Cesar Chelor facts for kids

Cesar Chelor was an amazing African-American woodworker and toolmaker. He was especially known for making a type of tool called a plane, which is used to smooth wood. Cesar Chelor was born in Wrentham, Massachusetts. He is the first African-American plane maker we know about in North America. He was enslaved by Francis Nicholson, who was also a plane maker in colonial times.

Who Was Cesar Chelor?

Cesar Chelor was likely born around 1720. He was enslaved by Francis Nicholson from at least 1736. In 1741, when he was about 21, Chelor became a member of the Congregational Church in Wrentham Center.

Gaining Freedom and Starting a Business

When Francis Nicholson died in 1753, Cesar Chelor gained his freedom. Nicholson also left Chelor a workshop, 10 acres of land, tools, and materials. This allowed Chelor to start his own business as a free man.

Family Life and Legacy

In 1758, Cesar Chelor married Juda Russell. They had eight children together. Chelor passed away in 1784. Even without a will, his belongings were valued at 88 pounds and 2 shillings, which was a good amount for the time. Cesar Chelor's story shows how skilled and determined he was, becoming a successful craftsman after gaining his freedom.