A History of Godfrey the Runaway Slave

A Sully Plantation slave runs away makes history.

Godfrey was a slave who ran away from the Sully Plantation in Chantilly, Virginia, United States, during the 1800s. His story is an important part of the history of the Sully Historic Site, which is now a museum that showcases the lives of those who lived and worked on the plantation.

Godfrey's story begins in the early 1800s, when he was born into slavery on the Sully Plantation. Like many other enslaved people at the time, Godfrey was forced to work long hours in the fields, often without proper clothing or shelter. Despite the difficult conditions, Godfrey was a determined and resourceful person who was always looking for ways to improve his situation.

One day, Godfrey decided that he had had enough of his life as a slave. He made the difficult decision to run away from the plantation, leaving behind his family and everything he had ever known. It was a dangerous move, as slaves who were caught running away were often punished severely, sometimes even with death.

Advertisement by Richard Bland Lee of the Sully Plantation looking for Godfrey.

Godfrey's escape was not an easy one. He had to navigate the dangerous terrain of Virginia, avoiding patrols of slave catchers who were always on the lookout for runaways. Despite the risks, Godfrey persevered, eventually making his way to freedom in the north.

Once he had escaped, Godfrey began a new life as a free man. He settled in Pennsylvania, where he worked as a laborer and eventually started a family of his own. However, he never forgot his past as a slave on the Sully Plantation. In fact, he became an active participant in the Underground Railroad, helping other slaves to escape to freedom.

Godfrey's story is an important reminder of the resilience and determination of enslaved people in America. Despite the overwhelming odds stacked against them, many slaves were able to find the strength and courage to run away and seek a better life for themselves and their families.

Today, Godfrey's story is an important part of the history of the Sully Historic Site, which serves as a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices of those who came before us.