Samuel Hall, 47 Years a Slave

The Truth of Slavery

Told by One Who Lived It

Confronting the greatest evil of any era, Samuel recounts his harrowing journey of endurance, faith, and eventual freedom. In the face of near-death experiences, he reveals the stark realities of slavery, witnessing both the best and worst of humanity during this dark period in our history.

From the depths of the South in Iredell County, North Carolina, to the brutal slave markets of Memphis, Samuel’s journey traverses the Civil War and culminates in a free life in Washington, Iowa, where he owns a farm, makes lifelong friends, and sends his children to public school. He traces his family’s roots back to Liberia, naming his siblings and children, many of whom were sold and never seen again. Some found early freedom, while others, like Samuel, endured until the end.

Over 112 years later, Samuel’s narrative offers a rare and poignant glimpse into a world that, thankfully, no longer exists in the United States. Understanding the profound evil of slavery is crucial.

Read this powerful account to grasp its deep and lasting impact.