Africa Parker

Africa Parker was an enslaved man who managed to obtain freedom from William Cain through the Hillsborough courts in 1799. Cain petitioned the courts so that Africa Parker could stay in Hillsborough and run a still. In his emancipation trial, Cain testified that he wanted to give Parker his freedom because he was “honest and faithful.” At this time, education was illegal for many enslaved people and so it was notable that Africa Parker could read and write. For his abilities, he was tasked with managing "Stillhouse Lot", which was on East King Street. Managing Stillhouse Lot benefited Parker, but Cain still benefited heavily from the arrangement.

After his emancipation, Parker went into the distillery business with Cain. Reed’s Ordinary originally belonged to the local sheriff, William Reed. Often referred to as Seven Hearths because of its seven fireplaces, the house has also twice served as a tavern. The creek at the back of the lot is called the Stillhouse Branch. As a freedman, Africa Parker operated a legal still on the creek that served many local taverns. Overall, Africa Parker is an important figure in Hillsborough's Black history because he overcame slavery, was literate, became emancipated, and was able to achieve success and financial independence, which was something many Black people were denied.