Jacob's Future

Enslaved people had little control over their lives. Serving William Jr. was one of Jacob's many tasks. Whether William remained at home or not, Jacob's future was uncertain. He could have feared being sold to an unfamiliar master and moving to a strange place.

He might have hoped to stay with the Browns so that he could be trained as a joiner or carpenter. Enslaved artisans were highly valued and less likely to be sold. They often had opportunities to make some money on the side. Jacob might have even dreamed of operating the ferry. The one thing he definitely did not want was to be sold to work in the tobacco fields. He had probably heard stories about the grueling work and harsh treatment of field slaves.