Social and Behavioral Sciences E-Campus

H 101 - Lab Exercise: The Denmark Vesey Insurrection (1822)

The Trial of Prince Graham, a free black man - Mr. Jones attending as his friend.

Evidence:

Monday testified as follows: Prince Graham is engaged in this conspiracy and belongs to William Garner's Company -- he acknowledged he belonged to it, but did not wish to have his name down, as he was a free man. He confessed he belonged to William Garner's Company -- he was not at my shop.

Cross-examined by Mr. Jones -- he said he had a long one, a horseman's sword provided for this purpose. He belonged to the cavalry and was one of the African Church. He never was with Denmark Vesey or attended any of the meetings. He told me he was to be an officer, William Farner had made him one.

Charles gave the following evidence: Monday and myself met Prince Graham one night coming out of Dr. Ramsay's yard with Quash Harleston -- he said that he was as willing as anybody. After Morris Brown had returned from the North, he said he did not wish much to do with it as he was a free man, and had denied it to Morris Brown, who inquired if he was one -- this was after Peter was taken up. Morris Brown returned before the 16th of June.

Frank testified as follows: Vesey called at the house of Prince Graham one day in my company, and was informed by his wife that he was not at home. I afterwards met him and he asked why Vesey had called on him -- I said to go into the country -- he replied I cannot go, as I have nothing to do with this conspiracy. This was I think before the 16th of June.

Peirault's evidence was as follows: I only conversed with Prince Graham once in company with Quash Harleston, whn he said, if Monday had told him of it a little sooner he would have joined; but now he had not time to prepare himself for it -- this was a Pioleau's Wharf.

Prince Graham's statement and defence were as follows: I met William Garner who told me he held a commission in the horse, and if I would join, he would resign in my favor; which I refused to do. When in New York, I first learned that Denmark Vesey and others were to be hung for an attempt to raise an insurrection. As I had spoken to and asked to join in this before I left Charleston, I considered well whether I had ever said or done anything which could bring me into trouble if I returned; but as I could not reproach myself with having done so, I thought I need not fear to come on. As I was a free man, and could have stayed in New York if I pleased, I certainly would not have been such a fool as to run myself into such danger if I was in any way engaged in the plot.

Verdict:

Based on the Rules, and the Evidence presented here, what do you think was the verdict?

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You can reach me by e-mail at: joanaa@umd5.umd.edu
Revised: 6 November 1999