Peter Logan

How this work helped shape America

Born enslaved in Virginia around 1780, Peter Logan purchased his own freedom in Arkansas and also secured the freedom of his sister Charlotte Hurst and her daughter Nancy before settling in Illinois. In January 1837, Logan purchased farm and timber land in Tazewell County for $880, becoming the earliest known formerly enslaved person to own land in the county. His property included a homestead in Elm Grove Township and a separate timber lot, converting freedom into independent landownership during the early development of central Illinois. Historical evidence also identifies Logan as an Underground Railroad conductor who used his position and property to assist other freedom seekers.