Reading 17: Rose Davis Case Notes

Rose Davis, born in 1684, was the daughter of Mary Davis, a white indentured servant, and Dominggoe, a Black man. The case highlights the complexities of race and slavery in colonial Maryland.
Initially, slave law dictated that a child's status followed that of the mother. This was intended to give enslavers control over the reproduction of enslaved women.
As racial distinctions hardened, the children of even free white women became vulnerable to enslavement.
Rose Davis, working as an indentured servant, petitioned the court for her freedom, but was instead sentenced to life-long slavery in August 1715.

August 1715: Rose Davis, described as a mulatto (of mixed race), daughter of Mary Davis of Maryland, petitions the court for freedom from Henry Darnall.
November 8, 1715: The court defers consideration of Rose's petition.
March 13, 1715/6: Rose Davis, still petitioning for freedom, remains under consideration by the court.

Rose argues that as a baptized mulatto descended from a Christian mother, her servitude should expire at the age of 31 (August 11, 1715).
Mary Davis provides evidence, including a Bible record, to prove her Christian lineage. She testifies that she was married to Dominggoe, a Black man, and that their son Thomas was born in 1677 and baptized.
Mary Davis also states that Rose was born in St. Maries County on August 11, 1684, and baptized. She emphasizes Rose's Christian heritage through her mother (herself).

The court deliberates on Rose's case.
The justices ultimately decide that Rose Davis, the mulatto, will serve as a slave for life. Mr. Henry Darnall, her master, is ordered to pay fees.