Maria Carter was the daughter of Arianna Carter, a woman enslaved by George Washington Parke Custis, and George Washington Parke Custis. Enslaved at Arlington Plantation, Maria Carter married Charles Syphax in 1821. Soon after, George sold Maria and her first two children to a Quaker, Edward Stabler, who in turn freed them. George subsequently gave Maria 17 acres of land. Charles remained enslaved by Maria's father, George, and her brother-in-law, Robert E. Lee, until 1862. Learn more about the incredible history and legacy of the Syphax Family.

Silver-coated copper plate, L 8.4, W 7 cm (including frame)
Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial, ARHO 6408