A prosperous farmer and widower who owned Celia and resided in Callaway County, Missouri. He established a middle-class existence with his family and had two daughters and two sons.

Robert Newsom's elder daughter, who returned home with her children after her marriage. She was part of the search for Newsom when he went missing and later testified at Celia’s trial.

The younger daughter of Robert Newsom, close in age to Celia, involved in the search for Newsom. Unlike her sister, she was unmarried and lived at the family farm.

An enslaved man on Newsom's farm who was romantically involved with Celia. His concerns about Celia's pregnancies become significant in the unfolding events on the farm.

A defense attorney for Celia, presented as a prominent figure in her legal representation. He shared socioeconomic status with Newsom but demonstrated different personal values.

Part of Celia’s defense team, working to appeal her initial verdict. He played a role in providing legal assistance during her trial.

One of Celia's defense attorneys, involved in the legal efforts to contest the trial's outcome and advocate for her case.

A neighboring farmer and slave owner who led the search for Newsom. He played a critical role in obtaining Celia’s confession for Newsom's disappearance.

An ambitious lawyer who was involved in the interrogation of Celia while she was jailed. He contributed to the prosecution's case during her trial.

Participated in interrogating Celia after her arrest, bringing a perspective from outside the world of slave ownership. He provided testimony intended to aid Celia's defense.