Archives of Maryland
(Biographical Series)

Theophilus Tabbs (b. circa ? - d. circa ?)
MSA SC 5496-050833
War of 1812 Refugee, St. Mary's County, Maryland

Biography:

Theophilus Tabbs was a slave who was enslaved by Francis Abell of St. Mary's County, Maryland. Theophilus Tabbs carried the name of another slaveholder in St. Mary's County who was also named Theophilus Tabbs, but was called "Off" by Francis Abell. During the War of 1812, Theophilus escaped to British ships lying in the Patuxent River as they were passing through on their way to burn Washington, DC. Francis Abell immediately reported Theophilus Tabbs escape to the St. Mary's County Commissioners so that he would no longer be taxed. 

Following the war, Francis Abell filed a claim for reperations with the Department of State. Theophilus Tabbs name didn't appear on any of the list furnished by the British and hadn't returned to his owner. However, Francis Abell was awarded $280 for the loss of Theophilus Tabbs.

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