Titus Gay facts for kids

Titus Gay (1787-1837), also known as Old Ti, was born into slavery in Suffield, Connecticut, USA. Because of a law called the Gradual Emancipation Act, passed in 1784, he became a free man in 1812 when he turned 25 years old. He was buried in the cemetery behind the Congregational church in Suffield.

Early Life in Suffield

Old Ti was born in 1787 and lived almost his whole life in Suffield, Connecticut. He was enslaved by the town's minister, Reverend Ebenezer Gay Jr., when he gained his freedom. Titus was born into slavery because his mother, Rose Gay, was also enslaved by Reverend Ebenezer Gay Sr. His father, Titus Kent, was enslaved by Samuel Kent and later by Samuel's son, Major Elihu Kent. Major Elihu Kent was an important leader during the American Revolutionary War. Titus Kent, his father, also fought in the Revolutionary War.

Family and Community

Titus Gay never had any children of his own. He was very dedicated to his community and his church. After he became a free man, Titus worked for the church to earn a living. Both of Titus's parents were enslaved people. His mother, Rose Gay, served Reverend Ebenezer Gay of Suffield. His father, Titus Kent, was enslaved by Major Elihu Kent, also from Suffield. Both Major Elihu Kent and Titus Kent served in the Connecticut Militia, a local army group. After Titus Gay (Old Ti) was freed in 1812 by Reverend Ebenezer Gay Jr., he continued to live in Suffield as a free man.

A Free Man in Town

Titus became free at age 25 because of the Gradual Emancipation Act, a law passed in 1784. Even though Titus was no longer enslaved by Reverend Gay, he remained a very active part of the town. One of his most important jobs was being a "tythingman." This job meant he helped the pastor with funerals and made sure things ran smoothly in the church.

Being a tythingman was not Titus's only job. He was also the sexton, which meant he was the gravedigger. He was the custodian of the church, keeping it clean and tidy. He was also the church bell ringer, calling people to services. Titus was truly involved in many parts of his community.

In the 1820s, there was a special day once a year called "training day." This was a day when the town celebrated its local militia with a parade. Titus was in charge of keeping the young boys of the town out of trouble during this event. Parents trusted him with their children.