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John and Martha Bowen Letter Book Concerning Bowen Hall Sugar Plantation, 1822-1848 (inclusive)

Extent:

1 box and 0.2 linear feet

Abstract:

Consists of 136 letters from John Bowen (1794-1835) and his wife Martha Powell Anthony Bowen (1797-1849) of Philadelphia (Pa.) documenting in great detail the management of Bowen Hall, their sugar plantation located in Vere, Clarendon Parish, Jamaica, including its varied finances, seasonal production and export of sugar and rum, and the treatment allocated to its enslaved workers and newly-emancipated population. The letters provide insights into the final throes of the institution of slavery in Jamaica and the abolishment of the practice in 1834; the Jamaican sugar industry; and British politics of the early 19th century in relation to its colonies and trade.

Held at: Princeton University Library: Manuscripts Division [Contact Us]