Humphry

Bio

An entry in the diary of the Reverend Roger Newton of Greenfield, Massachusetts, notes the death of "Umphrey Negro Ser^t to Ens. Childs." on October 16, 1767.  Humphrey was enslaved by Ensign Timothy Childs of Deerfield, Massachusetts.

From 1746 through 1766, Humphry was treated by Dr. Thomas Williams for several ailments, including an injured hand and foot. Deerfield church records indicate that he was baptized on December 5, 1762. He paid his debt with cash and by digging potatoes. Baptizing someone later in life was not uncommon and in this case, Humphry's ailment might have inspired it.

He had an account at Elijah Williams' store from 1742 through1760, and purchased pipes, a cap, buckles, and a skein of mohair. Sheomaker Zadock Hawks resoled a pair of shoes for him in 1759, and in the 1760s Childs had tailor John Russell make for Humphry breeches, a coat and vest, and alter a coat.

In 1742, Deerfield resident Thomas Wells sent a note to Ichabod Allis stating that he was planning to take affidavits concerning "the Cause between you & Lt. Timo Childs of Deerfield which You prosecuted Against s^d Childs about Humphry Negro."