A group of enslaved African Americans made their way north from Charles County, marching on open roads during broad daylight. The plot was the brainchild of Mark Caesar and William Wheeler. They were armed with pistols, clubs, swords, and field tools such as scythes. Freedom seekers from St. Mary’s and Prince George’s Counties joined in the march, swelling the total to nearly 75. They were caught within two miles of Rockville, Maryland where there was a skirmish. Some were killed, most were captured, but some escaped. Caesar and Wheeler were tried and convicted. Wheeler escaped from prison and was never seen again; Caesar died in prison.