Washington Short

In 1843, John Tyler wrote to his daughter, Elizabeth Tyler Waller, about an enslaved person named Washington: “I am very anxious to have a blacksmith and should be willing to part with Washington but if I can hear of a servant that would suit you… I will purchase him for you…” [1] Roscius Short’s deposition for his pension application identifies one of his brothers whom John Tyler sold as Washington Short. [2] Based on Roscius’ deposition, Washington Short would have been the child of Louisa and William Short, Sr.

[1] John Tyler to Elizabeth Tyler Waller, 16 Jan. 1843, David M. Rubenstein Rare Book & Manuscript Library, Duke University.

[2] Anderson, Leslie. “Roshus Shorts, Company H,” 1st Colored Cavalry, https://1stuscoloredcavalry.wordpress.com/2018/12/24/roshus-shorts-company-h/.