Field slaves in the United States facts for kids
Field hands were enslaved people who worked very hard in the large farm fields called plantations. They were forced to plant, take care of, and harvest important crops like cotton, sugar, rice, and tobacco. Their work was essential for the plantation owners, but it was incredibly difficult and unfair for the field hands.
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Daily Work in the Fields
Field hands usually worked in the fields from when the sun came up until it went down. They were watched closely by an overseer, who was a person hired by the plantation owner to make sure the enslaved people worked without stopping. The overseer made sure no one slowed down or rested until the long workday was finished. This work was very tiring and often done in harsh weather conditions.
What Field Hands Wore
Enslaved field hands were given very few clothes. They usually received only one outfit for the entire year. When winter came, they might get a little extra clothing or some fabric to try and make warmer clothes to protect themselves from the cold.
Clothing for Children
Children of enslaved people did not go to school. Instead, they were put to work as soon as they were old enough to help. Younger children were given easier jobs, like bringing meals to the adults in the fields or looking after farm animals. These children often had very few clothes, sometimes almost none, until they were older. Once they reached their teenage years, they were given clothes that were suitable for boys or girls.
Clothing for Women
Enslaved women who worked in the fields usually wore long dresses during the hot summer months. In winter, they would often make themselves a shawl (a wrap for warmth) and pantalettes (long underpants) to try and stay warm. Women often wore turbans on their heads, which helped cover their hair.
Clothing for Men
Enslaved men were given pants to wear in the summer. When winter arrived, they also received long coats to help them stay warm while working outdoors.
Food and Meals
Field hands were given a small amount of food each week by the plantation owner. This usually included things like a bit of meat, cornmeal, and flour. If they were allowed, enslaved people might try to grow their own fresh vegetables in a small garden patch. Otherwise, they had to make meals from the basic food they were given and anything else they could find or gather.
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