Nov.21,1786, Acts 11th G.A. 1st sitting, ch. CLXXVI, p.368
WHEREAS Negro Prime, late the Property of Absalom Bainbridge, of Princeton, in the County of Somerset, by his humble Petition, hath represented and shewn, that the said Absalom Bainbridge adhered to the Arms of the King of Great-Britain during the late War, whereby his Estate became forfeited and confiscated ; and that he, as Part thereof, became the Property of this State ; and hath earnestly besought the Legislature that he may be set free : And whereas the Legislature are desirous of extending the Blessings if Liberty ; and the said Negro Prime hath shewn himself entitled to their favourable Notice, therefore,
BE IT ENACTED, by the Council and General Assembly of this State, and it is hereby Enacted by the Authority of the same, That the said Negro Prime, late the property of Absalom Bainbridge, of Princeton, in the County of Somerset, shall be, and he the said Negro Prime hereby is declared to be manumitted and set free from Slavery and Servitude, as fully and effectually to all Intents, Constructions and Purposes, as if he had been born free ; any Law, Usage or Custom, to the contrary in anywise notwithstanding.
A. Passed at Trenton, November 21, 1786.