Detailing the remarkable journey of William Henry Singleton, Contraband of War tells the story of Singleton’s life and upbringing. Born into slavery and later escaping, Singleton’s story paints an accurate portrayal of African American life in the 1800’s. Told from the perspective of Singleton, the book provides a glimpse into the life of Singleton, allowing readers to empathize with his experiences, while relating the plight of slavery.
Excerpt from the Book:
“William Henry Singleton (1834-1938) was born a slave in New Bern, North Carolina. Soon after the outbreak of the Civil War, he ran away from the Singleton plantations and became the servant of a Confederate officer. Singleton longed to join the Union forces. Singleton knew that Fugitive Slave Law made it obligatory for all runaway slaves to be returned to their master. Then he learned that in June of 1861, Union Army General Benjamin F. Butler has designated all former slaves entering Union Army camps ‘contraband of war,’ and hence no longer returnable to their owners. It was the first time human beings had been thus categorized, but it meant that Singleton could go over to the Union side.”
$34, phone orders available. Call the shop at (323) 651-0131.
Contraband of War
Detailing the remarkable journey of William Henry Singleton, Contraband of War tells the story of Singleton’s life and upbringing. Born into slavery and later escaping, Singleton’s story paints an accurate portrayal of African American life in the 1800’s. Told from the perspective of Singleton, the book provides a glimpse into the life of Singleton, allowing readers to empathize with his experiences, while relating the plight of slavery.
Excerpt from the Book:
“William Henry Singleton (1834-1938) was born a slave in New Bern, North Carolina. Soon after the outbreak of the Civil War, he ran away from the Singleton plantations and became the servant of a Confederate officer. Singleton longed to join the Union forces. Singleton knew that Fugitive Slave Law made it obligatory for all runaway slaves to be returned to their master. Then he learned that in June of 1861, Union Army General Benjamin F. Butler has designated all former slaves entering Union Army camps ‘contraband of war,’ and hence no longer returnable to their owners. It was the first time human beings had been thus categorized, but it meant that Singleton could go over to the Union side.”
$34, phone orders available. Call the shop at (323) 651-0131.