Hi Renae,

Yes, FPOC were listed in the 1860 census, as well as in any prior census, if they were free at that time. I can trace my FPOC line back to the 1830 census in Pennsylvania.

Personal estate is personal property, such as furniture, clothing, tools, animals (cattle, mules, horses, goats, etc.), and cash money. Did Eldridge have a farm or own animals? He must have owned something besides the land/house for which he had a deed.

In some states, the county courthouses kept records on FPOC. You might be able to find the documents in the courthouse or in the state archives records.

May the ancestors guide you.

Regards,
Sandra