How can I find out is my ancestors were slaves,free slaves,or chattel slaves
Dear Mr. Pullum,
Thank you for posting your request on History Hub!
We suggest that you review the National Archives document Federal Records that Help Identify Former Slaves and Slave Owners and also search the Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers for possible information, since during the slavery period owners often advertised in newspapers about their runaway and fugitive slaves in hopes that citizens, or bounty hunters would would find and return their "property" usually for a reward.
Next, we also suggest that you review NARA’s African American Heritage website, especially the Archives Resources section, the Subject Portal, and the African American Records: Freedmen's Bureau web pages as well as NARA’s Rediscovering Black History blog and the History Hub response to How do I search for my family’s history?.
Finally, We further suggest that you contact the State Archives to obtain any genealogical information about your ancestors from the state where they may have been born or lived. The FamilySearch wiki African Americans, Identifying the Final Slave Owner (National Institute) may be useful.
We hope this is helpful. Best of luck with your family research!
