I do have the book entitled Uprooted and Transplanted form AFrica to America..Focus on AA in Essex County VA Oppressions-Achievements-Contributions written by Lillian McGuire. Vantage Press. 1999. You might be able to obtain on inter library loan.

There were free blacks in Essex County, Ms. McGuire includes a transcription of of the Free Negro Register that was kept from 1843-1861, based on the laws of Va which required that they be registered..."to restrain the practice of Negroes going at large". There are two original registers the first which begins in 1810 to 1843, but the author did not transcribe that. The registers are available at the LVA on microfilm. Who are you looking for?

Example from Register

Samuel Troy, age 23, Mulatto, Parent: Samule Troy, Sr., registered: Sept. 21, 1846, Proof of Freedom: Statement of Muscoe Garnett in person before clerk.

Eleanor Jones, age 22, Brown, parent: Sally JOnes, Born Free, Certificate of ? YOung.

Selma