monday the 22d of August last the prisoner came home early in the morning seemingly very sick. Went to his house, dressed himself very clean, while the negroes were in the yard, came into the kitchen asked for some meat took his Mistresses meat out of the pot—cut a piece off said "Cynthia you do not know me. I do not know when you will see me again—Steped over the dead bodies without any manifestation of grief—
Stephen a slave being sworn and charged says he and Mr. Edward Drewry went to Jacob Williams on Monday 22df August last for corn while consulting about who should go for a corn measure. Mr. Drewry said “Lord, who is that coming” immediately the negroes rode up, killed Mr. Drewry, Mr. Williams’ wife and children—told Nelson to go with them, he seemed unwilling to go—but insisted upon dressing before he went—was forced to go with them—lagged behind when he was guarded—went to Mrs. Vaughans, but did not participate in the murders—that the prisoner drank with them and had his tickler filled by his own request.
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all circumstances of the cases are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is set forth and it being demanded of him if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceede to pronounce judgment against him according to law, and nothing being offered or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from whence he came wherein he is to be securely confined until Friday the ninth day of September Inst. on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two o’clock in the afternoon he is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and there be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the Court values the said slave Nelson to the sum of four hundred dollars—
Davy a negro man slave the property of Levi Waller was then set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County, and the said prisoner Davy being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the Information and Levi Waller being sworn as a witness, says that on Monday the 22d of August 1831 a band of negroes came to his house, killed all his family but that Davy the prisoner was not at the house—he came up while negroes were there—dressed himself clean—drank with them, rode his master’s horse off in good spirits—was called brother Clements by one of the company—left there in great glee.
Jarratt W. Judkins being sworn as a witness—says that Davy was caught on Thursday night after the insurrection broke out—and on Friday morning made the following voluntary confession viz. That he went with the negroes from his masters—was present where the families of Jacob Williams & William Williams’s were murdered—was also at Mrs. Vaughans where the family was murdered—got drunk there—Says that Capt. Nat in passing a house where some very poor people lived said he would not kill them because they thought no better of themselves than they did of the negroes—
Jacob a slave being sworn and charged—says he saw the prisoner at Wm. Williams’s—and the prisoner was fully heard by William D. Boyle his counsel.
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is set forth and it being demanded of him if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceed to pronounce judgment against him according to law and nothing be offered or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from which he was taken therein to be safely confined until Friday the ninth day of September instant on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two o’clock in the afternoon he is to be taken by the Sheriff of this County to the usual place of execution and there be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the Court values the said slave Davy to the sum of three hundred dollars—
Absent: Robert Goodman—Present—Benjamin Drewry, Gent.
Moses a negro boy slave the property of Travis was set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County. Whereupon for good cause shown it is ordered that the court be adjourned till Thursday the 8th day of the present month and the prisoner is remanded to jail.
CARR BOWERS
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the 3d day of September 1831 for the trial of Nat a negro man slave the property of Edmund Turner decd. and Jack a negro man slave the property of William Reese decd. both charged for making insurrection—
Present: Jeremiah Cobb, Benjamin Drewry, William B. Goodwyn, James Trezvant & Orris A. Browne, Gent.
The Court being thus constituted Meriwether B. Brodnax Attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth filed an Information against the above named [p. 90] Nat and Jack and thereupon the said Jack the negro man slave the property of William Reese decd. was set to the bar in the custody of the jailor of this County and the Court doth assign Thomas R. Gray esq. Counsel for the prisoner in his defence, and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information, and
Moses a slave being sworn and charged as a witness for the Commonwealth says that the prisoner came to the house of the witnesses master, Mr. Joseph Travis, on Sunday night preceeding the murder of Mr. Travis & family—complained of being sick and wanted to go —Witness did not know exactly when the prisoner came, but saw him first with his head between his hands resting on his knees—Hark had Jacks sister for a wife—witness says his master Mr. Travis & family went abroad on that day and did not get back until it was dark—The prisoner was in the kitchen when the witness went to sleep—and when the witness awoke a few hours after the prisoner was in the yard sick—the witness says Jack went off with the negroes who came to Mr. Travis’ & murdered him and family—the negroes went from Mr. Travis’ to Salathiel Francis and Mrs. Reeses—they made the prisoner go with them—
Thomas C. Jones being sworn as a witness says that—when the prisoner was brought here in custody he was delivered to him and made the following voluntary confession—That on Sunday preceeding the insurrection Hark one of the insurgents came to him and asked him if he would go with him, Hark took the prisoner to a place where several other negroes were assembled and a dinner prepared—that they explained to him the witness that they intended to rise and kill all the white people—that one of the company objected and said their number was too few. Hark repplied and said as they went on and killed the whites the blacks would join them—and it appearing to be necessary for the prisoners defence that other witnesses should be in attendance the Court doth suspend farther proceeding in the case—
Nat a negro man slave the property of Edwin Turners Est was then set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County, and the Court doth assign William C. Parker Counsel for the prisoner in his defence, and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information and
Mary T. Barrow being sworn as witness says that the prisoner was one of the negroes that came to her husbands home on the day that her husband was murdered and that the prisoner fired off a gun in the yard and threw it down. That she knows the prisoner—he lived at her house the last year—and she was within thirty steps of [p. 91] of [sic] him when he fired off the gun.
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner & form as in the information against him is set forth and it being demanded of him if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceede to pronounce judgment against him according to law and nothing being offerred or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the place from whence he came there to be safely confined until Friday the ninth day of September instant on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two o’clock in the afternoon he is to be taken by the Sheriff of this County to the usual place of execution and there to be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the Court value the said slave Nat to the sum of four hundred and fifty dollars.
For good causes shewn this court is adjourned till Monday the fifth day of September instant nine o’clock A.M.
CARR BOWERS
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjournment and held for the County of Southampton on the 5th day of September 1831 for the trial of Jack a negro man the property of the estate of William Reese decd. charged with having on the 22d day of August 1831 at this county, with force and arms feloniously consulted advised and conspired with divers other slaves to rebel & make insurrection, and for making insurrection and for plotting to take the lives of divers free white persons, citizens of this Commonwealth.
Present: Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers, Willliam B. Goodwyne, James Trezvant and Orris A. Browne Gent.
The Prisoner Jack was again set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County, and Sampson C. Reese of full age being sworn as a witness, and confirms the evidence in the case given by Thomas C. Jones and further that the prisoner when arrested had on a pair of shoes and socks which the witness believes to be William Reeses who has been murdered.
Jordan Barnes being sworn as a witness says on Monday the 22d day of August last he left his house in the morning and went into his field while from the house the witness heard of the murders which had been committed and returned home and the prisoner who had been absent from home for several days by permission of the witness to see his Master William Reese had returned—the prisoner informed witness of the murder of Mrs. Whitehead and family and said that he the prisoner had been informed of the murder of Mrs. Whitehead & family by one of Mrs. Whiteheads negroes.
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of the opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is set forth and it being demanded of the prisoner if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceede to pronounce judgment against him according to law and nothing being offerred or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the place from whence he came there to be safely confined until Monday the 12th day of September instant, on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two o’clock in the afternoon that he is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and there to be hanged by the neck until he be dead and the Court doth value the said slave to the sum of three hundred and fifty dollars. And the Court by a majority of one from all the circumstances of the case doth recommend to the Governor to commute the punishment of the prisoner to transportation.
The Court doth allow to Thomas R. Gray esq. the sum of ten dollars a fee for his defending Jack a negro slave belonging to the estate of William Reese and to William C. Parker the sum of ten dollars as a fee for defending Nat belonging to Edward Turners est.
JEM. COBB
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the 5th day of September 1831 for the trial of Dred a negro man slave the property of Nathaniel Francis of this County for making insurrection and for conspiring the lives of sundry free white persons of this Commonwealth.
Present: Carr Bowers, Samuel D. Massenburg, Benjamin Griffin, Orris a Browne, and James Trezvant Gent—
The Court being thus constituted Meriwether B. Brodnax attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth filed an information against the above slave named Dred and thereupon the said Dred was led to the bar in custody of this County and being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information and Levi Waller of full age being sworn as a witness states that the prisoner was one of the insurgents who came to his house on Monday 22d August 1831 and killed his family—Witness was near him and knew him well—Prisoner was mounted and armed with a gun or rifle—Witness does not know which[.] [W]itness cannot be mistaken in his person—and prisoner rode up on one [p. 93] side of the fence in search of him while he was concealed on the other—that he afterwards crept to within about 60 yards of the house and saw the prisoner drinking with the others.
And the prisoner was heard in his defence by James S. French his Counsel.
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is set forth and it being demanded of him if anything for himself he had or knows to say why the Court should not proceede to pronounce judgment against him according to law and nothing being offerred or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the place from whence he came where he is to be securely confined until Monday the twelfth day of September instant on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two o’clock in the afternoon the prisoner is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and there to be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the Court values the said slave Dred to the sum of four hundred dollars. The Court doth allow James S. French Esq. the sum of ten dollars for his fee for defending the above named Slave.
CARR BOWERS
At a Call. Court summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the fifth day of September 1831 for the examination of Arnold Artis a free man of colour charged with counsulting, advising and conspiring to rebel—
Present: Jeremiah Cobb, James D. Massenburg, Benjamin Griffin, James Trezvant and James W. Parker Gent.
The Court being thus constituted the above named Arnold Artis was set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County and sundry witnesses were sworn and examined and the prisoner by his counsel fully heard. The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are of opinion that the prisoner ought to be discharged from further prosecution for the said offence. And it is ordered that the prisoner be discharged from custody.
JEM. COBB
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjournment and held for the County of Southampton on the 6th day of September 1831 for the trial of Nathan a negro man slave belonging to the Estate of Benjamin Blunt, decd. & Nathan Tom and Davy negro boys, slaves belonging to Nathaniel Francis, charged with consulting, advising and conspiring with divers other slaves to rebel and make insurrection and making insurrection & for plotting to take the lives of divers free white persons citizens of this Commonwealth.
Present: William B. Goodwyn, James W. Parker, James Trezvant, Alexander P. Peete & Joseph T. Claud. Gent.
The Court being thus constituted M. B. Broadnax Atto. for the Commwlth filed an Information against the prisoners & the prisoner Nathan the property of the Estate of Benjamin Blunt decd. was set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County and the Court doth assign James S. French Esq. Counsel for the prisoner in his defence, and the said Nathan being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information, and Daniel a negro boy slave being sworn and charged as a witness for the Commonwealth says the he was confined in the jail of Greensville County as a runaway at the time the prisoner was also confined in said jail, that the prisoner said he had been present when the murders had been committed by the insurgents—the prisoner had blood on his breeches which he said he had told the white people was cider.
Moses a negro boy slave was sworn and charged as a witness for the prisoner, and says that the prisoner went unwillingly—that he committed no murder, and he thinks had no opportunity to escape and remained with the negroes till they dispersed—
The Court after hearing hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against them is set forth and it being demanded of the prisoner if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceede to pronounce judgment against him according to Law and nothing being offerred or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from which he was taken therein to be safely confined until Monday the twelfth day of September instant on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the morning and two o’clock in the afternoon the prisoner is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and there be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the Court values the said slave Nathan to the sum of three hundred and seventy five dollars.
Nathan, Tom and Davy negro boy slaves property of Nathl. Francis was then set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County and being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information. Thomas R. Gray, William C. Parker and James S. French being assigned by the Court Counsel for the prisoners and Moses a negro boy slave being charged and sworn as a witness for the Commonwealth—says that the three prisoners were taken from Nathl. Francis's and placed one behind each of the company—that they went unwillingly but continued with them the whole of Monday—witnessed [p. 95] many of the murders but were constantly guarded by negroes with guns who were ordered to shoot them if they attempted to escape—They remained until the whole troop were dispersed.—questions being asked by the Court relative to the ages of the prisoners, it appeared that the oldest was not more than 15 years—the other two much younger, the eldest very badly grown.
The Court after hearing testimony and all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoners are guilty in manner and form as in the information against them is set forth and it being demanded of each of them if anything for themselves they have to know to say why the Court should not proceede to pronounce judgment against them according to Law and nothing being offerred or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the Prisoners be taken hence to the jail from which they were taken therin to be safely confined until Tuesday the 20th day of September instant on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the morning and two o’clock in the afternoon they be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and there to be hanged by the neck until each of them be dead. And the Court from all the circumstances of the case do recommend to the Governor to commute the punishment of the said Nathan, Tom and Davy to transportation. And the Court doth value the said slaves to the sum of three hundred dollars each.
The Court doth allow James S. French the sum of ten dollars his fee for defending Nathan a slave the property of the estate of Benjamin Blunt and to James S. French, William C. Parker & Thomas R. Gray the sum of ten dollars each for defending Nathan, Tom and Davy negro slaves belonging to Nathaniel Francis—
It having been intimated to the Court that the military force assembled at this place will be discharged in a few days, the Court believing that a strong guard is necessary to the safe keeping of the prisoners now in jail until such as are condemned may be executed, respectfully solicit General Eppes the Commanding Officer to retain at this place fifty men as a guard for the jail, and the Clerk of this Court is directed to deliver to General Epps a copy of this order.
WM. B. GOODWYN
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjournment and held for the County of Southampton on the sixth day of September 1831 for the trial of Hardy and Isham negro men slave the property of Benjamin Edwards for consulting, advising and conspiring to make insurrection and commit murder.
Present: William B. Goodwyn, James D. Massenburg, James Trezvant, Alexander P. Peete and Joseph T. Claud. Gent.
The Court being thus constituted M.B. Broadnax attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth filed an information against the prisoners and thereupon the prisoner Hardy was set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County and the Court doth assign James S. French Counsel for the prisoner in his defence, and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information and the Court for good cause shewn doth suspend further proceedings in this cause for the present.
Isham a negro man slave was set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County. And for good cause shewn this Court is adjourned till tomorrow morning nine o’clock.
WM. B. GOODWYN
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjournment and held for the County of Southampton on the 7th day of September 1831 for the trial of Hardy and Isham negro men slaves the property of Benjamin Edwards for consulting, advising and conspiring to make insurrection & murder.
Present: Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers, Robert Goodwyn, Orris A. Browne and Joseph T. Claud Gent.
Hardy a negro man slave belonging to Benjamin Edwards was again set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County and Henry a slave being sworn as a witness for the Commonwealth says that on Saturday preceeding insurrection Isham told witness that Genl. Nat was going to rise and murder all the whites and that witness must join them or that if he did not they would kill him if they caught him—Witness went to new ground Monday morning found the prisoner & Bery Newsom—
Berry stated that the dam'd Rascal, meaning the witnesses master, has been there and that they would get him before night—Prisoner was lying down at some distance asleep—Witness went about a quarter of a mile to Mr. Jones’ to get some water, heard at Mr. Jones’ that the English were in the County killing the white people—that he told it to prisoner & Berry Newsom—prisoner made light of it and said it was nothing it ought to have been done long ago—that the negroes had been punished long enough— Witness does not know where prisoner was Monday night, that on Tuesday prisoner and others were sent to Mr. Wallers to bury the dead—Mr. Edwards the prisoners master came home Wednesday morning and ordered the prisoner not to go out of the yard. Mr. Edwards went away a short time afterwards and prisoner left home shortly after and returned about an hour by sun in the evening—that while prisoner was at Wallers Thomas Hathcock & four boys came to Mr. Edwards' and said that Genl. Nat would be there Wednesday or Thursday and Mr. Edwards had 4 likely boys that he would take with them, prisoners and two others said they would join.
Henry a slave also sworn and charged as a witness for the Commonwealth says that Henry stated in the presence of the prisoner that Genl. Nat had sent them word that he would be at their home on Wednesday or Thursday next for them to join him—that prisoner and two others said they would join them—
Eliza Crittenton a free woman being charged & sworn as a witness for the prisoner—says the prisoner and two others told her they meant to join Genl. Nat and she dissuaded them from it—
Hark a negro man slave being charged and sworn as a witness for the prisoner says Tom Hathcock and four boys came to Mr. Edwards still & said they had separated from Nat and they were going to join them again.
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is set forth and it being demanded of the prisoner if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceede to pronounce judgment against him according to Law & nothing appearing or being alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from which he was taken therein to be safely confined until Tuesday the 20th day of September instant on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two o’clock in the afternoon he is to be taken to the usual place of execution there to be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And from all the circumstances of the case the Court doth recommend to the Governor to commute the punishment of the prisoner to transportation. And the Court values the said slave Hardy to the sum of four hundred and fifty dollars.
Isham a negro man slave the property of Benjamin Edwards was set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this county, and the Court doth assign William C. Parker Counsel for the prisoner in his defence, and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information and Henry a slave being charged and sworn as a witness for the Commonwealth says that on Saturday night preceeding the day on which the insurrection broke out the prisoner told him that Capt. Nat was going to collect his company and rise and kill all the white people and wanted witness to join but witness declined doing so. Made no communication to anyone—That on Tuesday morning Thomas Haithcock & Nathan and three boys came to Mr. Edwards and told the witness and others that Capt. Nat and company had had a fight with the white people at Parkers Field—that Capt. Nat was then making towards Belfield and would return and be at Mr. Edwards on Wednesday or Thursday and Mr. Edwards had four likely men who should join them—Witness was at Mr. Jervis Monday and learned there that the British were in the Country killing the white people—that the prisoner was absent from home on Wednesday and that Thomas Hathcock & Nathan and three boys were at Mr. Edwards and told of the fight Cap. Nat had with the whites at Parkers field, and Nathan said Capt. Nat was gone towards Belfield to kill all the whites that way and would be at Mr. Edwards' on Wednesday of Thursday—that Mr. Edwards had four likely negroes that should join them—that prisoner when informed of it said he would join them.
Harry a slave being also charged and sworn as a witness for the Commonwealth says that Henry stated in presence of the prisoner that Genl. Nat had sent them word that he would be at their house on Wednesday or Thursday next for them to join him that prisoner and two other said they would join him.
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is set forth and it being demanded of him if anything he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceed to pronounce judgment against him according to Law and nothing being offered or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from which he was taken and therein to be confined until Tuesday the 20th day of September instant on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two o’clock in the afternoon he is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and there to be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the Court from all the circumstances of the case recommend to the Governor to commute the punishment of the prisoner to transportation—And the Court values the said slave to the sum of three hundred and fifty dollars—
The Court allows James. S. French the sum of ten dollars fee for defending slave Hardy the property of Benjamin Edwards and to William C. Parker ten dollars fee for defending negro Isham the property of Benj. Edwards,—
CARR BOWERS
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the Seventh day of September 1831 for the trial of Sam a negro man slave the property of James W. Parker, Fery, a negro man slave the property of James W. Parker & Archer the property of James W. Parker—Jim late the property of Wm. Vaughan and Wright late the property of Rebecca Vaughan charged with insurrection and murder.
Present: Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers, Benjamin Drewry, Thomas Pretlow and Orris A. Browne, Gent.
The Court being thus constituted Meriwether B. Broadnax Attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth filed and Information against the prisoners and thereupon Sam a slave the property of James W. Parker was set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County, and the Court doth assign William C. Parker appeared Counsel for the prisoner in his defence, and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information, and the Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is not guilty as in pleading he hath alleged and proclamation being made as the manner is and nothing further appearing or being alleged against the prisoner it is ordered that he be discharged from custody.
Jim a negro man slave late the property of William Vaughan was set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County and the Court doth assign William C. Parker appeared Counsel for the prisoner in his defence and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information, the Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are of opinion that the prisoner is not guilty as in pleading he hath alleged and proclamation being made in the matter and nothing further appearing or being alleged against the prisoner it is ordered that the prisoner be forthwith discharged from custody.
JEM. COBB
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer summoned and held for Southampton County the seventh day of September 1831 for the trial of Bob a negro man slave the property of Temperance Parker, Davy a negro man slave the property of Joseph Parker and Daniel a negro man slave the property of Solomon Parker for conspiracy to rebel and make insurrection
Present: Jeremiah Cobb, Benjamin Drewry, Carr Bowers, Thomas Pretlow, and Orris A. Browne—Gent.
The Court being thus constituted Meriwether B. Broadnax filed an information against the prisoners, and for reasons appearing the Court is adjourned till tomorrow morning nine o’clock.
JEM. COBB
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjournment and held for the County of Southampton on the 8th day of September 1831 for the trial of Bob a negro man slave the property of Temperance Parker, Davy a negro man slave the property of Joseph Parker and Daniel a negro man slave the property of Solomon Parker for consulting, advising and conspiring to rebel and make insurrection and for plotting the lives on sundry free white persons.
Present: Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers, Benjamin Drewry, Thomas Pretlow and Benjamin L. Drew. Gent.
The Court being thus constituted the prisoners were set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County and being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information and the prisoners were heard in their defense by James S. French their Counsel, the Court after hearing testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoners are not guilty as in pleading they have alleged, and proclamation being made as the manner is and nothing further appearing or being alleged against them it is ordered that they be discharged from further prosecution for the said offense.
JEM. COBB
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjournment and held for Southampton County on the eighth day of September 1831 for the trial of Moses a negro boy slave the property of Joseph Travis charged with conspiracy to rebel and make insurrection.
Present: Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers, Benjamin Drewry, Thomas Pretlow and Benjamin L. Drew—Gent.
The said Moses was again set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County and for reasons appearing this Court is adjourned till Friday the 16th of September instant, and the prisoner is remanded to jail.
JEM. COBB
At a Court summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the 12th day of September 1831 for the Examination of Thomas Hathcock a free man of color charged with conspiracy to rebel and make insurrection.
Present: Jeremiah Cobb, Carr Bowers, James W. Parker, Alexander P. Peete and James Trezvant. Gent.
The Court being thus constituted the above named Thomas Hathcock was set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County. Whereupon for reasons appearing to the Court it is ordered that the examination of the said Thomas Hathcock be adjourned till the first day of the next County Court in course to be held for this county, and thereupon the prisoner is remanded to jail.
JEM COBB.
September 19 (proceedings of the court unrelated to the revolt omitted here)
Joe a negro man slave the property of John C. Turner who stands charged with conspiring to rebel and make insurrection was this day set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County (the Court summoned for his trial having failed to meet) and Meriwether B. Broadnax Attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth filed an Information against the said prisoner, and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the Information and Hubbard a slave being charged and sworn as a Witness for the Commonwealth says that about one hour by sun Monday morning 22d. Aug. last the prisoner came to his mistresses house (Mrs. Caty Whitehead) with Nat (who has been hung) bringing a raccoon, said he had been hunting just after the family had been murdered—did not ask who had committed the murder or why it had been committed—prisoner lived about a mile off and had a wife at Mrs. Whiteheads—prisoner appeared reluctant to go with the murderers but were told by them he should go, and he went with them.
Christian a slave was also charged & sworn as a witness for the Commonwealth and says that the prisoner came to her masters (Mr. Elisha Atkins) about 8 or 9 o’clock on Monday morning 22d. Aug. last with Turners Davy who has been hung as one of the insurgents, & another—that prisoner was armed with a sword—enquired where her master was—that she answered he was gone, prisoner said he might go on. Davy enquired if there was any gun or ammunition in the house & proposed to break in the house—prisoner said no we have enough ammunition to do with without—the prisoner & Davy went off were armed, the other not—they carried off one other negro who returned shortly after.
And the prisoner was fully heard in his defense by James S. French his Counsel. The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is set forth, and it being demanded of the prisoner if anything for himself he had or knew to say why this Court should not proceed to pronounce judgment against him according to Law and nothing being offered or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from whence he was taken and therein safely confined until Monday the 26th September instant on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon & two o’clock in the afternoon he is to be taken by the Sheriff of this County to the usual place of execution there to be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the Court value the said slave Joe to the sum of four hundred & fifty dollars—
Lucy a negro woman slave late the property of John T. Barrow who stands charged with conspiring to rebel and make insurrection, was this day set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County (the Court summoned for her trial having failed to meet) and the Court doth assign Wm. C. Parker Counsel for the prisoner in her defense—and Meriwether B. Broadnax Attoy. prosecuting for the Commonwealth filed an Information against the said Lucy and thereupon the said Lucy being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information—and Mary T. Barrow a witness for the Commonwealth being sworn says that on the 22d. day of Aug. last when the insurgents came to the house of her late husband (John T. Barrow) and were entering the yard, and she the witness was making her escape the prisoner a girl about 20 years of age seized and held her about one minute and until another negro took her away—that she does not know certainly what her intentions were, but thought it was to detain her.
Bird a negro slave being charged and sworn as a witness for the Commlth.—says that he found several weeks after the murder of Mr. Barrow four pieces of money in a bag of feathers and covered with a handkerchief, that the room was occupied by the prisoner and another (Moses since hung).
Moses a slave was sworn and charged as a witness for the Commonlth. & says that after the murder was committed he saw the prisoner in company with the insurgents at the door.
Robert T. Musgrave being sworn as a witness for the Commonwealth says that after his examining the prisoner she stated that she had fled thro the kitchen and concealed herself in the cornfield—
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against her is set forth and it being demanded of the prisoner if anything for herself she had or knew to say why the Court should not proceede to pronounce judgment against her according to Law—& nothing being offered or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from whence she was taken therein to be safely confined until Monday the 26th of September instant on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two o’clock in the afternoon the prisoner is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and there be hanged by the neck until she be dead. And the Court value the said slave Lucy to the sum of two hundred and Seventy five dollars.
(Some proceedings of the court unrelated to the revolt omitted here)
Matt a negro man slave the property of Thomas Ridley who stands charged with conspiring to rebel and make insurrection was this day set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County, (the Court summoned for his trial having failed to meet) and Meriwether B. Broadnax Attorney for the Commonwealth filed an Information against the prisoner and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information and sundry witnesses being sworn and examined and the prisoner by William C. Parker his Counsel fully heard. It is the opinion of the Court and accordingly ordered that the prisoner is not guilty as in pleading he hath alleged, and proclamation being made as the manner is and nothing further appearing or being alleged against the prisoner it is ordered that the prisoner forthwith be discharged from custody.
[Some proceedings of the court unrelated to the rebellion omitted here]
Thomas Haithcock a free man of colour charged with conspiring to rebel & make insurrection was again set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this Court. The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are of opinion that the prisoner ought to be tried for the said offense at the next Circuit Superior court to be held for this County and thereupon the prisoner is remanded to jail.
Jim a negro man slave the property of Richard Porter who stands charged with conspiring to rebel and make insurrection was this day set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County, the Court summoned for his trial having failed to meet, and Meriwether B. Broadnax Attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth filed an information against this prisoner and the Court doth assign James S. French Counsel for the prisoner in his defense, and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information and sundry witnesses being sworn and examined it is the opinion of the Court that the prisoner is not guilty as in pleading he hath alleged and proclamation being made as the manner is and nothing further appearing or being alleged against the prisoner it is ordered that the prisoner be forthwith discharged from custody.
The Court doth allow James S. French ten dollars for his fee for defending Jim a negro slave belonging to Richd. Porter.
The Court doth allow William C. Parker ten dollars for his fee for defending Lucy a slave belonging to the Est. of John T. Barrow, dcd. Ordered that the Court be adjourned to tomorrow morning nine o’clock.
WM. B. GOODWYN
At a Court summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the 19th day of September 1831 for the examination of Exum Artist a free man of color charged with conspiring to rebel and make insurrection.
Present: William B. Goodwyn, James W. Parker, James Trezvant, Alexander P. Peete and Joseph T. Claud Gent.
The Court being thus constituted the above named Exum Artist was set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County and thereupon sundry witnesses were sworn and examined and for reasons appearing to this Court is adjourned till tomorrow morning nine o’clock and the prisoner is remanded to jail.
At a Court summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the 19th day of September 1831 for the trial of Joe the property of Richard P. Briggs charged with conspiring to rebel and make insurrection and for plotting to take the lives of sundry free white persons citizens of this Commonwealth.
Present William B. Goodwyn, James Trezvant, James W. Parker, Alexander P. Peete & Joseph T. Claud Gent.
For reasons appearing to the Court the trial of the said Joe is adjourned till tomorrow and this court is adjourned till morning nine o’clock.
WM. B. GOODWYN
At a Court summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the 19th day of September 1831 for the trial of Jack a negro man slave the property of Everett Bryant charged with conspiring to rebel and make insurrection.
Present William B. Goodwyn, James W. Parker, James Trezvant, Alexander P. Peete & Joseph T. Claud Gent.
For reasons appearing to the Court the trial of the said Jack is adjourned till tomorrow and this Court is adjourned till tomorrow morning nine o’clock.
WM. B. GOODWIN
At a Court continued and held for the County of Southampton on the 20th day of September 1831.
Present William B. Goodwyn, James W. Parker, Alex. P. Peete, Joseph T. Claud and Alexander Myrick. Gent.
Barry Newsom an indented apprentice to Peter Edwards was this day set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of the County (the Court summoned for his examination having failed to meet) and Harry & Henry negro slaves were charged, sworn and examined as witnesses. The Court after hearing the testimony are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner ought to be tried for the said offense at the next Circuit Superior Court to be held for this County and thereupon the prisoner is remanded to jail.
Sam a negro man the property of Peter Edwards was this day set to the bar in custody of the jailor of the Court (the Court summoned for his trial having failed to meet) whereupon for reasons appearing to the Court the trial of the said Sam is adjourned till the next Court.
Absent James W. Parker Present Robert Goodwin. Gent.
Jack a negro man slave the property of Everett Bryant was this day set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County (the Court summoned for his trial having failed to meet) charged with conspiring to rebel and make insurrection, and Meriwether B. Broadnax Attorney for the Commonwealth filed an information against the prisoner and the Court doth assign William C. Parker Counsel for the prisoner in his defense and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information. The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances are of the opinion that the prisoner is [p. 108] not guilty as in pleading he hath alleged and proclamation being made as the manner is and nothing further appearing or being alleged against the prisoner it is ordered that the prisoner be forthwith discharged from custody—Absent—William B. Goodwyn & Jos. T. Claud & Alex. P. Peete & Orris A. Browne—Gent. Present James W. Parker, James Trezvant—Gent.
Ordered that the Court be adjourned till tomorrow morning 9 o’clock.
ROBT. GOODWIN
At a Court continued and held for the County of Southampton on the 20th day of September 1831 for the examination of Exum Artist a free man of color charged with conspiring to rebel and make insurrection.
Present—Robert Goodwyn, James W. Parker, James Trezvant, Orris A. Browne and Alexander Myrick—Gent.
The said Exum Artist was again set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County and the Court after hearing the testimony and from the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner ought to be tried for the said offense at the next Current Superior Court of Law held for the County and thereupon the prisoner is remanded to jail.
Williams Dick here in court acknowledged himself to be indebted to John Floyd Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia in the sum of three hundred dollars of his goods and chattels lands and tenements to be levied and to the said Governor and his successors for the use of the Commonwealth rendered. Yet upon the condition that if the said Williams Dick shall have the slaves Burwell and Ben before the judge of our Circuit Superior Court of Southampton County at the Courthouse on the first day of the next term then and there to give such evidence as they or either of them know against Exum Artist, a free man of color charged with felony then this recognizance to be void or else to remain in full force and virtue.
ROBT. GOODWIN
At a Court continued and held for the County of Southampton on the 20th day of September 1831 for the trial of Joe a slave the property of Richd. P. Briggs charged with conspiring to rebel and make insurrection & for plotting to take the lives of sundry free white persons citizens of the Commonwealth.
Present—Robert Goodwyn, James W. Parker, James Trezvant, Orris A. Browne & Alexander Myrick.—Gent.
For reasons appearing to the Court it is ordered that the trial of the said Joe be adjourned till the first day of the next Court in course to be held for this County.
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the 21st day of September 1831 for the trial of Stephen a negro man slave the property of James Bell charged with conspiracy to rebel and make insurrection.
Present—James W. Parker, Jacob Barnes, James Trezvant, Alexander P. Peete, and Alexander Myrick. Gent.
The Court being thus constituted the prisoner was set to the bar in custody of the jailor of this County and Meriwether B. Broadnax Attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth filed an information against the prisoner and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information and sundry witnesses were sworn & examined. The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of the opinion that the prisoner is not guilty as in pleading he hath alleged and proclamation being made as the manner is and nothing further appearing or being alleged against the prisoner it is ordered that the prisoner be forthwith discharged from further custody—
JAMES W. PARKER
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer summoned and held for Southampton County the 21st day of September 1831 for the trial of Jim and Isaac negro men slaves the property of Sam’l Champion and Preston a negro slave the property of Hannah Williamson charged with conspiracy to rebel and make insurrection.
Present—James Parker, Robert Goodwin, Jacob Barnes, James Trezvant and Alexander Myrick. Gent.
The Court being thus constituted the prisoners above named were set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County—Whereupon for reasons appearing to the Court the trial of the said prisoners is adjourned till tomorrow and the prisoners are remanded to Jail, and this Court is adjourned till tomorrow morning nine o’clock.
ROBT. GOODWIN
At a Court held for the County of Southampton by adjournment on the 21st day of September 1831.
Present—James W. Parker, Robert Goodwin, James Trezvant, Jacob Barnes, Alexander Myrick. Gent.
It is the opinion of the Court that the Sheriff of this County should summon a guard consisting of twenty five effective men for the purpose of guarding the prisoners already confined in Jail or which may be hereafter committed.
Ordered that the Court be adjourned till tomorrow morning nine o’clock.
ROBT. GOODWIN
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer continued by adjournment and held for the County of Southampton on the 22d day of September 1831 for the trial of Jim and Isaac negro men slaves the property of Samuel Champion and Preston a negro man slave the property of Hannah Williamson charged with conspiring to rebel and making insurrection.
Present—James W. Parker, Jacob Barnes, James Trezvant, Orris A. Browne and Alexander Myrick. Gent.
The Court being thus constituted Meriwether B. Broadnax Attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth filed an Information against the said Jim, Isaac & Preston & thereupon the said Jim and Isaac were set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County and being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information and Beck a slave being charged and sworn as a witness for the Commonwealth says that on the 15th day of August last at a black persons house at Solomon Parkers she heard the prisoners say that if the black people came they would join and help kill the white people it was after they had been talking some time that she went in and did not hear the Commencement of the conversation there were several slaves present and one of them stated that his master had crossed him and he would be crossed before the end of the year. Witness had heard three other slaves make use of the same declaration some time previously in the neighborhood—prisoners lived about a mile from Solomon Parkers. They told her it was a secret and if she told the white persons would shoot her—Witness’s mistress went to Sussex upon the alarm of the late insurrection and while there witness’s mistress said she wondered if her negroes were concerned upon which witness made the above statement in substance. Witness states that the reason of her not telling before was that she did not understand it. States that Jim denied he knew the witness on his examination before the Magistrate in Sussex—Witness states that she is a house servant and is seldom in the outhouses—
Bob a slave being sworn and charged as a witness for the Commonwealth says that the Monday night of the insurrection Isaac one of the prisoners left home and on his return stated he had been to Solomon Parkers and on Monday night before after the August meeting both prisoners went to Solomon Parkers—Witness states that Jim frequently went to Solomon Parkers—
And the prisoners being fully heard in their defense by James S. French their Counsel the Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoners are guilty in manner and form as in the information against them is set forth and it being demanded of them if anything for themselves they had or knew to say why the Court should not proceed to pronounce Judgment against them according to Law and nothing being offered or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoners be taken hence to the jail from whence they came therein to be safely confined until Friday the 30th day of September instant, on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and two o’clock in the afternoon they are to be taken by the Sheriff of this County to the usual place of execution & there be hanged by the neck until each of them be dead. And the Court value the said slave Jim to the sum of three hundred dollars and the said slave Isaac to the sum of four hundred dollars—
Absent Orris A. Browne. Present James D. Massenburg—Gent.
Preston a negro man slave the property of Hannah Williamson was then set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County and being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information. The Court after hearing the testimony and the prisoner in his defense by James S. French his Counsel are of opinion that the prisoner is not guilty as in pleading he has alleged and proclamation being made as the manner is and nothing further appearing or being alleged against the prisoner it is ordered that he be forthwith discharged from custody.
J.D. Massenburg
At a Court continued and held for the County of Southampton on the 22d day of September 1831
Present J. D. Massenburg Jacob Barnes Robert Goodwin James Trezvant and Alexander Myrick Gent.
Frank a negro man slave the property of Solomon Parker was again set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County and Meriwether B. Broadnax Attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth filed and information against the prisoner and thereupon the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information and Becky a slave being charged &c sworn says that on the 15th day of August last the day on which the insurrection broke out in the County she heard at a black persons house at Solomon D. Parkers the prisoner say that if the black people came that way he would join them and help kill all the white people—it was after they had been talking some time before the witness went in—she did not hear the commencement of the conversation, there were several slaves present and the prisoner said his master had crossed him and he would be crossed before the end of the year. That the slaves the witness heard conversing told the witness it was a secret and if she told the white people they would shoot her. Witness’s mistress went to Sussex upon the alarm of the late insurrection and while there witness’s mistress said she wondered if her negroes were concerned upon which the witness made the above statement in substance—Witness states that the reason of her not telling before was that she did not understand it.
And the prisoner was fully heard in his defense by James S. French his Counsel. The Court after hearing the testimony & from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the information against him is set forth and it being demanded of the prisoner if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceed to pronounce judgment against him according to law and nothing being offered or alleged in delay of judgment it is considered by the Court that the prisoner be taken hence to the jail from whence he was taken therein to be safely confined until Friday the 30th day of September instant on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and four o’clock in the afternoon he is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and there hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the Court from all the circumstances of the case recommended to the Governor to commute the punishment of the prisoner to transportation, and the Court in consideration that the said slave Frank is a blacksmith value him to the sum of six hundred dollars.
Ordered that the Sheriff send an express to the Executive with copies of the record of the convictions of Jim and Isaac slave [sic] belonging to Saml. Champion & Frank a slave belonging to Solomon D. Parker Joe belonging to John C. Turner & Lucy belonging to the Est. of John Barrow.
Ordered that the Court be adjourned till the first day of the next term.
J.D. MASSENBURG
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the 28th day of September 1831 for the trial of Jack and Shadrach negro men slaves belonging to Nathaniel Simmons charged with treason against the Commonwealth—
Present Carr Bowers Benjamin Drewry James D. Massenburg James Trezvant and Orris A. Browne Gent.
The Court being thus constituted the prisoners above named were set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of the County whereupon for reasons appearing the trial of the slaves Jack and Shadrach is adjourned till Friday the 30th day of September instant & thereupon they were remanded to jail and the Court adjourned till Friday morning nine o’clock.
CARR BOWERS
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer summoned and held for the County of Southampton on the 28th day of September 1831 for the trial of Nelson a negro man slave belonging to the Est. of Benjamin Blunt and charged with conspiring to rebel and make insurrection—
Present—Carr Bowers, Benjamin Drewry, James D. Massenburg, James Trezvant & Orris A. Browne. Gent.
The Court being thus constituted the Attorney prosecuting for the Commonwealth filed an information against the said Nelson and the said Nelson was set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County, and the Court doth assign James S. French Counsel for the prisoner in his defense, and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the information and sundry witnesses being sworn and examined on behalf of the Commonwealth the Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances are of opinion that the prisoner is not guilty as in pleading he hath alleged & proclamation being made as the manner is and nothing further appearing or being alleged against the prisoner it is ordered that he be forthwith discharged from custody. The Court allows to James S. French the sum of ten dollars as a fee for defending Nelson and it is ordered that Silas Summerville Admin. of Benjamin Blunt pay the same.
CARR BOWERS
Present: Jacob Barnes Gent.
Jack and Shadrach negro men slave the property of Nathaniel Simmons who stand indicated for Treason, &c. were again set to the bar by the Sheriff of this County into whose custody they were heretofore committed. And the Court being of opinion that slaves cannot be tried in this court for Treason, Therefore it is ordered that the said Jack and Shadrach be discharged from further prosecution in this behalf.
Sam a negro man slave the property of Peter Edwards who stands charged with feloniously conspiring to rebel with divers other slaves and did on the 22d August 1831 rebel and make insurrection, and M.B. Broadnax attorney for the Com. filed his information against the said Sam who was thereof arraigned pleaded not guilty, and James S. French was assigned counsel for the prisoner and thereupon witnesses were sworn and examined Touching the premises, to wit,
Ben a negro man slave the property of Newit Harris, being sworn and charged, states that on Monday morning, August 23d about 10 o’clock he saw the insurgents approaching his masters house that the prisoner was with them and had something which he does not know whether it was a gun or a stick, that the prisoner was mounted, and rather in the rear, that Sam and the Insurgents with the prisoner among them pursued him, that he does not know whether he could have escaped from the others if he had been so disposed—
Nathl. Francis of full age being sworn saith that with several others went to Peter Edwards, where (the mother of the prisoner lives) about 10 o’clock Tuesday night, after the Sunday of the Insurrection that one of the party went to a negro house, the mother of the prisoner insisted that some-body was there, he does not know whether she denied it but heard the other insisting that some of the negroes were there—that the next he saw they had the prisoner in custody, he being under the house, during the remarks of the person enquiring for him—That does not know when the prisoner went under the house.
Peter Edwards a witness introduced for the prisoner states that the prisoner was a negro of good character. Upon being cross examined states that he lives about 8 or 9 miles from Parkers field, and that the prisoner might have gotten home about 3 hours by sun and have left Parkers field after the insurgeants had retreated—
Levi Waller of full age was sworn states that he was hid in the bushes some part of the time that the insergeants were at his house, that he saw two of them engaged in murdering his family that he did not see the prisoner engaged, but saw him at some distance wiping his eyes. That he heard Nat tell the prisoner to get on his horse, when they were about to start. The prisoner seemed not disposed to get up, but did get up and go off with them, that he does not know whether he was forced to go with them. That he does not know whether he cou’d have escaped if he had been so disposed—
The evidence being thus closed & the prisoner being by James S. French fully heard, by counsel. The court after hearing the testimony and all the circumstances of the case are unanimous of opinion that the prisoner is guilty of the offence whereof he stands charged. Therefore it is ordered that he be taken from thence to the jail from whence he came, there to remain till Friday the 4th of November next. On which day between the hours of 10 o’clock in the fore noon and 4 o’clock in the afternoon it is ordered that he be taken by the sheriff of this county to the place of usual execution & then & there be hanged by the neck till he is dead—
And the court value the said slave to four hundred and twenty five dollars—
James S. French is by the court allowed the sum of ten dollars for defending said slave.
Ordered that the court be adjourned till tomorrow morning nine o’clock.
JAMES W. PARKER
At a Court of Oyer & Terminer continued by adjournment and held for the County of Southampton on the 17th of October 1831 for the trial of Joe a negro man slave the property of Richd. P. Briggs, charged with Insurrection.
Prest. James W. Parker, Septha Darden, Alexander P. Peete, Joseph T. Claud and Jacob Barnes.
For reasons appearing to the court it is ordered that the trial of said Joe be adjourned till tomorrow—And it is ordered that this court be continued till tomorrow—
JAMES W. Parker
At a court continued and held for the County of Southampton on the 18th day of October 1831
Prest.—James Trezvant, James W. Parker, Joseph T. Claud, Alexander P. Peete and Jacob Barnes Gent.
Archer a negro man slave the property of Arthur G. Reese of this county who stands charged with having on the 22nd day of August 1831 feloniously consulted advised and conspired with divers slaves to rebel & make insurrection & plot to murder sundry white persons of this cm. was this day set to the bar by the sheriff of the county into whose custody he was heretofore committed (The court summoned for his trial having failed to meet) and M.B. Brodnax attorney prosecuting for the Comml. filed his Information against the prisoner, and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises pleaded not guilty to the Information, and James S. French was assigned counsel for the prisoner and thereupon divers witnesses were sworn and examined touching the premises. The court after hearing the testimony and all the circumstances of the case are of opinion that the prisoner is not guilty of the felony whereof he stands charged & thereupon proclamation being made as the manner is & nothing further appearing or being alleged against the prisoner it is ordered that he be forthwith discharged from further prosecution in this behalf.
Ordered that Hardy Harris Guardian to Arthur G. Reese pay to James S. French the sum of Ten dollars for defending a negro man Archer the property of said Reese charged with Insurrection.
Isham Turner a free man of color late of the county of Southampton who stands charged with conspiring consulting and advising to rebel and make insurrection and plotting to take the lives of free white persons citizens of this Comml. was this day set to the bar by the sheriff of this county into whose custody he was heretofore committed and charged with felony aforesaid. (The court summoned for his examination not having met) and thereupon divers witnesses were sworn and examined touching the premises—and the prisoner being fully heard by James S. French his counsel. The court after hearing the testimony and all the circumstances of the case are of opinion that the prisoner that the prisoner ought to be tried for said offence at the next Superior Court to be holden for this county and thereupon it is ordered that he be remanded to jail.
Moses a negro boy slave the property of Joseph Travis dcd. who stands charged with having on the 22nd of August 1831 feloniously consulted advised & conspired to rebel & make insurrection and plot to murder sundry free white persons citizens of this coml. was this day set to the bar by the sheriff of this county into whose custody he was heretofore committed, and M.B. Brodnax attorney for the court filed his information against the prisoner, and Thomas R. Gray was by the court assigned counsel for the prisoner, and the prisoner being arraigned of the premises & pleaded not guilty and thereupon divers witnesses were examined touching the premises to wit,
Jesse Drewry of full age being sworn saith that he was present on several occasions when the prisoner was examined as a witness on previous trials, some times for the commonwealth and some times on behalf of prisoners,--that his evidence was given freely and voluntarily after being told that he was not compelled to give testimony & that nothing which he said would be of any advantage to him, that the prisoner stated that he had been compelled to go with the insurgeants, that he continued with them them, untill after the insurgeants were repulsed & forced to retreat from Parkers field—That he does not know whether the prisoner continued with them longer or whether he availed himself of that first opportunity of leaving them—
The evidence being then closed and the prisoner being fully heard by counsel. The court after hearing the testimony and all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty of the offence whereof he stands charged. Therefore it is ordered that he be taken from hence to the place from whence he came and from there on the 7th of November next between the hours 10 o’clock in the fore noon and 4 o’clock in the afternoon of that day that he be taken to the place of usual execution and then and there be hanged by the neck till he is dead—
Memo: The court value the said negro boy Moses to three hundred dollars—and the court unanimously recommend to the Executive to commute the punishment of the said negro boy Moses—
At a Court of Oyer and Terminer summoned and held for the county of Southampton on Saturday the fifth day of November 1831 for the trial of Nat alias Nat Turner a negro man slave late the property of Putnam Moore an infant charged with conspiring to rebel and making insurrection—
Present. Jeremiah Cobb, Samuel B. Hines, James D. Massenburg, James W. Parker, Robert Goodwin, James Trezvant & Orris A. Browne—Gent. Carr Bowers, Thomas Preston & Richd. A. Urquhart.
For reasons appearing to the Court it is ordered that the Sheriff summon sufficient additional guard to repel any attempt that may be made to rescue Nat alias Nat Turner from the custody of the Sheriff—
The prisoner Nat alias Nat Turner was set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County, and William C. Parker is by the Court assigned Counsel for the Commonwealth filed an Information against the prisoner, who upon his arraignment pleaded not guilty and
Levi Waller being sworn as a witness states that on the morning of the 22nd day of August last between 9 & 10 o’clock he heard that the negroes had risen and were murdering the whites and were coming. Witness sent his son Thos. to the school house he living about a quarter of a mile off to let it be known for his children to come home. Mr. Crocker the school master came with witnesses children. Witness told him to go to the house, load their guns, but before the guns were loaded Mr. Crocker came to the still where witness was and said they were in sight—witness retreated and concealed himself in the corner of the fence behind the garden in the weeds on the opposite side of the house---Several negroes pursued him but he escaped them by falling among the weeds over the fence—one negro rode up and looked over, but did not observe him—the attention of the party he thinks were called off from him by some of the party going in pursuit of another, which he thinks they took for him but who turned out to be his blacksmith. Witness then retreated into the swamp which was not far off—after remaining some time witness again approached the house—before he retreated he saw several of his family murdered by the negroes—Witness crept up near the house to see what they were doing and concealed himself by getting in the plumb orchard behind the garden—the negroes were drinking. Witness saw prisoner whom he knew very well, mounted (he thought on Dr. Musgraves horse). States that the prisoner seemed to command the party—made Peter Edwards negro man Sam who seemed disposed to remain, mount his horse and go with them—prisoner gave command to the party to “go ahead” when they left his house—witness states that he cannot be mistaken in the identity of the prisoner—
James Trezvant being sworn said that Mr. James W. Parker and himself were the Justices before whom the prisoner was examined previous to his commitment—That the prisoner at the time was in confinement but no threats or promises were held out to him to make any disclosures. That he admitted that he was one of the insurgents engaged in the late insurrection and the chief among them—that he gave to his master & mistress Mr. Travis & his wife the first blow before they were dispatched—that he killed Miss Peggy Whitehead—That he was with the insurgents from their first movement to their dispersion on the Tuesday morning after the insurrection took place—That he gave a long account of the motives which lead [sic] him finally to commence the bloody scenes which took place. That he pretended to have had intimations by signs & omens from God that he should embark in the desperate attempt. That his comrades and even he was impressed with a belief that he could be the impositions of his hands cure diseases. That he related a particular instance in which it was believed that he had in that manner effected a cure upon one of his comrades. And that he went on to detail a medley of incoherent and confused opinions about his communications with God, his command over the clouds &c &c which he had been entertaining as far back as 1826.
The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner and form as in the Information against him alleged, and it being demanded of him if anything for himself he had or knew to say why the Court to judgment and execution against him of and upon the premises should not proceed—he said he had nothing but what he had before said. Therefore it is considered by the Court that he be taken hence to the Jail from whence he was taken therein to remain until Friday the 11th day of November instant on which day between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon and four o’clock in the afternoon he is to be taken by the Sheriff to the usual place of execution and then and there be hanged by the neck until he be dead. And the Court value the said slave to the sum of three hundred and seventy five dollars.
Ordered that William C. Parker be allowed the sum of ten dollars as a fee for defending Nat alias Nat Turner, late the property of Putnam Moore infant—
JHM. COBB
At a Quarterly Session held for Southampton at the Courthouse the 21st day of November 1831.
Present: Benjamin Griffin, Jacob Barnes, Joseph T. Claud & A.P. Peete Gent.
Ben a negro man slave belonging to the Estate of Benj. Blunt decd. who stands committed to the jail of this County upon the charge of conspiracy to rebel and make insurrection was this day set to the bar in custody of the Jailor of this County (the Court summoned for his trial having failed to meet). And Merewether B. Brodnax Attorney for the Commonwealth filed an information against the prisoner and the prisoner upon his arraignment pleaded not guilty, and
Sam a negro man slave being charged & sworn as a witness says that the prisoner came to his masters Drew Bittle, Monday morning August last the 22d about two hours by sun. Witness did not know where from and said there was going to be a war and that witness would see—About an hour later the prisoner made these remarks Mr. Barnes came by and said the negroes are behind killing the white people. Ben (the prisoner) as soon as Mr. Barnes had passed said ah: did not I tell you there would be war—how did I know:--
Drewry Bittle was sworn & examined as a witness and says that he is the owner of the slave Sam that he the witness was from home when the insurrection broke out—he went home—hid his family, left his negroes to guard them—he went off—returned & carried his family off and left his negroes at home and directed them not to go off on any account unless to run from the negroes.
Luke a negro man slave was charged & sworn as a witness. States that on Tuesday morning August 23d 1831 Billy Artist a leader of the insurgents & his wife came by – witness asked Artist the news & Artist asked witness to go with him—but witness refused. Artist said nothing to prisoner but prisoner went off with him. Artist returned about 3 or 4 o’clock in the evening with the prisoner, and Thomas Hathcock & 3 boys with him, & said he would cut this way, he would kill & cripple as he went. They were so far off that witness did not hear them except when they spoke loud, and Artist flourished his hatchet when he spoke of killing. &c.
Charlotte a negro woman slave – being charged & sworn, says that about three hours by sun in the morning of Tuesday Nathan who has been convicted as an Insurgent the brother of the prisoner came to her master’s Peter Edwards’s and told prisoner his, Nathans, money was in the field—Ben made no reply and in a short time, Nathan, Billy Artist & his wife & Ben the prisoner & two boys went off together.
Cherry a negro woman slave was charged & sworn—& states that she lives at Mr. Francis’s, that about 12 o’clock Tuesday 23d August last the prisoner & Billy Artist & his wife Nathan & the two boys came to the house of Mr. Francis; Ben the prisoner staid in the yard but the others went into the house they brought out a bundle of clothes and asked the prisoner to carry some of them and he said he would.
The evidence being closed and the prisoner being fully heard in his defence by Robert Birchett esq: his Counsel. The Court after hearing the testimony and from all the circumstances of the case are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner is guilty in manner & form as in the Information against him is alleged and it being demanded of him if any thing for himself he had or knew to say why the Court should not proceed to pronounce judgment against him according to Law, he said he had nothing but what he had before said. Therefore it is considered by the Court that he be taken from hence to the Jail from whence he came, and that on Tuesday the 20th day of December next between the hours of ten o’clock in the forenoon & four o’clock in the afternoon of the same day, he be taken by the sheriff of this County to the usual place of execution and then and there be hanged by the neck until he be dead.
Memo: the Court value the said slave Ben to the sum of four hundred dollars.
Ordered that the Court be adjourned til tomorrow morning 9 o’clock.
THOS. PRETLOW