Decrees Issued by Intendants, 1736

D E C R E E

Concerning the Emancipation of Slaves

G I L L E S  H O C Q U A R T

We have been informed that several individuals in this Colony have released their slaves by simply telling them that they were free to go. However, we judge that all slaves freed in the future must enjoy the same status, and therefore, after consulting with the Marquis de Beauharnois, Governor and Lieutenant General for the King in this Colony, we order that henceforth all individuals in this country, regardless of social position, who wish to free their slaves must do so by having a notary draw up and certify a deed. The original copy of the deed shall be filed with that notary and registered with the Clerk of the Court of the nearest royal jurisdiction. We also declare null and void any case of emancipation in which the above procedure is not followed. This decree shall be read and published in the usual manner and registered with the Clerk of the Court of the Royal Jurisdictions of Quebec, Montreal and Trois-Rivieres. This decree must be obeyed. Completed in Quebec on September 1, 1736.

 

(Signed)

HOCQUART

 

Note: This is a free translation.

 

[ | Page 4 | ] [ Home | TOC ]