From Slavery to Freedom in Texas
From Slavery to Freedom in Texas delves into the often overlooked experiences of enslaved people in the Lone Star State. This project focuses on four distinct counties—Brazoria, Red River, Waller, and Washington—located across Texas to illuminate both individual narratives and collective history. The stories told here center enslaved people’s experiences and the legacies of slavery across Texas.
Counties
Brazoria County
Brazoria County is located in southwest Texas. Situated along the Gulf Coast, the county sits at the mouth of the Brazos River.
Read the StoryRed River County
Red River County’s geographic location on the southern banks of the Red River in the northeast corner of Texas meant that for enslaved people, freedom existed beyond a single border.
Read the StoryWaller County
Waller County’s early history along with the activities of its Anglo slave owning inhabitants provide an opportunity to examine these intricate features of slavery and the ways the system shaped economics and politics in the Lone Star State.
Read the StoryWashington County
Washington County was central to cotton cultivation in Texas, the county was also the political and economic center for the power brokers who were guardians of the institution of slavery.
Read the Story