Freeborn Slave

Jasper Rastus Nall was my great-grandfather and I am very moved by this thought-provoking book. Although this diary has circulated the globe and was entered into the Library of Congress, it was intended for a much smaller audience, his descendants. J.R. Nall was born into slavery, but says he "never slaved any." He never attended school, but eventually learned to read and write and caught most of his education "in the air." Throughout most of his life he knew nothing but hard work and dedicated himself to the education of his six children. He was most proud of his work in building a school in the town where he lived, and claims to be the only man who saw his wife and all of his children educated there. His myriad jobs included miner, butcher, and mailman, just to name a few. What J.R. Nall lacked in formal education, he made up in common sense. His values of honesty, morality, and commitment, are a model for all generations to follow.

I am one of the many family members of Jasper R. Nall. The most exciting moment for me was when I completed the reading of this wondeful book that my great-great-grandfather left to me.It bought tears to my eyes to think that he loved me so much, to the point that he was moved to leave a part of himself for all of us in the family to share.I was only 2 years old when he passed away, but it feels as if I knew him through his words.I recommend everyone to read the book, if you haven't already. Sincerely,Ms. Gonnie Goins (decedent of RJN)

This small book has a surprising message of slave loyalty and affection for the white master. It was a pleasure to read, took about 2 hours, and I couldn't put it down. Brought back a lot of memories of stories my Grandma told about our ancestors in Alabama. I am descended from Nall slave owners and, although I've always been ashamed of that, this humble story creates more of an understanding of that day and time for me. I highly recommend it for anyone.

This was a short easy to read book. Don't be fooled by the length! This book was full of power. Jasper was a incredible man. He gives an insight on what it is to be born a free man, but still be oppressed. But rather than walking with his head down, he leads a prosperous life. Thank you Jasper for documenting your life before you passed. It enables me to share our history with my children.