Petition #20484401

Abstract

Ann Mason Chichester Tutt seeks the settlement of an ownership dispute regarding nine slaves. She asserts that in 1830, her husband put up for public auction nine slaves which he acquired through his marriage to the petitioner. Tutt states that she directed her brother, George M. Chichester, since deceased, to purchase the slaves on her behalf for her sole use and benefit. Chichester followed his sister's wishes and then arranged, at her request, for their transportation from Virginia to Pensacola, where Tutt's husband was residing and where she was planning to join him. During the voyage, the ship, Comet, wrecked near "New Providence in the British Dominions." The British authorities emancipated the slaves. Tutt placed a claim with the United States government for indemnity and remuneration. The British authorities granted the request. When the claim was granted, however, Chichester's executors, Robert Bowie and William T. T. Mason, claimed ownership of the slaves on the grounds that Chichester was the original purchaser. Tutt argues that at no time did Chichester set up any interest in the slaves nor did he expend any money for their purchase or transportation.

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Citation information

Repository: National Archives, Washington, D. C.

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