Betsey Jane, a twelve-year-old girl of color, seeks her freedom. In 1843, Archibald Turk died leaving a will that bequeathed freedom to his slaves named Nicy, Malinda, George, and Betsey after the death or remarriage of his widow. The widow died some years ago as has the slave Nicy, who was the mother of the petitioner. The petitioner believes that she was born after Turk's death and, therefore, "by the laws of the state of Tennessee, was born free." However, Turk's administrator, Samuel Workman, continues to hold her in slavery. Betsey Jane is now in the possession of Jesse Mer, and she fears that he and Workman plan to "sell or in some way dispose" of her beyond the reach of the court. She prays that any sale be enjoined and asks that she be attached and placed in the care of her next friend. Finally, she prays that the court uphold her right to freedom. In his answer, Workman argues that Betsey Jane was born before Turk's death and that her mother actually died before his death. He also relates that he has not freed the other three slaves: George and his wife Betsey live "under the care and protection of John L. McCanty" and Malinda lives in Polk County. He contends that living as virtually free slaves is better for them because, if they were freed, "they would not be permitted to remain ... in the state."
Result: Partially granted.
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Repository: Tennessee State Library and Archives, Nashville, Tennessee
