What states were considered free states in 1861?

In 1861, the free states primarily included those in the northern United States, such as New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa, and California. These states had abolished slavery and did not permit the institution within their borders. Additionally, states like Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts were also considered free states during that time. The free states stood in contrast to the slave states, primarily in the southern U.S.