Slavery and Plantations in Saint Domingue Collection

Collection

Identifier: MS Group 159

Staff Only

Scope and Content

Collection of 22 handwritten letters pertaining to potential sales of various plantations and holdings, including slaves, in St. Domingue (present-day Haiti). Accompanying the correspondence are inventories, legal agreements, and an account book. This material, dated 1779 to 1791, is an excellent source of information about the French colony in the decade leading up to the revolt by Black slaves in 1791. The letters reveal the desire of some plantation owners to sell because of the growing unrest in the profitable, slave-based colony.

Several pieces of correspondence are written to Dupre de Saint-Maur. All of the letters and documents are in French, but approximate translations have been provided for the majority of the items. Folders are arranged in alphabetical order.

Dates

Creation: 1779-1791

Access

The collection is open for research. Some of the documents in this collection are fragile and patrons may not be allowed to photocopy these items. Please consult with department staff before photocopying.

Extent

0.03 Linear feet (6 Folders)

Language of Materials

French

Additional Description

Abstract

Collection of 22 handwritten letters pertaining to potential sales of various plantations and holdings, including slaves, in St. Domingue (present-day Haiti).

Physical Location

University of Florida Smathers Library Building

Acquisition Information

Purchased from Charles Apfelbaum, New Jersey, 1999.

Alternate Form of Material

Digital reproductions of items in this collection are available online via the University of Florida Digital Collections (UFDC). Please read the Permissions for Use statement for information on copyright, fair use, and use of UFDC digital objects.