They Had Names

African Americans in Early Records of Liberty County, Georgia

Bill of Sale (Mara/Quarterman)

Enslaved Persons Named: Nancy, Edward, Titus, Pulaski, Stephen

On May 5, 1840, Sarah Amanda Mara sold to Thomas W. Quarterman for $2500 “the following five Negroes (to wit) Nancy aged fifty years, and her son Edward, also Titus, Pulaski and Stephen, for his own property use benefit and behoof, expressly including the issue of all the females.” Witnessed by John L. Grovenstine, S. Spencer, J.I.C.L.C. Ann E. Earle, listed as the only surviving parent of her daughter “Sarah Ann Mara” swore that Sarah was 21 and of age to make the above transaction. [NOTE: Sarah’s name was spelled “Sarah A. Mara,” “Sarah Amanda Mara” and “Sarah Ann Mara” in this document.] Recorded on May 6, 1841, by E. Way, Clerk.

In the next deed, Thomas W. Quarterman transferred his title to “the within named Negroes” to Mr. Thomas Quarterman on December 14, 1840. Witnessed by J.S. Fleming, W.P. Girardeau, E.H. Bacon, J.I.C.L.C. Recorded on May 6, 1841, by E. Way, Clerk.

Source: Family Search.org. Liberty County Superior Court “Deeds and mortgages, 1777-1920; general index to deeds and mortgages, 1777-1958,” Film: Deeds & Mortgages, v. K-L 1831-1842,” Record Book L, 1838-1842, pp. 273. Image #465 (Link: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-C3QP-T9KR-8?i=464&cat=292358)