South Caroliniana Library
The Bonds Conway Papers (1763-1843) represent a collection of historical documents belonging to Bonds Conway, a free African-American individual residing in Camden, Kershaw County, South Carolina. Comprising family letters, land papers, and various other artifacts, this extensive collection offers a profound insight into the lives of multiple generations of a free family of color spanning from the 18th to the 20th centuries. The documents shed light on the experiences of this family in different geographical locations, including South Carolina, Georgia, Kansas, east Texas, and beyond.
Through these valuable papers, readers can gain a comprehensive understanding of the social dynamics and relationships during significant periods in history, such as the antebellum era, Civil War, Reconstruction, and into the early 20th century. The collection provides a rich tapestry of narratives that capture the struggles, aspirations, and resilience of this free African-American family, offering a glimpse into the broader historical context of African-Americans’ experiences during these pivotal times.