Untold Stories: Margaret Abbitt

After Hannah Reynolds passed away, Margaret Abbitt moved into the cabin to work for the Coleman family. Margaret, like Hannah, was enslaved until General Lee's surrender in 1865 emancipated her.

Look at this 1870 census record. What information can you learn about Margaret Abbitt?

1870 Census record.

Owing to Reconstruction policies and economic realities, many freedpeople lived with and worked for former slaveowners doing the same jobs they did when enslaved. As a freedwoman, Margaret Abbitt enjoyed freedoms that Hannah Reynolds did not. However, Margaret’s life resembled Hannah’s in many ways. They lived in the same cabin, worked for the same family, performed the same job tasks, and used similar items in everyday life.

Put It Together
No two people and no two families experienced slavery or freedom exactly the same way. Learn more about the diversity of the African American experience at Appomattox Court House.

Read United States Colored Troops at Appomattox.

• What was the USCT?

• Explore the lists of USCT troops. Can you find anyone with your last name?

Read The Diuguid Family: Freedom, Slavery, and Emancipation.

• What were Charles Diuguid's choices?

• What would you do, if you were in Charles' shoes?