1794-003: John Davis vs. Griffin Haynes and wife:

Scope and content:

Mary Haynes was an enslaved person who won her freedom from Davis in a lawsuit heard in Pittsylvania County court. She also won financial damages. According to Davis and witnesses, Haynes' attorney offered a deal to Davis: he would not have to pay damages or court costs in return for the freedom of Haynes' children and never trouble Haynes or her children regarding their freedom. Haynes did not acknowledge such an agreement. She claimed that once the court gave her freedom that here children were immediately freed as well. Haynes wanted Davis to pay the damages owed her.

Access and use

Location of collection:
The Library of Virginia
800 East Broad Street
Richmond, VA 23219
Contact for questions and access:
POC: Archives Reference Services
Phone: (804) 692-3888