Featured are two court documents from the mid 1800’s regarding the sale of slaves. Louisiana had a deep rooted history of slavery beginning with the aborigines of the region enslaving captured enemies, then continued by the French, Spanish, and then American settlers. This piece is a Louisiana Court documented dated from 1845 and captures the essence behind institutionalized slavery. In short, this document states that the local sheriff had been directed to sell a named slave. The document itself shows the obvious signs aging, but considering its age, is in absolutely remarkable condition. The paper is entirely intact and has been well preserved. There is no damage to the text, as it is written in manuscript and fully legible. This document measures 8 x 12 inches.

     The second document is from a Texas court and is dated 1863. Originally a territory belonging to Spain, then Mexico, Texas had outlawed slavery which caused tension with the American slave owners that had settled in the region. After the victory in the Texas Revolution, the American settlers had won independence from Mexico and were thus able to continue with the practice of Slavery. This document further embodies the culture of slavery in Texas as this petition sought to ask permission from the Texas Court to sell a slave. This fairly small document measures 6 x 8 inches and is in great condition, with very little signs of aging. All words are written in manuscript and are entirely legible. Both documents are great additions to any history collection, as they serve as reminders of America’s dark past.

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