An infant born into slavery in the household of Celeste Tala de Villiers.
Born in Pensacola, Florida on 5 March 1841, baptized 10 April 1841 by Sy Guinand, priest of St. Michael’s Church. His mother was identified as Sofi, his father as August, both enslaved by Da. Sevalier [Chevalier] Coulon [de Villiers].
Deed of Manumission: 13 August 1841 – by Celeste Tala de Villiers. Joseph is described as the lawful son of August and Sophie de Villiers (both described as Negro). (Escambia Co. [FL] Deeds, G/366)
FAMILY:
Mother: Maria Sophia de Villiers
Father: Auguste Tala
Siblings: Maria de Villiers, Richard de Villiers, Maria Jacinta Aimee de Villiers
SOURCES:
Records of St. Michael’s Parish, Pensacola, FL, Book III: Baptisms of People of Color, 1817 – 1882. University of West Florida Archives and West Florida History Center. 22 SEP 2021.