Loading

Deed of sale for an enslaved man named Cato

April 28, 1859

Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
Washington, D.C., United States

This deed of sale has pre-printed and handwritten text that records the purchase of an enslaved man named Cato (born 1819) sold by J. P. Lapier of Pointe Coupee, Louisiana, an agent for C. E. Girardy & Co. to James Roberts of Jefferson City, Louisiana, for $800.00 on April 28, 1859. Cato is described as being around forty years of age and was "sold as having run away." The paper is folded in half along the left side with the reverse of the open sheet (interior pages when folded) blank. On the back of the folded page is handwritten text in ink identifying the date, seller, buyer, and enslaved person.

Show lessRead more
  • Title: Deed of sale for an enslaved man named Cato
  • Date Created: April 28, 1859
  • Physical Dimensions: H x W: 9 3/4 × 8 7/8 in. (24.8 × 22.5 cm)
  • Subject Keywords: Slavery, Law, Men, Domestic slave trade, Business
  • Medium: ink on paper
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

Get the app

Explore museums and play with Art Transfer, Pocket Galleries, Art Selfie, and more

Home
Discover
Play
Nearby
Favorites