The French family owned two parcels of land that spanned over 500 acres on Dogue Run; land Washington would eventually own. In July 1799, while reconciling his land and the labor force, Washington wrote to Mrs. French’s son-in-law, Benjamin Delany,

“As I grow no Tobacco, and probably never shall, I have it in contemplation to make some material changes in the œconomy [sic] of my Farms.
To accomplish this object, a reduction of the present force on them is necessary; …”

Accompanying this letter, was this detailed account of those working the land. Entirely in Washington’s hand and previously partially undocumented, this list provides new insight into the enslaved community.
Washington draws a manicule at the bottom of page 3. Autograph document, 4 pages.

Creator: Washington, George, 1732-1799

Subject: Mount Vernon (Va. : Estate)
French's farm (Mount Vernon, Va.)
Enslaved persons

Date: 1799-07-15

Source: The George Washington Presidential Library At Mount Vernon