Could you give a bit more detail about what you mean by "they appeared in Cumberland about 1787"..what record was this. How old were they? He emancipates her in 1801...does he emancipate the children.

Could he have acquired her through will or deed from either of his parents?

Selma

Rebecca (Becky) was a slave owned by Henry Lipscomb. They appeared in Cumberland County, Virginia, about 1787. They lived together as partners and had nine children. He freed her in 1801. Henry was a native of King William County, VA, a burned county. Rebecca does not appear on any personal property tax lists I've been able to find. I know a lot about her post-1790, but nothing of her origin and early years. I fear that any relevant records were burned. Should I just give up? Any suggestions? Thank you.