PAR #: 11684806
Location: Nansemond County, VA • Year: 1848

Abstract: William Rooks asks for a law permitting him to register as a free person of color at the court in Nansemond County. A native of Gates County, North Carolina, he married Betsey Hawksey, a free woman of color, in 1843, and now he is a resident and land owner in Nansemond County. According to the acts passed 2 March 1819, and 13 March 1841, however, he can not remain in Virginia. Even if he were permitted to return to his native state--which he is not--he could not take his wife and family.