The Kidnapped and The Ransomed

Here is the life story of Peter and Lavinia “Vina” Still, born into slavery in the antebellum South: they met, married, raised a family, and through indomitable will and great courage, gained their freedom. Published in 1856 and based on eye-witness accounts, The Kidnapped and The Ransomed details many of the darker horrors of American slavery, but also presents examples of human compassion and kindness. In the end, Peter, Vina, and family freed themselves from bondage in Alabama and settled into their free life in Burlington County, New Jersey, surrounded by friends and Peter’s long-lost family.