As demonstrated by the names in this section -- surnames of white slaveowners still carried by the formerly enslaved -- emerging into freedom could be a complex process. The case studies below contain clusters of documents about a person or family, illustrating how relationships might change over time.

Manerva Cocke

One of many formerly enslaved farm laborers on the plantation of John Cocke in west central Alabama.

The Townsend Heirs

Enslaved children freed at the death of their father and former owner Samuel Townsend of north Alabama.

Joe and Nancy Clayton

Formerly enslaved married couple, a farm overseer and a domestic servant, for Henry De Lamar Clayton Sr. of southeast Alabama.