Polk County, Texas · 1867 voter registration
Polk County, Texas: freedmen, slavery and the 1867 voter registration
Slavery in Polk County
In 1860 the census counted 4,198 enslaved people in Polk County, 51% of everyone living there. Seven years later 856 freedmen registered to vote there, 55% of the county's voters. Polk County was formed out of Liberty County by 1850.
- 4,198
- Enslaved in 1860
- 51%
- Of the county in 1860
- 1,558
- Registered voters
- 856
- Freedmen
- 55%
- Freedmen
Help finish Polk County. 856 freedmen registered here in 1867 and their records are still waiting to be added.
Become a reviewerSources and county history
Figures come from the 1867 to 1870 Texas voter registration held by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission. The 1860 population figures come from Population of the United States in 1860, printed by the Census Office in 1864. Race was recorded for part of the statewide register, so the freedmen count is the number identified.
Questions about the Polk County records
How do I find African American ancestors in Polk County, Texas?
Polk County's entries are being added by volunteer reviewers. Search the neighbouring counties (Liberty County) meanwhile, and become a reviewer to help bring Polk County online.
How many freedmen registered to vote in Polk County in 1867?
856 freedmen registered in Polk County between 1867 and 1870, 55% of the county's 1,558 registered voters.
Was slavery widespread in Polk County, Texas?
In 1860 the census counted 4,198 enslaved people in Polk County, 51% of everyone living there. In 1867, 55% of Polk County's registered voters were freedmen, 856 of 1,558.
Keep looking
Counties that share a boundary history with Polk County: Liberty County.
For African American genealogy beyond Polk County, browse the register by birthplace, search it by name or follow the migration map.
All countiesBrowse by birthplaceSee the migration mapSearch Polk County