Slavery did exist until the Cival War in Florida. At least in the areas that were from strong Spanish ties. I have seen a number of Free Women and Men of Color and also slaves listed in the public records such as Wills and Civil Matters. I believe they are also counted in the census. The US Government rented/leased slaves from locals to build Ft Barrancas and Ft McRee. Stephen R. Mallory had some who were rented out. I have a copy of a letter that was published in a book where he is complaining about the treatment of his slaves. He believed they were being misused.

Pam