Hi Beverly,

A number of years ago I started transcribing the Free Negro Register for Southampton County..it contains any number of entries for individuals with the ARTIS surname. I will have to go back and check for JOHN. I posted the first 100 names on Afrigeneas a couple of years ago (you might be able to locate in their archives)..I have only transribed about a 1/4 of the register so far up to 1810. Although most of the entries identiy the individuals as being freed by either deed or will by owner in the county...the first ARTIS entry is for one PATTY ARTIS, black, free born Southampton, registering on June 12, 1794.

Selma