Archives of Maryland
(Biographical Series)

Tom Magruder
MSA SC 5496-50835
War of 1812 Refugee, Prince George's County, Maryland

Biography:

Tom Magruder was an enslaved man who was owned by Austin Allen of Prince George's County, Maryland. When Tom's master died in 1805 he became the property of his son, Benjamin W. Allen. In August 1814, while the British were passing through Upper Marlboro on their return from burning Washington, Tom escaped from Benjamin W. Allen. Magruder, who was 16 years of age when he escaped, fled with three other enslaved men Davy Gant, Dennis Magruder, and Sam Tyler. The four men were never seen or heard of after their escape. Following the war many Marylanders filed claims for reparations with the State Department, seeking compensation for the loss of their property to the British. Benjamin Allen filed a claim for the loss of his four enslaved men. He was awarded $260 for each of the slaves that escaped. 


Return to Tom Magruder's Introductory Page


 
 
 


This web site is presented for reference purposes under the doctrine of fair use. When this material is used, in whole or in part, proper citation and credit must be attributed to the Maryland State Archives. PLEASE NOTE: The site may contain material from other sources which may be under copyright. Rights assessment, and full originating source citation, is the responsibility of the user.


Tell Us What You Think About the Maryland State Archives Website!



© Copyright July 05, 2013 Maryland State Archives