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Museum object · Slavery and Freedom Objects

Freedom papers and handmade tin carrying box belonging to Joseph Trammell

1852

Leesburg, Loudoun County, Virginia, United States, North and Central America

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Source catalog description

This description refers to material held by Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Visual details below describe the original material.

Certificate of Freedom for Joseph Trammell. Handwritten in black ink on white paper, the document is labeled at the top as "No. 1952." The document includes a detailed description of Mr. Trammell. It also includes that his freedom was proven by the oath of Thomas S. Dorrell. The certificate indicates a county registration number that provides legal record of Joseph Trammell’s status as a free man of color. A small, handmade tin box with sliding lid. Used to hold certificate of freedom and carry in pocket.

Sources & collection details

Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture — original record ↗

Source collection ↗

Catalog metadata · CC0 · Source checked 2026-10-13

Catalog reference: 2014.25

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