In the Shadows: Enslaved People and Estate Workers of Belmont Mansion

It is our primary mission at Belmont Mansion to tell the entire story of life at Belmont from the time Adelicia Franklin purchased the property in 1849 until the last family member left in 1886. We also attempt to tell the story of all the people who lived and worked on this estate. This includes those who were enslaved here and those who were hired by the family to work in the house and on the grounds or at Montvale, the adjoining garden farm.

The booklet is divided into three sections: an overview of the staff both before and after the Civil War, detailed lists of the enslaved people and hired workers, and transcripts of original documents. While the information seen herein regarding the enslaved residents and the hired staff at Belmont is minimal, it is hoped this publication will enable other researchers to connect the information with their research.