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FACTS, AUTHENTIC NARRATIVE, LETTERS, &C.,
FACTS, AUTHENTIC NARRATIVE, LETTERS, &C.,
Thou shall not deliver unto his master the servant that has escaped from his master unto thee.— Deut. xxiii. 16. SOLD ONLY BY SUBSCRIPTION. PHILADELPHIA: PORTER & COATES, 822, CHESTNUT STREET. 1872. Entered according to act of Congress, in the year 1871, by W.M. STILL, In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. W. Still...
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PREFACE TO REVISED EDITION.
PREFACE TO REVISED EDITION.
* * * * * Like millions of my race, my mother and father were born slaves, but were not contented to live and die so. My father purchased himself in early manhood by hard toil. Mother saw no way for herself and children to escape the horrors of bondage but by flight. Bravely, with her four little ones, with firm faith in God and an ardent desire to be free, she forsook the prison-house, and succeeded, through the aid of my father, to reach a free State. Here life h
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THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD * * * * * SETH CONCKLIN.
THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD * * * * * SETH CONCKLIN.
In the long list of names who have suffered and died in the cause of freedom, not one, perhaps, could be found whose efforts to redeem a poor family of slaves were more Christlike than Seth Concklin's, whose noble and daring spirit has been so long completely shrouded in mystery. Except John Brown, it is a question, whether his rival could be found with respect to boldness, disinterestedness and willingness to be sacrificed for the deliverance of the oppressed. By chance one day he came across a
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UNDERGROUND RAIL ROAD LETTERS.
UNDERGROUND RAIL ROAD LETTERS.
Here are introduced a few out of a very large number of interesting letters, designed for other parts of the book as occasion may require. All letters will be given precisely as they were written by their respective authors, so that there may be no apparent room for charging the writer with partial colorings in any instance. Indeed, the originals, however ungrammatically written or erroneously spelt, in their native simplicity possess such beauty and force as corrections and additions could not
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WILLIAM PEEL, ALIAS WILLIAM BOX PEEL JONES. ARRIVED PER ERRICSON LINE OF STEAMERS, WRAPPED IN STRAW AND BOXED UP, APRIL, 1859.
WILLIAM PEEL, ALIAS WILLIAM BOX PEEL JONES. ARRIVED PER ERRICSON LINE OF STEAMERS, WRAPPED IN STRAW AND BOXED UP, APRIL, 1859.
William is twenty-five years of age, unmistakably colored, good-looking, rather under the medium size, and of pleasing manners. William had himself boxed up by a near relative and forwarded by the Erricson line of steamers. He gave the slip to Robert H. Carr, his owner (a grocer and commission merchant), after this wise, and for the following reasons: For some time previous his master had been selling off his slaves every now and then, the same as other groceries, and this admonished William tha
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DEATH OF ROMULUS HALL—NEW NAME GEORGE WEEMS.
DEATH OF ROMULUS HALL—NEW NAME GEORGE WEEMS.
In March, 1857, Abram Harris fled from John Henry Suthern, who lived near Benedict, Charles county, Md., where he was engaged in the farming business, and was the owner of about seventy head of slaves. He kept an overseer, and usually had flogging administered daily, on males and females, old and young. Abram becoming very sick of this treatment, resolved, about the first of March, to seek out the Underground Rail Road. But for his strong attachment to his wife (who was owned by Samuel Adams, bu
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JAMES MERCER, WM. H. GILLIAM, AND JOHN CLAYTON. STOWED AWAY IN A HOT BERTH.
JAMES MERCER, WM. H. GILLIAM, AND JOHN CLAYTON. STOWED AWAY IN A HOT BERTH.
This arrival came by Steamer. But they neither came in State-room nor as Cabin, Steerage, or Deck passengers. A certain space, not far from the boiler, where the heat and coal dust were almost intolerable,—the colored steward on the boat in answer to an appeal from these unhappy bondmen, could point to no other place for concealment but this. Nor was he at all certain that they could endure the intense heat of that place. It admitted of no other posture than lying flat down, wholly shut out from
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CLARISSA DAVIS. ARRIVED DRESSED IN MALE ATTIRE.
CLARISSA DAVIS. ARRIVED DRESSED IN MALE ATTIRE.
Clarissa fled from Portsmouth, Va., in May, 1854, with two of her brothers. Two months and a half before she succeeded in getting off, Clarissa had made a desperate effort, but failed. The brothers succeeded, but she was left. She had not given up all hope of escape, however, and therefore sought "a safe hiding-place until an opportunity might offer," by which she could follow her brothers on the U.G.R.R. Clarissa was owned by Mrs. Brown and Mrs. Burkley, of Portsmouth, under whom she had always
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ANTHONY BLOW, ALIAS HENRY LEVISON. SECRETED TEN MONTHS BEFORE STARTING—EIGHT DAYS STOWED AWAY ON A STEAMER BOUND FOR PHILADELPHIA.
ANTHONY BLOW, ALIAS HENRY LEVISON. SECRETED TEN MONTHS BEFORE STARTING—EIGHT DAYS STOWED AWAY ON A STEAMER BOUND FOR PHILADELPHIA.
Arrived from Norfolk, about the 1st of November, 1854. Ten months before starting, Anthony had been closely concealed. He belonged to the estate of Mrs. Peters, a widow, who had been dead about one year before his concealment. On the settlement of his old mistress' estate, which was to take place one year after her death, Anthony was to be transferred to Mrs. Lewis, a daughter of Mrs. Peters (the wife of James Lewis, Esq.). Anthony felt well satisfied that he was not the slave to please the "tyr
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PERRY JOHNSON, OF ELKTON, MARYLAND. EYE KNOCKED OUT, ETC.
PERRY JOHNSON, OF ELKTON, MARYLAND. EYE KNOCKED OUT, ETC.
Perry's exit was in November, 1853. He was owned by Charles Johnson, who lived at Elkton. The infliction of a severe "flogging" from the hand of his master awakened Perry to consider the importance of the U.G.R.R. Perry had the misfortune to let a "load of fodder upset," about which his master became exasperated, and in his agitated state of mind he succeeded in affixing a number of very ugly stationary marks on Perry's back. However, this was no new thing. Indeed he had suffered at the hands of
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ISAAC FORMAN, WILLIAM DAVIS, AND WILLIS REDICK. HEARTS FULL OF JOY FOR FREEDOM—VERY ANXIOUS FOR WIVES IN SLAVERY.
ISAAC FORMAN, WILLIAM DAVIS, AND WILLIS REDICK. HEARTS FULL OF JOY FOR FREEDOM—VERY ANXIOUS FOR WIVES IN SLAVERY.
These passengers all arrived together, concealed, per steamship City of Richmond, December, 1853. Isaac Forman, the youngest of the party—twenty-three years of age and a dark mulatto—would be considered by a Southerner capable of judging as "very likely." He fled from a widow by the name of Mrs. Sanders, who had been in the habit of hiring him out for "one hundred and twenty dollars a year." She belonged in Norfolk, Va.; so did Isaac. For four years Isaac had served in the capacity of steward on
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JOSEPH HENRY CAMP. THE AUCTION BLOCK IS DEFEATED AND A SLAVE TRADER LOSES FOURTEEN HUNDRED DOLLARS.
JOSEPH HENRY CAMP. THE AUCTION BLOCK IS DEFEATED AND A SLAVE TRADER LOSES FOURTEEN HUNDRED DOLLARS.
In November, 1853, in the twentieth year of his age, Camp was held to "service or labor" in the City of Richmond, Va., by Dr. K. Clark. Being uncommonly smart and quite good-looking at the same time, he was a saleable piece of merchandise. Without consulting his view of the matter or making the least intimation of any change, the master one day struck up a bargain with a trader for Joseph, and received Fourteen Hundred Dollars cash in consideration thereof. Mr. Robert Parrett, of Parson &amp
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SHERIDAN FORD. SECRETED IN THE WOODS—ESCAPES IN A STEAMER.
SHERIDAN FORD. SECRETED IN THE WOODS—ESCAPES IN A STEAMER.
About the twenty-ninth of January, 1855, Sheridan arrived from the Old Dominion and a life of bondage, and was welcomed cordially by the Vigilance Committee. Miss Elizabeth Brown of Portsmouth, Va. claimed Sheridan as her property. He spoke rather kindly of her, and felt that he "had not been used very hard" as a general thing, although, he wisely added, "the best usage was bad enough." Sheridan had nearly reached his twenty-eighth year, was tall and well made, and possessed of a considerable sh
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JOSEPH KNEELAND, ALIAS JOSEPH HULSON.
JOSEPH KNEELAND, ALIAS JOSEPH HULSON.
Joseph Kneeland arrived November 25, 1853. He was a prepossessing man of twenty-six, dark complexion, and intelligent. At the time of Joseph's escape, he was owned by Jacob Kneeland, who had fallen heir to him as a part of his father's estate. Joseph spoke of his old master as having treated him "pretty well," but he had an idea that his young master had a very "malignant spirit;" for even before the death of his old master, the heir wanted him, "Joe," sold, and after the old man died, matters a
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EX-PRESIDENT TYLER'S HOUSEHOLD LOSES AN ARISTOCRATIC "ARTICLE."
EX-PRESIDENT TYLER'S HOUSEHOLD LOSES AN ARISTOCRATIC "ARTICLE."
James Hambleton Christian is a remarkable specimen of the "well fed, &c." In talking with him relative to his life as a slave, he said very promptly, "I have always been treated well; if I only have half as good times in the North as I have had in the South, I shall be perfectly satisfied. Any time I desired spending money, five or ten dollars were no object." At times, James had borrowed of his master, one, two, and three hundred dollars, to loan out to some of his friends. With regard
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EDWARD MORGAN, HENRY JOHNSON, JAMES AND STEPHEN BUTLER.
EDWARD MORGAN, HENRY JOHNSON, JAMES AND STEPHEN BUTLER.
"TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS REWARD.—The above Reward will be paid for the apprehension of two blacks, who escaped on Sunday last. It is supposed they have made their way to Pennsylvania. $500 will be paid for the apprehension of either, so that we can get them again. The oldest is named Edward Morgan, about five feet six or seven inches, heavily made—is a dark black, has rather a down look when spoken to, and is about 21 years of age. "Henry Johnson is a colored negro, about five feet seven or eight i
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HENRY PREDO. BROKE JAIL, JUMPED OUT OF THE WINDOW AND MADE HIS ESCAPE.
HENRY PREDO. BROKE JAIL, JUMPED OUT OF THE WINDOW AND MADE HIS ESCAPE.
Henry fled from Buckstown, Dorchester Co., Md., March, 1857. Physically he is a giant. About 27 years of age, stout and well-made, quite black, and no fool, as will appear presently. Only a short time before he escaped, his master threatened to sell him south. To avoid that fate, therefore, he concluded to try his luck on the Underground Rail Road, and, in company with seven others—two of them females—he started for Canada. For two or three days and nights they managed to outgeneral all their ad
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DANIEL HUGHES.
DANIEL HUGHES.
Daniel fled from Buckstown, Dorchester Co., also. His owner's name was Richard Meredith, a farmer. Daniel is one of the eight alluded to above. In features he is well made, dark chestnut color, and intelligent, possessing an ardent thirst for liberty. The cause of his escape was: "Worked hard in all sorts of weather—in rain and snow," so he thought he would "go where colored men are free." His master was considered the hardest man around. His mistress was "eighty-three years of age," "drank hard
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THOMAS ELLIOTT.
THOMAS ELLIOTT.
Thomas is also one of the brave eight who broke out of Dover Jail. He was about twenty-three years of age, well made, wide awake, and of a superb black complexion. He too had been owned by Richard Meredith. Against the betrayer, who was a black man, he had vengeance in store if the opportunity should ever offer. Thomas left only one brother living; his "father and mother were dead." The excitement over the escape spread very rapidly next morning, and desperate efforts were made to recapture the
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MARY EPPS, ALIAS EMMA BROWN—JOSEPH AND ROBERT ROBINSON. A SLAVE MOTHER LOSES HER SPEECH AT THE SALE OF HER CHILD—BOB ESCAPES FROM HIS MASTER, A TRADER, WITH $1500 IN NORTH CAROLINA MONEY.
MARY EPPS, ALIAS EMMA BROWN—JOSEPH AND ROBERT ROBINSON. A SLAVE MOTHER LOSES HER SPEECH AT THE SALE OF HER CHILD—BOB ESCAPES FROM HIS MASTER, A TRADER, WITH $1500 IN NORTH CAROLINA MONEY.
Mary fled from Petersburg and the Robinsons from Richmond. A fugitive slave law-breaking captain by the name of B., who owned a schooner, and would bring any kind of freight that would pay the most, was the conductor in this instance. Quite a number of passengers at different times availed themselves of his accommodations and thus succeeded in reaching Canada. His risk was very great. On this account he claimed, as did certain others, that it was no more than fair to charge for his services—inde
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GEORGE SOLOMON, DANIEL NEALL, BENJAMIN R. FLETCHER AND MARIA DORSEY.
GEORGE SOLOMON, DANIEL NEALL, BENJAMIN R. FLETCHER AND MARIA DORSEY.
The above representatives of the unrequited laborers of the South fled directly from Washington, D.C. Nothing remarkable was discovered in their stories of slave life; their narratives will therefore be brief. George Solomon was owned by Daniel Minor, of Moss Grove, Va. George was about thirty-three years of age; mulatto, intelligent, and of prepossessing appearance. His old master valued George's services very highly, and had often declared to others, as well as to George himself, that without
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HENRY BOX BROWN. ARRIVED BY ADAMS' EXPRESS.
HENRY BOX BROWN. ARRIVED BY ADAMS' EXPRESS.
Although the name of Henry Box Brown has been echoed over the land for a number of years, and the simple facts connected with his marvelous escape from slavery in a box published widely through the medium of anti-slavery papers, nevertheless it is not unreasonable to suppose that very little is generally known in relation to this case. Briefly, the facts are these, which doubtless have never before been fully published— Brown was a man of invention as well as a hero. In point of interest, howeve
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TRIAL OF THE EMANCIPATORS OF COL. J.H. WHEELER'S SLAVES, JANE JOHNSON AND HER TWO LITTLE BOYS.
TRIAL OF THE EMANCIPATORS OF COL. J.H. WHEELER'S SLAVES, JANE JOHNSON AND HER TWO LITTLE BOYS.
Among other duties devolving on the Vigilance Committee when hearing of slaves brought into the State by their owners, was immediately to inform such persons that as they were not fugitives, but were brought into the State by their masters, they were entitled to their freedom without another moment's service, and that they could have the assistance of the Committee and the advice of counsel without charge, by simply availing themselves of these proffered favors. Many slave-holders fully understo
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THE ARRIVALS OF A SINGLE MONTH. SIXTY PASSENGERS CAME IN ONE MONTH—TWENTY-EIGHT IN ONE ARRIVAL—GREAT PANIC AND INDIGNATION MEETING—INTERESTING CORRESPONDENCE FROM MASTERS AND FUGITIVES.
THE ARRIVALS OF A SINGLE MONTH. SIXTY PASSENGERS CAME IN ONE MONTH—TWENTY-EIGHT IN ONE ARRIVAL—GREAT PANIC AND INDIGNATION MEETING—INTERESTING CORRESPONDENCE FROM MASTERS AND FUGITIVES.
The great number of cases to be here noticed forbids more than a brief reference to each passenger. As they arrived in parties, their narratives will be given in due order as found on the book of records: William Griffen, Henry Moor, James Camper, Noah Ennells and Levin Parker. This party came from Cambridge, Md. William is thirty-four years of age, of medium size and substantial appearance. He fled from James Waters, Esq., a lawyer, living in Cambridge. He was "wealthy, close, and stingy," and
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A SLAVE GIRL'S NARRATIVE. CORDELIA LONEY, SLAVE OF MRS. JOSEPH CAHELL (WIDOW OF THE LATE HON. JOSEPH CAHELL, OF VA.), OF FREDERICKSBURG, VA.—CORDELIA'S ESCAPE FROM HER MISTRESS IN PHILADELPHIA.
A SLAVE GIRL'S NARRATIVE. CORDELIA LONEY, SLAVE OF MRS. JOSEPH CAHELL (WIDOW OF THE LATE HON. JOSEPH CAHELL, OF VA.), OF FREDERICKSBURG, VA.—CORDELIA'S ESCAPE FROM HER MISTRESS IN PHILADELPHIA.
Rarely did the peculiar institution present the relations of mistress and maid-servant in a light so apparently favorable as in the case of Mrs. Joseph Cahell (widow of the late Hon. Jos Cahell, of Va.), and her slave, Cordelia. The Vigilance Committee's first knowledge of either of these memorable personages was brought about in the following manner. About the 30th of March, in the year 1859, a member of the Vigilance Committee was notified by a colored servant, living at a fashionable boarding
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ARRIVAL OF JACKSON, ISAAC AND EDMONDSON TURNER FROM PETERSBURG. TOUCHING SCENE ON MEETING THEIR OLD BLIND FATHER AT THE U.G.R.R. DEPOT.
ARRIVAL OF JACKSON, ISAAC AND EDMONDSON TURNER FROM PETERSBURG. TOUCHING SCENE ON MEETING THEIR OLD BLIND FATHER AT THE U.G.R.R. DEPOT.
LETTERS AND WARNING TO SLAVEHOLDERS. About the latter part of December, 1857, Isaac and Edmondson, brothers, succeeded in making their escape together from Petersburg, Va. They barely escaped the auction block, as their mistress, Mrs. Ann Colley, a widow, had just completed arrangements for their sale on the coming first day of January. In this kind of property, however, Mrs. Colley had not largely invested. In the days of her prosperity, while all was happy and contented, she could only boast o
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ROBERT BROWN, ALIAS THOMAS JONES. CROSSING THE RIVER ON HORSEBACK IN THE NIGHT.
ROBERT BROWN, ALIAS THOMAS JONES. CROSSING THE RIVER ON HORSEBACK IN THE NIGHT.
In very desperate straits many new inventions were sought after by deep-thinking and resolute slaves, determined to be free at any cost. But it must here be admitted, that, in looking carefully over the more perilous methods resorted to, Robert Brown, alias Thomas Jones, stands second to none, with regard to deeds of bold daring. This hero escaped from Martinsburg, Va., in 1856. He was a man of medium size, mulatto, about thirty-eight years of age, could read and write, and was naturally sharp-w
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ANTHONY LONEY, ALIAS WILLIAM ARMSTEAD.
ANTHONY LONEY, ALIAS WILLIAM ARMSTEAD.
Anthony had been serving under the yoke of Warring Talvert, of Richmond, Va. Anthony was of a rich black complexion, medium size, about twenty-five years of age. He was intelligent, and a member of the Baptist Church. His master was a member of the Presbyterian Church and held family prayers with the servants. But Anthony believed seriously, that his master was no more than a "whitened sepulchre," one who was fond of saying, "Lord, Lord," but did not do what the Lord bade him, consequently Antho
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CORNELIUS SCOTT.
CORNELIUS SCOTT.
Cornelius took passage per the Underground Rail Road, in March, 1857, from the neighborhood of Salvington, Stafford county, Va. He stated that he had been claimed by Henry L. Brooke, whom he declared to be a "hard drinker and a hard swearer." Cornelius had been very much bleached by the Patriarchal Institution, and he was shrewd enough to take advantage of this circumstance. In regions of country where men were less critical and less experienced than Southerners, as to how the bleaching process
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SAMUEL WILLIAMS, ALIAS JOHN WILLIAMS.
SAMUEL WILLIAMS, ALIAS JOHN WILLIAMS.
This candidate for Canada had the good fortune to escape the clutches of his mistress, Mrs. Elvina Duncans, widow of the late Rev. James Duncans, who lived near Cumberland, Md. He had very serious complaints to allege against his mistress, "who was a member of the Presbyterian Church." To use his own language, "the servants in the house were treated worse than dogs." John was thirty-two years of age, dark chestnut color, well made, prepossessing in appearance, and he "fled to keep from being sol
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BARNABY GRIGBY, ALIAS JOHN BOYER, AND MARY ELIZABETH, HIS WIFE; FRANK WANZER, ALIAS ROBERT SCOTT; EMILY FOSTER, ALIAS ANN WOOD. (TWO OTHERS WHO STARTED WITH THEM WERE CAPTURED.)
BARNABY GRIGBY, ALIAS JOHN BOYER, AND MARY ELIZABETH, HIS WIFE; FRANK WANZER, ALIAS ROBERT SCOTT; EMILY FOSTER, ALIAS ANN WOOD. (TWO OTHERS WHO STARTED WITH THEM WERE CAPTURED.)
All these persons journeyed together from Loudon Co., Va. on horseback and in a carriage for more than one hundred miles. Availing themselves of a holiday and their master's horses and carriage, they as deliberately started for Canada, as though they had never been taught that it was their duty, as servants, to "obey their masters." In this particular showing a most utter disregard of the interest of their "kind-hearted and indulgent owners." They left home on Monday, Christmas Eve, 1855, under
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WILLIAM JORDON, ALIAS WILLIAM PRICE
WILLIAM JORDON, ALIAS WILLIAM PRICE
Under Governor Badger, of North Carolina, William had experienced Slavery in its most hateful form. True, he had only been twelve months under the yoke of this high functionary. But William's experience in this short space of time, was of a nature very painful. Previous to coming into the governor's hands, William was held as the property of Mrs. Mary Jordon, who owned large numbers of slaves. Whether the governor was moved by this consideration, or by the fascinating charms of Mrs. Jordon, or b
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JOSEPH GRANT AND JOHN SPEAKS. TWO PASSENGERS ON THE UNDERGROUND RAIL ROAD, VIA LIVERPOOL.
JOSEPH GRANT AND JOHN SPEAKS. TWO PASSENGERS ON THE UNDERGROUND RAIL ROAD, VIA LIVERPOOL.
It is to be regretted that, owing to circumstances, the account of these persons has not been fully preserved. Could justice be done them, probably their narratives would not be surpassed in interest by any other in the history of fugitives. In 1857, when these remarkable travelers came under the notice of the Vigilance Committee, as Slavery seemed likely to last for generations, and there was but little expectation that these records would ever have the historical value which they now possess,
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WILLIAM N. TAYLOR.
WILLIAM N. TAYLOR.
Runaway glyph ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS REWARD.—Ran away from Richmond City on Tuesday, the 2d of June, a negro man named WM. N. TAYLOR, belonging to Mrs. Margaret Tyler of Hanover county. Said negro was hired to Fitzhugh Mayo, Tobacconist; is quite black, of genteel and easy manners, about five feet ten or eleven inches high, has one front tooth broken, and is about 35 years old. He is supposed either to have made his escape North, or attempted to do so. The above reward will be paid for his delivery
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LOUISA BROWN.
LOUISA BROWN.
Louisa is a good-looking, well-grown, intelligent mulatto girl of sixteen years of age, and was owned by a widow woman of Baltimore, Md. To keep from being sold, she was prompted to try her fortune on the U.G.R.R., for Freedom in Canada, under the protection of the British Lion....
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JACOB WATERS AND ALFRED GOULDEN.
JACOB WATERS AND ALFRED GOULDEN.
Jacob is twenty-one years of age, dark chestnut color, medium size, and of prepossessing manners. Fled from near Frederick, Md., from the clutches of a farmer by the name of William Dorsey, who was described as a severe master, and had sold two of Jacob's sisters, South, only three years prior to his escape. Jacob left three brothers in chains. Alfred is twenty-three years of age, in stature quite small, full black, and bears the marks of ill usage. Though a member of the Methodist Church, his m
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ARRIVAL FROM BALTIMORE. JEFFERSON PIPKINS, ALIAS DAVID JONES, LOUISA PIPKINS, ELIZABETH BRIT, HARRIET BROWN, ALIAS JANE WOOTON, GRACY MURRY, ALIAS SOPHIA SIMS, EDWARD WILLIAMS, ALIAS HENRY JOHNSON, CHAS. LEE, ALIAS THOMAS BUSHIER.
ARRIVAL FROM BALTIMORE. JEFFERSON PIPKINS, ALIAS DAVID JONES, LOUISA PIPKINS, ELIZABETH BRIT, HARRIET BROWN, ALIAS JANE WOOTON, GRACY MURRY, ALIAS SOPHIA SIMS, EDWARD WILLIAMS, ALIAS HENRY JOHNSON, CHAS. LEE, ALIAS THOMAS BUSHIER.
Six very clever-looking passengers, all in one party from Baltimore, Md., the first Sunday in April, 1853. Baltimore used to be in the days of Slavery one of the most difficult places in the South for even free colored people to get away from, much more for slaves. The rule forbade any colored person leaving there by rail road or steamboat, without such applicant had been weighed, measured, and then given a bond signed by unquestionable signatures, well known. Baltimore was rigid in the extreme,
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SEVERAL ARRIVALS FROM DIFFERENT PLACES.
SEVERAL ARRIVALS FROM DIFFERENT PLACES.
In order to economize time and space, with a view to giving an account of as many of the travelers as possible, it seems expedient, where a number of arrivals come in close proximity to each other, to report them briefly, under one head. Henry Anderson, alias WILLIAM ANDERSON. In outward appearance Henry was uninteresting. As he asserted, and as his appearance indicated, he had experienced a large share of "rugged" usage. Being far in the South, and in the hands of a brutal "Captain of a small b
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ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND. JEREMIAH W. SMITH AND WIFE JULIA.
ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND. JEREMIAH W. SMITH AND WIFE JULIA.
Richmond was a city noted for its activity and enterprise in slave trade. Several slave pens and prisons were constantly kept up to accommodate the trade. And slave auctions were as common in Richmond as dress goods auctions in Philadelphia; notwithstanding this fact, strange as it may seem, the Underground Rail Road brought away large numbers of passengers from Richmond, Petersburg and Norfolk, and not a few of them lived comparatively within a hair's breadth of the auction block. Many of those
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EIGHT ARRIVALS: JAMES MASSEY, PERRY HENRY TRUSTY, GEORGE RHOADS, JAMES RHOADS, GEORGE WASHINGTON, SARAH ELIZABETH RHOADS AND CHILD, MARY ELIZABETH STEVENSON.
EIGHT ARRIVALS: JAMES MASSEY, PERRY HENRY TRUSTY, GEORGE RHOADS, JAMES RHOADS, GEORGE WASHINGTON, SARAH ELIZABETH RHOADS AND CHILD, MARY ELIZABETH STEVENSON.
Doubtless there was a sensation in "the camp," when this gang was found missing. James was a likely-looking young man of twenty years of age, dark, tall, and sensible; and worth, if we may judge, about $1,600. He was owned by a farmer named James Pittman, a "crabid kind of a man," grey-headed, with a broken leg; drank very hard, at which times he would swear that he would "sell them all to Georgia;" this threat was always unpleasant to the ears of James, but it seemed to be a satisfaction to the
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CHARLES THOMPSON, CARRIER OF "THE NATIONAL AMERICAN," OFF FOR CANADA.
CHARLES THOMPSON, CARRIER OF "THE NATIONAL AMERICAN," OFF FOR CANADA.
The subjoined "pass" was brought to the Underground Rail Road station in Philadelphia by Charles, and while it was interesting as throwing light upon his escape, it is important also as a specimen of the way the "pass" system was carried on in the dark days of Slavery in Virginia: "NAT. AMERICAN OFFICE, Richmond, July 20th, 1857. Permit Charles to pass and repass from this office to the residence of Rev B. Manly's on Clay St., near 11th, at any hour of the night for one month. WM. W. HARDWICK."
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BLOOD FLOWED FREELY. ABRAM GALLOWAY AND RICHARD EDEN, TWO PASSENGERS SECRETED IN A VESSEL LOADED WITH SPIRITS OF TURPENTINE. SHROUDS PREPARED TO PREVENT BEING SMOKED TO DEATH.
BLOOD FLOWED FREELY. ABRAM GALLOWAY AND RICHARD EDEN, TWO PASSENGERS SECRETED IN A VESSEL LOADED WITH SPIRITS OF TURPENTINE. SHROUDS PREPARED TO PREVENT BEING SMOKED TO DEATH.
The Philadelphia branch of the Underground Rail Road was not fortunate in having very frequent arrivals from North Carolina. Of course such of her slave population as managed to become initiated in the mysteries of traveling North by the Underground Rail Road were sensible enough to find out nearer and safer routes than through Pennsylvania. Nevertheless the Vigilance Committee of Philadelphia occasionally had the pleasure of receiving some heroes who were worthy to be classed among the bravest
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JOHN PETTIFOOT.
JOHN PETTIFOOT.
Anglo-African and Anglo-Saxon were about equally mixed in the organization of Mr. Pettifoot. His education, with regard to books, was quite limited. He had, however, managed to steal the art of reading and writing, to a certain extent. Notwithstanding the Patriarchal Institution of the South, he was to all intents and purposes a rebel at heart, consequently he resolved to take a trip on the Underground Rail Road to Canada. So, greatly to the surprise of those whom he was serving, he was one morn
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EMANUEL T. WHITE.
EMANUEL T. WHITE.
EMANUEL was about twenty-five years of age, with seven-eighths of white blood in his veins, medium size, and a very smart and likely-looking piece of property generally. He had the good fortune to escape from Edward H. Hubbert, a ship timber merchant of Norfolk, Va. Under Hubbert's yoke he had served only five years, having been bought by him from a certain Aldridge Mandrey, who was described as a "very cruel man," and would "rather fight than eat." "I have licks that will carry me to my grave,
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THE ESCAPE OF A CHILD FOURTEEN MONTHS OLD.
THE ESCAPE OF A CHILD FOURTEEN MONTHS OLD.
There is found the following brief memorandum on the Records of the Underground Rail Road Book, dated July, 1857: "A little child of fourteen months old was conveyed to its mother, who had been compelled to flee without it nearly nine months ago." While the circumstances connected with the coming of this slave child were deeply interesting, no further particulars than the simple notice above were at that time recorded. Fortunately, however, letters from the good friends, who plucked this infant
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ESCAPE OF A YOUNG SLAVE MOTHER. LEFT HER LITTLE BABY-BOY, LITTLE GIRL AND HUSBAND BEHIND.
ESCAPE OF A YOUNG SLAVE MOTHER. LEFT HER LITTLE BABY-BOY, LITTLE GIRL AND HUSBAND BEHIND.
She anxiously waits their coming in Syracuse, N.Y. Not until after the foregoing story headed, the "Escape of a Child," etc., had been put into the hands of the printer and was in type, was the story of the mother discovered, although it was among the records preserved. Under changed names, in many instances, it has been found to be no easy matter to cull from a great variety of letters, records and advertisements, just when wanted, all the particulars essential to complete many of these narrati
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SAMUEL W. JOHNSON. ARRIVAL FROM THE "DAILY DISPATCH" OFFICE.
SAMUEL W. JOHNSON. ARRIVAL FROM THE "DAILY DISPATCH" OFFICE.
"Sam" was doing Slave labor at the office of the Richmond "Daily Dispatch," as a carrier of that thoroughly pro-slavery sheet. "Sam" had possessed himself somehow of a knowledge of reading and writing a little, and for the news of the day he had quite an itching ear. Also with regard to his freedom he was quite solicitous. Being of an ambitious turn of mind, he hired his time, for which he paid his master $175 per annum in regular quarterly payments. Besides paying this amount, he had to find hi
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FAMILY FROM BALTIMORE.
FAMILY FROM BALTIMORE.
STEPHEN AMOS, alias HENRY JOHNSON, HARRIET, alias MARY JANE JOHNSON (man and wife), and their four children, ANN REBECCA, WM. H., ELIZABETH and MARY ELLEN. Doubtless, in the eyes of a Slaveholder, a more "likely-looking" family could not readily be found in Baltimore, than the one to be now briefly noticed. The mother and her children were owned by a young slave-holder, who went by the name of William Giddings, and resided in Prince George's county, Md. Harriet acknowledged, that she had been tr
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ELIJAH HILTON. FROM RICHMOND.
ELIJAH HILTON. FROM RICHMOND.
After many years of hard toiling for the support of others, the yoke pressed so heavily upon Elijah's shoulders, that he could not endure Slave life any longer. In the hope of getting rid of his bondage, by dexterous management and a resolute mind, which most determined and thoughtful men exercise when undertaking to accomplish great objects, he set about contriving to gain his freedom. In proof of Elijah's truthfulness, the advertisement of Mr. R.J. Christians is here offered, as taken from a R
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SOLOMON BROWN. ARRIVED PER CITY OF RICHMOND.
SOLOMON BROWN. ARRIVED PER CITY OF RICHMOND.
This candidate for Canada managed to secure a private berth on the steamship City of Richmond. He was thus enabled to leave his old mistress, Mary A. Ely, in Norfolk, the place of her abode, and the field of his servitude. Solomon was only twenty-two years of age, rather under the medium size, dark color, and of much natural ability. He viewed Slavery as a great hardship, and for a length of time had been watching for an opportunity to free himself. He had been in the habit of hiring his time of
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WILLIAM HOGG, ALIAS JOHN SMITH. TRAVELER FROM MARYLAND.
WILLIAM HOGG, ALIAS JOHN SMITH. TRAVELER FROM MARYLAND.
William fled from Lewis Roberts, who followed farming in Baltimore county, Md. In speaking of him, William gave him the character of being a "fierce and rough man," who owned nine head of slaves. Two of William's sisters were held by Roberts, when he left. His excuse for running away was, "ill-treatment." In traveling North, he walked to Columbia (in Pennsylvania), and there took the cars for Philadelphia. The Committee took charge of him, and having given him the usual aid, sent him hopefully o
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TWO FEMALE PASSENGERS FEOM MARYLAND.
TWO FEMALE PASSENGERS FEOM MARYLAND.
As the way of travel, viâ the Underground Rail Road, under the most favorable circumstances, even for the sterner sex, was hard enough to test the strongest nerves, and to try the faith of the bravest of the brave, every woman, who won her freedom, by this perilous undertaking, deserves commemoration. It is, therefore, a pleasure to thus transfer from the old Record book the names of Ann Johnson and Lavina Woolfley, who fled from Maryland in 1857. Their lives, however, had not been in any way ve
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CAPTAIN F. AND THE MAYOR OF NORFOLK. TWENTY-ONE PASSENGERS SECRETED IN A BOAT. NOVEMBER, 1855.
CAPTAIN F. AND THE MAYOR OF NORFOLK. TWENTY-ONE PASSENGERS SECRETED IN A BOAT. NOVEMBER, 1855.
CAPTAIN F. was certainly no ordinary man. Although he had been living a sea-faring life for many years, and the marks of this calling were plainly enough visible in his manners and speech, he was, nevertheless, unlike the great mass of this class of men, not addicted to intemperance and profanity. On the contrary, he was a man of thought, and possessed, in a large measure, those humane traits of character which lead men to sympathize with suffering humanity wherever met with. It must be admitted
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ARRIVALS FROM DIFFERENT PLACES.
ARRIVALS FROM DIFFERENT PLACES.
MATILDA MAHONEY,—DR. J.W. PENNINGTON'S BROTHER AND SONS CAPTURED AND CARRIED BACK. While many sympathized with the slave in his chains, and freely wept over his destiny, or gave money to help buy his freedom, but few could be found who were willing to take the risk of going into the South, and standing face to face with Slavery, in order to conduct a panting slave to freedom. The undertaking was too fearful to think of in most cases. But there were instances when men and women too, moved by the
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"FLEEING GIRL OF FIFTEEN," IN MALE ATTIRE.
"FLEEING GIRL OF FIFTEEN," IN MALE ATTIRE.
It was the business of the Vigilance Committee, as it was clearly understood by the friends of the Slave, to assist all needy fugitives, who might in any way manage to reach Philadelphia, but, for various reasons, not to send agents South to incite slaves to run away, or to assist them in so doing. Sometimes, however, this rule could not altogether be conformed to. Cases, in some instances, would appeal so loudly and forcibly to humanity, civilization, and Christianity, that it would really seem
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FIVE YEARS AND ONE MONTH SECRETED.
FIVE YEARS AND ONE MONTH SECRETED.
JOHN HENRY, HEZEKIAH, AND JAMES HILL.—JOHN MAKES A DESPERATE RESISTANCE AT THE SLAVE AUCTION AND ESCAPES AFTER BEING SECRETED NINE MONTHS. HEZEKIAH ESCAPED FROM A TRADER AND WAS SECEETED THIRTEEN MONTHS BEFORE HIS FINAL DELIVERANCE.—JAMES WAS SECRETED THREE YEARS IN A PLACE OF GREAT SUFFERING, AND ESCAPED. IN ALL FIVE YEARS AND ONE MONTH. Many letters from JOHN HENRY show how incessantly his mind ran out towards the oppressed, and the remarkable intelligence and ability he displayed with the pen
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FROM VIRGINIA, MARYLAND AND DELAWARE.
FROM VIRGINIA, MARYLAND AND DELAWARE.
This passenger arrived from Norfolk, Va. in 1853. For the last four years previous to escaping, he had been under the yoke of Dr. George Wilson. Archer declared that he had been "very badly treated" by the Doctor, which he urged as his reason for leaving. True, the doctor had been good enough to allow him to hire his time, for which he required Archer to pay the moderate sum of $120 per annum. As Archer had been "sickly" most of the time, during the last year, he complained that there was "no re
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"SAM," "ISAAC," "PERRY," "CHARLES," AND "GREEN."
"SAM," "ISAAC," "PERRY," "CHARLES," AND "GREEN."
Runaway glyph ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS REWARD.—Ran away on Saturday night, the 20th September, 1856, from the subscriber, living in the ninth district of Carroll county, Maryland, two Negro Men, SAM and ISAAC. Sam calls himself Samuel Sims; he is very black; shows his teeth very much when he laughs; no perceptible marks; he is 5 feet 8 inches high, and about thirty years of age, but has the appearance of being much older. Isaac calls himself Isaac Dotson he is about nineteen years of age, stout made
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FROM RICHMOND AND NORFOLK, VA.
FROM RICHMOND AND NORFOLK, VA.
But for their hope of liberty, their uncomfortable position could hardly have been endured by these fugitives. William had been compelled to dig and delve, to earn bread and butter, clothing and luxuries, houses and land, education and ease for H.B. Dickinson, of Richmond. William smarted frequently; but what could he do? Complaint from a slave was a crime of the deepest dye. So William dug away mutely, but continued to think, nevertheless. He was a man of about thirty-six years of age, of dark
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FOUR ARRIVALS.
FOUR ARRIVALS.
About the 31st of May, 1856, an exceedingly anxious state of feeling existed with the active Committee in Philadelphia. In the course of twenty-four hours four arrivals had come to hand from different localities. The circumstances connected with the escape of each party, being so unusual, there was scarcely ground for any other conclusion than that disaster was imminent, if not impossible to be averted. It was a day long to be remembered. Aside from the danger, however, a more encouraging hour h
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FROM VIRGINIA, MARYLAND, DELAWARE, NORTH CAROLINA, WASHINGTON, D.C., AND SOUTH CAROLINA.
FROM VIRGINIA, MARYLAND, DELAWARE, NORTH CAROLINA, WASHINGTON, D.C., AND SOUTH CAROLINA.
In order to keep this volume within due limits, in the cases to be noticed in this chapter, it will be impossible to state more than a few of the interesting particulars that make up these narratives. While some of these passengers might not have been made in the prison house to drink of the bitter cup as often as others, and in their flight might not have been called upon to pass through as severe perils as fell to the lot of others, nevertheless justice seems to require, that, as far as possib
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CHARLES GILBERT.
CHARLES GILBERT.
In 1854 Charles was owned in the city of Richmond by Benjamin Davis, a notorious negro trader. Charles was quite a "likely-looking article," not too black or too white, but rather of a nice "ginger-bread color." Davis was of opinion that this "article" must bring him a tip-top price. For two or three months the trader advertised Charles for sale in the papers, but for some reason or other Charles did not command the high price demanded. While Davis was thus daily trying to sell Charles, Charles
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LIBERTY OR DEATH.
LIBERTY OR DEATH.
JIM BOW-LEGS, alias BILL PAUL. In 1855 a traveler arrived with the above name, who, on examination, was found to possess very extraordinary characteristics. As a hero and adventurer some passages of his history were most remarkable. His schooling had been such as could only be gathered on plantations under brutal overseers;—or while fleeing,—or in swamps,—in prisons,—or on the auction-block, etc.; in which condition he was often found. Nevertheless in these circumstances his mind got well stored
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SALT-WATER FUGITIVE.
SALT-WATER FUGITIVE.
This was an exceptional case, as this passenger did not reach the Vigilance Committee of Philadelphia, yet to exclude him on this account, would be doing an injustice to history. The facts in his case were incontestably established in the Philadelphia Register in April, 1854, from which the following thrilling account is taken: The steamship, Keystone State, which arrived at this port on Saturday morning, had just entered Delaware Bay, when a man was discovered secreted outside of the vessel and
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SAMUEL GREEN ALIAS WESLEY KINNARD, AUGUST 28th, 1854. TEN YEARS IN THE PENITENTIARY FOR HAVING A COPY OF UNCLE TOM'S CABIN.
SAMUEL GREEN ALIAS WESLEY KINNARD, AUGUST 28th, 1854. TEN YEARS IN THE PENITENTIARY FOR HAVING A COPY OF UNCLE TOM'S CABIN.
The passenger answering to the above name, left Indian Creek, Chester Co., Md., where he had been held to service or labor, by Dr. James Muse. One week had elapsed from the time he set out until his arrival in Philadelphia. Although he had never enjoyed school privileges of any kind, yet he was not devoid of intelligence. He had profited by his daily experience as a slave, and withal, had managed to learn to read and write a little, despite law and usage to the contrary. Sam was about twenty-fiv
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AN IRISH GIRL'S DEVOTION TO FREEDOM.
AN IRISH GIRL'S DEVOTION TO FREEDOM.
Having dwelt on the sad narratives of Samuel Green and his son in the preceding chapter, it is quite a relief to be able to introduce a traveler whose story contains incidents less painful to contemplate. From the record book the following brief account is taken: "April 27, 1855. John Hall arrived safely from Richmond, Va., per schooner, (Captain B). One hundred dollars were paid for his passage." In Richmond he was owned by James Dunlap, a merchant. John had been sold several times, in conseque
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"SAM" NIXON ALIAS DR. THOMAS BAYNE.
"SAM" NIXON ALIAS DR. THOMAS BAYNE.
But few could be found among the Underground Rail Road passengers who had a stronger repugnance to the unrequited labor system, or the recognized terms of "master and slave," than Dr. Thomas Bayne. Nor were many to be found who were more fearless and independent in uttering their sentiments. His place of bondage was in the city of Norfolk, Va., where he was held to service by Dr. C.F. Martin, a dentist of some celebrity. While with Dr. Martin, "Sam" learned dentistry in all its branches, and was
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SUNDRY ARRIVALS
SUNDRY ARRIVALS
The first arrival to be here noticed consisted of David Bennett, and his wife Martha, with their two children, a little boy named George, and a nameless babe one month old. This family journeyed from Loudon county, Va. David, the husband, had been in bonds under Captain James Taylor. Martha, the wife, and her two children were owned by George Carter. Martha's master was represented as a very barbarous and cruel man to the slaves. He made a common practice of flogging females when stripped naked.
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HEAVY REWARD.
HEAVY REWARD.
Runaway glyph Two Thousand Six Hundred Dollars Reward—Ran away from the subscriber, on Saturday night, November 15th, 1856, Josiah and William Bailey, and Peter Pennington. Joe is about 5 feet 10 inches in height, of a chestnut color, bald head, with a remarkable scar on one of his cheeks, not positive on which it is, but think it is on the left, under the eye, has intelligent countenance, active, and well-made. He is about 28 years old. Bill is of a darker color, about 5 feet 8 inches in height
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SLAVE TRADER HALL IS FOILED.
SLAVE TRADER HALL IS FOILED.
ROBERT McCOY alias WILLIAM DONAR. In October, 1854, the Committee received per steamer, directly from Norfolk, Va., Robert McCoy and Elizabeth Saunders. Robert had constantly been in the clutches of the negro-trader Hall, for the last sixteen years, previous to his leaving, being owned by him. He had, therefore, possessed very favorable opportunities for varied observation and experience relative to the trader's conduct in his nefarious business, as well as for witnessing the effects of the auct
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THE PROTECTION OF SLAVE PROPERTY IN VIRGINIA. A BILL PROVIDING ADDITIONAL PROTECTION FOR THE SLAVE PROPERTY OF CITIZENS OF THIS COMMONWEALTH.
THE PROTECTION OF SLAVE PROPERTY IN VIRGINIA. A BILL PROVIDING ADDITIONAL PROTECTION FOR THE SLAVE PROPERTY OF CITIZENS OF THIS COMMONWEALTH.
(10.) An inspector permitting a slave to escape for the want of proper exertion, or by neglect in the discharge of his duty, shall be fined One Hundred Dollars; or if for like causes he permit a vessel, which the law requires him to inspect, to leave the state without inspection, he shall be fined not less than twenty, nor more than fifty dollars, to be recovered by warrant by any person who will proceed against him. (11.) No pilot acting under the authority of the laws of the state, shall pilot
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ESCAPING IN A CHEST.
ESCAPING IN A CHEST.
Runaway glyph $150 REWARD. Ran away from the subscriber, on Sunday night, 27th inst., my NEGRO GIRL, Lear Green, about 18 years of age, black complexion, round-featured, good-looking and ordinary size; she had on and with her when she left, a tan-colored silk bonnet, a dark plaid silk dress, a light mouslin delaine, also one watered silk cape and one tan colored cape. I have reason to be confident that she was persuaded off by a negro man named Wm. Adams, black, quick spoken, 5 feet 10 inches hi
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ISAAC WILLIAMS, HENRY BANKS, AND KIT NICKLESS. MONTHS IN A CAVE,—SHOT BY SLAVE-HUNTERS.
ISAAC WILLIAMS, HENRY BANKS, AND KIT NICKLESS. MONTHS IN A CAVE,—SHOT BY SLAVE-HUNTERS.
Rarely were three travelers from the house of bondage received at the Philadelphia station whose narratives were more interesting than those of the above-named individuals. Before escaping they had encountered difficulties of the most trying nature. No better material for dramatic effect could be found than might have been gathered from the incidents of their lives and travels. But all that we can venture to introduce here is the brief account recorded at the time of their sojourn at the Philade
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SEPTEMBER 28, 1856. ARRIVAL OF FIVE FROM THE EASTERN SHORE OF MARYLAND.
SEPTEMBER 28, 1856. ARRIVAL OF FIVE FROM THE EASTERN SHORE OF MARYLAND.
CYRUS MITCHELL, alias JOHN STEEL ; JOSHUA HANDY, alias HAMBLETON HAMBY ; CHARLES DULTON, alias WILLIAM ROBINSON; EPHRAIM HUDSON, alias JOHN SPRY; FRANCIS MOLOCK, alias THOMAS JACKSON; all in "good order" and full of hope. The following letter from the fearless friend of the slave, Thomas Garrett, is a specimen of his manner of dispatching Underground Rail Road business. He used Uncle Sam's mail, and his own name, with as much freedom as though he had been President of the Pennsylvania Central Ra
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SUNDRY ARRIVALS, ABOUT AUGUST 1ST, 1855.
SUNDRY ARRIVALS, ABOUT AUGUST 1ST, 1855.
Arrival 1st. Frances Hilliard. Arrival 2d. Louisa Harding, alias Rebecca Hall. Arrival 3d. John Mackintosh. Arrival 4th. Maria Jane Houston. Arrival 5th. Miles Hoopes. Arrival 6th. Samuel Miles, alias Robert King. Arrival 7th. James Henson, alias David Caldwell. Arrival 8th. Laura Lewis. Arrival 9th. Elizabeth Banks. Arrival 10th. Simon Hill. Arrival 11th. Anthony and Albert Brown. Arrival 12th. George Williams and Charles Holladay. Arrival 13th. William Govan. While none in this catalogue belon
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DEEP FURROWS ON THE BACK. THOMAS MADDEN.
DEEP FURROWS ON THE BACK. THOMAS MADDEN.
Of all the passengers who had hitherto arrived with bruised and mangled bodies received at the hands of slave-holders, none brought a back so shamefully lacerated by the lash as Thomas Madden. Not a single spot had been exempted from the excoriating cow-hide. A most bloody picture did the broad back and shoulders of Thomas present to the eye as he bared his wounds for inspection. While it was sad to think, that millions of men, women, and children throughout the South were liable to just such br
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"PETE MATTHEWS," ALIAS SAMUEL SPARROWS. "I MIGHT AS WELL BE IN THE PENITENTIARY, &C."
"PETE MATTHEWS," ALIAS SAMUEL SPARROWS. "I MIGHT AS WELL BE IN THE PENITENTIARY, &C."
Up to the age of thirty-five "Pete" had worn the yoke steadily, if not patiently under William S. Matthews, of Oak Hall, near Temperanceville, in the State of Virginia. Pete said that his "master was not a hard man," but the man to whom he "was hired, George Matthews, was a very cruel man." "I might as well be in the penitentiary as in his hands," was his declaration. One day, a short while before Pete "took out," an ox broke into the truck patch, and helped himself to choice delicacies, to the
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"MOSES" ARRIVES WITH SIX PASSENGERS.
"MOSES" ARRIVES WITH SIX PASSENGERS.
"NOT ALLOWED TO SEEK A MASTER;"—"VERY DEVILISH;"—FATHER "LEAVES TWO LITTLE SONS;"—"USED HARD;"—"FEARED FALLING INTO THE HANDS OF YOUNG HEIRS," ETC. JOHN CHASE, ALIAS DANIEL FLOYD ; BENJAMIN ROSS, ALIAS JAMES STEWART ; HENRY ROSS, ALIAS LEVIN STEWART ; PETER JACKSON, ALIAS STAUNCH TILGHMAN ; JANE KANE, ALIAS CATHARINE KANE , AND ROBERT ROSS . The coming of these passengers was heralded by Thomas Garrett as follows: WILMINGTON, 12 mo. 29th, 1854. ESTEEMED FRIEND, J. MILLER MCKIM:—We made arrangeme
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ESCAPED FROM "A WORTHLESS SOT." JOHN ATKINSON.
ESCAPED FROM "A WORTHLESS SOT." JOHN ATKINSON.
John was a prisoner of hope under James Ray, of Portsmouth, Va., whom he declared to be "a worthless sot." This character was fully set forth, but the description is too disgusting for record. John was a dark mulatto, thirty-one years of age, well-formed and intelligent. For some years before escaping he had been in the habit of hiring his time for $120 per annum. Daily toiling to support his drunken and brutal master, was a hardship that John felt keenly, but was compelled to submit to up to th
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WILLIAM BUTCHER, ALIAS WILLIAM T. MITCHELL. "HE WAS ABUSEFUL."
WILLIAM BUTCHER, ALIAS WILLIAM T. MITCHELL. "HE WAS ABUSEFUL."
This passenger reported himself from Massey's Cross-Roads, near Georgetown, Maryland. William gave as his reason for being found destitute, and under the necessity of asking aid, that a man by the name of William Boyer, who followed farming, had deprived him of his hard earnings, and also claimed him as his property; and withal that he had abused him for years, and recently had "threatened to sell" him. This threat made his yoke too intolerable to be borne. He here began to think and plan for th
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"WHITE ENOUGH TO PASS."
"WHITE ENOUGH TO PASS."
John Wesley Gibson represented himself to be not only the slave, but also the son of William Y. Day, of Taylor's Mount, Maryland. The faintest shade of colored blood was hardly discernible in this passenger. He relied wholly on his father's white blood to secure him freedom. Having resolved to serve no longer as a slave, he concluded to "hold up his head and put on airs." He reached Baltimore safely without being discovered or suspected of being on the Underground Rail Road, as far as he was awa
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ESCAPING WITH MASTER'S CARRIAGES AND HORSES. HARRIET SHEPHARD, AND HER FIVE CHILDREN, WITH FIVE OTHER PASSENGERS.
ESCAPING WITH MASTER'S CARRIAGES AND HORSES. HARRIET SHEPHARD, AND HER FIVE CHILDREN, WITH FIVE OTHER PASSENGERS.
One morning about the first of November, in 1855, the sleepy, slave-holding neighborhood of Chestertown, Maryland, was doubtless deeply excited on learning that eleven head of slaves, four head of horses, and two carriages were missing. It is but reasonable to suppose that the first report must have produced a shock, scarcely less stunning than an earthquake. Abolitionists, emissaries, and incendiaries were farther below par than ever. It may be supposed that cursings and threatenings were breat
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EIGHT AND A HALF MONTHS SECRETED. WASHINGTON SOMLOR, ALIAS JAMES MOORE.
EIGHT AND A HALF MONTHS SECRETED. WASHINGTON SOMLOR, ALIAS JAMES MOORE.
But few could tell of having been eye-witnesses to outrages more revolting and disgraceful than Washington Somlor. He arrived per steamer Pennsylvania (secreted), directly from Norfolk, Virginia, in 1855. He was thirty-two years of age—a man of medium size and quite intelligent. A merchant by the name of Smith owned Washington. Eight and a half months before escaping, Washington had been secreted in order to shun both master and auction-block. Smith believed in selling, flogging, cobbing, paddli
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ARTHUR FOWLER, ALIAS BENJAMIN JOHNSON.
ARTHUR FOWLER, ALIAS BENJAMIN JOHNSON.
Arthur came from Spring Hill, Maryland. Edward Fowler held Arthur in fetters and usurped authority over him as his lord and master. Arthur saw certain signs connected with his master's family which presaged to him that the day was not far distant, when somebody would have to be sold to raise money to pamper the appetites of some of the superior members of the patriarchal institution. Among these provocations were indulgence in a great deal of extravagance, and the growing up of a number of young
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SUNDRY ARRIVALS.
SUNDRY ARRIVALS.
About the 1st of June, 1855, the following arrivals were noted in the record book: EMORY ROBERTS, alias WILLIAM KEMP, Talbot Co., Maryland ; DANIEL PAYNE, Richmond, Virginia ; HARRIET MAYO, JOHN JUDAH, and RICHARD BRADLEY, Petersburg and Richmond ; JAMES CRUMMILL, SAMUEL JONES, TOLBERT JONES, and HENRY HOWARD, Haverford Co., Maryland ; LEWIS CHILDS, Richmond , DANIEL BENNETT, alias HENRY WASHINGTON, and wife (MARTHA,) and two children (GEORGE and a nameless babe) . The road at this time, was doi
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SUNDRY ARRIVALS ABOUT JANUARY FIRST, 1855.
SUNDRY ARRIVALS ABOUT JANUARY FIRST, 1855.
The steamship Pennsylvania, on one of her regular trips from Richmond, brought one passenger, of whom the Captain had no knowledge; no permission had been asked of any officer of the boat. Nevertheless, Verenea Mercer managed, by the most extraordinary strategy, to secrete herself on the steamer, and thus succeeded in reaching Philadelphia. She was following her husband, who escaped about nine months before her. Verenea was about forty-one years of age, of a dark chestnut color, prepossessing in
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SLAVE-HOLDER IN MARYLAND WITH THREE COLORED WIVES. JAMES GRIFFIN ALIAS THOMAS BROWN.
SLAVE-HOLDER IN MARYLAND WITH THREE COLORED WIVES. JAMES GRIFFIN ALIAS THOMAS BROWN.
James was a tiller of the soil under the yoke of Joshua Hitch, who lived on a farm about seventeen miles from Baltimore. James spoke rather favorably of him; indeed, it was through a direct act of kindness on the part of his master that he procured the opportunity to make good his escape. It appeared from his story, that his master's affairs had become particularly embarrassed, and the Sheriff was making frequent visits to his house. This sign was interpreted to mean that James, if not others, w
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CAPTAIN F. ARRIVES WITH NINE PASSENGERS.
CAPTAIN F. ARRIVES WITH NINE PASSENGERS.
PETER HEINES, Eatontown, North Carolina ; MATTHEW BODAMS, Plymouth, North Carolina ; JAMES MORRIS, South End, North Carolina ; CHARLES THOMPSON, CHARITY THOMPSON, NATHANIEL BOWSER, and THOMAS COOPER, Portsmouth, Virginia; GEORGE ANDERSON, Elkton, Maryland. Their arrival was announced by Thomas Garrett as follows: WILMINGTON, 7th mo., 19th, 1856. RESPECTED FRIEND, WILLIAM STILL:—I now have the pleasure of consigning to thy care four able-bodied human beings from North Carolina, and five from Virg
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OWEN AND OTHO TAYLOR'S FLIGHT WITH HORSES, ETC. THREE BROTHERS, TWO OF THEM WITH WIVES AND CHILDREN.
OWEN AND OTHO TAYLOR'S FLIGHT WITH HORSES, ETC. THREE BROTHERS, TWO OF THEM WITH WIVES AND CHILDREN.
About the latter part of March, 1856, Owen Taylor and his wife, Mary Ann, and their little son, Edward, together with a brother and his wife and two children, and a third brother, Benjamin, arrived from near Clear Springs, nine miles from Hagerstown, Maryland. They all left their home, or rather escaped from the prison-house, on Easter Sunday, and came viâ Harrisburg, where they were assisted and directed to the Vigilance Committee in Philadelphia. A more interesting party had not reached the Co
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HEAVY REWARD.
HEAVY REWARD.
Runaway glyph THREE HUNDRED DOLLARS REWARD.—Ran away from the subscriber, residing near Bladensburg, Prince George's county, Maryland, on Saturday night, the 22d of March, 1856, my negro man, Tom Matthews, aged about 25 years, about 5 feet 9 or 10 inches high, dark copper color, full suit of bushy hair, broad face, with high cheek bones, broad and square shoulders, stands and walks very erect, though quite a sluggard in action, except in a dance, at which he is hard to beat. He wore away a black
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CAPTAIN F. ARRIVES WITH FOURTEEN "PRIME ARTICLES" ON BOARD.
CAPTAIN F. ARRIVES WITH FOURTEEN "PRIME ARTICLES" ON BOARD.
Thomas Garrett announced this in the following letter: WILMINGTON, 3d mo., 23d, 1856. DEAR FRIEND, WILLIAM STILL:—Captain Fountain has arrived all safe, with the human cargo thee was inquiring for, a few days since. I had men waiting till 12 o'clock till the Captain arrived at his berth, ready to receive them; last night they then learned, that he had landed them at the Rocks, near the old Swedes church, in the care of our efficient Pilot, who is in the employ of my friend, John Hillis, and he h
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SUNDRY ARRIVALS—LATTER PART OF DECEMBER, 1855, AND BEGINNING OF JANUARY, 1856.
SUNDRY ARRIVALS—LATTER PART OF DECEMBER, 1855, AND BEGINNING OF JANUARY, 1856.
JOSEPH CORNISH, Dorchester Co., Md. ; LEWIS FRANCIS, alias LEWIS JOHNSON, Harford Co., Md. ; ALEXANDER MUNSON, Chestertown, Md. ; SAMUEL and ANN SCOTT, Cecil Cross-Roads, Md. ; WM. HENRY LAMINSON, Del. ; ISAAC STOUT, alias GEORGE WASHINGTON , CAROLINE GRAVES, Md. ; HENRY and ELIZA WASHINGTON, Alexandria, Va. ; HENRY CHAMBERS, JOHN CHAMBERS, SAMUEL FALL , and THOMAS ANDERSON, Md. Joseph Cornish was about forty years of age when he escaped. The heavy bonds of Slavery made him miserable. He was a m
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PART OF THE ARRIVALS IN DECEMBER, 1855.
PART OF THE ARRIVALS IN DECEMBER, 1855.
THOMAS JERVIS GOOSEBERRY and WILLIAM THOMAS FREEMAN, alias EZEKIEL CHAMBERS ; HENRY HOOPER ; JACOB HALL, alias HENRY THOMAS, and wife, HENRIETTA and child ; Two men from near Chestertown, Md. ; FENTON JONES ; MARY CURTIS ; WILLIAM BROWN ; CHARLES HENRY BROWN ; OLIVER PURNELL and ISAAC FIDGET . Thomas Jervis Gooseberry and William Thomas Freeman. The coming of this party was announced in the subjoined letter: SCHUYLKILL, 11th Mo., 29th, 1855. WILLIAM STILL: DEAR FRIEND:—Those boys will be along b
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THE FUGITIVE SLAVE BILL OF 1850. "AN ACT RESPECTING FUGITIVES FROM JUSTICE, AND PERSONS ESCAPING FROM THE SERVICE OF THEIR MASTERS."
THE FUGITIVE SLAVE BILL OF 1850. "AN ACT RESPECTING FUGITIVES FROM JUSTICE, AND PERSONS ESCAPING FROM THE SERVICE OF THEIR MASTERS."
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled: That the persons who have been, or may hereafter be appointed commissioners, in virtue of any Act of Congress, by the circuit courts of the United States, and who, in consequence of such appointment, are authorized to exercise the powers that any justice of the peace or other magistrate of any of the United States, may exercise in respect to offenders for any crime or offence against t
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THE SLAVE-HUNTING TRAGEDY IN LANCASTER COUNTY, IN SEPTEMBER, 1851. "TREASON AT CHRISTIANA."
THE SLAVE-HUNTING TRAGEDY IN LANCASTER COUNTY, IN SEPTEMBER, 1851. "TREASON AT CHRISTIANA."
Having inserted the Fugitive Slave Bill in these records of the Underground Rail Road, one or two slave cases will doubtless suffice to illustrate the effect of its passage on the public mind, and the colored people in particular. The deepest feelings of loathing, contempt and opposition were manifested by the opponents of Slavery on every hand. Anti-slavery papers, lecturers, preachers, etc., arrayed themselves boldly against it on the ground of its inhumanity and violation of the laws of God.
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WILLIAM AND ELLEN CRAFT. FEMALE SLAVE IN MALE ATTIRE, FLEEING AS A PLANTER, WITH HER HUSBAND AS HER BODY SERVANT.
WILLIAM AND ELLEN CRAFT. FEMALE SLAVE IN MALE ATTIRE, FLEEING AS A PLANTER, WITH HER HUSBAND AS HER BODY SERVANT.
A quarter of a century ago, William and Ellen Craft were slaves in the State of Georgia. With them, as with thousands of others, the desire to be free was very strong. For this jewel they were willing to make any sacrifice, or to endure any amount of suffering. In this state of mind they commenced planning. After thinking of various ways that might be tried, it occurred to William and Ellen, that one might act the part of master and the other the part of servant. Ellen being fair enough to pass
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ARRIVALS FROM RICHMOND. LEWIS COBB AND NANCY BRISTER.
ARRIVALS FROM RICHMOND. LEWIS COBB AND NANCY BRISTER.
No one Southern city furnished a larger number of brave, wide-awake and likely-looking Underground Rail Road passengers than the city of Richmond. Lewis and Nancy were fair specimens of the class of travelers coming from that city. Lewis was described as a light yellow man, medium size, good-looking, and intelligent. In referring to bondage, he spoke with great earnestness, and in language very easily understood; especially when speaking of Samuel Myers, from whom he escaped, he did not hesitate
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PASSENGERS FROM NORTH CAROLINA. [BY SCHOONER.]
PASSENGERS FROM NORTH CAROLINA. [BY SCHOONER.]
MAJOR LATHAM , WILLIAM WILSON , HENRY GORHAM , WILEY MADDISON , AND ANDREW SHEPHERD . The above named passengers were delivered into the hands of Thomas Garrett by the Captain who brought them, and were aided and forwarded to the Committee in Philadelphia, as indicated by the subjoined letter: WILMINGTON, 11th mo., 6th, 1856. RESPECTED FRIEND:—WILLIAM STILL:—Thine of yesterday, came to hand this morning, advising me to forward those four men to thee, which I propose to send from here in the stea
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THOMAS CLINTON, SAUNEY PRY AND BENJAMIN DUCKET. PASSED OVER THE U.G.R.R., IN THE FALL OF 1856.
THOMAS CLINTON, SAUNEY PRY AND BENJAMIN DUCKET. PASSED OVER THE U.G.R.R., IN THE FALL OF 1856.
Thomas escaped from Baltimore. He described the man from whom he fled as a "rum drinker" of some note, by the name of Benjamin Walmsly, and he testified that under him he was neither "half fed nor clothed," in consequence of which he was dissatisfied, and fled to better his condition. Luckily Thomas succeeded in making his escape when about twenty-one years of age. His appearance and smartness indicated resolution and gave promise of future success. He was well made and of a chestnut color. Saun
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ARRIVALS IN APRIL, 1856.
ARRIVALS IN APRIL, 1856.
Charles Hall. This individual was from Maryland, Baltimore Co., where "black men had no rights which white men were bound to respect," according to the decision of the late Chief Justice Taney of the Supreme Court of the United States. Charles was owned by Atwood A. Blunt, a farmer, much of whose time was devoted to card playing, rum-drinking and fox-hunting, so Charles stated. Charles gave him the credit of being as mild a specimen of a slaveholder as that region of country could claim when in
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FIVE FROM GEORGETOWN CROSS ROADS. MOTHER AND CHILD FROM NORFOLK, VA., ETC.
FIVE FROM GEORGETOWN CROSS ROADS. MOTHER AND CHILD FROM NORFOLK, VA., ETC.
ABE FINEER , SAM DAVIS, HENRY SAUNDERS , WM. HENRY THOMPSON and THOMAS PARKER arrived safely from the above named place. Upon inquiry, the following information was gleaned from them. Abe spoke with feelings of some bitterness of a farmer known by the name of George Spencer, who had deprived him of the hard earnings of his hands. Furthermore, he had worked him hard, stinted him for food and clothing and had been in the habit of flogging him whenever he felt like it. In addition to the above char
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PASSENGERS FROM MARYLAND, 1857. WILLIAM HENRY MOODY, BELINDA BIVANS, ETC.
PASSENGERS FROM MARYLAND, 1857. WILLIAM HENRY MOODY, BELINDA BIVANS, ETC.
William was about twenty years of age, black, usual size, and a lover of liberty. He had heard of Canada, had formed a very favorable opinion of the country and was very desirous of seeing it. The man who had habitually robbed him of his hire, was a "stout-built, ill-natured man," a farmer, by the name of William Hyson. To meet the expenses of an extensive building enterprise which he had undertaken, it was apparent that Hyson would have to sell some of his property. William and some six others
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND.
William Scott. William was about twenty-four years of age, well made, though not very heavy—stammered considerably when speaking—wide awake and sensible nevertheless. For two years the fear of being sold had not been out of his mind. To meet a security agreement, which had been contracted by his mistress—about which a law-suit had been pending for two years—was what he feared he should be sold for. About the first of May he found himself in the hands of the sheriff. On being taken to Stafford Co
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ARRIVAL FROM WASHINGTON, D.C., etc., 1857. GEORGE CARROLL, RANDOLPH BRANSON, JOHN CLAGART, AND WILLIAM ROYAN.
ARRIVAL FROM WASHINGTON, D.C., etc., 1857. GEORGE CARROLL, RANDOLPH BRANSON, JOHN CLAGART, AND WILLIAM ROYAN.
These four journeyed from "Egypt" together—but did not leave the same "kind protector." George was a full black, ordinary size, twenty-four years of age, and a convert to the doctrine that he had a right to himself. For years the idea of escape had been daily cherished. Five times he had proposed to buy himself, but failed to get the consent of his "master," who was a merchant, C.C. Hirara, a man about sixty years of age, and a member of the Methodist Church. His property in slaves consisted of
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ARRIVAL FROM UNIONVILLE, 1857. ISRAEL TODD, AND BAZIL ALDRIDGE.
ARRIVAL FROM UNIONVILLE, 1857. ISRAEL TODD, AND BAZIL ALDRIDGE.
Israel was twenty-three years of age, yellow, tall, well made and intelligent. He fled from Frederick county, Md. Through the sweat of his brow, Dr. Greenberry Sappington and his family had been living at ease. The doctor was a Catholic, owning only one other, and was said to be a man of "right disposition." His wife, however, was "so mean that nobody could stay with her." Israel was prompted to escape to save his wife, (had lately been married) and her brother from being sold south. His detesta
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1857. ORDEE LEE, AND RICHARD J. BOOCE.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1857. ORDEE LEE, AND RICHARD J. BOOCE.
Both of these passengers came from Maryland. Ordee was about thirty-five years of age, gingerbread color, well made, and intelligent. Being allowed no chances to make anything for himself, was the excuse offered for his escape. Though, as will appear presently, other causes also helped to make him hate his oppression. The man who had daily robbed him, and compelled him to call him master, was a notorious "gambler," by the name of Elijah Thompson, residing in Maryland. "By his bad habits he had r
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ARRIVAL FROM CAMBRIDGE, 1857.
ARRIVAL FROM CAMBRIDGE, 1857.
Silas Long and Solomon Light. Silas and Solomon both left together from Cambridge, Md. Silas was quite black, spare-built and about twenty-seven years of age. He was owned by Sheriff Robert Bell, a man about "sixty years of age, and had his name up to be the hardest man in the county." "The Sheriff's wife was about pretty much such a woman as he was a man—there was not a pin's point of difference between them." The fear of having to be sold caused this Silas to seek the Underground Rail Road. Le
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BENJAMIN ROSS, AND HIS WIFE HARRIET. FLED FROM CAROLINE COUNTY, EASTERN SHORE OF MARYLAND, JUNE, 1857.
BENJAMIN ROSS, AND HIS WIFE HARRIET. FLED FROM CAROLINE COUNTY, EASTERN SHORE OF MARYLAND, JUNE, 1857.
This party stated that Dr. Anthony Thompson had claimed them as his property. They gave the Committee a pretty full report of how they had been treated in slavery, especially under the doctor. A few of the interesting points were noted as follows: The doctor owned about twenty head of slaves when they left; formerly he had owned a much larger number, but circumstances had led him to make frequent sales during the few years previous to their escape, by which the stock had been reduced. As well as
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ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1857. WILLIAM JACKSON.
ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1857. WILLIAM JACKSON.
William was about fifty years of age, of usual size, of good address, and intelligent. He was born the property of a slaveholder, by the name of Daniel Minne, residing in Alexandria in Virginia. His master was about eighty-four years of age, and was regarded as kind, though he had sold some of his slaves and was in favor of slavery. He had two sons, Robert and Albert, "both dissipated, would layabout the tippling taverns, and keep low company, so much so that they were not calculated to do any b
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ARRIVAL FROM DELAWARE, 1857. JOHN WRIGHT AND WIFE, ELIZABETH ANN, AND CHARLES CONNOR.
ARRIVAL FROM DELAWARE, 1857. JOHN WRIGHT AND WIFE, ELIZABETH ANN, AND CHARLES CONNOR.
This party arrived from Sussex county. John was about thirty years of age, ordinary size, full black and clear-headed. In physical appearance he would have readily passed for a superior laborer. The keenness of his eyes and quickness of his perception, however, would doubtless have rendered him an object of suspicion in some parts of the South. The truth was that the love of liberty was clearly indicated in his expressive countenance. William S. Phillips, a farmer, had been "sucking" John's bloo
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ARRIVAL FROM ALEXANDRIA, 1857. OSCAR D. BALL, AND MONTGOMERY GRAHAM.
ARRIVAL FROM ALEXANDRIA, 1857. OSCAR D. BALL, AND MONTGOMERY GRAHAM.
Runaway glyph FOUR HUNDRED DOLLARS REWARD.—Ran away from the owner in Alexandria, Va., on the night of the 13th inst., two young negro men, from twenty to twenty-five years of age. MONTGOMERY is a very bright mulatto, about five feet, six inches in height, of polite manners, and smiles much when speaking or spoken to. OSCAR is of a tawny complexion, about six feet high, sluggish in his appearance and movements, and of awkward manners. One hundred dollars each will be paid for the delivery of the
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ARRIVAL FROM UNIONVILLE, 1857. CAROLINE ALDRIDGE AND JOHN WOOD.
ARRIVAL FROM UNIONVILLE, 1857. CAROLINE ALDRIDGE AND JOHN WOOD.
Caroline was a stout, light-complexioned, healthy-looking young woman of twenty-three years of age. She fled from Thornton Poole, of Unionville, Md. She gave her master the character of being a "very mean man; with a wife meaner still," "I consider them mean in every respect," said Caroline. No great while before she escaped, one of her brothers and a sister had been sent to the Southern market. Recently she had been apprized that herself and a younger brother would have to go the same dreadful
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ARRIVAL FROM NEW ORLEANS, 1857. JAMES CONNER, SHOT IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE BODY.
ARRIVAL FROM NEW ORLEANS, 1857. JAMES CONNER, SHOT IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE BODY.
James stated to the Committee that he was about forty-three years of age, that he was born a slave in Nelson county, Ky., and that he was first owned by a widow lady by the name of Ruth Head. "She (mistress) was like a mother to me," said Jim. "I was about sixteen years old when she died; the estate was settled and I was sold South to a man named Vincent Turner, a planter, and about the worst man, I expect, that ever the sun shined on. His slaves he fairly murdered; two hundred lashes were merel
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ARRIVAL FROM WASHINGTON, D.C. HARRISON CARY.
ARRIVAL FROM WASHINGTON, D.C. HARRISON CARY.
The passenger bearing this name who applied to the Committee for assistance, was a mulatto of medium size, with a prepossessing countenance, and a very smart talker. With only a moderate education he might have raised himself to the "top round of the ladder," as a representative of the down-trodden slave. Seeking, as usual, to learn his history, the subjoined questions and answers were the result of the interview: Q. "How old are you?" A. "Twenty-eight years of age this coming March." Q. "To who
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ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1857. JOE ELLIS.
ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1857. JOE ELLIS.
The subject of this sketch was one of two hundred slaves, owned by Bolling Ellis, who possessed large plantations at Cabin Point, Surrey Co., Va. Joe pictured his master, overseers, and general treatment of slaves in no favorable light. The practice of punishing slaves by putting them in the stocks and by flogging, was dwelt upon in a manner that left no room to doubt but that Joe had been a very great sufferer under his master's iron rule. As he described the brutal conduct of overseers in reso
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. CHRISTOPHER GREEN AND WIFE, ANN MARIA, AND SON NATHAN.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. CHRISTOPHER GREEN AND WIFE, ANN MARIA, AND SON NATHAN.
Christopher had a heavy debt charged against Clayton Wright, a commission merchant, of Baltimore, who claimed him as his property, and was in the habit of hiring him out to farmers in the country, and of taking all his hire except a single dollar, which was allotted him every holiday. The last item in his charge against Wright, suggested certain questions: "How have you been used?" was the first query. "Sometimes right smart, and then again bad enough for it," said Christopher. Again he was aske
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ARRIVAL FROM GEORGETOWN CROSS-ROADS, 1857. LEEDS WRIGHT AND ABRAM TILISON.
ARRIVAL FROM GEORGETOWN CROSS-ROADS, 1857. LEEDS WRIGHT AND ABRAM TILISON.
For three years Leeds had been thirsting for his liberty; his heart was fixed on that one object. He got plenty to eat, drink, and wear, but was nevertheless dissatisfied. The name of his master was Rev. John Wesley Pearson, who was engaged in school teaching and preaching, and belonged to the more moderate class of slave-holders. Once when a boy Leeds had been sold, but being very young, he did not think much about the matter. For the last eight or ten years previous to his escape he had not se
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ARRIVAL FROM ALEXANDRIA. WILLIAM TRIPLETT AND THOMAS HARPER.
ARRIVAL FROM ALEXANDRIA. WILLIAM TRIPLETT AND THOMAS HARPER.
Runaway glyph Ran away from the subscriber, on Saturday night, 22d instant, WILLIAM TRIPLETT, a dark mulatto, with whiskers and mustache, 23 to 26 years of age; lately had a burn on the instep of his right foot, but perhaps well enough to wear a boot or shoe. He took with him very excellent clothing, both summer and winter, consisting of a brown suit in cloth, summer coats striped, check cap, silk hat, &c. $50 reward will be paid if taken within thirty miles of Alexandria or in the State
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. HARRY WISE.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. HARRY WISE.
Runaway glyph $100 REWARD.—Ran away, on the 11th inst., negro man, Harry Wise. He is about 24 years of age, and 5 feet 4 inches high; muscular, with broad shoulders, and black or deep copper color; roundish, smooth face, and rather lively expression. He came from Harford county, and is acquainted about Belair market, Baltimore. I will pay $50 reward for him, if taken in this or Prince George's county, or $100 if arrested elsewhere. ELLIOTT BURWELL, a29-eo3t* West River, Anne Arundel county. Harr
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ARRIVAL FROM NORFOLK, VA. ABRAM WOODERS.
ARRIVAL FROM NORFOLK, VA. ABRAM WOODERS.
Although slave-holders had spared no pains to keep Abram in the dark and to make him love his yoke, he proved by his actions, that he had no faith in their doctrines. Nor did he want for language in which to state the reasons for his actions. He was just in the prime of life, thirty-five years of age, chestnut color, common size, with a scar over the left eye, and another on the upper lip. Like many others, he talked in a simple, earnest manner, and in answer to queries as to how he had fared, t
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ARRIVAL FROM WASHINGTON, D.C. GEORGE JOHNSON, THOMAS AND ADAM SMITH.
ARRIVAL FROM WASHINGTON, D.C. GEORGE JOHNSON, THOMAS AND ADAM SMITH.
Runaway glyph $300 REWARD.—Ran away from Kalorama, near Washington City, D.C., on Saturday night, the 22d of August, 1857, negro man, George Johnson, aged about 25 years. Height about six feet; of dark copper color; bushy hair; erect in stature and polite in his address. I will give the above reward if taken in a free State; $100 if taken within the District of Columbia, or $200 if taken in Maryland. In either case he must be secured so that I get him. MISS ELEANOR J. CONWAY, Baltimore, Md., or
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FOUR ABLE-BODIED "ARTICLES" IN ONE ARRIVAL, 1857. EDWARD, AND JOSEPH HAINES, THOMAS HARRIS, AND JAMES SHELDON.
FOUR ABLE-BODIED "ARTICLES" IN ONE ARRIVAL, 1857. EDWARD, AND JOSEPH HAINES, THOMAS HARRIS, AND JAMES SHELDON.
"This certainly is a likely-looking party," are the first words which greet the eye, on turning to the record, under which their brief narratives were entered at the Philadelphia station, September 7th, 1857. Edward was about forty-four years of age, of unmixed blood, and in point of natural ability he would rank among the most intelligent of the oppressed class. Without owing thanks to any body he could read and write pretty well, having learned by his own exertions. Tabby and Eliza Fortlock, s
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ARRIVAL FROM ARLINGTON, MD. 1857. JOHN ALEXANDER BUTLER, WILLIAM HENRY HIPKINS, JOHN HENRY MOORE AND GEORGE HILL.
ARRIVAL FROM ARLINGTON, MD. 1857. JOHN ALEXANDER BUTLER, WILLIAM HENRY HIPKINS, JOHN HENRY MOORE AND GEORGE HILL.
This party made, at first sight, a favorable impression; they represented the bone and sinew of the slave class of Arlington, and upon investigation the Committee felt assured that they would carry with them to Canada industry and determination such as would tell well for the race. John Alexander Butler was about twenty-nine years of age, well made, dark color, and intelligent. He assured the Committee that he had been hampered by Slavery from his birth, and that in consequence thereof he had su
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FIVE PASSENGERS, 1857. ELIZA JANE JOHNSON, HARRIET STEWART, AND HER DAUGHTER MARY ELIZA, WILLIAM COLE, AND HANSON HALL.
FIVE PASSENGERS, 1857. ELIZA JANE JOHNSON, HARRIET STEWART, AND HER DAUGHTER MARY ELIZA, WILLIAM COLE, AND HANSON HALL.
Eliza Jane was a tall, dark, young woman, about twenty-three years of age, and had been held to service by a widow woman, named Sally Spiser, who was "anything but a good woman." The place of her habitation was in Delaware, between Concord and Georgetown. Eliza Jane's excuse for leaving was this: She charged her mistress with trying to work her to death, and with unkind treatment generally. When times became so hard that she could not stand her old mistress "Sally" any longer, she "took out." Ha
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ARRIVAL FROM HOWARD CO., MD., 1857. BILL COLE AND HANSON.
ARRIVAL FROM HOWARD CO., MD., 1857. BILL COLE AND HANSON.
Runaway glyph $500 REWARD.—Ran away on Saturday night, September 5th, Bill Cole, aged about 37 years, of copper complexion, stout built, ordinary height, walks very erect, earnest but squint look when spoken to. Also, Hanson, copper complexion, well made, sickly look, medium height, stoops when walking, quick when spoken to; aged about 30 years. Three hundred dollars will be paid for the apprehension and delivery of Bill, if caught out of the State, and two hundred if in the State. Two hundred d
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ARRIVAL FROM PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD. "JIM BELLE."
ARRIVAL FROM PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD. "JIM BELLE."
Runaway glyph $100 REWARD.—Ran away from the subscriber on Saturday night, Negro Man JIM BELLE. Jim is about five feet ten inches high, black color, about 26 years of age has a down look; speaks slow when spoken to; he has large, thick lips, and a mustache. He was formerly owned by Edward Stansbury, late of Baltimore county, and purchased by Edward Worthington, near Reisterstown, in Baltimore county, at the late Stansbury's sale, who sold him to B.M. and W.L. Campbell, of Baltimore city, of whom
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ARRIVAL FROM RAPPAHANNOCK COUNTY, 1857. PASCAL QUANTENCE.
ARRIVAL FROM RAPPAHANNOCK COUNTY, 1857. PASCAL QUANTENCE.
Pascal fled from Virginia, and accused Bannon and Brady of doing violence to his liberty. He had, however, been in their clutches only a short while before escaping, but that short while seemed almost an age, as he was treated so meanly by them compared with the treatment which he had experienced under his former master. According to Pascal's story, which was evidently true, his previous master was his own father (John Quantence), who had always acknowledged Pascal as his child, whom he did not
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ARRIVAL FROM NORTH CAROLINA, 1857. HARRY GRIMES, GEORGE UPSHER, AND EDWARD LEWIS.
ARRIVAL FROM NORTH CAROLINA, 1857. HARRY GRIMES, GEORGE UPSHER, AND EDWARD LEWIS.
The coming of the passengers here noticed was announced in the subjoined letter from Thomas Garrett: WILMINGTON, 11th Mo. 25th, 1857. RESPECTED FRIEND, WILLIAM STILL:—I write to inform thee, that Captain Fountain has arrived this evening from the South with three men, one of which is nearly naked, and very lousy. He has been in the swamps of Carolina for eighteen months past. One of the others has been some time out. I would send them on to-night, but will have to provide two of them with some c
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ALFRED HOLLON, GEORGE AND CHARLES N. RODGERS.
ALFRED HOLLON, GEORGE AND CHARLES N. RODGERS.
The loss of this party likewise falls on Maryland. With all the efforts exerted by slave-holders, they could not prevent the Underground Rail Road from bringing away passengers. Alfred was twenty-eight years of age, with sharp features, dark color, and of medium size. He charged one Elijah J. Johnson, a commissioner of Baltimore Co., with having deprived him of the fruits of his labor. He had looked fully into his master's treatment of him, and had come to the conclusion that it was wrong in eve
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ARRIVAL FROM KENT COUNTY, 1857. SAMUEL BENTON, JOHN ALEXANDER, JAMES HENRY, AND SAMUEL TURNER.
ARRIVAL FROM KENT COUNTY, 1857. SAMUEL BENTON, JOHN ALEXANDER, JAMES HENRY, AND SAMUEL TURNER.
These passengers journeyed together from the land of whips and chains. Sam Benton was about twenty-six years of age, medium size, pretty dark color, and possessed a fair share of intelligence. He understood very well how sadly Slavery had wronged him by keeping him in ignorance and poverty. He stated as the cause of his flight that William Campbell had oppressed him and kept him closely at hard labor without paying him, and at the same time "did not give him half enough to eat, and no clothing."
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ARRIVAL FROM BALTIMORE COUNTY, 1857. ELIZABETH WILLIAMS.
ARRIVAL FROM BALTIMORE COUNTY, 1857. ELIZABETH WILLIAMS.
Elizabeth fled in company with her brother the winter previous to her arrival at the Philadelphia station. Although she reached free land the severe struggle cost her the loss of all her toes. Four days and nights out in the bitter cold weather without the chance of a fire left them a prey to the frost, which made sad havoc with their feet especially—particularly Elizabeth's. She was obliged to stop on the way, and for seven months she was unable to walk. Elizabeth was about twenty years of age,
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MARY COOPER AND MOSES ARMSTEAD, 1857.
MARY COOPER AND MOSES ARMSTEAD, 1857.
Mary arrived from Delaware, Moses from Norfolk, Virginia, and happened to meet at the station in Philadelphia. Mary was twenty years of age, of a chestnut color, usual size, and well disposed. She fled from Nathaniel Herne, an alderman. Mary did not find fault with the alderman, but she could not possibly get along with his wife; this was the sole cause of her escape. Moses was twenty-four years of age, of a chestnut color, a bright-looking young man. He fled from Norfolk, Virginia, having been
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ARRIVAL FROM NEAR WASHINGTON, D.C. JOHN JOHNSON AND LAWRENCE THORNTON.
ARRIVAL FROM NEAR WASHINGTON, D.C. JOHN JOHNSON AND LAWRENCE THORNTON.
John escaped from near Washington. He stated that he was owned by an engraver, known by the name of William Stone, and added that himself and seven others were kept working on the farm of said Stone for nothing. John did not, however, complain of having a hard master in this hard-named personage, (Stone); for, as a slave, he confessed that he had seen good times. Yet he was not satisfied; he felt that he had a right to his freedom, and that he could not possibly be contented while deprived of it
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HON. L. McLANE'S PROPERTY, SOON AFTER HIS DEATH, TRAVELS viâ THE UNDERGROUND RAIL ROAD.—WILLIAM KNIGHT, ESQ., LOSES A SUPERIOR "ARTICLE." JIM SCOTT, TOM PENNINGTON, SAM SCOTT, BILL SCOTT, ABE BACON, AND JACK WELLS.
HON. L. McLANE'S PROPERTY, SOON AFTER HIS DEATH, TRAVELS viâ THE UNDERGROUND RAIL ROAD.—WILLIAM KNIGHT, ESQ., LOSES A SUPERIOR "ARTICLE." JIM SCOTT, TOM PENNINGTON, SAM SCOTT, BILL SCOTT, ABE BACON, AND JACK WELLS.
An unusual degree of pleasure was felt in welcoming this party of young men, not because they were any better than others, or because they had suffered more, but simply because they were found to possess certain knowledge and experience of slave life, as it existed under the government of the chivalry; such information could not always be obtained from those whose lot had been cast among ordinary slave-holders. Consequently the Committee interviewed them closely, and in point of intellect found
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ARRIVAL FROM HARFORD CO., 1857. JOHN MYERS.
ARRIVAL FROM HARFORD CO., 1857. JOHN MYERS.
John fled from under the yoke of Dr. Joshua R. Nelson. Until within two years of "Jack's" flight, the doctor "had been a very fine man," with whom Jack found no fault. But suddenly his mode of treatment changed; he became very severe. Nothing that Jack could do, met the approval of the doctor. Jack was constantly looked upon with suspicion. The very day that Jack fled, four men approached him (the doctor one of them), with line in hand; that sign was well understood, and Jack resolved that they
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1857. WILLIAM LEE, SUSAN JANE BOILE AND AMARIAN LUCRETIA RISTER.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1857. WILLIAM LEE, SUSAN JANE BOILE AND AMARIAN LUCRETIA RISTER.
Although these three passengers arrived in Philadelphia at the same time, they did not come from Maryland together. William Lee found himself under the yoke on a farm in the possession of Zechariah Merica, who, Wm. said, was a "low ignorant man, not above a common wood-chopper, and owned no other slave property than William." Against him, however, William brought no accusation of any very severe treatment; on the contrary, his master talked sometimes "as though he wanted to be good and get relig
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ARRIVAL FROM NORFOLK, VA. 1857. WILLIAM CARNEY AND ANDREW ALLEN.
ARRIVAL FROM NORFOLK, VA. 1857. WILLIAM CARNEY AND ANDREW ALLEN.
William was about fifty-one years of age, a man of unmixed blood. Physically he was a superior man, and his mental abilities were quite above the average of his class. He belonged to the estate of the late Mrs. Sarah Twyne, who bore the reputation of being a lady of wealth, and owned one hundred and twelve slaves. Most of her slave property was kept on her plantation not far from Old Point Comfort. According to William's testimony "of times Mrs. Twyne would meddle too freely with the cup, and wh
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ARRIVAL FROM HOOPESVILLE, MD., 1857. JAMES CAIN, "GENERAL ANDREW JACKSON," AND ANNA PERRY.
ARRIVAL FROM HOOPESVILLE, MD., 1857. JAMES CAIN, "GENERAL ANDREW JACKSON," AND ANNA PERRY.
These passengers came from the field where as slaves very few privileges had been afforded them. Jim was about thirty-five years of age, a dark brown skin with average intellect for one in his condition. He had toiled under John Burnham, in Dorchester county, from whom he had received hard treatment, but harder still from his mistress. He averred that she was the cause of matters being so hard with the slaves on the place. Jim contented himself under his lot as well as be could until within a sh
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1858. GEORGE RUSSELL AND JAMES HENRY THOMPSON.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1858. GEORGE RUSSELL AND JAMES HENRY THOMPSON.
James, for convenience' sake, was supplied with two other names (Milton Brown and John Johnson), not knowing exactly how many he would need in freedom or which would be the best adapted to keep his whereabouts the most completely veiled from his master. George reported that he fled from Henry Harris, who lived near Baltimore on the Peach Orchard Road, and that he had lived with said Harris all his life. He spoke of him as being a "blustering man, who never liked the slaves to make anything for t
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ARRIVAL FROM QUEEN ANN COUNTY, 1858. CATHARINE JONES AND SON HENRY, ETNA ELIZABETH DAUPHUS, AND GEORGE NELSON WASHINGTON.
ARRIVAL FROM QUEEN ANN COUNTY, 1858. CATHARINE JONES AND SON HENRY, ETNA ELIZABETH DAUPHUS, AND GEORGE NELSON WASHINGTON.
These passengers, although interesting, and manifesting a strong desire to be free, had no remarkable tales of personal suffering to relate; their lot had evidently been cast among the more humane class of slave-holders, who had acted towards their slaves with some moderation. Catharine was twenty-four years of age, of a dark chestnut color, possessed a fair share of mother wit, and was fitted to make a favorable impression. In no degree whatever did she think well of slavery; she had had, as sh
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ARRIVAL FROM BALTIMORE. ELIJAH BISHOP AND WILLIAM WILLIAMSON.
ARRIVAL FROM BALTIMORE. ELIJAH BISHOP AND WILLIAM WILLIAMSON.
Elijah represented to the Committee that he had been held under the enthrallment of a common "gambler and drunkard," who called himself by the name of Campbell, and carried on his sporting operations in Baltimore. Under this gambler Elijah had been wronged up to the age of twenty-eight years, when he resolved to escape. Having had several opportunities of traveling through the United States and South America with his sporting master, he managed to pick up quite an amount of information. For the
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ARRIVAL FROM DUNWOODY COUNTY, 1858. DARIUS HARRIS.
ARRIVAL FROM DUNWOODY COUNTY, 1858. DARIUS HARRIS.
One of the most encouraging signs connected with the travel viâ the Underground Rail Road was, that passengers traveling thereon were, as a general thing, young and of determined minds. Darius, the subject of this sketch, was only about twenty-one when he arrived. It could be seen in his looks that he could not be kept in the prison-house unless constantly behind bars. His large head and its formation indicated a large brain. He stated that "Thomas H. Hamlin, a hard case, living near Dunwoody,"
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ARRIVED FROM ALEXANDRIA, VA., 1857. TOWNSEND DERRIX.
ARRIVED FROM ALEXANDRIA, VA., 1857. TOWNSEND DERRIX.
The above-named escaped from a "Dutchman" by the name of Gallipappick, who was in the confectionery business. For the credit of our German citizens, it may be said, that slave-holders within their ranks were very few. This was a rare case. The Committee were a little curious to know how the German branch of civilization conducted when given unlimited control over human beings. In answering the requisite questions, and in making his statement, Townsend gave entire satisfaction. His German master
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1858. EDWARD CARROLL.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1858. EDWARD CARROLL.
Edward, a youthful passenger about twenty-one years of age, slow of speech, with a stammering utterance, and apparently crushed in spirits, claimed succor and aid of the Committee. At first the Committee felt a little puzzled to understand, how one, apparently so deficient, could succeed in surmounting the usual difficulties consequent upon traveling, via the Underground Rail Road; but in conversing with him, they found him possessed of more intelligence than they had supposed; indeed, they perc
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ARRIVAL FROM PETERSBURG, 1858. JAMES MASON.
ARRIVAL FROM PETERSBURG, 1858. JAMES MASON.
This passenger brought rare intelligence respecting the manner in which he had been treated in Slavery. He had been owned by a lady named Judith Burton, who resided in Petersburg, and was a member of the Baptist Church. She was the owner of five other slaves. James said that she had been "the same as a mother" to him; and on the score of how he came to escape, he said: "I left for no other cause than simply to get my liberty." This was an exceptional case, yet he had too much sense to continue i
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. ROBERT CARR.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. ROBERT CARR.
Runaway glyph $300 REWARD.—Ran away from the subscriber, on the 26th December, 1857, Negro Man ROBERT CARR. He had on when last seen on West River, a close-bodied blue cloth coat with brass buttons, drab pantaloons, and a low crown and very narrow brim beaver hat; he wore a small goatee, is pleasant when spoken to, and very polite; about five feet ten inches high; copper-colored. I will give $125 if taken in Anne Arundel, Prince George's, Calvert or Montgomery county, $150 if taken in the city o
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ARRIVAL OF A PARTY OF SIX, 1858. PLYMOUTH CANNON, HORATIO WILKINSON, LEMUEL MITCHELL, JOSIAH MITCHELL, GEORGE HENRY BALLARD, AND JOHN MITCHELL.
ARRIVAL OF A PARTY OF SIX, 1858. PLYMOUTH CANNON, HORATIO WILKINSON, LEMUEL MITCHELL, JOSIAH MITCHELL, GEORGE HENRY BALLARD, AND JOHN MITCHELL.
Thomas Garrett announced the coming of this party in the subjoined letter: WILMINGTON, 2 MO. 5th, 1858. ESTEEMED FRIEND:—WILLIAM STILL:—I have information of 6 able-bodied men that are expected here to-morrow morning; they may, to-morrow afternoon or evening, take the cars at Chester, and most likely reach the city between 11 and 12 at night; they will be accompanied by a colored man that has lived in Philadelphia and is free; they may think it safer to walk to the city than to go in the cars, b
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ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1858. EBENEZER ALLISON.
ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1858. EBENEZER ALLISON.
"Eb" was a bright mulatto, handsome, well-made, and barely twenty years of age. He reported that he fled from Mr. John Tilghman Foster, a farmer, living in the vicinity of Richmond. His master, Ebenezer unhesitatingly declared, was a first-rate man. "I had no right to leave him in the world, but I loved freedom better than Slavery." After fully setting forth the kind treatment he had been accustomed to receive under his master, a member of the Committee desired to know of him if he could read, t
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ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1858. JOHN THOMPSON CARR, ANN MOUNTAIN AND CHILD, AND WILLIAM BOWLER.
ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1858. JOHN THOMPSON CARR, ANN MOUNTAIN AND CHILD, AND WILLIAM BOWLER.
John was a sturdy-looking chattel, but possessed far less intelligence than the generality of passengers. He was not too old, however, to improve. The fact that he had spirit enough to resent the harsh treatment of one Albert Lewis, a small farmer, who claimed to own him, showed that he was by no means a hopeless case. With all his apparent stupidity he knew enough to give his master the name of a "free whiskey drinker," likewise of "beating and fighting the slaves." It was on this account that
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ARRIVAL FROM BALTIMORE, 1858. ROBERTA TAYLOR.
ARRIVAL FROM BALTIMORE, 1858. ROBERTA TAYLOR.
The subject of this sketch was a young mulatto woman, twenty-three years of age, who fled from the City of Baltimore. Both before and after her escape Roberta appeared to appreciate her situation most fully. Her language concerning freedom had in it the ring of common sense, as had her remarks touching her slave life. In making her grievances known to the Committee she charged Mr. and Mrs. McCoy with having done great violence to her freedom and degrading her womanhood by holding her in bonds co
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ARRIVAL FROM HIGHTSTOWN, 1858. ROBERT THOMPSON (A PREACHER).
ARRIVAL FROM HIGHTSTOWN, 1858. ROBERT THOMPSON (A PREACHER).
Slavery exempted from the yoke no man with a colored skin no matter what his faith, talent, genius, or worth might be. The person of Christ in a black skin would scarcely have caused it to relinquish its tyrannical grasp; neither God nor man was regarded by men who dealt in the bodies and souls of their fellow-men. Robert stated to the Committee that he fled from "John R. Laten, a very harsh kind of a farmer, who drank right smart," that on the morning he "took out," while innocent of having com
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ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1858. ALFRED S. THORNTON.
ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1858. ALFRED S. THORNTON.
The subject of this sketch was a young man about twenty-two years of age, of dark color, but bright intellectually. Alfred found no fault with the ordinary treatment received at the hands of his master; he had evidently been on unusually intimate terms with him. Nor was any fault found with his mistress, so far as her treatment of him was concerned; thus, comparatively, he was "happy and contented," little dreaming of trader or a change of owners. One day, to his utter surprise, he saw a trader
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ARRIVAL FROM BELLEAIR. JULIUS SMITH, WIFE MARY, AND BOY JAMES, HENRY AND EDWARD SMITH, AND JACK CHRISTY.
ARRIVAL FROM BELLEAIR. JULIUS SMITH, WIFE MARY, AND BOY JAMES, HENRY AND EDWARD SMITH, AND JACK CHRISTY.
While this party was very respectable in regard to numbers and enlisted much sympathy, still they had no wounds or bruises to exhibit, or very hard reports to make relative to their bondage. The treatment that had been meted out to them was about as tolerant as Slavery could well afford; and the physical condition of the passengers bore evidence that they had been used to something better than herring and corn cake for a diet. Julius, who was successful enough to bring his wife and boy with him,
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1858. JOHN WESLEY COMBASH, JACOB TAYLOR, AND THOMAS EDWARD SKINNER.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1858. JOHN WESLEY COMBASH, JACOB TAYLOR, AND THOMAS EDWARD SKINNER.
The revelations made by these passengers were painful to listen to, and would not have been credited if any room had existed for doubt. John Wesley was thirty-two years of age, of a lively turn, pleasant countenance, dark color, and ordinary size. In unburdening his mind to the Committee the all-absorbing theme related to the manner in which he had been treated as a slave, and the character of those who had oppressed him. He stated that he had been the victim of a man or party, named Johnson, in
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ARRIVAL FROM NEW MARKET, 1858. ELIJAH SHAW.
ARRIVAL FROM NEW MARKET, 1858. ELIJAH SHAW.
This "article" reported himself as having been deprived of his liberty by Dr. Ephraim Bell, of Baltimore County, Maryland. He had no fault to find with the doctor, however; on the contrary, he spoke of him as a "very clever and nice man, as much so as anybody need to live with;" but of his wife he could not speak so favorably; indeed, he described her as a most tyrannical woman. Said Elijah, "she would make a practice of rapping the broomstick around the heads of either men, women, or children w
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ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1858. MARY FRANCES MELVIN, ELIZA HENDERSON, AND NANCY GRANTHAM.
ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1858. MARY FRANCES MELVIN, ELIZA HENDERSON, AND NANCY GRANTHAM.
Mary Frances hailed from Norfolk; she had been in servitude under Mrs. Chapman, a widow lady, against whom she had no complaint to make; indeed, she testified that her mistress was very kind, although fully allied to slavery. She said that she left, not on account of bad treatment, but simply because she wanted her freedom. Her calling as a slave had been that of a dress-maker and house servant. Mary Frances was about twenty-three years of age, of mixed blood, refined in her manners and somewhat
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ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1858. ORLANDO J. HUNT.
ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1858. ORLANDO J. HUNT.
When Orlando escaped from Richmond the Underground Rail Road business was not very brisk. A disaster on the road, resulting in the capture of one or two captains, tended to damp the ardor of some who wanted to come, as well as that of sympathizers. The road was not idle, however. Orlando's coming was hailed with great satisfaction. He was twenty-nine years of age, full black, possessed considerable intelligence, and was fluent in speech; fully qualified to give clear statements as to the conditi
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ARRIVAL FROM NORFOLK, VA., 1858. WILLIAM MACKEY.
ARRIVAL FROM NORFOLK, VA., 1858. WILLIAM MACKEY.
William made no complaint against his master of a serious nature touching himself. True, he said his "master was a frolicker, and fond of drink," but he was not particularly unkind to him. His name was Tunis; he was a military man, and young; consequently William had not been in his hands long. Prior to his being owned by the young master, he had lived with old mistress Tunis. Concerning her the following is one of William's statements: "My sister about the first of this month, three weeks after
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ARRIVAL FROM NEAR BALTIMORE, 1858. HENRY TUCKER.
ARRIVAL FROM NEAR BALTIMORE, 1858. HENRY TUCKER.
Henry fled from Baltimore county; disagreement between him and his so-called master was the cause of his flight. Elias Sneveley, a farmer, known on the Arabella Creek Place as a "hard swearer," an "old bachelor," and a common tormentor of all around him, was the name of the man that Harry said he fled from. Not willing to be run over at the pleasure of Sneveley, on two occasions just before his escape serious encounters had arisen between master and slave. Henry being spirited and hungering for
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ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1858. PETER NELSON. (RESEMBLED AN IRISHMAN.)
ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1858. PETER NELSON. (RESEMBLED AN IRISHMAN.)
The coming of this strange-looking individual caused much surprise, representing, as he did, if not a full-blooded Irishman, a man of Irish descent. He was sufficiently fair to pass for white anywhere, with his hat on—with it off, his hair would have betrayed him; it was light, but quite woolly. Nor was he likely to be called handsome; he was interesting, nevertheless. It was evident, that the "white man's party" had damaged him seriously. He represented that he had been in the bonds of one Jame
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ARRIVAL FROM WASHINGTON, 1858. MARY JONES AND SUSAN BELL.
ARRIVAL FROM WASHINGTON, 1858. MARY JONES AND SUSAN BELL.
These "weaker vessels" came from the seat of government. Mary confessed that she had been held to service as the property of Mrs. Henry Harding, who resided at Rockville, some miles out of Washington. Both Mr. and Mrs Harding she considered "bad enough," but added, "if it had not been for the young set I could get along with them; they can't be pleased." Yet Mary had not fared half so hard under the Hardings as many slaves had under their claimants. Intellectually, she was quite above the averag
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ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1858. WILLIAM CARPENTER.
ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1858. WILLIAM CARPENTER.
Escaped from the Father of the Fugitive Slave Law—Senator Mason. It was highly pleasing to have a visit from a "chattel" belonging to the leading advocate of the infamous Fugitive Slave Bill. He was hurriedly interviewed for the sake of reliable information. That William possessed a fair knowledge of slave life under the Senator there was no room to doubt, although incidents of extreme cruelty might not have been so common on Mason's place as on some others. While the verbal interchange of views
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ARRIVAL FROM THE OLD DOMINION. NINE VERY FINE "ARTICLES." LEW JONES, OSCAR PAYNE, MOSE WOOD, DAVE DIGGS, JACK, HEN, AND BILL DADE, AND JOE BALL.
ARRIVAL FROM THE OLD DOMINION. NINE VERY FINE "ARTICLES." LEW JONES, OSCAR PAYNE, MOSE WOOD, DAVE DIGGS, JACK, HEN, AND BILL DADE, AND JOE BALL.
The coming of this interesting party was as gratifying, as their departure must have been disagreeable to those who had been enjoying the fruits of their unpaid labor. Stockholders of the Underground Rail Road, conductors, etc., about this time were well pleased with the wonderful success of the road, especially as business was daily increasing. Upon inquiry of these passengers individually, the following results were obtained: Lewis was about fifty-two years of age, a man of superior stature, s
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ARRIVAL FROM DELAWARE, 1858. GEORGE LAWS AND COMRADE—TIED AND HOISTED WITH BLOCK AND TACKLE, TO BE COWHIDED.
ARRIVAL FROM DELAWARE, 1858. GEORGE LAWS AND COMRADE—TIED AND HOISTED WITH BLOCK AND TACKLE, TO BE COWHIDED.
George represented the ordinary young slave men of Delaware. He was of unmixed blood, medium size and of humble appearance. He was destitute of the knowledge of spelling, to say nothing of reading. Slavery had stamped him unmistakably for life. To be scantily fed and clothed, and compelled to work without hire, George did not admire, but had to submit without murmuring; indeed, he knew that his so-called master, whose name was Denny, would not be likely to hear complaints from a slave; he theref
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ARRIVAL FROM DELAWARE, 1858. JOHN WEEMS, ALIAS JACK HERRING.
ARRIVAL FROM DELAWARE, 1858. JOHN WEEMS, ALIAS JACK HERRING.
Although Jack was but twenty-three years of age, he had tasted the bitter cup of Slavery pretty thoroughly under Kendall B. Herring, who was a member of the Methodist Church, and in Jack's opinion a "mere pretender, and a man of a very bad disposition." Jack thought that he had worked full long enough for this Herring for nothing. When a boy twelve years of age, his mother was sold South; from that day, until the hour that he fled he had not heard a word from her. In making up his mind to leave
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1858. RUTH HARPER, GEORGE ROBINSON, PRISCILLA GARDENER, AND JOSHUA JOHN ANDERSON.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1858. RUTH HARPER, GEORGE ROBINSON, PRISCILLA GARDENER, AND JOSHUA JOHN ANDERSON.
Ruthie's course in seeking her freedom left John McPherson a woman less to work for him, and to whip, sell, or degrade at his pleasure. It is due to candor, however, to say that she admitted that she had not been used very roughly by Mr. McPherson. Ruth was rather a nice-looking young woman, tall, and polite in her manners. She came from Frederick, Maryland. George Robinson stated that he came from a place about one and a half miles from the Chesapeake Bay, one mile from Old town, and five miles
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ARRIVAL FROM NORTH CAROLINA AND DELAWARE. "DICK BEESLY",MURRAY YOUNG AND CHARLES ANDREW BOLDEN.
ARRIVAL FROM NORTH CAROLINA AND DELAWARE. "DICK BEESLY",MURRAY YOUNG AND CHARLES ANDREW BOLDEN.
Physically, Dick was hardly up to the ordinary stature of slaves, but mentally he had the advantage of the masses; he was too sharp to be kept in Slavery. His hue was perfect, no sign of white about him, if that were any advantage. From Dick's story, it appeared that he had seen hard times in North Carolina, under a man he designated by the name of Richard Smallwood. He was a farmer, living near Wheldon. One of the faults that he found with Smallwood was, that he was a "tough, drinking man"—he a
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. JOHN JANNEY, TALBOT JOHNSON, SAM GROSS, PETER GROSS, JAMES HENRY JACKSON, AND SAM SMITH.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. JOHN JANNEY, TALBOT JOHNSON, SAM GROSS, PETER GROSS, JAMES HENRY JACKSON, AND SAM SMITH.
Runaway glyph $1.000 REWARD.—Ran away from the subscriber, August 14th, two negro men, viz: BILL HUTTON, aged 48 or 50 years, dark brown, round face, 5 feet 7 or 8 inches high, rather stout, has a waddling walk, and small bald spot on the top of his head. TALBOT JOHNSON, aged about 35, is black, spare, and lean-visaged, about 5 feet 10 inches high, has lost some of his front teeth, leans forward as he walks. If taken in a slave State I will give $200 each for their recovery. For their recovery f
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. BIRTH-DAY PRESENT FROM THOMAS GARRETT.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. BIRTH-DAY PRESENT FROM THOMAS GARRETT.
WILMINGTON, 8th mo. 21st, 1858. ESTEEMED FRIEND:—WILLIAM STILL:—This is my 69th birth-day, and I do not know any better way to celebrate it in a way to accord with my feelings, than to send to thee two fugitives, man and wife; the man has been here a week waiting for his wife, who is expected in time to leave at 9 this evening in the cars for thy house with a pilot, who knows where thee lives, but I cannot help but feel some anxiety about the woman, as there is great commotion just now in the ne
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ARRIVAL FROM THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, 1858. REBECCA JACKSON AND DAUGHTER, AND ROBERT SHORTER.
ARRIVAL FROM THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, 1858. REBECCA JACKSON AND DAUGHTER, AND ROBERT SHORTER.
The road to Washington was doing about this time a marvellously large business. "William Penn" and other friends in Washington were most vigilant, and knew where to find passengers who were daily thirsting for deliverance. Rebecca Jackson was a woman of about thirty-seven years of age, of a yellow color, and of bright intellect, prepossessing in her manners. She had pined in bondage in Georgetown under Mrs. Margaret Dick, a lady of wealth and far advanced in life, a firm believer in slavery and
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ARRIVAL FROM HONEY BROOK TOWNSHIP, 1858. FRANK CAMPBELL.
ARRIVAL FROM HONEY BROOK TOWNSHIP, 1858. FRANK CAMPBELL.
Frank was a man of blunt features, rather stout, almost jet black, and about medium height and weight. He was not certain about his age, rather thought that he was between thirty and forty years. He had been deprived of learning to read or write, but with hard treatment he had been made fully acquainted under a man named Henry Campbell, who called himself Frank's master, and without his consent managed to profit by his daily sweat and toil. This Campbell was a farmer, and was said to be the owne
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ARRIVAL FROM ALEXANDRIA, VA., 1858. RICHARD BAYNE, CARTER DOWLING AND BENJAMIN TAYLOR.
ARRIVAL FROM ALEXANDRIA, VA., 1858. RICHARD BAYNE, CARTER DOWLING AND BENJAMIN TAYLOR.
Richard stated that a man named "Rudolph Massey, a merchant tailor, hard rum-drinker, card player, etc." claimed to own him, and had held him, up to the time of his escape, as with bands of brass. Richard said, "I was hired out for ten dollars a month, but I never suffered like many—didn't leave because I have been abused, but simply to keep from falling into the hands of some heirs that I had been willed to." In case of a division, Richard did not see how he could be divided without being conve
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ARRIVAL FROM THE SEAT OF GOVERNMENT. HANSON WILLIAMS, NACE SHAW, GUSTA YOUNG, AND DANIEL M'NORTON SMITH.
ARRIVAL FROM THE SEAT OF GOVERNMENT. HANSON WILLIAMS, NACE SHAW, GUSTA YOUNG, AND DANIEL M'NORTON SMITH.
Runaway glyph $200 REWARD.—Ran away from the subscriber, (Levi Pumphrey,) two NEGRO MEN—one, named "Hanson," about forty years old, with one eye out, about 5 feet 4 inches in height, full, bushy hair and whiskers and copper color. "Gusta" is about 21 years or 22 years of age, smooth face and thick lips, and stoops in his walk; black color, about 5 feet 5 or 6 inches in height; took away sundry articles of clothing. I will give one hundred dollars for each of them, if secured in jail so that I ca
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CROSSING THE BAY IN A SKIFF. WILLIAM THOMAS COPE, JOHN BOICE GREY, HENRY BOICE AND ISAAC WHITE.
CROSSING THE BAY IN A SKIFF. WILLIAM THOMAS COPE, JOHN BOICE GREY, HENRY BOICE AND ISAAC WHITE.
These young bondmen, whilst writhing under the tortures heaped upon them, resolved, at the cost of life, to make a desperate trial for free land; to rid themselves of their fetters, at whatever peril they might have to encounter. The land route presented less encouragement than by water; they knew but little, however, concerning either way. After much anxious reflection, they finally decided to make their Underground Rail Road exit by water. Having lived all their lives not far from the bay, the
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ARRIVAL FROM KENT COUNTY, MD., 1858. ASBURY IRWIN, EPHRAIM ENNIS, AND LYDIA ANN JOHNS.
ARRIVAL FROM KENT COUNTY, MD., 1858. ASBURY IRWIN, EPHRAIM ENNIS, AND LYDIA ANN JOHNS.
The party whose narratives are here given brought grave charges against a backsliding member of the Society of Friends—a renegade Quaker. Doubtless rare instances may be found where men of the Quaker persuasion, emigrating from free and settling in slave States and among slaveholders, have deserted their freedom-loving principle and led captive by the force of bad examples, have linked hands with the oppressor against the oppressed. It is probable, however, that this is the only case that may tu
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ARRIVAL FROM WASHINGTON, 1858. JOSEPHINE ROBINSON.
ARRIVAL FROM WASHINGTON, 1858. JOSEPHINE ROBINSON.
Many reasons were given by Josephine for leaving the sunny South. She had a mistress, but was not satisfied with her—hadn't a particle of love for her; "she was all the time fussing and scolding, and never could be satisfied." She was very well off, and owned thirteen or fourteen head of slaves. She was a member of the Methodist Church, was stingy and very mean towards her slaves. Josephine having lived with her all her life, professed to have a thorough knowledge of her ways and manners, and se
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ARRIVAL FROM CECIL COUNTY, 1858. ROBERT JOHNS AND HIS WIFE "SUE ANN."
ARRIVAL FROM CECIL COUNTY, 1858. ROBERT JOHNS AND HIS WIFE "SUE ANN."
Fortunately, in this instance, man and wife succeeded in making their way out of Slavery together. Robert was a man of small stature, and the farthest shade from white. In appearance and intellect he represented the ordinary Maryland slave, raised on a farm, surrounded with no refining influences or sympathy. He stated that a man by the name of William Cassey had claimed the right to his labor, and that he had been kept in bondage on his farm. For a year or more before setting out for freedom, R
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ARRIVAL FROM GEORGETOWN, D.C., 1858. PERRY CLEXTON, JIM BANKS AND CHARLES NOLE.
ARRIVAL FROM GEORGETOWN, D.C., 1858. PERRY CLEXTON, JIM BANKS AND CHARLES NOLE.
This party found no very serious obstacles in their travels, as their plans were well arranged, and as they had at least natural ability sufficient for ordinary emergencies. Perry reported that he left "a man by the name of John M. Williams, of Georgetown, D.C., who was in the wood business, and kept a wharf." As to treatment, he said that he had not been used very hard, but had been worked hard and allowed but few privileges. The paltry sum of twenty-five cents a week, was all that was allowed
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ARRIVAL FROM SUSSEX COUNTY, 1858. JACOB BLOCKSON, GEORGE ALLIGOOD, JIM ALLIGOOD, AND GEORGE LEWIS.
ARRIVAL FROM SUSSEX COUNTY, 1858. JACOB BLOCKSON, GEORGE ALLIGOOD, JIM ALLIGOOD, AND GEORGE LEWIS.
The coming of Jacob and his companions was welcomed in the usual way. The marks of Slavery upon them were evident; however they were subjected to the usual critical examination, which they bore with composure, and without the least damage. The following notes in the main were recorded from their statements: Jacob was a stout and healthy-looking man, about twenty-seven years of age, with a countenance indicative of having no sympathy with Slavery. Being invited to tell his own story, describe his
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SUNDRY ARRIVALS IN 1859. SARAH ANN MILLS, Boonsborough; CAROLINE GASSWAY, Mt. Airy; LEVIN HOLDEN, Laurel; WILLIAM JAMES CONNER, with his wife, child, and four brothers; JAMES LAZARUS, Delaware; RICHARD WILLIAMS, Richmond, Virginia; SYDNEY HOPKINS and HENRY WHEELER, Havre de Grace.
SUNDRY ARRIVALS IN 1859. SARAH ANN MILLS, Boonsborough; CAROLINE GASSWAY, Mt. Airy; LEVIN HOLDEN, Laurel; WILLIAM JAMES CONNER, with his wife, child, and four brothers; JAMES LAZARUS, Delaware; RICHARD WILLIAMS, Richmond, Virginia; SYDNEY HOPKINS and HENRY WHEELER, Havre de Grace.
Sarah Mills set out for freedom long before she reached womanhood; being about sixteen years of age. She stated that she had been very cruelly treated, that she was owned by a man named Joseph O'Neil, "a tax collector and a very bad man." Under said O'Neil she had been required to chop wood, curry horses, work in the field like a man, and all one winter she had been compelled to go barefooted. Three weeks before Sarah fled, her mistress was called away by death; nevertheless Sarah could not forg
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ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1859. CORNELIUS HENRY JOHNSON. FACE CANADA-WARD FOR YEARS.
ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1859. CORNELIUS HENRY JOHNSON. FACE CANADA-WARD FOR YEARS.
Quite an agreeable interview took place between Cornelius and the Committee. He gave his experience of Slavery pretty fully, and the Committee enlightened him as to the workings of the Underground Rail Road, the value of freedom, and the safety of Canada as a refuge. Cornelius was a single man, thirty-six years of age, full black, medium size, and intelligent. He stated that he had had his face set toward Canada for a long while. Three times he had made an effort to get out of the prison-house.
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ARRIVAL FROM DELAWARE, 1858. THEOPHILUS COLLINS, ANDREW JACKSON BOYCE, HANDY BURTON AND ROBERT JACKSON. A DESPERATE, BLOODY STRUGGLE—GUN, KNIFE AND FIRE SHOVEL, USED BY AN INFURIATED MASTER.
ARRIVAL FROM DELAWARE, 1858. THEOPHILUS COLLINS, ANDREW JACKSON BOYCE, HANDY BURTON AND ROBERT JACKSON. A DESPERATE, BLOODY STRUGGLE—GUN, KNIFE AND FIRE SHOVEL, USED BY AN INFURIATED MASTER.
Judged from their outward appearance, as well as from the fact that they were from the neighboring State of Delaware, no extraordinary revelations were looked for from the above-named party. It was found, however, that one of their number, at least, had a sad tale of outrage and cruelty to relate. The facts stated are as follows: Theophilus is twenty-four years of age, dark, height and stature hardly medium, with faculties only about average compared with ordinary fugitives from Delaware and Mar
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ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1859. STEPNEY BROWN.
ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1859. STEPNEY BROWN.
Stepney was an extraordinary man, his countenance indicating great goodness of heart, and his gratitude to his heavenly Father for his deliverance proved that he was fully aware of the Source whence his help had come. Being a man of excellent natural gifts, as well as of religious fervor and devotion to a remarkable degree, he seemed admirably fitted to represent the slave in chains, looking up to God with an eye of faith, and again the fugitive in Canada triumphant and rejoicing with joy unspea
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1859. JIM KELL, CHARLES HEATH, WILLIAM CARLISLE, CHARLES RINGGOLD, THOMAS MAXWELL, AND SAMUEL SMITH.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1859. JIM KELL, CHARLES HEATH, WILLIAM CARLISLE, CHARLES RINGGOLD, THOMAS MAXWELL, AND SAMUEL SMITH.
On the evening of the Fourth of July, while all was hilarity and rejoicing the above named very interesting fugitives arrived from the troubled district, the Eastern shore, of Maryland, where so many conventions had been held the previous year to prevent escapes; where the Rev. Samuel Green had been convicted and sent to the penitentiary for ten years for having a copy of Uncle Tom's Cabin in his humble home; where so many parties, on escaping, had the good sense and courage to secure their flig
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SUNDRY ARRIVALS, 1859. JOHN EDWARD LEE, JOHN HILLIS, CHARLES ROSS, JAMES RYAN, WILLIAM JOHNSTON, EDWARD WOOD, CORNELIUS FULLER AND HIS WIFE HARRIET, JOHN PINKET, ANSAL CANNON, AND JAMES BROWN.
SUNDRY ARRIVALS, 1859. JOHN EDWARD LEE, JOHN HILLIS, CHARLES ROSS, JAMES RYAN, WILLIAM JOHNSTON, EDWARD WOOD, CORNELIUS FULLER AND HIS WIFE HARRIET, JOHN PINKET, ANSAL CANNON, AND JAMES BROWN.
John came from Maryland, and brought with him a good degree of pluck. He satisfied the Committee that he fully believed in freedom, and had proved his faith by his works, as he came in contact with pursuers, whom he put to flight by the use of an ugly-looking knife, which he plunged into one of them, producing quite a panic; the result was that he was left to pursue his Underground Rail Road journey without further molestation. There was nothing in John's appearance which would lead one to suppo
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1859. JAMES BROWN.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1859. JAMES BROWN.
A more giant-like looking passenger than the above named individual had rarely ever passed over the road. He was six feet three inches high, and in every respect, a man of bone, sinew and muscle. For one who had enjoyed only a field hand's privileges for improvement, he was not to be despised. Jim owed service to Henry Jones; at least he admitted that said Jones claimed him, and had hired him out to himself for seven dollars per month. While this amount seemed light, it was much heavier than Jim
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ARRIVAL FROM DELAWARE, 1859. EDWARD, JOHN, AND CHARLES HALL.
ARRIVAL FROM DELAWARE, 1859. EDWARD, JOHN, AND CHARLES HALL.
The above named individuals were brothers from Delaware. They were young; the eldest being about twenty, the youngest not far from seventeen years of age. Edward was serving on a farm, under a man named Booth. Perceiving that Booth was "running through his property" very fast by hard drinking, Edward's better judgment admonished him that his so-called master would one day have need of more rum money, and that he might not be too good to offer him in the market for what he would bring. Charles re
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ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1859. JAMES TAYLOR, ALBERT GROSS, AND JOHN GRINAGE.
ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1859. JAMES TAYLOR, ALBERT GROSS, AND JOHN GRINAGE.
To see mere lads, not twenty-one years of age, smart enough to outwit the very shrewdest and wisest slave-holders of Virginia was very gratifying. The young men composing this arrival were of this keen-sighted order. James was only a little turned of twenty, of a yellow complexion, and intelligent. A trader, by the name of George Ailer, professed to own James. He said that he had been used tolerable well, not so bad as many had been used. James was learning the carpenter trade; but he was anxiou
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SUNDRY ARRIVALS FROM MARYLAND (1859) AND OTHER PLACES. JAMES ANDY WILKINS, and wife LUCINDA, with their little boy, CHARLES, CHARLES HENRY GROSS, A WOMAN with her TWO CHILDREN—one in her arms—JOHN BROWN, JOHN ROACH, and wife LAMBY, and HENRY SMALLWOOD.
SUNDRY ARRIVALS FROM MARYLAND (1859) AND OTHER PLACES. JAMES ANDY WILKINS, and wife LUCINDA, with their little boy, CHARLES, CHARLES HENRY GROSS, A WOMAN with her TWO CHILDREN—one in her arms—JOHN BROWN, JOHN ROACH, and wife LAMBY, and HENRY SMALLWOOD.
The above-named passengers did not all come from the same place, or exactly at the same time; but for the sake of convenience they are thus embraced under a general head. James Andy Wilkins "gave the slip" to a farmer, by the name of George Biddle, who lived one mile from Cecil, Cecil county, Maryland. While he hated Slavery, he took a favorable view of his master in some respects at least, as he said that he was a "moderate man in talk;" but "sly in action." His master provided him with two pai
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ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1859. HENRY JONES AND TURNER FOSTER.
ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1859. HENRY JONES AND TURNER FOSTER.
Henry was left free by the will of his mistress (Elizabeth Mann), but the heirs were making desperate efforts to overturn this instrument. Of this, there was so much danger with a Richmond court, that Henry feared that the chances were against him; that the court was not honest enough to do him justice. Being a man of marked native foresight, he concluded that the less he talked about freedom and the more he acted the sooner he would be out of his difficulties. He was called upon, however, to se
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. TWO YOUNG MOTHERS, EACH WITH BABES IN THEIR ARMS—ANNA ELIZABETH YOUNG AND SARAH JANE BELL—WHIPPED TILL THE BLOOD FLOWED.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. TWO YOUNG MOTHERS, EACH WITH BABES IN THEIR ARMS—ANNA ELIZABETH YOUNG AND SARAH JANE BELL—WHIPPED TILL THE BLOOD FLOWED.
The appearance of these young mothers at first produced a sudden degree of pleasure, but their story of suffering quite as suddenly caused the most painful reflections. It was hardly possible to listen to their tales of outrage and wrong with composure. Both came from Kent county, Maryland, and reported that they fled from a man by the name of Massey; a man of low stature, light-complexioned, with dark hair, dark eyes, and very quick temper; given to hard swearing as a common practice; also, tha
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, VIRGINIA, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. JOHN WESLEY SMITH, ROBERT MURRAY, SUSAN STEWART, AND JOSEPHINE SMITH.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, VIRGINIA, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. JOHN WESLEY SMITH, ROBERT MURRAY, SUSAN STEWART, AND JOSEPHINE SMITH.
Daniel Hubert was fattening on John Wesley's earnings contrary to his, John's, idea of right. For a long time John failed to see the remedy, but as he grew older and wiser the scales fell from his eyes and he perceived that the Underground Rail Road ran near his master's place, Cambridge, Md., and by a very little effort and a large degree of courage and perseverance he might manage to get out of Maryland and on to Canada, where slave-holders had no more rights than other people. These reflectio
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SUNDRY ARRIVALS FROM MARYLAND AND VIRGINIA. HENRY FIELDS, CHARLES RINGGOLD, WILLIAM RINGGOLD, ISAAC NEWTON AND JOSEPH THOMAS.
SUNDRY ARRIVALS FROM MARYLAND AND VIRGINIA. HENRY FIELDS, CHARLES RINGGOLD, WILLIAM RINGGOLD, ISAAC NEWTON AND JOSEPH THOMAS.
["Five other cases were attended to by Dillwyn Parish and J.C. White"—other than this no note was made of them.] Henry Fields took the benefit of the Underground Rail Road at the age of eighteen. He fled from the neighborhood of Port Deposit while being "broke in" by a man named Washington Glasby, who was wicked enough to claim him as his property, and was also about to sell him. This chattel was of a light yellow complexion, hearty-looking and wide awake. Charles Ringgold took offence at being
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ARRIVAL FROM SEAFORD, 1859. ROBERT BELL AND TWO OTHERS.
ARRIVAL FROM SEAFORD, 1859. ROBERT BELL AND TWO OTHERS.
Robert came from Seaford, where he had served under Charles Wright, a farmer, of considerable means, and the owner of a number of slaves, over whom he was accustomed to rule with much rigor. Although Robert's master had a wife and five children, the love which Robert bore them was too weak to hold him; and well adapted as the system of Slavery might be to render him happy in the service of young and old masters, it was insufficient for him. Robert found no rest under Mr. Wright; no privileges, s
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ARRIVAL FROM TAPPS' NECK, MD., 1859. LEWIS WILSON, JOHN WATERS, ALFRED EDWARDS AND WILLIAM QUINN.
ARRIVAL FROM TAPPS' NECK, MD., 1859. LEWIS WILSON, JOHN WATERS, ALFRED EDWARDS AND WILLIAM QUINN.
Lewis' grey hairs signified that he had been for many years plodding under the yoke. He was about fifty years of age, well set, not tall, but he had about him the marks of a substantial laborer. He had been brought up on a farm under H. Lynch, whom Lewis described as "a mean man when drunk, and very severe on his slaves." The number that he ruled over as his property, was about twenty. Said Lewis, about two years ago, he shot a free man, and the man died about two hours afterwards; for this offe
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1859. ANN MARIA JACKSON AND HER SEVEN CHILDREN—MARY ANN, WILLIAM HENRY, FRANCES SABRINA, WILHELMINA, JOHN EDWIN, EBENEZER THOMAS, AND WILLIAM ALBERT.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1859. ANN MARIA JACKSON AND HER SEVEN CHILDREN—MARY ANN, WILLIAM HENRY, FRANCES SABRINA, WILHELMINA, JOHN EDWIN, EBENEZER THOMAS, AND WILLIAM ALBERT.
Mother with seven children The coming of the above named was duly announced by Thomas Garrett: WILMINGTON, 11th mo., 21st, 1858. DEAR FRIENDS—McKIM AND STILL:—I write to inform you that on the 16th of this month, we passed on four able bodied men to Pennsylvania, and they were followed last night by a woman and her six children, from three or four years of age, up to sixteen years, I believe the whole belonged to the same estate, and they were to have been sold at public sale, I was informed yes
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SUNDRY ARRIVALS FROM VIRGINIA, MARYLAND AND DELAWARE. LEWIS LEE, ENOCH DAVIS, JOHN BROWN, THOMAS EDWARD DIXON, AND WILLIAM OLIVER.
SUNDRY ARRIVALS FROM VIRGINIA, MARYLAND AND DELAWARE. LEWIS LEE, ENOCH DAVIS, JOHN BROWN, THOMAS EDWARD DIXON, AND WILLIAM OLIVER.
Slavery brought about many radical changes, some in one way and some in another. Lewis Lee was entirely too white for practical purposes. They tried to get him to content himself under the yoke, but he could not see the point. A man by the name of William Watkins, living near Fairfax, Virginia, claimed Lewis, having come by his title through marriage. Title or no title, Lewis thought that he would not serve him for nothing, and that he had been hoodwinked already a great while longer than he sho
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ARRIVAL FROM DIFFERENT POINTS. JACOB BROWN, JAMES HARRIS, BENJAMIN PINEY, JOHN SMITH, ANDREW JACKSON, WILLIAM HUGHES, WESLEY WILLIAMS, ROSANNA JOHNSON, JOHN SMALLWOOD, AND HENRY TOWNSEND.
ARRIVAL FROM DIFFERENT POINTS. JACOB BROWN, JAMES HARRIS, BENJAMIN PINEY, JOHN SMITH, ANDREW JACKSON, WILLIAM HUGHES, WESLEY WILLIAMS, ROSANNA JOHNSON, JOHN SMALLWOOD, AND HENRY TOWNSEND.
Jacob Brown was eating the bread of Slavery in North Carolina. A name-sake of his by the name of Lewis Brown, living in Washington, according to the slave code of that city had Jacob in fetters, and was exercising about the same control over him that he exercised over cattle and horses. While this might have been a pleasure for the master, it was painful for the slave. The usage which Jacob had ordinarily received made him anything but contented. At the age of twenty, he resolved that he would r
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SUNDRY ARRIVALS FROM MARYLAND, 1860. WILLIAM CHION AND HIS WIFE, EMMA, EVAN GRAFF, AND FOUR OTHERS.
SUNDRY ARRIVALS FROM MARYLAND, 1860. WILLIAM CHION AND HIS WIFE, EMMA, EVAN GRAFF, AND FOUR OTHERS.
William and Emma came from Dorchester county, Maryland. The cords of Slavery had been tightly drawn around them. William was about twenty-seven years of age, of a dark hue, and of a courageous bearing. On the score of treatment he spake thus: "I have been treated as bad as a man could be." Emma, his wife, had seen about the same number of years that he had, and her lot had been similar to his. Emma said, "My master never give me the second dress, never attempted such a thing." The master was cal
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ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1860. JENNY BUCHANAN. A KIND MASTER; JENNY CHASTISED ONE OF HIS SONS FOR AN INSULT, AND AS A PUNISHMENT SHE WAS SOLD—SEIZED FOR DEBT—SOLD A SECOND TIME.
ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1860. JENNY BUCHANAN. A KIND MASTER; JENNY CHASTISED ONE OF HIS SONS FOR AN INSULT, AND AS A PUNISHMENT SHE WAS SOLD—SEIZED FOR DEBT—SOLD A SECOND TIME.
Jenny was about forty-five years of age, a dark mulatto, stature medium, manners modest and graceful; she had served only in high life; thus she had acquired a great deal of information. She stated that she was born a slave, under John Bower, of Rockbridge, Virginia, and that he was the owner of a large plantation, with a great number of slaves. He was considered to be a good man to his servants, and was generally beloved by them. Suddenly, however, he was taken ill with paralysis, which confine
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ARRIVAL FROM BALTIMORE, 1860. WILLIAM BROWN, AND JAMES HENSON
ARRIVAL FROM BALTIMORE, 1860. WILLIAM BROWN, AND JAMES HENSON
Considering themselves trampled upon by their fellow-men, unitedly resolved to seek a better country. William was pained with the idea that so much of his time had already been used up, as he was then thirty-six years of age. Yet he thought that it would do no good to mourn over the past, but do what he intended to do quickly. The master whom he had served, he called, "Master Lynchum." He was a farmer, and knew full well how to use severity with the slaves; but had never practiced showing favors
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. PHILIP STANTON, RANDOLPH NICHOLS, AND THOMAS DOUGLASS.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. PHILIP STANTON, RANDOLPH NICHOLS, AND THOMAS DOUGLASS.
Philip had a master by the name of John Smith, whom he was very anxious to get rid of, but hardly knew how. For a long time, Philip was annoyed in various ways. Being the only slave on the place, there was no rest for him. Said Smith was a bachelor, and his mother, who kept house for him, was quite aged; "she was worse than the old boy wanted her to be, a more contrary woman never was; she was bad in this way, she was quarrelsome, and then again she would not give you as much to eat as you ought
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ARRIVAL FROM FREDERICKSBURG, 1860. HENRY TUDLE AND WIFE, MARY WILLIAMS.
ARRIVAL FROM FREDERICKSBURG, 1860. HENRY TUDLE AND WIFE, MARY WILLIAMS.
Henry affirmed, that for the last twenty years, his freedom had been promised him, and during all these long years, hardly a month had passed, that he had not fixed his hopes upon a definite time, when his bondage would end and his freedom commence. But he had been trusting the word of a slave-holder, who had probably adopted this plan simply with a view of drawing more willing toil out of him than he could have accomplished in any other way. Mary complained that she had suffered severely for fo
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SUNDRY ARRIVALS FROM MARYLAND, 1860. SAM ARCHER, LEWIS PECK, DAVID EDWARDS, EDWARD CASTING, JOE HENRY, GEORGE AND ALBERT WHITE, JOSEPH C. JOHNSON, DAVID SNIVELY, AND HENRY DUNMORE.
SUNDRY ARRIVALS FROM MARYLAND, 1860. SAM ARCHER, LEWIS PECK, DAVID EDWARDS, EDWARD CASTING, JOE HENRY, GEORGE AND ALBERT WHITE, JOSEPH C. JOHNSON, DAVID SNIVELY, AND HENRY DUNMORE.
Sam Archer was to "become free at thirty-five years of age." He had already served thirty years of this time; five years longer seemed an age to him. The dangers from other sources presented also a frightful aspect. Sam had seen too many who had stood exactly in the same relations to Slavery and freedom, and not a few were held over their time, or cheated out of their freedom altogether. He stated that his own mother was "kept over her time," simply "that her master might get all her children."
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CROSSING THE BAY IN A BATTEAU. SHARP CONTEST WITH PURSUERS ON WATER. FUGITIVES VICTORIOUS.
CROSSING THE BAY IN A BATTEAU. SHARP CONTEST WITH PURSUERS ON WATER. FUGITIVES VICTORIOUS.
Fight On the Bay THOMAS SIPPLE, and his wife, MARY ANN, HENRY BURKETT, and ELIZABETH, his wife, JOHN PURNELL, and HALE BURTON. This party were slaves, living near Kunkletown, in Worcester county, Maryland, and had become restive in their fetters. Although they did not know a letter of the alphabet, they were fully persuaded that they were entitled to their freedom. In considering what way would be safest for them to adopt, they concluded that the water would be less dangerous than any other rout
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ARRIVAL FROM DORCHESTER CO., 1860. HARRIET TUBMAN'S LAST "TRIP" TO MARYLAND.
ARRIVAL FROM DORCHESTER CO., 1860. HARRIET TUBMAN'S LAST "TRIP" TO MARYLAND.
STEPHEN ENNETS and wife, MARIA, with three children, whose names were as follows: HARRIET, aged six years; AMANDA, four years, and a babe (in the arms of its mother), three months old. The following letter from Thomas Garrett throws light upon this arrival: WILMINGTON, 12th mo., 1st, 1860. RESPECTED FRIEND:—WILLIAM STILL:—I write to let thee know that Harriet Tubman is again in these parts. She arrived last evening from one of her trips of mercy to God's poor, bringing two men with her as far as
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1860. JERRY MILLS, AND WIFE, DIANA, SON, CORNELIUS, AND TWO DAUGHTERS, MARGARET, AND SUSAN.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND, 1860. JERRY MILLS, AND WIFE, DIANA, SON, CORNELIUS, AND TWO DAUGHTERS, MARGARET, AND SUSAN.
The father of this family was sixty-five years of age, and his working days were apparently well nigh completed. The mother was fifty-seven years of age; son twenty-seven; daughters seventeen and fifteen years of age. The old man was smart for his years, but bore evidence that much hard labor had been wrung out of him by Slavery. Diana said that she had been the mother of twelve children; five had escaped to Canada, three were in their graves, and three accompanied her; one was left in Maryland.
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TWELVE MONTHS IN THE WOODS, 1860. HENRY COTTON.
TWELVE MONTHS IN THE WOODS, 1860. HENRY COTTON.
As a slave, subjected to the whims and passions of his master, Henry made up his mind that he could not stand it longer. The man who mastered it over him was called Nathaniel Dixon, and lived in Somerset Co., near Newtown. This Dixon was not content with his right to flog and abuse Henry as he saw fit, but he threatened to sell him, as he would sell a hog. At this time Henry was about twenty-four years of age, but a man of more substantial parts physically was rarely to be seen. Courage was one
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ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. WILLIAM PIERCE.
ARRIVAL FROM MARYLAND. WILLIAM PIERCE.
But few passengers expressed themselves in stronger terms in regard to their so-called masters, than William Pierce, from Long Green. "I fled," said he, "from John Hickol, a farmer, about fifty years old, grey-headed and drinks whiskey very hard—was always a big devil—ill-grained. He owned fifteen head; he owns three of my brothers. He has a wife, a big devil, red head; her servants, she wouldn't feed 'em none, except on corn bread; she would fight and swear too, when she got ready. She and her
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A SLAVE CATCHER CAUGHT IN HIS OWN TRAP. GEORGE F. ALBERTI PERSONATED BY A MEMBER OF THE VIGILANCE COMMITTEE—A LADY FRIGHTENED BY A PLACARD.
A SLAVE CATCHER CAUGHT IN HIS OWN TRAP. GEORGE F. ALBERTI PERSONATED BY A MEMBER OF THE VIGILANCE COMMITTEE—A LADY FRIGHTENED BY A PLACARD.
One afternoon, the quiet of the Anti-Slavery Office was suddenly agitated by the contents of a letter, privately placed in the hands of J. Miller McKim by one of the clerks of the Philadelphia Ledger office. Said letter it would seem, had been dropped into the box of the Ledger office, instead of the U.S. box (one of which, was also in the Ledger office), through a mistake, and seeing that it bore the name of a well-known slave-catcher, Alberti, the clerk had a great desire to know its import. W
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ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1858. HENRY LANGHORN alias WM. SCOTT.
ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1858. HENRY LANGHORN alias WM. SCOTT.
This "chattel" from Richmond, Virginia, was of a yellow complexion, with some knowledge of the arts of reading and writing; he was about twenty-three years of age and considered himself in great danger of being subjected to the auction-block by one Charles L. Hobson. Hobson and Henry had grown up from boyhood together; for years they had even occupied the same room,—Henry as a servant-boy and protector of his prospective young master. Under these relations quite strong affinities were cemented b
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ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1859.
ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND, 1859.
Miles Robinson was the slave of Mrs. Roberts, a widow lady living in York County, Virginia. He did not live with her, however, but was hired out in the city of Richmond. He had been fortunate in falling into hands that had not treated him harshly. He was not contented, however. Much of the leisure falling incidentally to his lot from hours of duty, he devoted to the banjo. As a player on this instrument he had become quite gifted, but music in Richmond was not liberty. The latter he craved, and
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ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND. JOHN WILLIAM DUNGY.—BROUGHT A PASS FROM EX. GOV. GREGORY.
ARRIVAL FROM RICHMOND. JOHN WILLIAM DUNGY.—BROUGHT A PASS FROM EX. GOV. GREGORY.
"He ought to be put in a cage and kept for a show," said Anna Brown, daughter of the hero, John Brown, at the house of the writer, where she happened to meet the above named Underground Rail Road passenger. He had then just returned from Canada, after being a Refugee four years. In the mean time through the war and the Proclamation of Father Abraham the fetters had been torn from the limbs of the slave, and the way to Richmond was open to all. John William on this occasion was on his way thither
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"AUNT HANNAH MOORE."
"AUNT HANNAH MOORE."
In 1854 in company with her so-called Mistress (Mary Moore) Aunt Hannah arrived in Philadelphia, from Missouri, being en route to California, where she with her mistress was to join her master, who had gone there years before to seek his fortune. The mistress having relatives in this city tarried here a short time, not doubting that she had sufficient control over Aunt Hannah to keep her from contact with either abolitionists or those of her own color, and that she would have no difficulty in ta
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KIDNAPPING OF RACHEL AND ELIZABETH PARKER—MURDER OF JOSEPH C. MILLER IN 1851 AND 1852.
KIDNAPPING OF RACHEL AND ELIZABETH PARKER—MURDER OF JOSEPH C. MILLER IN 1851 AND 1852.
Those who were interested in the Anti-Slavery cause, and who kept posted with reference to the frequent cases of kidnapping occurring in different Free States, especially in Pennsylvania, during the twenty years previous to emancipation, cannot fail to remember the kidnapping of Rachel and Elizabeth Parker, and the murder of Joseph C. Miller, who resided in West Nottingham township, Chester county, Pennsylvania, in the latter part of 1851, and the beginning of 1852. Both the kidnapping and the m
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ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1854. TUCKER WHITE.
ARRIVAL FROM VIRGINIA, 1854. TUCKER WHITE.
Tucker reported that he fled from Major Isaac Roney, of Dinwiddie Court-House, Virginia, in the Christmas week prior to his arrival; that he reached Petersburg and then encountered difficulties of the most trying nature; he next stopped at City Point, and was equally unfortunate there. From exposure in the cold he was severely frost-bitten. While suffering from the frost he was kept in the poor-house. After partial recovery he made his way to Baltimore and thence to Philadelphia. Once or twice h
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ARRIVAL FROM NORFOLK. MARY MILLBURN, alias LOUISA F. JONES, ESCAPED IN MALE ATTIRE.
ARRIVAL FROM NORFOLK. MARY MILLBURN, alias LOUISA F. JONES, ESCAPED IN MALE ATTIRE.
Mary Millburn Neither in personal appearance, manners, nor language, were any traces of the Peculiar Institution visible in Mary Millburn. On the contrary, she represented a young lady, with a passable education, and very refined in her deportment. She had eaten the white bread of Slavery, under the Misses Chapman, and they had been singularly kind to her, taking special pains with her in regard to the company she should keep, a point important to young girls, so liable to exposure as were the u
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ARRIVAL OF FIFTEEN FROM NORFOLK, VIRGINIA. PER SCHOONER—TWICE SEARCHED—LANDED AT LEAGUE ISLAND. ISAAC FORMAN, HENRY WILLIAMS, WILLIAM SEYMOUR, HARRIET TAYLOR, MARY BIRD, MRS. LEWEY, SARAH SAUNDERS, SOPHIA GRAY, HENRY GRAY, MARY GRAY, WINFIELD SCOTT, and three children.
ARRIVAL OF FIFTEEN FROM NORFOLK, VIRGINIA. PER SCHOONER—TWICE SEARCHED—LANDED AT LEAGUE ISLAND. ISAAC FORMAN, HENRY WILLIAMS, WILLIAM SEYMOUR, HARRIET TAYLOR, MARY BIRD, MRS. LEWEY, SARAH SAUNDERS, SOPHIA GRAY, HENRY GRAY, MARY GRAY, WINFIELD SCOTT, and three children.
About the 4th of July, 1856, a message reached the Secretary that a schooner containing fifteen Underground Rail Road passengers, from Norfolk, Virginia, would be landed near League Island, directly at the foot of Broad street, that evening at a late hour, and a request accompanied the message, to the effect that the Committee would be on hand to receive them. Accordingly the Secretary procured three carriages, with trustworthy drivers, and between ten and eleven o'clock at night arrived on the
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THE CASE OF EUPHEMIA WILLIAMS, CLAIMED AS A FUGITIVE SLAVE UNDER THE FUGITIVE SLAVE-LAW AFTER HAVING LIVED IN PENNSYLVANIA FOR MORE THAN TWENTY YEARS.
THE CASE OF EUPHEMIA WILLIAMS, CLAIMED AS A FUGITIVE SLAVE UNDER THE FUGITIVE SLAVE-LAW AFTER HAVING LIVED IN PENNSYLVANIA FOR MORE THAN TWENTY YEARS.
Scarcely had the infamous statute been in existence six months, ere the worst predictions of the friends of the slave were fulfilled in different Northern States. It is hardly too much to say, that Pennsylvania was considered wholly unsafe to nine-tenths of her colored population. The kidnapper is fully shown in the case of Rachel and Elizabeth Parker as he appeared on the soil of Pennsylvania, doing his vile work in the dead of night, entering the homes of unprotected females and children, ther
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HELPERS AND SYMPATHIZERS AT HOME AND ABROAD—INTERESTING LETTERS.
HELPERS AND SYMPATHIZERS AT HOME AND ABROAD—INTERESTING LETTERS.
The necessities of the Committee for the relief of the destitute and way-worn travelers bound freedom-ward, were met mainly by friends of the cause in Philadelphia. Generous-hearted abolitionists nobly gave their gold in this work. They gave not only material, but likewise whole-souled aid and sympathy in times of need, to a degree well worthy of commemoration while the name of slave is remembered. The Shipleys, Hoppers, Parrishes, Motts, Whites, Copes, Wistars, Pennocks, Sellers, Davis, Prices,
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PAMPHLET, AND LETTERS FROM MRS. ANNA H. RICHARDSON, OF NEWCASTLE, ENGLAND. TO THE FRIENDS OF THE SLAVE.
PAMPHLET, AND LETTERS FROM MRS. ANNA H. RICHARDSON, OF NEWCASTLE, ENGLAND. TO THE FRIENDS OF THE SLAVE.
DEAR FRIENDS—For some months past my dear husband and I have wished very gratefully to thank you for having so kindly assisted us in various Anti-Slavery efforts, and we now think it quite time to give an account of our stewardship, and also to lay before you several items of interesting intelligence received from different parts of the United States. We will thank you to look upon this intelligence as private, and must request you to guard against any portion of it being reprinted. WILLIAM S. B
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PORTRAITS AND SKETCHES.
PORTRAITS AND SKETCHES.
For many years no-woman living in Philadelphia was better known to the colored people of the city generally, than Esther Moore. No woman, white or colored, living in Philadelphia for the same number of years, left her home oftener, especially to seek out and aid the weary travelers escaping from bondage, than did this philanthropist. It is hardly too much to say that with her own hand she administered to hundreds. She begged of the Committee, as a special favor, that she might be duly notified o
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WHAT HAS BEEN SAID ABOUT IT
WHAT HAS BEEN SAID ABOUT IT
* * * * * At the closing meeting of the PENNSYLVANIA ANTI-SLAVERY SOCIETY, held in Philadelphia, May 5, 1870, the following was unanimously passed: Whereas, The position of WILLIAM STILL in the Vigilance Committee connected with the "UNDERGROUND RAILROAD," as its Corresponding Secretary, and Chairman of its Active Sub-Committee, gave him peculiar facilities for collecting interesting facts pertaining to this branch of the anti-slavery service; therefore, Resolved ,
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Brief Extracts from Letters to the Author by Prominent Men.
Brief Extracts from Letters to the Author by Prominent Men.
From Hon. Henry Wilson, late Vice President of United States . I have glanced over a few pages of your History of the Underground Railroad, and I most earnestly commend it . You have done a good work. This story of the heroic conduct of fugitives from oppression, and of the devotion of their friends, will be read with deep interest, especially by the old friends of the slave in the stern struggle through which we have passed. I hope your labors will be rewarded by a grateful public. *
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THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD,
THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD,
* * * * * BY WILLIAM STILL. * * * * * An Authentic Record of the Wonderful Hardships, Hairbreadth Escapes, and Death Struggles which mark the Track from Slavery to Freedom in the United States. * * * * * This is one of the most remarkable volumes of the century. Its publication has only been made possible by a combination of circumstances which seldom attend the birth of a book. Before emancipation, and
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PEOPLE'S PUBLISHING CO.,
PEOPLE'S PUBLISHING CO.,
26 So. 7th St., PHILADELPHIA, PA., CINCINNATI, O., CHICAGO, ILL., Or, ST. LOUIS, MO. From the "Nation," N.Y. It is, nevertheless, a chapter in our history which connot be skipped or obliterated, inasmuch as it marks one stage of the disease of which the crisis was passed at Gettysburg. It is one, too, for which we ought not to be dependent on tradition; and, all things considered, no one was so well qualified as Mr. Still to reproduce that phase of it with which he was so intimately concerned, a
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