Chains and Freedom: or, The Life and Adventures of Peter Wheeler, a Colored Man Yet Living

The narrative records the life of a man born into slavery who recalls childhood adoption into a household, episodes of rural labor and play, hazardous encounters with wild animals and near-drownings, and acts of courage that earn grudging recognition. Although supposedly freed by a will, he is seized and sold, experiences harsh treatment on frontier journeys and in new settlements, and endures disease and physical punishment. Interwoven are testimonies from local citizens and religious reflection leading to conversion and appeals for emancipation; the account mixes specific anecdotes, humor, and moral commentary to argue against the institution that bound him.