Deed from Jane Randolph Jefferson for the Conveyance of Slaves, 29 September 1773
Jefferson’s widowed mother deeds him a dozen enslaved workers and their children in payment for her debts to him.
Women
Although denied the full rights of citizens and with their concerns often buried in the archive, women and their stories illuminate diverse experiences of Americans in the Jeffersonian republic. Although limited by the perspectives of Jefferson’s correspondents, these selections allude to the experiences of enslaved women, workers, and middle-class widows as well as more advantaged women.
To Elizabeth Wayles Eppes, 3? October 1782
A newly widowed Jefferson grapples with grief.
From Martha Jefferson Carr, 15 April 1784
Jefferson’s sister reports about her travels, education plans for Peter Carr, reports on Jefferson’s daughters, and announces she has become a grandmother.
From Elizabeth Wayles Eppes, 13 October 1784
Jefferson’s sister-in-law relays the tragic news to Jefferson in Paris of the death of his daughter Lucy.
From Henrietta Maria Colden, 25 Nov. 1790
Henrietta Maria Colden reluctantly solicits a naval appointment for her son.
From Henrietta Maria Colden, 5 Feb. 1791
Henrietta Maria Colden, a friend of Alexander Hamilton, shares her views on political subjects with Jefferson.
From Elizabeth House Trist, 1 March 1801
A long-time friend freely communicates her sentiments, offers her opinions on John Adams, and congratulates Jefferson on his election as president.
From Anne Cary Randolph, [before 24 February 1803]
Jefferson's 12 year old granddaughter accepts his invitation to become a correspondent, requests he send a French dictionary, and updates him on the schooling of her siblings.
From Susannah Bolton Finch, 14 July 1804
Susannah Bolton Finch, having lost her business and having no means of support, asks Jefferson for assistance.
To Mary Jefferson Eppes, 26 December 1803
Jefferson touches on a variety of topics when his younger daughter is expecting her third child.