The Maryland General Assembly passed a law in 1805 to keep a close reign on Free People of Color by issuing free negro certificates. A common term for these certificates is papers.
My Holly ancestors visited the Allegany Courthouse on May 11th,1833 to receive their papers. The certificate explains how they are free and gives a physical description of each family member.
The Allegany County Book Q records their visit. The first person listed is Thomas Holly. I believe this is my fourth Great-grandfather. He is 17 years old, 5’1. He is described with a yellow complexion. Thomas has a brother, James, and three younger sisters, Sarah, Mary, and Carrelus. The notation regarding their free status indicates their parents are free and the siblings were born in Cumberland.
My paternal family has been living in the United States free(ish)ly for over two hundred years!
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