11683010https://dlas.uncg.edu/petitions/petition/11683010VirginiaBedfordCounty17121830Legislative18121830Legislativerejected416Library of Virginia, Richmond, VirginiaJoe Quarles, "a free man of colour," represents that "he was emancipated by the last will & testament of Anna Maria Quarles." He further acknowledges that "under the existing laws of this commonwealth your petitioner cannot reside within the limits of the state without forfeiting his title to freedom." Averring that he has proof "of general good character and conduct, and extraordinary merit," the petitioner therefore prays "that your honorable body will enact a special law allowing him the liberty of residing within the limits of his native state."owner(s)/citizens manumit/free slaveBequest (enslaved)State residency issues (FPOC)ChurchesTerm slavery