About this Database:
This database makes accessible to the public all currently available information pertaining to the enslaved community which built and sustained Oak Alley plantation. It brings to light attributes of personhood including names, origins and relationships, and presents them simultaneously with the marks of slavery that dehumanized--such as appraised value.
The Scope:
This database focuses on the individuals enslaved at Oak Alley, but entries occasionally include transactions that occurred on other plantations. This is most often seen in sales and sacramental records.
Sources:
Oak Alley has a limited archive. As a result, the information presented here comes from materials housed at: The St. James Parish Courthouse, The Archdiocese of Baton Rouge Sacramental Records, Tulane University, and New Orleans Notarial Archives. Please forward any interest in document copies to the respective institution.