PAR #: 11683309
Location: Stafford County, VA • Year: 1833

Abstract: Free man of color Henry Lewis is a "mechanick" who seeks permission to remain in Virginia for another eighteen months. Lewis notes that he was emancipated subsequent to 1806 and has continued to live in Virginia where he has earned the reputation as being "one of the most orderly, correct, and industrious colored persons in the County." He explains that "like most youths, he was fascinated by a lovely female of his own Color" who, he adds, "happened to be a slave." Lewis borrowed money from local "gentleman" and subsequently purchased his wife. He then "liberated and legally married her." The debt for the purchase remains, however. Lewis contends that with another eighteen months of "his greatest industry and oeconomy" he will be able to pay off the debt at which time he and his family will leave the state "in conformity with the existing laws."