In 1773, Bett, an enslaved woman in the home of Colonel John Ashley in Sheffield, Mass., heard Ashley and other colonists discussing the drafting of the Sheffield Declaration. An element of the declaration would change her life: Resolved: That mankind in a state of nature are equal, free, and independent of each other and have a right to the undisturbed enjoyment of their lives, their liberty, and property.
Also known as the Sheffield Resolves, the declaration was a petition against British tyranny and a manifesto for individual rights. It was approved by the Town of Sheffield on January 12, 1773. Similar language was included in the Massachusetts Constitution. In 1781, Bett hired a lawyer, sued for her freedom, and won. Her case set a precedent, leading Massachusetts to become one of the first states to abolish slavery in 1783.
Upon her emancipation, Bett changed her name to Elizabeth Freeman. She lived out the rest of her life in Stockbridge, Mass. Our state celebrates Elizabeth Freeman Day every year on August 21, the day she won her freedom.
Today, the historic Colonel John Ashley House is owned by The Trustees. You can learn more at their site and watch a video with a virtual tour of the house. Also, The Boston Globe ran an article on Freeman as part of a series of profiles during Black History Month.
This month, many organizations are recognizing Black History Month. You can learn more about events in the Boston area here.
Photo courtesy Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of African American History and Culture