Enslaved people made up about four per cent of the population of 18th century New England where enslavers generally held one or two “negroe servants” in bondage. They often worked alongside their enslavers and resided in the same house, but they were not considered equal household members. Even in church, ensalved people sat separately from the rest of the congregation. Prince was about nine years old when he became the property of Israel Williams. Children were often destined for the middle and northern colonies, as they were not fit for the grueling work of producing sugar in the Caribbean islands. Also, enslavers believed that a child would learn English more easily, adapt more quickly, and develop stronger loyalties to an enslaver and his family.
Williams, Jr., Ephraim (1715-1755). Bill of sale for an enslaved boy named Prince. September 25, 1750. Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association, American Centuries. https://americancenturies.org/collection/l00-074/. Accessed on October 16, 2024.
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