10383101https://dlas.uncg.edu/petitions/petition/10383101DelawareSussexCounty711831Petitionread, referred013Delaware State Archives, Dover, DelawareFree man of color William Toast, alias William Collins, was convicted in the Court of Quarter Sessions of Sussex County in 1828 for stealing $5.50 and sentenced to a term of seven years in slavery. Purchased by Benjamin Potter Jr., Toast absconded to Philadelphia. Toast later returned, was again convicted of theft, and was sentenced to "be publickly w hipped with twenty one lashes on his bare back well laid on" and "that he be disposed of as a Servant to the highest and best bidder or bidders for the term of seven years." Potter seeks compensation for court costs and restitution.Freedom seekersWhippingAuctionsPurchase/Sale prices (enslaved)Term slavery