On View
Slavery and Freedom Gallery
Exhibition
Slavery and Freedom
Received by
Rev. Selden, David, American, 1761 - 1825
Written by
Selden, David, American, born 1785
Date
March 5, 1808
Medium
ink on paper
Dimensions
H x W (folded): 9 15/16 × 7 7/8 in. (25.2 × 20 cm)
H x W (unfolded): 9 15/16 × 15 5/8 in. (25.2 × 39.7 cm)
Description
This letter was written from Charleston, South Carolina, on March 5, 1808, by David Selden to his parents in Chatham, Connecticut. Selden lists several cities he has recently traveled to including New York and Philadelphia, with future destinations including Georgetown and Georgia. After describing the weather and spring blossoms of Charleston, Selden writes, "I cannot but reflect on the awfull sight to be seen at a place called Gadsdens wharf of about four thousand poor africans naked/in a manner/ and lousy[.] The most distressing sight I ever beheld offered for sale every day at Auction to him who will give the most." The letter is posted specifically to his father Reverend David Selden of Chatham, Connecticut, but the salutation reads "Dear parents".
Transcription Center Status
Transcription Available
Place made
Charleston, South Carolina, United States, North and Central America
Place used
Chatham, East Hampton, Middlesex County, Connecticut, United States, North and Central America
Classification
Documents and Published Materials
Slavery and Freedom Objects
Type
letters (correspondence)
Topic
Africa
American South
Commerce
Correspondence
Middle Passage
Slavery
Trans Atlantic slave trade
U.S. History, 1783-1815
Urban life
Credit Line
Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
Object number
2014.174.2
Restrictions & Rights
No Known Copyright Restrictions
Proper usage is the responsibility of the user.
GUID
http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd530151c56-34ac-4e30-a885-30b7b7bf0126

Cataloging is an ongoing process and we may update this record as we conduct additional research and review. If you have more information about this object, please contact us at NMAAHCDigiTeam@si.edu

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