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Title: History of the Negro Race in America from 1619 to 1880. Vol. 2 (of 2) - Negroes as Slaves, as Soldiers, and as Citizens
Author: Williams, George Washington
Language: English
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HISTORY
OF THE
NEGRO RACE IN AMERICA
_FROM 1619 TO 1880._
NEGROES AS SLAVES, AS SOLDIERS, AND AS CITIZENS
TOGETHER WITH
A PRELIMINARY CONSIDERATION OF THE UNITY OF THE HUMAN
FAMILY, AN HISTORICAL SKETCH OF AFRICA, AND AN
ACCOUNT OF THE NEGRO GOVERNMENTS OF
SIERRA LEONE AND LIBERIA.
BY
GEORGE W. WILLIAMS,
FIRST COLORED MEMBER OF THE OHIO LEGISLATURE, AND LATE JUDGE
ADVOCATE OF THE GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC OF OHIO, ETC.
_IN TWO VOLUMES._
VOLUME II.
1800 TO 1880.
NEW YORK
G. P. PUTNAM'S SONS,
27 AND 29 WEST 23D STREET.
1883.
COPYRIGHT,
BY G. P. PUTNAM'S SONS,
1882
NOTE.
This second volume brings the HISTORY OF THE NEGRO RACE IN AMERICA
from 1800 down to 1880. It consists of six parts and twenty-nine
chapters. Few memories can cover this eventful period of American
history. Commencing its career with the Republic, slavery grew with
its growth and strengthened with its strength. The dark spectre kept
pace and company with liberty until separated by the sword. Beginning
with the struggle for restriction or extension of slavery, I have
striven to record, in the spirit of honest and impartial historical
inquiry, all the events of this period belonging properly to my
subject. The development and decay of anti-slavery sentiment at the
South; the pious efforts of the good Quakers to ameliorate the
condition of the slaves; the service of Negroes as soldiers and
sailors; the anti-slavery agitation movement; the insurrections of
slaves; the national legislation on the slavery question; the John
Brown movement; the war for the Union; the valorous conduct of Negro
soldiers; the emancipation proclamations; the reconstruction of the
late Confederate States; the errors of reconstruction; the results of
emancipation; vital, prison, labor, educational, financial, and social
statistics; the exodus--cause and effect; and a sober prophecy of the
future,--are all faithfully recorded.
After seven years I am loath to part with the saddest task ever
committed to human hands! I have tracked my bleeding countrymen
through the widely scattered documents of American history; I have
listened to their groans, their clanking chains, and melting prayers,
until the woes of a race and the agonies of centuries seem to crowd
upon my soul as a bitter reality. Many pages of this history have been
blistered with my tears; and, although having lived but a little more
than a generation, my mind feels as if it were cycles old.
The long spectral hand on the clock of American history points to the
completion of the second decade since the American slave became an
American citizen. How wondrous have been his strides, how marvellous
his achievements! Twenty years ago we were in the midst of a great
war for the extinction of slavery; in this anniversary week I complete
my task, record the results of that struggle. I modestly strive to
lift the Negro race to its pedestal in American history. I raise this
post to indicate the progress of humanity; to instruct the present, to
inform the future. I commit this work to the considerate judgment of
my fellow-citizens of every race, "with malice toward none, and
charity for all."
GEO. W. WILLIAMS.
HOFFMAN HOUSE, NEW YORK CITY, Dec. 28, 1882.
CONTENTS.
Part 4.
_CONSERVATIVE ERA--NEGROES IN THE ARMY AND NAVY._
CHAPTER I.
RESTRICTION AND EXTENSION. 1800-1825.
PAGE
Commencement of the Nineteenth Century.--Slave Population of
1800.--Memorial presented to Congress calling Attention to the
Slave-trade to the Coast of Guinea.--Georgia cedes the Territory
lying West of her to become a State.--Ohio adopts a State
Constitution.--William Henry Harrison appointed Governor of the
Territory of Indiana.--An Act of Congress prohibiting the
Importation of Slaves into the United States or
Territories.--Slave Population of 1810.--Mississippi applies for
Admission into the Union with a Slave Constitution.--Congress
besieged by Memorials urging more Specific Legislation against
the Slave-trade.--Premium offered to the Informer of every
illegally imported African seized within the United
States.--Circular-letters sent to the Naval Officers on the
Sea-coast of the Slave-holding States.--President Monroe's
Message to Congress on the Question of Slavery.--Petition
presented by the Missouri Delegates for the Admission of that
State into the Union.--The Organization of the Arkansas
Territory.--Resolutions passed for the Restriction of Slavery in
New States.--The Missouri Controversy.--The Organization of the
Anti-slavery Societies.--An Act for the Gradual Abolition of
Slavery in New Jersey.--Its Provisions.--The Attitude of the
Northern Press on the Slavery Question.--Slave Population of
1820.--Anti-slavery Sentiment at the North 1
CHAPTER II.
NEGRO TROOPS IN THE WAR OF 1812.
Employment of Negroes as Soldiers in the War of 1812.--The New
York Legislature authorizes the Enlistment of a Regiment of
Colored Soldiers.--Gen. Andrew Jackson's Proclamation to the Free
Colored Inhabitants of Louisiana calling them to Arms.--Stirring
Address to the Colored Troops the Sunday before the Battle of New
Orleans.--Gen. Jackson anticipates the Valor of his Colored
Soldiers.--Terms of Peace at the Close of the War by the
Commissioners at Ghent.--Negroes placed as Chattel
Property.--Their Valor in War secures them no Immunity in Peace
23
CHAPTER III.
NEGROES IN THE NAVY.
No Proscription against Negroes as Sailors.--They are carried
upon the Rolls in the Navy without Regard to their
Nationality.--Their Treatment as Sailors.--Commodore Perry's
Letter to Commodore Chauncey in Regard to the Men sent
him.--Commodore Chauncey's Spirited Reply.--The Heroism of the
Negro set forth in the Picture of Perry's Victory on Lake
Erie.--Extract of a Letter from Nathaniel Shaler, Commander of a
Private Vessel.--He cites Several Instances of the Heroic Conduct
of Negro Sailors 28
PART 5.
_ANTI-SLAVERY AGITATION._
CHAPTER IV.
RETROSPECTION AND REFLECTION. 1825-1850.
The Security of the Institution of Slavery at the South.--The
Right to hold Slaves questioned.--Rapid Increase of the Slave
Population.--Anti-slavery Speeches in the Legislature of
Virginia.--The Quakers of Maryland and Delaware emancipate their
Slaves.--The Evil Effect of Slavery upon Society.--The Conscience
and Heart of the South did not respond to the Voice of Reason or
the Dictates of Humanity 31
CHAPTER V.
ANTI-SLAVERY METHODS.
The Antiquity of Anti-slavery Sentiment.--Benjamin Lundy's
Opposition to Slavery in the South and at the North.--He
establishes the "Genius of Universal Emancipation."--His Great
Sacrifices and Marvellous Work in the Cause of
Emancipation.--William Lloyd Garrison edits a Paper at
Bennington, Vermont.--He pens a Petition to Congress for the
Abolition of Slavery in the District of Columbia.--Garrison the
Peerless Leader of the Anti-slavery Agitation.--Extract from a
Speech delivered by Daniel O'Connell at Cork, Ireland.--Increase
of Anti-slavery Societies in the Country.--Charles Sumner
delivers a Speech on the "Anti-slavery Duties of the Whig
Party."--Marked Events of 1846.--Sumner the Leader of the
Political Abolition Party.--Heterodox Anti-slavery Party.--Its
Sentiments.--Horace Greeley the Leader of the Economic
Anti-slavery Party.--The Aggressive Anti-slavery Party.--Its
Leaders.--The Colonization Anti-slavery Society.--American
Colonization Society.--Manumitted Negroes colonize on the West
Coast of Africa.--A Bill establishing a Line of Mail Steamers to
the Coast of Africa.--It provides for the Suppression of the
Slave-trade, the Promotion of Commerce, and the Colonization of
Free Negroes.--Extracts from the Press warmly urging the Passage
of the Bill.--The Underground Railroad Organization.--Its
Efficiency in freeing Slaves.--Anti-Slavery Literature.--It
exposes the True Character of Slavery.--"Uncle Tom's Cabin," by
Harriet Beecher Stowe, pleaded the Cause of the Slave in Twenty
Different Languages.--The Influence of "Impending Crisis." 37
CHAPTER VI.
ANTI-SLAVERY EFFORTS OF FREE NEGROES.
Intelligent Interest of Free Negroes in the Agitation
Movement.--"First Annual Convention of the People of Color" held
at Philadelphia.--Report of the Committee on the Establishment of
a College for Young Men of Color.--Provisional Committee
appointed in each City.--Conventional Address.--Second Convention
held at Benezet Hall, Philadelphia.--Resolutions of the
Meeting.--Conventional Address.--The Massachusetts General
Colored Association.--Convention of Anti-slavery Women of America
at New York.--Prejudice against admitting Negroes into White
Societies.--Colored Orators.--Their Eloquent Pleas for their
Enslaved Race 61
CHAPTER VII.
NEGRO INSURRECTIONS.
The Negro not so Docile as supposed.--The Reason why he was kept
in Bondage.--Negroes possessed Courage but lacked
Leaders.--Insurrection of Slaves.--Gen. Gabriel as a
Leader.--Negro Insurrection planned in South Carolina.--Evils of,
revealed.--The "Nat. Turner" Insurrection in South Hampton
County, Virginia.--The Whites arm themselves to repel the
Insurrectionists.--Capture and Trial of "Nat. Turner."--His
Execution.--Effect of the Insurrection upon Slaves and
Slave-holders 82
CHAPTER VIII.
THE "AMISTAD" CAPTIVES.
The Spanish Slaver "Amistad" sails from Havana, Cuba, for Porto
Principe.--Fifty-four Native Africans on Board.--Joseph Cinquez,
the Son of an African Prince.--The "Amistad" captured and taken
into New London, Conn.--Trial and Release of the Slaves.--Tour
through the United States.--Return to their Native Country in
Company with Missionaries.--The Anti-slavery Cause benefited by
their Stay in the United States.--Their Appreciation of Christian
Civilization 93
Part 6.
_THE PERIOD OF PREPARATION._
CHAPTER IX.
NORTHERN SYMPATHY AND SOUTHERN SUBTERFUGES. 1850-1860.
Violent Treatment of Anti-slavery Orators.--The South
misinterprets the Mobocratic Spirit of the North.--The
"Garrisonians" and "Calhounites."--Slave Population of
1830-1850.--The Thirty-first Congress.--Motion for the Admission
of New Mexico and California.--The Democratic and Whig Parties on
the Treatment of the Slave Question.--Convention of the
Democratic Party at Baltimore, Maryland.--Nomination of Franklin
Pierce for President.--Whig Party Convention.--Nomination of Gen.
Winfield Scott for the Presidency by the Whigs.--Mr. Pierce
elected President in 1853.--A Bill introduced to repeal the
"Missouri Compromise."--Speech by Stephen A. Douglass.--Mr.
Chase's Reply.--An Act to organize the Territories of Kansas and
Nebraska.--State Militia in the South make Preparations for
War.--President Buchanan in Sympathy with the South. 97
CHAPTER X.
THE "BLACK LAWS" OF "BORDER STATES."
Stringent Laws enacted against Free Negroes and
Mulattoes.--Fugitive-slave Law respected in Ohio.--A Law to
prevent Kidnapping.--The First Constitution of Ohio.--History of
the Dred Scott case.--Judge Taney's Opinion in this Case.--Ohio
Constitution of 1851 denied Free Negroes the Right to vote.--The
Establishment of Colored Schools.--Law in Indiana Territory in
Reference to Executions.--An Act for the Introduction of Negroes
and Mulattoes into the Territory.--First Constitution of
Indiana.--The Illinois Constitution of 1818.--Criminal Code
enacted.--Illinois Legislature passes an Act to prevent the
Emigration of Free Negroes into the State.--Free Negroes of the
Northern States endure Restriction and Proscription 111
CHAPTER XI.
THE NORTHERN NEGROES.
Nominal Rights of Free Negroes in the Slave States.--Fugitive
Slaves seek Refuge in Canada.--Negroes petition against Taxation
without Representation.--A Law preventing Negroes from other
States from settling in Massachusetts.--Notice to Blacks,
Indians, and Mulattoes, warning them to leave the
Commonwealth.--The Rights and Privileges of the Negro
restricted.--Colored Men turn their Attention to the Education of
their own Race.--John V. De Grasse, the first Colored Man
admitted to the Massachusetts Medical Society.--Prominent Colored
Men of New York and Philadelphia.--The Organization of the
African Methodist Episcopal and Colored Baptist
Churches.--Colored Men distinguish themselves in the
Pulpit.--Report to the Ohio Anti-slavery Society of Colored
People in Cincinnati in 1835.--Many purchase their
Freedom.--Henry Boyd, the Mechanic and Builder.--He becomes a
Successful Manufacturer in Cincinnati.--Samuel T. Wilcox, the
Grocer.--His Success in Business in Cincinnati.--Ball & Thomas,
the Photographers.--Colored People of Cincinnati evince a Desire
to take Care of themselves.--Lydia P. Mott establishes a Home for
Colored Orphans.--The Organization effected in 1844.--Its
Success.--Formation of a Colored Military Company called "The
Attucks Guards."--Emigration of Negroes to Liberia.--The Colored
People live down much Prejudice 125
CHAPTER XII.
NEGRO SCHOOL LAWS. 1619-1860.
The Possibilities of the Human Intellect.--Ignorance Favorable to
Slavery.--An Act by the Legislature of Alabama imposing a Penalty
on any one instructing a Colored Person.--Educational Privileges
of the Creoles in the City of Mobile.--Prejudice against Colored
Schools in Connecticut.--The Attempt of Miss Prudence Crandall to
admit Colored Girls into her School at Canterbury.--The
Indignation of the Citizens at this Attempt to mix the Races in
Education.--The Legislature of Connecticut passes a Law
abolishing the School.--The Building assaulted by a Mob.--Miss
Crandall arrested and imprisoned for teaching Colored Children
against the Law.--Great Excitement.--The Law finally
repealed.--An Act by the Legislature of Delaware taxing Persons
who brought into, or sold Slaves out of, the State.--Under Act of
1829 Money received for the Sale of Slaves in Florida was added
to the School Fund in that State.--Georgia prohibits the
Education of Colored Persons under Heavy Penalty.--Illinois
establishes Separate Schools for Colored Children.--The "Free
Mission Institute" at Quincy, Illinois, destroyed by a Missouri
Mob.--Numerous and Cruel Slave Laws in Kentucky retard the
Education of the Negroes.--An Act passed in Louisiana preventing
the Negroes in any Way from being instructed.--Maine gives Equal
School Privileges to Whites and Blacks.--St. Francis Academy for
Colored Girls founded in Baltimore in 1831.--The Wells
School.--The First School for Colored Children established in
Boston by Intelligent Colored Men in 1798.--A School-house for
the Colored Children built and paid for out of a Fund left by
Abiel Smith for that Purpose.--John B. Russworm one of the
Teachers and afterward Governor of the Colony of Cape Palmas,
Liberia.--First Primary School for Colored Children established
in 1820.--Missouri passes Stringent Laws against the Instruction
of Negroes.--New York provides for the Education of
Negroes.--Elias Neau opens a School in New York City for Negro
Slaves in 1704.--"New York African Free School" in 1786.--Visit
of Lafayette to the African Schools in 1824.--His
Address.--Public Schools for Colored Children in New
York.--Colored Schools in Ohio.--"Cincinnati High School" for
Colored Youths founded in 1844.--Oberlin College opens its Doors
to Colored Students.--The Establishment of Colored Schools in
Pennsylvania by Anthony Benezet in 1750.--His Will.--"Institute
for Colored Youths" established in 1837.--"Avery College" at
Allegheny City, Pennsylvania, founded in 1849.--Ashmun Institute,
or Lincoln University, founded in October, 1856.--South Carolina
takes Definite Action against the Education or Promotion of the
Colored Race in 1800-1803-1834.--Tennessee makes no
Discrimination against Color in the School Law of 1840.--Little
Opportunity afforded in Virginia for the Colored Man to be
enlightened.--Stringent Laws enacted.--History of Schools for the
Colored Population in the District of Columbia 147
CHAPTER XIII.
JOHN BROWN--HERO AND MARTYR.
John Brown's Appearance in Kansas.--He denounces Slavery in a
Political Meeting at Osawatomie.--Mrs. Stearns's Personal
Recollection of John Brown.--Kansas infested by Border
Ruffians.--The Battle of Harper's Ferry.--The Defeat and Capture
of Captain John Brown.--His Last Letter written to Mrs.
Steams.--His Trial and Execution.--His Influence upon the
Anti-slavery Question at the North.--His Place in History 214
Part 7.
_THE NEGRO IN THE WAR FOR THE UNION._
CHAPTER XIV.
DEFINITION OF THE WAR ISSUE.
Increase of Slave Population in Slave-holding States from
1850-1860.--Products of Slave Labor.--Basis of Southern
Representation.--Six Seceding States organize a New
Government.--Constitution of the Confederate Government.--Speech
by Alexander H. Stephens.--Mr. Lincoln in Favor of Gradual
Emancipation.--He is elected President of the United States.--The
Issue of the War between the States 228
CHAPTER XV.
"A WHITE MAN'S WAR."
The First Call for Troops.--Rendition of Fugitive Slaves by the
Army.--Col. Tyler's Address to the People of Virginia.--General
Isaac R. Sherwood's Account of an Attempt to secure a Fugitive
Slave in his Charge.--Col. Steedman refuses to have his Camp
searched for Fugitive Slaves by Order from Gen. Fry.--Letter from
Gen. Buell in Defence of the Rebels in the South.--Orders issued
by Generals Hooker, Williams, and Others, in Regard to harboring
Fugitive Slaves in Union Camps.--Observation Concerning Slavery
from the "Army of the Potomac."--Gen. Butler's Letter to Gen.
Winfield Scott.--It is answered by the Secretary of War.--Horace
Greeley's Letter to the President.--President Lincoln's
Reply.--Gen. John C. Fremont, Commander of the Union Army in
Missouri, issues a Proclamation emancipating Slaves in his
District.--It is disapproved by the President.--Emancipation
Proclamation by Gen. Hunter.--It is rescinded by the
President.--Slavery and Union joined in a Desperate Struggle 241
CHAPTER XVI.
THE NEGRO ON FATIGUE DUTY.
Negroes employed as Teamsters and in the Quartermaster's
Department.--Rebel General Mercer's Order to the Slave-holders
issued from Savannah.--He receives Orders from the Secretary of
War to impress a Number of Negroes to build Fortifications.--The
Negro proves himself Industrious and earns Promotion 260
CHAPTER XVII.
THE EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATIONS.
Congress passes an Act to confiscate Property used for
Insurrectionary Purposes.--A Fruitless Appeal to the President to
issue an Emancipation Proclamation.--He thinks the Time not yet
come for such an Action, but within a Few Weeks changes his
Opinion and issues an Emancipation Proclamation.--The Rebels show
no Disposition to accept the Mild Terms of the Proclamation.--Mr.
Davis gives Attention to the Proclamation in his Third Annual
Message.--Second Emancipation Proclamation issued by President
Lincoln January 1, 1863.--The Proclamation imparts New Hope to
the Negro 263
CHAPTER XVIII.
EMPLOYMENT OF NEGROES AS SOLDIERS.
The Question of the Military Employment of Negroes.--The Rebels
take the First Step toward the Military Employment of
Negroes.--Grand Review of the Rebel Troops at New
Orleans.--General Hunter Arms the First Regiment of Loyal Negroes
at the South.--Official Correspondence between the Secretary of
War and General Hunter respecting the Enlistment of the Black
Regiment.--The Enlistment of Five Negro Regiments authorized by
the President.--The Policy of General Phelps in Regard to the
Employment of Negroes as Soldiers in Louisiana.--A Second Call
for Troops by the President.--An Attempt to amend the Army
Appropriation Bill so as to prohibit the Further Employment of
Colored Troops.--Governor John A. Andrew, of Massachusetts,
authorized by Secretary of War to organize Two Regiments of
Colored Troops.--General Lorenzo Thomas is despatched to the
Mississippi Valley to superintend the Enlistment of Negro
Soldiers in the Spring of 1863.--An Order issued by the War
Department in the Fall of 1863 for the Enlistment of Colored
Troops.--The Union League Club of New York City raises Two
Regiments.--Recruiting of Colored Troops in Pennsylvania.--Major
George L. Stearns assigned Charge of the Recruiting of Colored
Troops in the Department of the Cumberland.--Free Military School
established at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.--Endorsement of the
School by Secretary Stanton.--The Organization of the
School.--Official Table giving Number of Colored Troops in the
Army.--The Character of Negro Troops.--Mr. Greeley's Editorial on
"Negro Troops."--Letter from Judge-Advocate Holt to the Secretary
of War on the "Enlistment of Slaves."--The Negro Legally and
Constitutionally a Soldier.--History records his Deeds of
Patriotism. 276
CHAPTER XIX.
NEGROES AS SOLDIERS.
Justification of the Federal Government in the Employment of
Slaves as Soldiers.--Trials of the Negro Soldier.--He undergoes
Persecution from the White Northern Troops, and Barbarous
Treatment from the Rebels.--Editorial of the "New York Times" on
the Negro Soldiers in Battle.--Report of the "Tribune" on the
Gallant Exploits of the 1st South Carolina Volunteers.--Negro
Troops in all the Departments.--Negro Soldiers in the Battle of
Port Hudson.--Death of Captain Andre Callioux.--Death of
Color-Sergeant Anselmas Planciancois.--An Account of the Battle
of Port Hudson.--Official Report of General Banks.--He applauds
the Valor of the Colored Regiments at Port Hudson.--George H.
Boker's Poem on "The Black Regiment."--Battle of Milliken's Bend,
June, 1863.--Description of the Battle.--Memorable Events of
July, 1863.--Battle on Morris Island.--Bravery of Sergeant
Carney.--An Account of the 54th Massachusetts Regiment by Edward
L. Pierce to Governor Andrew.--Death of Col. Shaw.--Colored
Troops in the Army of the Potomac.--Battle of Petersburg.--Table
showing the Losses at Nashville.--Adjt.-Gen. Thomas on Negro
Soldiers.--An Extract from the "New York Tribune" in Behalf of
the Soldierly Qualities of the Negroes.--Letter received by Col.
Darling from Mr. Aden and Col. Foster praising the Eminent
Qualifications of the Negro for Military Life.--History records
their Deeds of Valor in the Preservation of the Union 310
CHAPTER XX.
CAPTURE AND TREATMENT OF NEGRO SOLDIERS.
The Military Employment of Negroes Distasteful to the Rebel
Authorities.--The Confederates the First to employ Negroes as
Soldiers.--Jefferson Davis refers to the Subject in his Message,
and the Confederate Congress orders All Negroes captured to be
turned over to the State Authorities, and raises the "Black Flag"
upon White Officers commanding Negro Soldiers.--The New York
Press calls upon the Government to protect its Negro
Soldiers.--Secretary Stanton's Action.--The President's
Order.--Correspondence between Gen. Peck and Gen. Pickett in
Regard to the Killing of a Colored Man after he had surrendered
at the Battle of Newbern.--Southern Press on the Capture and
Treatment of Negro Soldiers.--The Rebels refuse to exchange Negro
Soldiers captured on Morris and James Islands on Account of the
Order of the Confederate Congress which required them to be
turned over to the Authorities of the Several States.--Jefferson
Davis issues a Proclamation outlawing Gen. B. F. Butler.--He is
to be hung without Trial by any Confederate Officer who may
capture him.--The Battle of Fort Pillow.--The Gallant Defence by
the Little Band of Union Troops.--It refuses to capitulate and is
assaulted and captured by an Overwhelming Force.--The Union
Troops butchered in Cold Blood.--The Wounded are carried into
Houses which are fired and burned with their Helpless
Victims.--Men are nailed to the Outside of Buildings through
their Hands and Feet and burned alive.--The Wounded and Dying are
brained where they lay in their Ebbing Blood.--The Outrages are
renewed in the Morning.--Dead and Living find a Common Sepulchre
in the Trench.--General Chalmers orders the Killing of a Negro
Child.--Testimony of the Few Union Soldiers who were enabled to
crawl out of the Gilt-Edge, Fire-Proof Hell at Pillow.--They give
a Sickening Account of the Massacre before the Senate Committee
on the Conduct of the War.--Gen. Forrest's Futile Attempt to
destroy the Record of his Foul Crime.--Fort Pillow Massacre
without a Parallel in History 350
Part 8.
_THE FIRST DECADE OF FREEDOM._
CHAPTER XXI.
RECONSTRUCTION--MISCONSTRUCTION. 1865-1875.
The War over, Peace restored, and the Nation cleansed of a
Plague.--slavery gives Place to a Long Train of
Events.--Unsettled Condition of Affairs at the South.--The
Absence of Legal Civil Government necessitates the Establishment
of Provisional Military Government.--An Act establishing a Bureau
for Refugees and Abandoned Lands.--Congressional Methods for the
Reconstruction of the South.--Gen. U. S. Grant carries these
States in 1868 and 1872.--Both Branches of the Legislatures in
all the Southern States contain Negro Members.--The Errors of
Reconstruction chargeable to both Sections of the Country 377
CHAPTER XXII.
THE RESULTS OF EMANCIPATION.
The Apparent Idleness of the Negro Sporadic rather than
Generic.--He quietly settles down to Work.--The Government makes
Ample Provisions for his Educational and Social Improvement.--The
Marvellous Progress made by the People of the South in
Education.--Earliest School for Freedmen at Fortress Monroe in
1861.--The Richmond Institute for Colored Youth.--The Unlimited
Desire of the Negroes to obtain an Education.--General Order
organizing a "Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned
Lands."--Gen. O. O. Howard appointed Commissioner of the
Bureau.--Report of all the Receipts and Expenditures of the
Freedman's Bureau from 1865-1867.--An Act Incorporating the
Freedman's Savings Bank and Trust Company.--The Business of the
Company as shown from 1866-1871.--Financial Statement by the
Trustees for 1872.--Failure of the Bank.--The Social and
Financial Condition of the Colored People in the South.--The
Negro rarely receives Justice in Southern Courts.--Treatment of
Negroes as Convicts in Southern Prisons.--Increase of the Colored
People from 1790-1880.--Negroes susceptible of the Highest
Civilization 384
CHAPTER XXIII.
REPRESENTATIVE COLORED MEN.
Thirteenth Amendment to the Constitution.--The Legal Destruction
of Slavery and a Constitutional Prohibition.--Fifteenth Amendment
granting Manhood Suffrage to the American Negro.--President
Grant's Special Message upon the Subject.--Universal Rejoicing
among the Colored People.--The Negro in the United States Senate
and House of Representatives.--The Negro in the Diplomatic
Service of the Country.--Frederick Douglass--His Birth,
Enslavement, Escape to the North, and Life as a Freeman.--Becomes
an Anti-slavery Orator.--Goes to Great Britain.--Returns to
America.--Establishes the "North Star."--His Eloquence,
Influence, and Brilliant Career.--Richard Theodore Greener.--His
Early Life, Education, and Successful Literary Career.--John P.
Green.--His Early Struggles to obtain an Education.--A Successful
Orator, Lawyer, and Useful Legislator.--Other Representative
Colored Men.--Representative Colored Women 419
CHAPTER XXIV.
THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
Its Origin, Growth, Organization, and Excellent Influence.--Its
Publishing House, Periodicals, and Papers.--Its Numerical and
Financial Strength.--Its Missionary and Educational
Spirit.--Wilberforce University 452
CHAPTER XXV.
THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
Founding of the M. E. Church of America in 1768.--Negro Servants
and Slaves among the First Contributors to the Erection of the
First Chapel in New York.--The Rev. Harry Hosier the First Negro
Preacher in the M. E. Church in America.--His Remarkable
Eloquence as a Pulpit Orator.--Early Prohibition against
Slave-holding in the M. E. Church.--Strength of the Churches and
Sunday-schools of the Colored Members in the M. E. Church.--The
Rev. Marshall W. Taylor, D.D.--His Ancestors.--His Early Life and
Struggles for an Education.--He Teaches School in Kentucky.--His
Experiences as a Teacher.--Is ordained to the Gospel Ministry and
becomes a Preacher and Missionary Teacher.--His Settlement as
Pastor in Indiana and Ohio.--Is given the Title of Doctor of
Divinity by the Tennessee College.--His Influence as a Leader,
and his Standing as a Preacher 465
CHAPTER XXVI.
THE COLORED BAPTISTS OF AMERICA.
The Colored Baptists an Intelligent and Useful People.--Their
Leading Ministers in Missouri, Ohio, and in New England.--The
Birth, Early Life, and Education of Duke William Anderson.--As
Farmer, Teacher, Preacher, and Missionary.--His Influence in the
West.--Goes South at the Close of the War.--Teaches in a
Theological Institute at Nashville, Tennessee.--Called to
Washington.--Pastor of 19th Street Baptist Church.--He occupies
Various Positions of Trust.--Builds a New Church.--His Last
Revival.--His Sickness and Death.--His Funeral and the General
Sorrow at his Loss.--Leonard Andrew Grimes, of Boston,
Massachusetts.--His Piety, Faithfulness, and Public Influence for
Good.--The Completion of his Church.--His Last Days and Sudden
Death.--General Sorrow.--Resolutions by the Baptist Ministers of
Boston.--A Great and Good Man Gone 475
Part 9.
_THE DECLINE OF NEGRO GOVERNMENTS._
CHAPTER XXVII.
REACTION, PERIL, AND PACIFICATION.
1875-1880.
The Beginning of the End of the Republican Governments at the
South.--Southern Election Methods and Northern Sympathy.--Gen.
Grant not Responsible for the Decline and Loss of the Republican
State Governments at the South.--A Party without a Live
Issue.--Southern War Claims.--The Campaign of 1876.--Republican
Lethargy and Democratic Activity.--Doubtful Results.--The
Electoral Count in Congress.--Gen. Garfield and Congressmen
Foster and Hale to the Front as Leaders.--Peaceful
Results.--President Hayes's Southern Policy.--Its Failure.--The
Ideas of the Hon. Charles Foster on the Treatment of the Southern
Problem.--"Nothing but Leaves" from Conciliation.--A New Policy
demanded by the Republican Party.--A Remarkable Speech by the
Hon. Charles Foster at Upper Sandusky, Ohio.--He calls for a
Solid North against a Solid South.--He sounds the Key-note for
the North and the Nation responds.--The Decay and Death of the
Negro Governments at the South Inevitable.--The Negro must turn
his Attention to Education, the Accumulation of Property and
Experience.--He will return to Politics when he shall be Equal to
the Difficult Duties of Citizenship 516
CHAPTER XXVIII.
THE EXODUS--CAUSE AND EFFECT.
The Negroes of the South delight in their Home so Long as it is
Possible for them to remain.--The Policy of abridging their
Rights Destructive to their Usefulness as Members of
Society.--Political Intimidation, Murder, and Outrage disturb the
Negroes.--The Plantation Credit System the Crime of the
Century.--The Exodus not inspired by Politicians, but the Natural
Outcome of the Barbarous Treatment bestowed upon the Negroes by
the Whites.--The Unprecedented Sufferings of 60,000 Negroes
fleeing from Southern Democratic Oppression.--Their Patient
Christian Endurance.--Their Industry, Morals, and Frugality.--The
Correspondent of the "Chicago Inter-Ocean" sends Information to
Senator Voorhees respecting the Refugees in Kansas.--The Position
of Gov. St. John and the Faithful Labors of Mrs. Comstock.--The
Results of the Exodus Beneficent.--The South must treat the Negro
Better or lose his Labor 529
CHAPTER XXIX.
RETROSPECTION AND PROSPECTION.
The Three Grand Divisions of the Tribes of Africa.--Slave Markets
of America supplied from the Diseased and Criminal Classes of
African Society.--America robs Africa of 15,000,000 Souls in 360
Years.--Negro Power of Endurance.--His Wonderful Achievements as
a Laborer, Soldier, and Student.--First in War, and First in
Devotion to the Country.--His Idiosyncrasies.--Mrs. Stowe's
Errors.--His Growing Love for Schools and Churches.--His General
Improvement.--The Negro will endure to the End.--He is Capable
for All the Duties of Citizenship.--Amalgamation will not
obliterate the Race.--The American Negro will civilize
Africa.--America will establish Steamship Communication with the
Dark Continent.--Africa will yet be composed of States, and
"Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her Hands unto God." 544
HISTORY OF THE NEGRO RACE IN AMERICA.
Part 4.
_CONSERVATIVE ERA--NEGROES IN THE ARMY AND NAVY._
CHAPTER I.
RESTRICTION AND EXTENSION.
1800-1825.
COMMENCEMENT OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY.--SLAVE POPULATION OF
1800.--MEMORIAL PRESENTED TO CONGRESS CALLING ATTENTION TO THE
SLAVE-TRADE TO THE COAST OF GUINEA.--GEORGIA CEDES THE TERRITORY
LYING WEST OF HER TO BECOME A STATE.--OHIO ADOPTS A STATE
CONSTITUTION.--WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON APPOINTED GOVERNOR OF THE
TERRITORY OF INDIANA.--AN ACT OF CONGRESS PROHIBITING THE
IMPORTATION OF SLAVES INTO THE UNITED STATES OR
TERRITORIES.--SLAVE POPULATION OF 1810.--MISSISSIPPI APPLIES FOR
ADMISSION INTO THE UNION WITH A SLAVE CONSTITUTION.--CONGRESS
BESIEGED BY MEMORIALS URGING MORE SPECIFIC LEGISLATION AGAINST
THE SLAVE-TRADE.--PREMIUM OFFERED TO THE INFORMER OF EVERY
ILLEGALLY IMPORTED AFRICAN SEIZED WITHIN THE UNITED
STATES.--CIRCULAR LETTERS SENT TO THE NAVAL OFFICERS ON THE
SEACOAST OF THE SLAVE-HOLDING STATES.--PRESIDENT MONROE'S MESSAGE
TO CONGRESS ON THE QUESTION OF SLAVERY.--PETITION PRESENTED BY
THE MISSOURI DELEGATES FOR THE ADMISSION OF THAT STATE INTO THE
UNION.--THE ORGANIZATION OF THE ARKANSAS TERRITORY.--RESOLUTIONS
PASSED FOR THE RESTRICTION OF SLAVERY IN NEW STATES.--THE
MISSOURI CONTROVERSY.--THE ORGANIZATION OF THE ANTI-SLAVERY
SOCIETIES.--AN ACT FOR THE GRADUAL ABOLITION OF SLAVERY IN NEW
JERSEY.--ITS PROVISIONS.--THE ATTITUDE OF THE NORTHERN PRESS ON
THE SLAVERY QUESTION.--SLAVE POPULATION OF 1820.--ANTI-SLAVERY
SENTIMENT AT THE NORTH.
The nineteenth century opened auspiciously for the cause of the Negro.
Although slavery had ceased to exist in Massachusetts and Vermont, the
census of 1800 showed that the slave population in the other States
was steadily on the increase. In the total population of 5,305,925,
there were 893,041 slaves. The subjoined table exhibits the number of
slaves in each of the slave-holding States in the year 1800.
CENSUS OF 1800--SLAVE POPULATION.
District of Columbia 3,244
Connecticut 951
Delaware 6,153
Georgia 59,404
Indiana Territory 135
Kentucky 40,343
Maryland 105,635
Mississippi Territory 3,489
New Jersey 12,422
New Hampshire 8
New York 20,343
North Carolina 133,296
Pennsylvania 1,706
Rhode Island 381
South Carolina 146,151
Tennessee 13,584
Virginia 345,796
-------
Aggregate 893,041
On the 2d of January, 1800, a number of Colored citizens of the city
and county of Philadelphia presented a memorial to Congress, through
the delegate from that city, Mr. Waln, calling attention to the
slave-trade to the coast of Guinea. The memorial charged that the
slave-trade was clandestinely carried on from various ports of the
United States contrary to law; that under this wicked practice free
Colored men were often seized and sold as slaves; and that the
fugitive-slave law of 1793 subjected them to great inconvenience and
severe persecutions. The memorialists did not request Congress to
transcend their authority respecting the slave-trade, nor to
emancipate the slaves, but only to prepare the way, so that, at an
early period, the oppressed might go free.
Upon a motion by Mr. Waln for the reference of the memorial to the
Committee on the Slave-trade, Rutledge, Harper, Lee, Randolph, and
other Southern members, made speeches against such a reference. They
maintained that the petition requested Congress to take action on a
question over which they had no control. Waln, Thacher, Smilie, Dana,
and Gallatin contended that there were portions of the petition that
came within the jurisdiction of the Constitution, and, therefore,
ought to be received and acted upon. Mr. Rutledge demanded the yeas
and nays; but in such a spirit as put Mr. Waln on his guard, so he
withdrew his motion, and submitted another one by which such parts of
the memorial as came within the jurisdiction of Congress should be
referred. Mr. Rutledge raised a point of order on the motion of the
gentleman from Pennsylvania that a "part" of the memorial could not be
referred, but was promptly overruled. Mr. Gray, of Virginia, moved to
amend by adding a declaratory clause that the portions of the
memorial, not referred, inviting Congress to exercise authority not
delegated, "have a tendency to create disquiet and jealousy, and
ought, therefore, to receive the pointed disapprobation of this
House." After some discussion, it was finally agreed to strike out the
last clause and insert the following: "ought therefore to receive no
encouragement or countenance from this House." The call of the roll
resulted in the adoption of the amendment, with but one vote in the
negative by Mr. Thacher, of Maine, an uncompromising enemy of slavery.
The committee to whom the memorial was referred brought in a bill
during the session prohibiting American ships from supplying slaves
from the United States to foreign markets.
On the 2d of April, 1802, Georgia ceded the territory lying west of
her present limits, now embracing the States of Alabama and
Mississippi. Among the conditions she exacted was the following:
"That the territory thus ceded shall become a State, and be
admitted into the Union as soon as it shall contain sixty
thousand free inhabitants, or at an earlier period, if Congress
shall think it expedient, on the same conditions and
restrictions, with the same privileges, and in the same manner,
as provided in the ordinance of Congress of the 13th day of July,
1787, for the government of the western territory of the United
States: which ordinance shall, in all its parts, extend to the
territory contained in the present act of cession, the article
only excepted which forbids slavery."
The demand was acceded to, and, as the world knows, Alabama and
Mississippi became the most cruel slave States in the United States.
Ohio adopted a State constitution in 1802-3, and the residue of the
territory not included in the State as it is now, was designated as
Indiana Territory. William Henry Harrison was appointed governor. One
of the earliest moves of the government of the new territory was to
secure a modification of the ordinance of 1787 by which slavery or
involuntary servitude was prohibited in the territory northwest of the
Ohio River. It was ordered by a convention presided over by Gen.
Harrison in 1802-3, that a memorial be sent to Congress urging a
restriction of the ordinance of 1787. It was referred to a select
committee, with John Randolph as chairman. On the 2d of March, 1803,
he made a report by the unanimous request of his committee, and the
portion referring to slavery was as follows:
"The rapid population of the State of Ohio sufficiently evinces,
in the opinion of your committee, that the labor of slaves is not
necessary to promote the growth and settlement of colonies in
that region. That this labor--demonstrably the dearest of
any--can only be employed in the cultivation of products more
valuable than any known to that quarter of the United States;
that the committee deem it highly dangerous and inexpedient to
impair a provision wisely calculated to promote the happiness and
prosperity of the northwestern country, and to give strength and
security to that extensive frontier. In the salutary operations
of this sagacious and benevolent restraint, it is believed that
the inhabitants of Indiana will, at no very distant day, find
ample remuneration for a temporary privation of labor and of
emigration."
After discussing the subject-matter embodied in the memorial from the
territory of Indiana, the committee presented eight resolves, one of
which related to the subject of slavery, and was as follows:
"_Resolved_, That it is inexpedient to suspend, for a limited
time, the operation of the sixth article of the compact between
the original States and the people and the States west of the
river Ohio."
Congress was about to close its session, and, therefore, there was no
action taken upon this report. At the next session it went into the
hands of a new committee whose chairman was Cæsar Rodney, of Delaware,
who had just been elected to Congress. On the 17th of February, 1804,
Mr. Rodney made the following report:
"That taking into their consideration the facts stated in the
said memorial and petition, they are induced to believe that a
qualified suspension, for a limited time, of the sixth article of
compact between the original States and the people and States
west of the river Ohio, might be productive of benefit and
advantage to said territory."
After discussing other matters contained in the Indiana petition, the
committee says, in reference to slavery:
"That the sixth article of the ordinance of 1787, which
prohibited slavery within the said territory, be suspended in a
qualified manner for ten years, so as to permit the introduction
of slaves born within the United States, from any of the
individual States: _provided_, that such individual State does
not permit the importation of slaves from foreign countries;
_and_ provided _further_, that the descendants of all such slaves
shall, if males, be free at the age of twenty-five years, and, if
female, at the age of twenty-one years."
The House did not take up and act upon this report, and so the matter
passed for the time being. But the original memorial, with several
petitions of like import, came before Congress in 1805-6. They were
referred to a select committee, and on the 14th of February, 1806, Mr.
Garnett, of Virginia, the chairman, made the following favorable
report:
"That, having attentively considered the facts stated in the said
petitions and memorials, they are of opinion that a qualified
suspension for a limited time, of the sixth article of compact
between the original States and the people and States west of the
river Ohio, would be beneficial to the people of the Indiana
Territory. The suspension of this article is an object almost
universally desired in that Territory.
"It appears to your committee to be a question entirely different
from that between Slavery and Freedom; inasmuch as it would
merely occasion the removal of persons, already slaves, from one
part of the country to another. The good effects of this
suspension, in the present instance, would be to accelerate the
population of that Territory, hitherto retarded by the operation
of that article of compact, as slave-holders emigrating into the
Western country might then indulge any preference which they
might feel for a settlement in the Indiana Territory, instead of
seeking, as they are now compelled to do, settlements in other
States or countries permitting the introduction of slaves. The
condition of the slaves themselves would be much ameliorated by
it, as it is evident, from experience, that the more they are
separated and diffused, the more care and attention are bestowed
on them by their masters--each proprietor having it in his power
to increase their comforts and conveniences, in proportion to the
smallness of their numbers. The dangers, too (if any are to be
apprehended), from too large a black population existing in any
one section of country, would certainly be very much diminished,
if not entirely removed. But whether dangers are to be feared
from this source or not, it is certainly an obvious dictate of
sound policy to guard against them, as far as possible. If this
danger does exist, or there is any cause to apprehend it, and our
Western brethren are not only willing but desirous to aid us in
taking precautions against it, would it not be wise to accept
their assistance?
"We should benefit ourselves, without injuring them, as their
population must always so far exceed any black population which
can ever exist in that country, as to render the idea of danger
from that source chimerical."
After a lengthy discussion of matters embodied in the Indiana
memorial, the committee recommended the following resolve on the
question of slavery:
"_Resolved_, That the sixth article of the ordinance of 1787,
which prohibits slavery within the Indiana Territory, be
suspended for ten years, so as to permit the introduction of
slaves born within the United States, from any of the individual
States."
The report and resolves were made the special order for the following
Monday, but were never called up.
At the opening of the next session, Gen. Harrison presented another
letter, accompanied by several resolves passed by the Legislative
Council and House of Representatives, urging the passage of a measure
restricting the ordinance of 1787. The letter and enclosures were
received on the 21st of January, 1807, and referred to the following
select committee: Parke, of Indiana, chairman; Alston, North Carolina;
Masters, New York; Morrow, Ohio; Rhea, Tennessee; Sandford, Kentucky;
Trigg, Virginia.
On the 12th of February, 1807, the chairman, Mr. Parke, made the
following report in favor of the request of the memorialists [the
_third_]. It was unanimous.
"The resolutions of the Legislative Council and House of
Representatives of the Indiana Territory relate to a suspension,
for the term of ten years, of the sixth article of compact
between the United States and the Territories and States
northwest of the river Ohio, passed the 13th July, 1787. That
article declares that there shall be neither Slavery nor
involuntary servitude in the said Territory.
"The suspension of the said article would operate an immediate
and essential benefit to the Territory, as emigration to it will
be inconsiderable for many years, except from those States where
Slavery is tolerated.
"And although it is not considered expedient to force the
population of the Territory, yet it is desirable to connect its
scattered settlements, and, in admitted political rights, to
place it on an equal footing with the different States. From the
interior situation of the Territory, it is not believed that
slaves could ever become so numerous as to endanger the internal
peace or future prosperity of the country. The current of
emigration flowing to the Western country, the Territories should
all be opened to their introduction. The abstract question of
Liberty and Slavery is not involved in the proposed measure, as
Slavery now exists to a considerable extent in different parts of
the Union; it would not augment the number of slaves, but merely
authorize the removal to Indiana of such as are held in bondage
in the United States. If Slavery is an evil, means ought to be
devised to render it least dangerous to the community, and by
which the hapless situation of the slaves would be most
ameliorated; and to accomplish these objects, no measure would be
so effectual as the one proposed. The Committee, therefore,
respectfully submit to the House the following resolution:
"_Resolved_, That it is expedient to suspend, from and after the
1st day of January, 1808, the sixth article of compact between
the United States and the Territories and States northwest of the
Ohio, passed the 13th day of July, 1787, for the term of ten
years."
Like its predecessor this report was made a special order, but was
never taken up.
On the 7th of November, 1807, the President laid a letter from Gen.
Harrison [probably the one already referred to], and the resolves of
his Legislature, before Congress, and that body referred them to a
select committee consisting of Franklin, of North Carolina; Ketchel,
of New Jersey; and Tiffin, of Ohio.
On the 13th of November, Mr. Franklin made the following adverse
report:
"The Legislative Council and House of Representatives, in their
resolutions, express their sense of the propriety of introducing
Slavery into their Territory, and solicit the Congress of the
United States to suspend, for a given number of years, the sixth
article of compact, in the ordinance for the government of the
Territory northwest of the Ohio, passed the 13th day of July,
1787. That article declares: 'There shall be neither Slavery nor
involuntary servitude within the said Territory.'
"The citizens of Clark County, in their remonstrance, express
their sense of the impropriety of the measure, and solicit the
Congress of the United States not to act on the subject, so as to
permit the introduction of slaves into the Territory; at least,
until their population shall entitle them to form a constitution
and State government.
"Your Committee, after duly considering the matter, respectfully
submit the following resolution:
"_Resolved_, That it is not expedient at this time to suspend the
sixth article of compact for the government of the Territory of
the United States northwest of the river Ohio."
Thus ended in defeat the stubborn effort to secure a restriction of
the ordinance of 1787, and the admission of slavery into the Territory
lying west of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers, now comprising the
States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
In his message to Congress at the commencement of the session of
1806-7, President Jefferson suggested to that body the wisdom of
abolishing the African slave-trade. He said in this connection:
"I congratulate you, fellow-citizens, on the approach of the
period at which you may interpose your authority,
constitutionally, to withdraw the citizens of the United States
from all further participation in those violations of human
rights which have so long been continued on the unoffending
inhabitants of Africa, and which the morality, the reputation,
and the best interest of our country have long been eager to
proscribe."
This portion of the message was referred to a select committee; and in
due time they reported a bill "to prohibit the importation or bringing
of slaves into the United States or the territories thereof after the
31st day of December, 1807."
Mr. Early, of Georgia, the chairman of the committee, inserted a
clause into the bill requiring that all slaves illegally imported
"should be forfeited and sold for life for the benefit of the United
States." A long debate ensued and was conducted with fiery earnestness
from beginning to end. It was urged in support of the above
regulation, that nothing else could be done but to sell them; that it
would never do to release them in the States where they might be
captured, poor, ignorant, and dangerous. It was said by the opponents
of the measure, that Congress could not regulate the matter, as the
States had the reserved authority to have slavery, and were,
therefore, competent to say who should be free and who bond. It was
suggested, farther along in the debate, that Congress might order such
slaves into such States as prohibited slavery, where they could be
bound out for a term of years. After a great many able speeches the
House refused to strike out the forfeiture clause by a vote of
sixty-three to thirty-six. When the act was called up for final
passage, it was amended by inserting a clause imposing a fine of
$20,000, upon all persons concerned in fitting out a vessel for the
slave-trade; and likewise a fine of $5,000, and forfeiture of the
vessel for taking on board any Negro or Mulatto, or any person of
color, in any foreign port with the intention of selling them in the
United States.
During these efforts at restriction the slave population was growing
daily. The census of 1810 showed that within a decade the slave
population had sprung from 893,041, in 1800, to 1,191,364,--an
increase of 33 per cent. The following table exhibits this remarkable
fact:
CENSUS OF 1810.--SLAVE POPULATION.
District of Columbia 5,395
Rhode Island 108
Connecticut 310
Pennsylvania 795
Delaware 4,177
New Jersey 10,851
New York 15,017
Louisiana 34,660
Tennessee 44,535
Kentucky 80,561
Georgia 105,218
Maryland 111,502
North Carolina 168,824
South Carolina 196,365
Virginia 392,518
Mississippi Territory 17,088
Indiana Territory 237
Louisiana Territory 3,011
Illinois Territory 168
Michigan Territory 24
On the 10th of December, 1817, Mississippi applied for admission into
the Union with a slave constitution. The provisions relating to
slavery dispensed with grand juries in the indictment of slaves, and
trial by jury was allowed only in trial of capital cases.
During the session of 1817-8, Congress was besieged by a large number
of memorials praying for more specific legislation against the
slave-trade. During the session the old fugitive-slave act was amended
so as to make it more effective, and passed by a vote of eighty-four
to sixty-nine. In the Senate, with several amendments, and heated
debate, it passed by a vote of seventeen to thirteen; but upon being
returned to the House for concurrence, the Northern members had heard
from their constituents, and the bill was tabled, and its friends were
powerless to get it up.
In 1818-9, Congress passed an act offering a premium of fifty dollars
to the informer of every illegally imported African seized within the
United States, and twenty-five dollars for those taken at sea. The
President was authorized to have such slaves removed beyond the limits
of the United States, and to appoint agents on the West Coast of
Africa to superintend their reception. An effort was made to punish
slave-trading with death. It passed the House, but was struck out in
the Senate.
On the 12th of January, 1819, the Secretary of the Navy transmitted to
the Speaker of the House of Representatives copies of circular letters
that had been sent to the naval officers on the various stations along
the sea-coast of the slave-holding States. The following letter is a
fair sample of the remainder:[1]
"NAVY DEPARTMENT, January 22, 1811.
"SIR:--I hear, not without great concern, that the law
prohibiting the importation of slaves has been violated in
frequent instances, near St. Mary's, since the gun-boats have
been withdrawn from that station.
"We are bound by law, by the obligations of humanity and sound
policy, to use our most strenuous efforts to restrain this
disgraceful traffic, and to bring those who shall be found
engaged in it to those forfeitures and punishments which are by
law prescribed for such offences.
"Hasten the equipment of the gun-boats which, by my letter of the
24th ultimo, you were directed to equip, and as soon as they
shall be ready, despatch them to St. Mary's with orders to their
commanders to use all practicable diligence in enforcing the law
prohibiting the importation of slaves, passed March 2, 1807,
entitled 'An Act to prohibit the importation of slaves into any
port or place within the jurisdiction of the United States from
and after the 1st day of January, 1808.' The whole of this law,
but especially the 7th section, requires your particular
attention; that section declares, that _any_ ship or vessel which
shall be found in any river, port, bay, or harbor, or on the high
seas, within the jurisdictional limits of the United States, or
hovering on the coast thereof, having on board any negro,
mulatto, or person of color, for the purpose of selling them as
slaves, or with intent to land the same in any port or place
within the jurisdiction of the United States, contrary to the
prohibition of the act, shall, together with her tackle, apparel,
and furniture, and the goods and effects which shall be found on
board the same, be forfeited and may be seized, prosecuted, and
condemned in any court of the United States having jurisdiction
thereof.
"It further authorizes the President of the United States to
cause any of the armed vessels of the United States to be manned
and employed to cruise on any part of the coast of the United
States, or territories thereof, and to instruct and direct the
commanders to seize, take, and bring into any port of the United
States, all such ships or vessels; and, moreover, to seize, take,
and bring into any port of the United States, all ships or
vessels _of the United States, wherever found on the high seas_,
contravening the provisions of the act, to be proceeded against
according to law.
"You will, therefore, consider yourself hereby especially
instructed and required, and you will instruct and require all
officers placed under your command, to seize, take, and bring
into port, _any vessel of whatever nature_, found in any river,
port, bay, or harbor, or on the high seas, within the
jurisdictional limits of the United States, or hovering on the
coast thereof, having on board any negro, mulatto, or person of
color, for the purpose of selling them as slaves, or with intent
to land the same, contrary to law; and, moreover, to seize, take,
and bring into port, all ships or vessels _of the United States_,
wheresoever found on the high seas or elsewhere, contravening the
provisions of the law. Vessels thus to be seized, may be brought
into _any_ port of the United States; and when brought into port,
must, without delay, be reported to the district-attorney of the
United States residing in the district in which such port may be,
who will institute such further proceedings as law and justice
require.
"Every person found on board of such vessels must be taken
especial care of. The negroes, mulattoes, or persons of color,
are to be delivered to such persons as the respective States may
appoint to receive the same. The commanders and crews of such
vessels will be held under the prosecutions of the
district-attorneys, to answer the pains and penalties prescribed
by law for their respective offences. Whenever negroes,
mulattoes, or persons of color shall be delivered to the persons
appointed to receive the same, duplicate receipts must be taken
therefore, and if no person shall be appointed by the respective
States to receive them, they must be delivered 'to the overseers
of the poor of the port or place where such ship or vessel may be
brought or found,' and an account of your proceedings, together
with the number and descriptive list of such negroes, mulattoes,
or persons of color, must be immediately transmitted to the
governor or chief magistrate of the State. You will communicate
to me, minutely, all your proceedings.
"I am, sir, respectfully, etc.
PAUL HAMILTON.
"H. G. CAMPBELL, _Commanding Naval Officer_,
Charleston, S. C."
On the 17th of December, 1819, President Monroe sent the following
message to Congress on the subject of the slave-trade:
"MESSAGE.
"_To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United
States_:
"Some doubt being entertained respecting the true intent and
meaning of the act of the last session, entitled 'An Act in
addition to the Acts prohibiting the slave-trade,' as to the
duties of the agents, to be appointed on the coast of Africa, I
think it proper to state the interpretation which has been given
of the act, and the measures adopted to carry it into effect,
that Congress may, should it be deemed advisable, amend the same,
before further proceeding is had under it.
"The obligation to instruct the commanders of all our armed
vessels to seize and bring into port all ships or vessels of the
United States, wheresoever found, having on board any negro,
mulatto, or person of color, in violation of former acts for the
suppression of the slave-trade, being imperative, was executed
without delay. No seizures have yet been made, but, as they were
contemplated by the law, and might be presumed, it seemed proper
to make the necessary regulations applicable to such seizures for
carrying the several provisions of the act into effect.
"It is enjoined on the executive to cause all negroes, mulattoes,
or persons of color, who may be taken under the act, to be
removed to Africa. It is the obvious import of the law, that none
of the persons thus taken should remain within the United States;
and no place other than the coast of Africa being designated,
their removal or delivery, whether carried from the United States
or landed immediately from the vessels in which they were taken,
was supposed to be confined to that coast. No settlement or
station being specified, the whole coast was thought to be left
open for the selection of a proper place, at which the persons
thus taken should be delivered. The executive is authorized to
appoint one or more agents, residing there, to receive such
persons; and one hundred thousand dollars are appropriated for
the general purposes of the law.
"On due consideration of the several sections of the act, and of
its humane policy, it was supposed to be the intention of
Congress, that all the persons above described, who might be
taken under it, and landed in Africa, should be aided in their
return to their former homes, or in their establishment at or
near the place where landed. Some shelter and food would be
necessary for them there, as soon as landed, let their subsequent
disposition be what it might. Should they be landed without such
provision having been previously made, they might perish. It was
supposed, by the authority given to the executive to appoint
agents residing on that coast, that they should provide such
shelter and food, and perform the other beneficent and charitable
offices contemplated by the act. The coast of Africa having been
little explored, and no persons residing there who possessed the
requisite qualifications to entitle them to the trust being known
to the executive, to none such could it be committed. It was
believed that citizens only, who would go hence, well instructed
in the views of their government, and zealous to give them
effect, would be competent to these duties, and that it was not
the intention of the law to preclude their appointment. It was
obvious that the longer these persons should be detained in the
United States in the hands of the marshals, the greater would be
the expense, and that for the same term would the main purpose of
the law be suspended. It seemed, therefore, to be incumbent on me
to make the necessary arrangements for carrying this act into
effect in Africa, in time to meet the delivery of any persons who
might be taken by the public vessels, and landed there under it.
"On this view of the policy and sanctions of the law, it has been
decided to send a public ship to the coast of Africa with two
such agents, who will take with them tools and other implements
necessary for the purposes above mentioned. To each of these
agents a small salary has been allowed--fifteen hundred dollars
to the principal, and twelve hundred to the other. All our public
agents on the coast of Africa receive salaries for their
services, and it was understood that none of our citizens
possessing the requisite qualifications would accept these
trusts, by which they would be confined to parts the least
frequented and civilized, without a reasonable compensation. Such
allowance, therefore, seemed to be indispensable to the execution
of the act. It is intended, also, to subject a portion of the sum
appropriated, to the order of the principal agent, for the
special objects above stated, amounting in the whole, including
the salaries of the agents for one year, to rather less than one
third of the appropriation. Special instructions will be given to
these agents, defining, in precise terms, their duties in regard
to the persons thus delivered to them; the disbursement of the
money by the principal agent; and his accountability for the
same. They will also have power to select the most suitable place
on the coast of Africa, at which all persons who may be taken
under this act shall be delivered to them, with an express
injunction to exercise no power founded on the principle of
colonization, or other power than that of performing the
benevolent offices above recited, by the permission and sanction
of the existing government under which they may establish
themselves. Orders will be given to the commander of the public
ship in which they will sail, to cruise along the coast, to give
the more complete effect to the principal object of the act.
"JAMES MONROE.
"WASHINGTON, December, 17, 1819."
In March, 1818, the delegate from Missouri presented petitions from
the inhabitants of that territory, praying to be admitted into the
Union as a State. They were referred to a select committee, and a bill
was reported for the admission of Missouri as a State on equal footing
with the other States. The bill was read twice, when it was sent to
the Committee of the Whole, where it was permitted to remain during
the entire session. During the next session, on the 13th of February,
1819, the House went into the Committee of the Whole with Gen. Smith,
of Maryland, in the chair. The committee had two sittings during which
they discussed the bill. Gen. Tallmadge, of New York, offered the
following amendment directed against the life of the clause admitting
slavery:
"And provided that the introduction of slavery, or involuntary
servitude, be prohibited, except for the punishment of crimes
whereof the party has been duly convicted, and that all children
born within the said State, after the admission thereof into the
Union, shall be declared free at the age of twenty-five years."
A long and an able discussion followed, in which the authority of the
government to prohibit slavery under new State governments was
affirmed and denied. On coming out of the Committee of the Whole, the
yeas and nays were demanded on the amendment prohibiting the
introduction of slavery into Missouri, and resulted as follows: yeas,
87,--only one vote from the South, Delaware; nays, 76,--ten votes
from Northern States. Upon the latter clause of the amendment--"and
that all children of slaves, born within the said State, after the
admission thereof into the Union, shall be declared free at the age of
twenty-five years": yeas, 82,--one vote from Maryland; nays,
78,--fourteen from Northern States. And thus the entire amendment of
Gen. Tallmadge was sustained, and being reported to the House, passed
by a vote 98 to 56.
The bill reached the Senate on the 17th of February, and after its
second reading was referred to a select committee. On the 22d of
February, the chairman, Mr. Tait, of Georgia, reported the bill back
with amendments, striking out the Tallmadge restriction clauses. The
House went into the Committee of the Whole on the 27th of February, to
consider the bill, when Mr. Wilson, of New Jersey, moved to postpone
the further consideration of the bill until the 5th of March. It was
rejected. The committee then began to vote upon the recommendations of
the select committee. Upon striking out the House amendment, providing
that all the children of slaves born within said State should be free,
etc., it was carried by a vote of 27 to 7, eleven Northern Senators
voting to strike out. The seven votes against striking out were all
from free States.
Upon the clause prohibiting servitude except for crimes, etc., 22
votes were cast for striking out,--five being from Northern States;
against striking out, 16,--and they were all from Northern States.
Thus amended, the bill was ordered to be engrossed, and on the 2d of
March--the last day but one of the session--was read a third time and
passed. It was returned to the House, where the amendments were read,
when Mr. Tallmadge moved that the bill be indefinitely postponed. His
motion was rejected by a vote of: yeas, 69; nays, 74. But upon a
motion to concur in the Senate amendments, the House refused to
concur: yeas, 76; nays, 78. The Senate adhered to their amendments,
and the House adhered to their disagreement by a vote of 76 to 66; and
thus the bill fell between the two Houses and was lost.
The southern portion of the territory of Missouri, which was not
included within the limits of the proposed State, was organized as a
separate territory, under the designation of the Arkansas Territory.
After considerable debate, and several attempts to insert an amendment
for the restriction of slavery, the bill creating the territory of
Arkansas passed without any reference to slavery, and thus the
territory was left open to slavery, and also the State some years
later.
The Congressional discussion of the slavery question aroused the
anti-slavery sentiment of the North, which found expression in large
and earnest meetings, in pungent editorials, and numerous memorials.
At Trenton, New York, Philadelphia, Boston, and other places, the
indignation against slavery was great. On December 3, 1819, a large
meeting was held in the State House at Boston, when a resolution was
adopted to memorialize Congress on the subject of "restraining the
increase of slavery in _new States_ to be admitted into the Union."
The memorial was drawn by Daniel Webster, and signed by himself,
George Blake, Josiah Quincy, James T. Austin, and others. The New York
Legislature passed resolutions against the extension of slavery into
the territories and new States; and requested the Congressmen and
instructed the Senators from that State not to vote for the admission
of any State into the Union, except such State should pledge itself to
unqualified restriction in the letter and spirit of the ordinance of
1787. These resolutions were signed on January 17, 1820.
On the 24th of January the New Jersey Legislature followed in the same
strain, with six pertinent resolves, a copy of which the governor was
requested to forward "to each of the senators and representatives of
this State, in the Congress of the United States."
Pennsylvania had taken action on the 11th of December, 1819; but the
resolves were not signed by Gov. William Findlay until the 16th of the
month. The Legislature was composed of fifty-four Democrats and twenty
Whigs, and yet there was not a dissenting vote cast.
Two Southern States passed resolutions,--Delaware and Kentucky: the
first in favor of restriction, the last opposed to restriction.
The effort to secure the admission of Missouri with a slave
constitution was not dead, but only sleeping. The bill was called up
as a special order on the 24th of January, 1820. It occupied most of
the time of the House from the 25th of January till the 19th of
February, when a bill came from the Senate providing for the admission
of Maine into the Union, but containing a rider authorizing the people
of Missouri to adopt a State constitution, etc., without restrictions
respecting slavery. The bill providing for the admission of Maine had
passed the House during the early days of the session, and now
returned to the House for concurrence in the rider. The debate on the
bill and amendments had occupied much of the time of the Senate. In
the Judiciary Committee on the 16th of February, the question was
taken on amendments to the Maine admission bill, authorizing Missouri
to form a State constitution, making no mention of slavery: and
twenty-three votes were cast against restriction,--three from Northern
States; twenty-one in favor of restriction,--but only two from the
South.
Mr. Thomas offered a resolution reaffirming the doctrine of the sixth
article of the ordinance of 1787, and declaring its applicability to
all that territory ceded to the United States by France, under the
general designation of Louisiana, which lies north of thirty-six
degrees and thirty minutes north latitude, etc. But on the following
day he withdrew his original amendment, and submitted the following:
"_And be it further enacted_, That in all the territory ceded by
France to the United States, under the name of Louisiana, which
lies north of thirty-six degrees thirty minutes, north latitude,
excepting only such part thereof as is included within the limits
of the State contemplated by this act, slavery and involuntary
servitude, otherwise than in the punishment of crime whereof the
party shall have been duly convicted, shall be and is hereby
forever prohibited. Provided always, that any person escaping
into the same, from where labor or service is lawfully claimed in
any State or territory of the United States, such fugitive may be
lawfully reclaimed and conveyed to the person claiming his or her
labor or service as aforesaid."
Mr. Trimble, of Ohio, offered a substitute, but it was rejected. The
question recurring upon the passage of the amendment of Mr. Thomas,
excluding slavery from all the territory north and west of Missouri,
it was carried by a vote of 34 to 20.
Thus amended, the bill was ordered to engrossment by a vote of 24 to
20. On the 18th of February the bill passed, and this was its
condition when it came to the House. By a vote of 93 to 72 the House
agreed not to leave the Missouri question on the Maine bill as a
rider; but immediately thereafter struck out the Thomas Senate
amendment by a vote of 159 to 18. The House disagreed to the
remaining Senate amendments, striking out the clause restricting
slavery in Missouri by a vote of 102 to 68.
Thus rejected, the bill was returned to the Senate shorn of its
amendments. After four days of debate in the Senate it was decided not
to recede from the attachment of the Missouri subject to the Maine
bill; not to recede from the amendment prohibiting slavery west of
Missouri, and north of 36° 30´ north latitude, and insisted upon the
remaining amendments without division.
When the bill was returned to the House a motion was made to insist
upon its disagreement to all but section nine of the Senate
amendments, and was carried by a vote of 97 to 76.
The Senate asked for a committee of conference upon differences
between the two Houses, which was cheerfully granted by the House. On
the 2d of March, Mr. Holmes, of Massachusetts, as chairman, made the
following report:
"1. The Senate should give up the combination of Missouri in the
same bill with Maine.
"2. The House should abandon the attempt to restrict Slavery in
Missouri.
"3. Both Houses should agree to pass the Senate's separate
Missouri bill, with Mr. Thomas's restriction or compromising
proviso, excluding Slavery from all territory north and west of
Missouri.
"The report having been read,
"The first and most important question was put, viz.:
"Will the House concur with the Senate in so much of the said
amendments as proposes to strike from the fourth section of the
[Missouri] bill the provision prohibiting Slavery or involuntary
servitude in the contemplated State, otherwise than in the
punishment of crimes?"
The vote resulted as follows: For giving up restriction on Missouri,
yeas, 90; against giving up restriction of slavery in Missouri, 87.
Mr. Taylor, of New York, offered an amendment to include Arkansas
Territory under the prohibition of slavery in the territory west and
north of Missouri, but his amendment was cut off by a call for the
previous question. Then the House concurred in the Senate amendment
excluding forever slavery from the territory west and north of
Missouri by a vote of 134 to 42! And on the following day the bill
admitting Maine into the Union was passed without opposition.
Thus the Northern delegates in Congress were whipped into line, and
thus did the South gain her point in the extension of slavery in
violation of the sacred compact between the States contained in the
ordinance of 1787.
But the struggle was opened afresh when Missouri presented herself for
admission on the 16th of November, 1820. The constitution of this new
State, adopted by her people on the 19th of July, 1820, contained the
following resolutions which greatly angered the Northern members, who
so keenly felt the defeat and humiliation they had Suffered so
recently:
"The General Assembly shall have no power to pass laws, first,
for the emancipation of Slaves without the consent of their
owners, or without paying them, before such emancipation, a full
equivalent for such slaves so emancipated; and second: to prevent
_bona-fide_ emigrants to this State, or actual settlers therein,
from bringing from any of the United States, or from any of their
Territories, such persons as may there be deemed to be Slaves, so
long as any persons of the same description are allowed to be
held as Slaves by the laws of this State.
... "It shall be their duty, as soon as may be, to pass such laws
as may be necessary,
"First, to prevent free negroes and mulattoes from coming to, and
settling in, this State, under any pretext whatever."
Upon the motion to admit the State the vote stood: yeas, 79, nays, 93.
Upon a second attempt to admit her, with the understanding that the
resolution just quoted should be expunged the vote was worse than
before, standing: yeas, 6; nays, 146!
The House now rested, until a joint resolve, admitting her with but a
vague and ineffective qualification, came down from the Senate, where
it was passed by a vote of 26 to 18--six Senators from Free States in
the affirmative. Mr. Clay, who had resigned in the recess, and been
succeeded, as Speaker, by John W. Taylor, of New York, now appeared as
the leader of the Missouri admissionists, and proposed terms of
compromise, which were twice voted down by the Northern members, aided
by John Randolph and three others from the South, who would have
Missouri admitted without condition or qualification. At last, Mr.
Clay proposed a joint committee on this subject, to be chosen by
ballot--which the House agreed to by a vote of 101 to 55; and Mr. Clay
became its chairman. By this committee it was agreed, that a solemn
pledge should be required of the Legislature of Missouri, that the
constitution of that State should not be construed to authorize the
passage of any act, and that no act should be passed "by which any of
the citizens of either of the States should be excluded from the
enjoyment of the privileges and immunities to which they are entitled
under the Constitution of the United States." The joint resolution,
amended by the addition of this proviso, passed the House by 86 yeas
to 82 nays; the Senate concurred (Feb. 27, 1821) by 26 yeas to 15
nays--(all Northern but Macon, of N. C.). Missouri complied with the
condition, and became an accepted member of the Union. Thus closed the
last stage of the fierce Missouri controversy, which for a time seemed
to threaten--as so many other controversies have harmlessly
threatened--the existence of the Union.
By this time there was scarcely a State in the North but that had
organized anti-slavery, or abolition, societies. Pennsylvania boasted
of a society that was accomplishing a great Work. Where it was
impossible to secure freedom for the enslaved, religious training was
imparted, and many excellent efforts made for the amelioration of the
condition of the Negroes, bond and free. A society for promoting the
"_Abolition of Slavery_" was formed at Trenton, New Jersey, on the 2d
of March, 1786. It adopted an elaborate constitution, which was
amended on the 26th of November, 1788. It did an effective work
throughout the State; embraced in its membership some of the ablest
men of the State; and changed public sentiment for the better by the
methods it adopted and the literature it circulated. On the 15th of
February, 1804, it secured the passage of the following Act for the
gradual emancipation of the slaves in the State:
"AN ACT FOR THE GRADUAL ABOLITION OF SLAVERY.
"SECTION 1. _Be it enacted by the Council and General Assembly of
this State, and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the
same_, That every child born of a slave within this State, after
the fourth day of July next, shall be free; but shall remain the
servant of the owner of his or her mother, and the executors,
administrators, or assigns of such owner, in the same manner as
if such child had been bound to service by the trustees or
overseers of the poor, and shall continue in such service, if a
male, until the age of twenty-five years, and if a female, until
the age of twenty-one years.
"2. _And be it enacted_, That every person being an inhabitant of
this State, who shall be entitled to the service of a child born
as aforesaid, after the said fourth day of July next, shall
within nine months after the birth of such child, cause to be
delivered to the clerk of the county whereof such person shall be
an inhabitant, a certificate in writing, containing the name and
station of such person, and the name, age, and sex of the child
so born; which certificate, whether the same be delivered before
or after the said nine months, shall be by the said clerk
recorded in a book to be by him provided for that purpose; and
such record thereof shall be good evidence of the age of such
child; and the clerk of such county shall receive from said
person twelve cents for every child so registered; and if any
person shall neglect to deliver such certificate to the said
clerk within said nine months, such person shall forfeit and pay
for every such offence, five dollars, and the further sum of one
dollar for every month such person shall neglect to deliver the
same, to be sued for and recovered by any person who will sue for
the same, the one half to the use of such prosecutor, and the
residue to the use of the poor of the township in which such
delinquent shall reside.
"3. _And be it enacted_, That the person entitled to the service
of any child born as aforesaid, may, nevertheless, within one
year after the birth of such child, elect to abandon such right;
in which case a notification of such abandonment, under the hand
of such person, shall be filed with the clerk of the township, or
where there may be a county poor-house established, then with the
clerk of the board of trustees of said poor-house of the county
in which such person shall reside; but every child so abandoned
shall be maintained by such person until such child arrives to
the age of one year, and thereafter shall be considered as a
pauper of such township or county, and liable to be bound out by
the trustees or overseers of the poor in the same manner as other
poor children are directed to be bound out, until, if a male, the
age of twenty-five, and if a female, the age of twenty-one; and
such child, while such pauper, until it shall be bound out, shall
be maintained by the trustees or overseers of the poor of such
county or township, as the case may be, at the expense of this
State; and for that purpose the director of the board of chosen
freeholders of the county is hereby required, from time to time,
to draw his warrant on the treasurer in favor of such trustees or
overseers for the amount of such expense, not exceeding the rate
of three dollars per month; provided the accounts for the same be
first certified and approved by such board of trustees, or the
town committee of such township; and every person who shall omit
to notify such abandonment as aforesaid, shall be considered as
having elected to retain the service of such child, and be liable
for its maintenance until the period to which its servitude is
limited as aforesaid.
"A. Passed at Trenton, Feb. 15, 1804."
The public journals of the larger Northern cities began to take a
lively interest in the paramount question of the day, which, without
doubt, was the slavery question. Gradual emancipation was doing an
excellent work in nearly all the Northern States, as may be seen by
the census of 1820. When the entire slave population was footed up it
showed an increase of 30 per cent. during the previous ten years, but
when examined by States it was found to be on the decrease in all the
Northern or free States, except Illinois. The slave population of
Virginia had increased only 8 per cent.; North Carolina 21 per cent.;
South Carolina 31 per cent.; Tennessee 79 per cent.; Mississippi 92
per cent.; and Louisiana 99 per cent. The slave population by States
was as follows:
CENSUS OF 1820--SLAVE POPULATION.
Alabama 41,879
District of Columbia 6,377
Connecticut 97
Delaware 4,509
Georgia 149,654
Illinois 917
Indiana 190
Kentucky 126,732
Louisiana 69,064
Maryland 107,397
Mississippi 32,814
Missouri 10,222
New Jersey 7,557
New York 10,088
North Carolina 205,017
Pennsylvania 211
Rhode Island 48
South Carolina 258,475
Tennessee 80,107
Virginia 425,153
Arkansas Territory 1,617
---------
Aggregate 1,538,125
The anti-slavery sentiment of the Northern States was growing, but no
organization with a great leader at its head had yet announced its
platform or unfurled its banner in a holy war for the emancipation of
the Bondmen of the Free Republic of North America.
FOOTNOTES:
[1] I have in my possession large numbers of official orders and
letters on the suppression of the slave-trade, but the space
appropriated to this history precludes their publication. There are,
however, some important documents in the appendix to this volume.
CHAPTER II.
NEGRO TROOPS IN THE WAR OF 1812.
EMPLOYMENT OF NEGROES AS SOLDIERS IN THE WAR OF 1812.--THE NEW
YORK LEGISLATURE AUTHORIZES THE ENLISTMENT OF A REGIMENT OF
COLORED SOLDIERS.--GEN. ANDREW JACKSON'S PROCLAMATION TO THE FREE
COLORED INHABITANTS OF LOUISIANA CALLING THEM TO ARMS.--STIRRING
ADDRESS TO THE COLORED TROOPS THE SUNDAY BEFORE THE BATTLE OF NEW
ORLEANS.--GEN. JACKSON ANTICIPATES THE VALOR OF HIS COLORED
SOLDIERS.--TERMS OF PEACE AT THE CLOSE OF THE WAR BY THE
COMMISSIONERS AT GHENT.--NEGROES PLACED AS CHATTEL
PROPERTY.--THEIR VALOR IN WAR SECURES THEM NO IMMUNITY IN PEACE.
When the war-clouds gathered in 1812, there was no time wasted in
discussing whether it would be prudent to arm the Negro, nor was there
a doubt expressed as to his valor. His brilliant achievements in the
war of the Revolution, his power of endurance, and martial enthusiasm,
were the golden threads of glory that bound his memory to the
victorious cause of the American Republic. A lack of troops and an
imperiled cause led to the admission of Negroes into the American army
during the war of the Revolution. But it was the Negro's eminent
fitness for military service that made him a place under the United
States flag during the war in Louisiana. The entire country had
confidence in the Negro's patriotism and effectiveness as a soldier.
White men were willing to see Negroes go into the army because it
reduced their chances of being sent forth to the tented field and
dangerous bivouac.
New York did not hesitate to offer a practical endorsement of the
prevalent opinion that Negroes were both competent and worthy to fight
the battles of the Nation. Accordingly, the following Act was passed
authorizing the organization of two regiments of Negroes.
"AN ACT TO AUTHORIZE THE RAISING OF TWO REGIMENTS OF MEN OF
COLOR; PASSED OCT. 24, 1814.
"SECT. 1. _Be it enacted_ by the people of the State of New York,
represented in Senate and Assembly, That the Governor of the
State be, and he is hereby, authorized to raise, by voluntary
enlistment, two regiments of free men of color, for the defence
of the State for three years, unless sooner discharged.
"SECT. 2. _And be it further enacted_, That each of the said
regiments shall consist of one thousand and eighty able-bodied
men; and the said regiments shall be formed into a brigade, or be
organized in such manner, and shall be employed in such service,
as the Governor of the State of New York shall deem best adapted
to defend the said State.
"SECT. 3. _And be it further enacted_, That all the commissioned
officers of the said regiments and brigade shall be white men;
and the Governor of the State of New York shall be, and he is
hereby, authorized to commission, by brevet, all the officers of
the said regiments and brigade, who shall hold their respective
commissions until the council of appointment shall have appointed
the officers of the said regiments and brigade, in pursuance of
the Constitution and laws of the said State.
"SECT. 4. _And be it further enacted_, That the commissioned
officers of the said regiments and brigade shall receive the same
pay, rations, forage, and allowances, as officers of the same
grade in the army of the United States; and the non-commissioned
officers, musicians, and privates of the said regiments shall
receive the same pay, rations, clothing, and allowances, as the
non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates of the army of
the United States; and the sum of twenty-five dollars shall be
paid to each of the said non-commissioned officers, musicians,
and privates, at the time of enlistment, in lieu of all other
bounty.
"SECT. 5. _And be it further enacted_, That the troops to be
raised as aforesaid may be transferred into the service of the
United States, if the Government of the United States shall agree
to pay and subsist them, and to refund to this State the moneys
expended by this State in clothing and arming them; and, until
such transfer shall be made, may be ordered into the service of
the United States in lieu of an equal number of militia, whenever
the militia of the State of New York shall be ordered into the
service of the United States.
"SECT. 6. _And be it further enacted_, That it shall be lawful
for any able-bodied slave, with the written assent of his master
or mistress, to enlist into the said corps; and the master or
mistress of such slave shall be entitled to the pay and bounty
allowed him for his service; and, further, that the said slave,
at the time of receiving his discharge, shall be deemed and
adjudged to have been legally manumitted from that time, and his
said master or mistress shall not thenceforward be liable for his
maintenance.
"SECT. 7. _And be it further enacted_, That every such enrolled
person, who shall have become free by manumission or otherwise,
if he shall thereafter become indigent, shall be deemed to be
settled in the town in which the person who manumitted him was
settled at the time of such manumission, or in such other town
where he shall have gained a settlement subsequent to his
discharge from the said service; and the former owner or owners
of such manumitted person, and his legal representatives, shall
be exonerated from his maintenance, any law to the contrary
hereof notwithstanding.
"SECT. 8. _And be it further enacted_, That, when the troops to
be raised as aforesaid shall be in the service of the United
States, they shall be subject to the rules and articles which
have been or may be hereafter established by the By-laws of the
United States for the government of the army of the United
States; that, when the said troops shall be in the service of the
State of New York, they shall be subject to the same rules and
regulations; and the Governor of the said State shall be, and he
is hereby, authorized and directed to exercise all the power and
authority which, by the said rules and articles, are required to
be exercised by the President of the United States."[2]
Gen. Andrew Jackson believed in the fighting capacity of the Negro, as
evidenced by the subjoined proclamation:
"HEADQUARTERS OF 7TH MILITARY DISTRICT,
"MOBILE, September 21, 1814.
"TO THE FREE COLORED INHABITANTS OF LOUISIANA:
"Through a mistaken policy you have heretofore been deprived of a
participation in the glorious struggle for national rights in
which our country is engaged. This no longer shall exist.
"As sons of freedom, you are now called upon to defend our most
inestimable blessing. As Americans, your country looks with
confidence to her adopted children for a valorous support, as a
faithful return for the advantages enjoyed under her mild and
equitable government. As fathers, husbands, and brothers, you are
summoned to rally around the standard of the eagle, to defend all
which is dear in existence.
"Your country, although calling for your exertions, does not wish
you to engage in her cause without amply remunerating you for the
services rendered. Your intelligent minds are not to be led away
by false representations. Your love of honor would cause you to
despise the man who should attempt to deceive you. In the
sincerity of a soldier and the language of truth I address you.
"To every noble-hearted, generous freeman of color, volunteering
to serve during the present contest with Great Britain, and no
longer, there will be paid the same bounty in money and lands,
now received by the white soldiers of the United States, viz.:
one hundred and twenty-four dollars in money, and one hundred and
sixty acres of land. The non-commissioned officers and privates
will also be entitled to the same monthly pay and daily rations,
and clothes, furnished to any American soldier.
"On enrolling yourselves in companies, the major-general
commanding will select officers for your government from your
white fellow-citizens. Your non-commissioned officers will be
appointed from among yourselves.
"Due regard will be paid to the feelings of freemen and soldiers.
You will not, by being associated with white men in the same
corps, be exposed to improper comparisons or unjust sarcasm. As a
distinct, independent battalion or regiment, pursuing the path of
glory, you will, undivided, receive the applause and gratitude of
your countrymen.
"To assure you of the sincerity of my intentions, and my anxiety
to engage your invaluable services to our country, I have
communicated my wishes to the Governor of Louisiana, who is fully
informed as to the manner of enrollment, and will give you every
necessary information on the subject of this address.
"ANDREW JACKSON, _Major-General Commanding_."[3]
Just before the battle of New Orleans, General Jackson reviewed his
troops, white and black, on Sunday, December 18, 1814. At the close of
the review his Adjutant-General, Edward Livingston, rode to the head
of the column, and read in rich and sonorous tones the following
address:
"TO THE MEN OF COLOR.--Soldiers! From the shores of Mobile I
collected you to arms; I invited you to share in the perils and
to divide the glory of your white countrymen. I expected much
from you, for I was not uninformed of those qualities which must
render you so formidable to an invading foe. I knew that you
could endure hunger and thirst and all the hardships of war; I
knew that you loved the land of your nativity, and that, like
ourselves, you had to defend all that is most dear to man. But
you surpass my hopes. I have found in you, united to these
qualities, that noble enthusiasm which impels to great deeds.
"Soldiers! The President of the United States shall be informed
of your conduct on the present occasion; and the voice of the
representatives of the American nation shall applaud your valor,
as your general now praises your ardor. The enemy is near. His
sails cover the lakes. But the brave are united; and if he finds
us contending among ourselves, it will be for the prize of valor,
and fame, its noblest reward."[4]
But in this war, as in the Revolutionary struggle, the commissioners
who concluded the terms of peace, armed with ample and authentic
evidence of the Negro's valorous services, placed him among chattel
property.
And in no State in the South were the laws more rigidly enforced
against Negroes, both free and slave, than in Louisiana. The efficient
service of the Louisiana Negro troops in the war of 1812 was applauded
on two continents at the time, but the noise of the slave marts soon
silenced the praise of the "Black heroes of the battle of New
Orleans."
FOOTNOTES:
[2] Laws of the State of New York, passed at the Thirty-eighth Session
of the Legislature, chap. xviii.
[3] Niles's Register, vol. vii. p. 205.
[4] Niles's Register, vol. vii. pp. 345, 346.
CHAPTER III.
NEGROES IN THE NAVY.
NO PROSCRIPTION AGAINST NEGROES AS SAILORS.--THEY ARE CARRIED
UPON THE ROLLS IN THE NAVY WITHOUT REGARD TO THEIR
NATIONALITY.--THEIR TREATMENT AS SAILORS.--COMMODORE PERRY'S
LETTER TO COMMODORE CHAUNCEY IN REGARD TO THE MEN SENT
HIM.--COMMODORE CHAUNCEY'S SPIRITED REPLY.--THE HEROISM OF THE
NEGRO SET FORTH IN THE PICTURE OF PERRY'S VICTORY ON LAKE
ERIE.--EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM NATHANIEL SHALER, COMMANDER OF A
PRIVATE VESSEL.--HE CITES SEVERAL INSTANCES OF THE HEROIC CONDUCT
OF NEGRO SAILORS.
It is rather a remarkable fact of history that Negroes were carried
upon the rolls of the navy without reference to their nationality.
About one tenth of the crews of the fleet that sailed to the Upper
Lakes to co-operate with Col. Croghan at Mackinac, in 1814, were
Negroes. Dr. Parsons says:--
"In 1816, I was surgeon of the 'Java,' under Commodore Perry. The
white and colored seamen messed together. About one in six or
eight were colored.
"In 1819, I was surgeon of the 'Guerrière,' under Commodore
Macdonough; and the proportion of blacks was about the same in
her crew. There seemed to be an entire absence of prejudice
against the blacks as messmates among the crew. What I have said
applies to the crews of the other ships that sailed in
squadrons."[5]
This ample and reliable testimony as to the treatment of Negroes as
sailors, puts to rest all doubts as to their status in the United
States navy.
In the summer of 1813, Captain (afterwards Commodore) Perry wrote a
letter to Commodore Chauncey in which he complained that an
indifferent lot of men had been sent him. The following is the letter
that he wrote.
"SIR:--I have this moment received, by express, the enclosed
letter from General Harrison. If I had officers and men--and I
have no doubt you will send them--I could fight the enemy, and
proceed up the lake; but, having no one to command the 'Niagara,'
and only one commissioned lieutenant and two acting lieutenants,
whatever my wishes may be, going out is out of the question. The
men that came by Mr. Champlin are a motley set--blacks, soldiers,
and boys. I cannot think you saw them after they were selected. I
am, however, pleased to see any thing in the shape of a man."[6]
Commodore Chauncey replied in the following sharp letter, in which he
gave Captain Perry to understand that the color of the skin had
nothing to do with a man's qualifications for the navy:
"SIR:--I have been duly honored with your letters of the
twenty-third and twenty-sixth ultimo, and notice your anxiety for
men and officers. I am equally anxious to furnish you; and no
time shall be lost in sending officers and men to you us soon as
the public service will allow me to send them from this lake. I
regret that you are not pleased with the men sent you by Messrs.
Champlin and Forrest; for, to my knowledge, a part of them are
not surpassed by any seamen we have in the fleet; and I have yet
to learn that the color of the skin, or the cut and trimmings of
the coat, can affect a man's qualifications or usefulness. I have
nearly fifty blacks on board of this ship, and many of them are
among my best men; and those people you call soldiers have been
to sea from two to seventeen years; and I presume that you will
find them as good and useful as any men on board of your vessel;
at least, if I can judge by comparison; for those which we have
on board of this ship are attentive and obedient, and, as far as
I can judge, many of them excellent seamen: at any rate, the men
sent to Lake Erie have been selected with a view of sending a
fair proportion of petty officers and seamen; and, I presume,
upon examination it will be found that they are equal to those
upon this lake."[7]
Perry was not long in discovering that the Negroes whom Commodore
Chauncey had sent him were competent, faithful, and brave; and his
former prejudice did not prevent him from speaking their praise.
"Perry speaks highly of the bravery and good conduct of the
negroes, who formed a considerable part of his crew. They seemed
to be absolutely insensible to danger. When Captain Barclay came
on board the 'Niagara,' and beheld the sickly and party-colored
beings around him, an expression of chagrin escaped him at
having been conquered by such men. The fresh-water service had
very much impaired the health of the sailors, and crowded the
sick-list with patients."[8]
These brave Negro sailors served faithfully through all the battles on
the Lakes, and in the battle of Lake Erie rendered most effective
service. Once more the artist has rescued from oblivion the heroism of
the Negroes; for in the East Senate stairway of the Capitol at
Washington, and in the rotunda of the Capitol at Columbus, in the
celebrated picture of Perry's Victory on Lake Erie, a Negro sailor has
a place among the immortalized crew.
The following testimony to the bravery of Colored sailors is of the
highest character.
"EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM NATHANIEL SHALER, COMMANDER OF THE
PRIVATE-ARMED SCHOONER 'GOV. TOMPKINS,' TO HIS AGENT IN NEW YORK,
DATED--
"AT SEA, Jan. 1, 1813.
* * * * *
"Before I could get our light sails in, and almost before I could
turn round, I was under the guns, not of a transport, but of a
large _frigate_! and not more than a quarter of a mile from
her.... Her first broadside killed two men, and wounded six
others.... My officers conducted themselves in a way that would
have done honor to a more permanent service.... The name of one
of my poor fellows who was killed ought to be registered in the
book of fame, and remembered with reverence, as long as bravery
is considered a virtue. He was a black man, by the name of John
Johnson. A twenty-four-pound shot struck him in the hip, and took
away all the lower part of his body. In this state, the poor
brave fellow lay on the deck, and several times exclaimed to his
shipmates: '_Fire away, my boys; no haul a color down._' The
other was also a black man, by the name of John Davis, and was
struck in much the same way. He fell near me, and several times
requested to be thrown overboard, saying he was only in the way
of others.
"When America has such tars, she has little to fear from the
tyrants of the ocean."[9]
After praise of such a nature and from such a source, eulogy is
superfluous.
FOOTNOTES:
[5] Livermore, pp. 159, 160.
[6] Mackenzie's Life of Perry, vol. i. pp. 165, 166.
[7] Mackenzie's Life of Perry, vol. i. pp. 186, 187.
[8] Analectic Magazine, vol. iii. p. 255.
[9] Niles's Weekly Register, Saturday, Feb. 26, 1814.
PART 5.
_ANTI-SLAVERY AGITATION._
CHAPTER IV.
RETROSPECTION AND REFLECTION.
1825-1850.
THE SECURITY OF THE INSTITUTION OF SLAVERY AT THE SOUTH.--THE
RIGHT TO HOLD SLAVES QUESTIONED.--RAPID INCREASE OF THE SLAVE
POPULATION.--ANTI-SLAVERY SPEECHES IN THE LEGISLATURE OF
VIRGINIA.--THE QUAKERS OF MARYLAND AND DELAWARE EMANCIPATE THEIR
SLAVES.--THE EVIL EFFECT OF SLAVERY UPON SOCIETY.--THE CONSCIENCE
AND HEART OF THE SOUTH DID NOT RESPOND TO THE VOICE OF REASON OR
DICTATES OF HUMANITY.
An awful silence succeeded the stormy struggle that ended in the
violation of the ordinance of 1787. It was now time for reflection.
The Southern statesmen had proven themselves the masters of the
situation. The institution of slavery was secured to them, with many
collateral political advantages. And, in addition to this, they had
secured the inoculation of the free territory beyond the Mississippi
and Ohio rivers with the virus of Negro-slavery.
If the mother-country had forced slavery upon her colonial
dependencies in North America, and if it were difficult and
inconvenient to part with slave-labor, who were now responsible for
the extension of the slave area? Southern men, of course. What
principle or human law was strong enough to support an institution of
such cruel proportions? The old law of European pagans born of bloody
and destroying wars? No; for it was now the nineteenth century.
Abstract law? Certainly not; for law is the perfection of reason--it
always tends to conform thereto--and that which is not reason is not
law. Well did Justinian write: "Live honestly, hurt nobody, and render
to every one his just dues." The law of nations? Verily not; for it
is a system of rules deducible from reason and natural justice, and
established by universal consent, to regulate the conduct and mutual
intercourse between independent States. The Declaration of
Independence? Far from it; because the prologue of that incomparable
instrument recites: "_We hold these truths to be self-evident--that
all_ MEN _are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator
with certain unalienable Rights; that among these are life, liberty,
and the pursuit of happiness; that, to secure these rights,
governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from
the consent of the governed._" And the peerless George Bancroft has
added: "The heart of Jefferson in writing the Declaration, and of
Congress in adopting it, beat for all humanity; the assertion of right
was made for all mankind and all coming generations, without any
exception whatever; for the proposition which admits of exceptions can
never be self-evident." There was but one authority for slavery left,
and that was the Bible.
Many slave-holders thought deeply on the question of their right to
hold slaves. A disturbed conscience cried aloud for a "Thus saith the
Lord," and the pulpit was charged with the task of quieting the
general disquietude. The divine origin of slavery was heard from a
thousand pulpits. God, who never writes a poor hand, had written upon
the brow of every Negro, the word "_Slave_"; slavery was their normal
condition, and the white man was God's agent in the United States to
carry out the prophecy of Noah respecting the descendants of Ham;
while St. Paul had sent Onesimus back to his owner, and had written,
"Servants, obey your masters."
But apologetic preaching did not seem to silence the gnawing of a
guilty conscience. Upon the battle-fields of two great wars; in the
army and in the navy, the Negroes had demonstrated their worth and
manhood. They had stood with the undrilled minute-men along the dusty
roads leading from Lexington and Concord to Boston, against the
skilled redcoats of boastful Britain. They were among the faithful
little band that held Bunker Hill against overwhelming odds; at Long
Island, Newport, and Monmouth, they had held their ground against the
stubborn columns of the Ministerial army. They had journeyed with the
Pilgrim Fathers through eight years of despair and hope, of defeat and
victory; had shared their sufferings and divided their glory. These
recollections made difficult an unqualified acceptance of the doctrine
of the divine nature of perpetual slavery. Reason downed sophistry,
and human sympathy shamed prejudice. And against prejudice, custom,
and political power, the thinking men of the South launched their best
thoughts. Jefferson said: "The hour of emancipation is advancing in
the march of time. It will come, and whether brought on by the
generous energy of our own minds, or by the bloody process of St.
Domingo, excited and conducted by the power of our present enemy
[Great Britain], if once stationed permanently within our country and
offering asylum and arms to the oppressed [Negro], is a leaf in our
history _not yet turned over_." These words, written to Edward Coles,
in August, 1814, were still ample food for the profound meditation of
the slave-holders. In his "Notes on Virginia" Mr. Jefferson had
written the following words: "_Indeed, I tremble for my country when I
reflect that God is just; that His justice cannot sleep forever._
That, considering numbers, nature, and natural means, only a
revolution of the wheel of fortune, an exchange of situation, is among
possible events. That it may become probable by _supernatural
interference_. _The Almighty has no attribute which can take side with
us in such a contest._"[10]
The eloquence of Patrick Henry and the logic and philosophy of Madison
and Jefferson rang in the ears of the people of the slave-holding
States, and they paused to think. In forty years the Negro population
of Virginia had increased 186 per cent.--from 1790 to 1830,--while the
white had increased only 51 per cent. The rapid increase of the slave
population winged the fancy and produced horrid dreams of
insurrection; while the pronounced opposition of the Northern people
to slavery seemed to proclaim the weakness of the government and the
approach of its dissolution. In 1832, Thomas Jefferson Randolph, a
grandson of Thomas Jefferson, lifted up his voice in the Legislature
of Virginia against the institution of slavery.
Said Mr. Jefferson:--"There is one circumstance to which we are
to look as inevitable in the fulness of time--_a dissolution of
this Union_. God grant it may not happen in our time or that of
our children; but, sir, it must come sooner or later, and when it
does come, border war follows it, as certain as the night follows
the day. An enemy upon your frontier offering arms and asylum to
this population, tampering with it in your bosom, when your
citizens shall march to repel the invader, their families
butchered and their homes desolated in the rear, the spear will
fall from the warrior's grasp; his heart may be of steel, but it
must quail. Suppose an invasion in part with _black troops_,
speaking the same language, of the same nation, burning with
enthusiasm for the liberation of their race; if they are not
crushed the moment they put foot upon your soil, they roll
forward, an hourly swelling mass; your energies are paralyzed,
your power is gone; the morasses of the lowlands, the fastnesses
of the mountains, cannot save your wives and children from
destruction. Sir, we cannot war with these disadvantages; _peace,
ignoble, abject peace,--peace upon any conditions that an enemy
may offer, must be accepted_. Are we, then, prepared to barter
the liberty of our children for slaves for them?... Sir, it is a
practice, and an increasing practice in parts of Virginia to
_rear slaves for market_. How can an honorable mind, a patriot
and a lover of his country, bear to see this ancient Dominion,
rendered illustrious by the noble devotion and patriotism of her
sons in the cause of liberty, converted into one grand managerie,
where men are to be reared for market like oxen for the shambles.
Is this better, is it not worse, than the _Slave-Trade_, that
trade which enlisted the labor of the _good and the wise of every
creed and every clime to abolish it_?"
Mr. P. A. Bolling said:--
"Mr. Speaker, it is vain for gentlemen to deny the fact, the
feelings of society are fast becoming adversed to slavery. The
moral causes which produce that feeling are on the march, and
will on _until the groans of slavery are heard no more in this
else happy country_. Look over this world's wide page--see the
rapid progress of liberal feelings--see the shackles falling from
nations who have long writhed under the galling yoke of slavery.
Liberty is going over the whole earth--hand-in-hand with
Christianity. The ancient temples of slavery, rendered venerable
alone by their antiquity, are crumbling into dust. Ancient
prejudices are flying before the light of truth--are dissipated
by its rays, as the idle vapor by the bright sun. The noble
sentiment of Burns:
'Then let us pray that come it may,
As come it will for a' that,
That man to man, the warld o'er,
Shall brothers be for a' that'--
is rapidly spreading. The day-star of human liberty has risen
above the dark horizon of slavery, and will continue its bright
career, until it smiles alike on all men."
Mr. C. J. Faulkner said:--
"Sir, I am gratified that no gentleman has yet risen in this
hall, the advocate of slavery. * * * Let me compare the condition
of the slave-holding portion of this commonwealth, barren,
desolate, and scarred, as it were, by the avenging hand of
Heaven, with the descriptions which we have of this same country
from those who first broke its virgin soil. To what is this
change ascribable? Alone to the withering, blasting effects of
slavery. If this does not satisfy him, let me request him to
extend his travels to the Northern States of this Union, and beg
him to contrast the happiness and contentment which prevail
throughout that country--the busy and cheerful sound of industry,
the rapid and swelling growth of their population, their means
and institutions of education, their skill and proficiency in the
useful arts, their enterprise and public spirit, the monuments of
their commercial and manufacturing industry, and, above all,
their devoted attachment to the government from which they derive
their protection, with the division, discontent, indolence, and
poverty of the Southern country. To what, sir, is all this
ascribable? 'T is to that _vice_ in the organization of society
by which one half of its inhabitants are arrayed in interest and
feeling against the other half; to that unfortunate state of
society in which free men regard labor as disgraceful, and slaves
shrink from it as a burden tyrannically imposed upon them. _'To
that condition of things in which half a million of your
population can feel no sympathy with the society in the
prosperity of which they are forbidden to participate, and no
attachment to a government at whose hands they receive nothing
but injustice.'_ In the language of the wise, prophetic
Jefferson, 'you must approach this subject, YOU MUST ADOPT SOME
PLAN OF EMANCIPATION, OR WORSE WILL FOLLOW.'"
In Maryland and Delaware the Quakers were rapidly emancipating their
slaves, and the strong reaction that had set in among the thoughtful
men of the South began to threaten the institution. Men felt that it
was a curse to the slave, and poisoned the best white society of the
slave-holding States. As early as 1781, Mr. Jefferson, with his keen,
philosophical insight, beheld with alarm the demoralizing tendency of
slavery. "The whole commerce," says Mr. Jefferson, "between master and
slave is a perpetual exercise of the most boisterous passions; the
most unrelenting despotism on the one part, and degrading submission
on the other. Our children see this, and learn to imitate it--for man
is an imitative animal. This quality is the germ of all education in
him. From his cradle to his grave he is learning to do what he sees
others do. If a parent could find no motive, either in his
philanthropy or his self-love, for restraining the intemperance of
passion toward his slave, it should always be a sufficient one that
his child is present. But generally, it is not sufficient. The parent
storms; the child looks on, catches the lineaments of wrath, puts on
the same airs in the circle of smaller slaves, gives a loose tongue to
the worst of passions, and, thus nursed, educated, and daily exercised
in tyranny, cannot but be stamped with odious peculiarities. The man
must be a prodigy who can retain his manners and morals undepraved by
such circumstances. And with what execration should the statesman be
loaded, who, permitting one half the citizens thus to trample on the
rights of the other, transforms those into despots and these into
enemies, destroys the morals of the one part, and the _amor patriæ_ of
the other!"[11]
And what was true in Virginia, as coming under the observation of Mr.
Jefferson, was true in all the other States where slavery existed. And
indeed it was difficult to tell whether the slave or master was
injured the more. The ignorance of the former veiled from him the
terrible evils of his condition, while the intelligence of the latter
revealed to him, in detail, the baleful effects of the institution
upon all who came within its area. It was at war with social order; it
contracted the sublime ideas of national unity; it made men sectional,
licentious, profligate, cruel,--and selfishness paled the holy fires
of patriotism.
But notwithstanding the profound reflection of the greatest minds in
the South, and the philosophic prophecies of Jefferson, the conscience
and heart of the South did not respond to the dictates of humanity.
Cotton and cupidity led captive the reason of the South, and, once
more joined to their idols, the slave-holders no longer heard the
voice of prudence or justice in the slave marts of their "section."
FOOTNOTES:
[10] Jefferson's Writings, vol. viii, p. 404.
[11] Jefferson's Writings, vol. viii. p. 403.
CHAPTER V.
ANTI-SLAVERY METHODS.
THE ANTIQUITY OF ANTI-SLAVERY SENTIMENT.--BENJAMIN LUNDY'S
OPPOSITION TO SLAVERY IN THE SOUTH AND AT THE NORTH.--HE
ESTABLISHES THE "GENIUS OF UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION."--HIS GREAT
SACRIFICES AND MARVELLOUS WORK IN THE CAUSE OF
EMANCIPATION.--WILLIAM LLOYD GARRISON EDITS A PAPER AT
BENNINGTON, VERMONT.--HE PENS A PETITION TO CONGRESS FOR THE
ABOLITION OF SLAVERY IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.--GARRISON THE
PEERLESS LEADER OF THE ANTI-SLAVERY AGITATION.--EXTRACT FROM A
SPEECH DELIVERED BY DANIEL O'CONNELL AT CORK, IRELAND.--INCREASE
OF ANTI-SLAVERY SOCIETIES IN THE COUNTRY.--CHARLES SUMNER
DELIVERS A SPEECH ON THE "ANTI-SLAVERY DUTIES OF THE WHIG
PARTY."--MARKED EVENTS OF 1846.--SUMNER THE LEADER OF THE
POLITICAL PARTY.--HETERODOX ANTI-SLAVERY PARTY.--ITS
SENTIMENTS.--HORACE GREELEY THE LEADER OF THE ECONOMIC
ANTI-SLAVERY PARTY.--THE AGGRESSIVE ANTI-SLAVERY PARTY.--ITS
LEADERS.--THE COLONIZATION ANTI-SLAVERY SOCIETY.--AMERICAN
COLONIZATION SOCIETY.--MANUMITTED NEGROES COLONIZE ON THE WEST
COAST OF AFRICA.--A BILL ESTABLISHING A LINE OF MAIL STEAMERS TO
THE COAST OF AFRICA.--IT PROVIDES FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF THE
SLAVE-TRADE, PROMOTION OF COMMERCE, AND THE COLONIZATION OF FREE
NEGROES.--EXTRACTS FROM THE PRESS WARMLY URGING THE PASSAGE OF
THE BILL.--THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD ORGANIZATION.--ITS EFFICIENCY
IN FREEING SLAVES.--ANTI-SLAVERY LITERATURE.--IT EXPOSES THE TRUE
CHARACTER OF SLAVERY.--"UNCLE TOM'S CABIN," BY HARRIET BEECHER
STOWE, PLEADED THE CAUSE OF THE SLAVE IN TWENTY DIFFERENT
LANGUAGES.--THE INFLUENCE OF "IMPENDING CRISIS."
Anti-slavery sentiment is as old as the human family. It antedates the
Bible; it was eloquent in the days of our Saviour; it preached the
Gospel of Humanity in the palaces of the Cæsars and Antonies; its
arguments shook the thrones of Europe during the Mediæval ages. And
when the doctrine of property in man was driven out of Europe as an
exile, and found a home in this New World in the West, the ancient and
time-honored anti-slavery sentiment combined all that was good in
brain, heart, and civilization, and hurled itself, with righteous
indignation, against the institution of slavery, the perfected curse
of the ages! And how wonderful that God should have committed the task
of blotting out this terrible curse to Americans! And what "vessels of
honor" they were whom the dear Lord chose "to proclaim liberty to the
captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound!"
Statesmen like Franklin, Rush, Hamilton, and Jay; divines like
Hopkins, Edwards, and Stiles; philanthropists like Woolman, Lay, and
Benezet! And the good Quakers--God bless them!--or _Friends_, which
has so much tender meaning in it, did much to hasten the morning of
freedom. In the poor Negro slave they saw Christ "an hungered," and
they gave Him meat; "thirsty," and they gave Him drink; "a stranger,"
and they took Him in; "naked," and they clothed Him; "sick," and they
visited Him; "in prison," and they came unto Him. Verily they knew
their "_neighbor_."
They began their work of philanthropy as early as 1780. In
Maryland,[12] Pennsylvania, and New Jersey the Friends emancipated all
their slaves. At a single monthly meeting in Pennsylvania eleven
hundred slaves were set at liberty. Nearly every Northern State had
its anti-slavery society. They were charged with the humane task of
ameliorating the condition of the Negro, and scattering modest
literary documents that breathed the spirit of Christian love.
But the first apostle of _Abolition Agitation_ was Benjamin Lundy. He
was the John Baptist to the new era that was to witness the doing away
of the law of bondage and the ushering in of the dispensation of
universal brotherhood. He raised his voice against slave-keeping in
Virginia, Ohio, Tennessee, and Maryland. In 1821 he established an
anti-slavery paper called "The Genius of Universal Emancipation,"
which he successively published in Philadelphia, Baltimore, and
Washington City,--and frequently _en route_ during the tours he took
through the country, wherever he could find a press. Once he made a
tour of the free States, like another Apostle Paul, stirring up the
love of the brethren for those who were in bonds, lecturing, obtaining
subscribers, writing editorials, getting them printed where he could,
stopping by the wayside to read his "proof," and directing and mailing
his papers at the nearest post-office. Then, packing up his
"column-rules," type, "heading," and "directing-book," he would
journey on, a lone, solitary "Friend." He said in 1830:--
"I have, within the period above mentioned (ten years),
sacrificed several thousands of dollars of my own hard earnings;
I have travelled upwards of five thousand miles on foot and more
than twenty thousand in other ways; have visited nineteen States
of this Union, and held more than two hundred public meetings;
have performed two voyages to the West Indies, by which means the
emancipation of a considerable number of slaves has been
effected, and I hope the way paved for the enfranchisement of
many more."
He was a slight-built, wiry figure; but inflamed by a holy zeal for
the cause of the oppressed, he was almost unconscious of the vast
amount of work he was accomplishing. As a Quaker his methods were
moderate. His journalistic voice was not a whirlwind nor the fire, but
the still, small voice of persuasiveness. Though it was published in a
slave mart, his paper, a monthly, was regarded as perfectly harmless.
But away up in Vermont there was being edited, at Bennington, a paper
called "The Journal of the Times." It was started chiefly to advocate
the claims of John Quincy Adams to the Presidency, but much space was
devoted to the subject of anti-slavery. The young editor of the
above-named journal had had experience with several other papers
previous to this--"The Free Press," of Newburyport, Mass., and "The
National Philanthropist," of Boston. "The Genius of Universal
Emancipation," was among the exchanges of "The Journal of the Times,"
and its sentiments greatly enthused the heart of the Vermont editor,
who, under God, was destined to become the indefatigable leader of the
Anti-slavery Movement in America, _William Lloyd Garrison_! To his
advocacy of "temperance and peace" young Garrison added another
excellent principle, intense hatred of slavery. He penned a petition
for the abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia, which he
sent to all the postmasters in Vermont, beseeching them to secure
signatures. As the postmasters of those days paid no postage for their
letters, many names were secured. The petition created a genuine
sensation in Congress. The "Journal of Commerce" about this time said:
"It appears from an article in 'The Journal of the Times,' a
newspaper of some promise, just established in Bennington, Vt.,
that a petition to Congress for the abolition of slavery in the
District of Columbia is about to be put in circulation in that
State.
"The idea is an excellent one, and we hope it will meet with
success. That Congress has a right to abolish slavery in that
District seems reasonable, though we fear it will meet with some
opposition, so very sensitive are the slave-holding community to
every movement relating to the abolition of slavery. At the same
time, it would furnish to the world a beautiful pledge of their
sincerity if they would unite with the non-slave-holding States,
and by a unanimous vote proclaim freedom to every soul within
sight of the capital of this free government. We could then say,
and the world would then admit our pretence, that the voice of
the nation is against slavery, and throw back upon Great Britain
that disgrace which is of right and justice her exclusive
property."
Charmed by the originality, boldness, and humanity of Garrison, the
meek little Quaker went to Boston by stage; and then, with staff in
hand, walked to Bennington, Vt., to see the young man whose great
heart-throbs for the slave he had felt in "The Journal of the Times."
There, in the Green Mountains of Vermont, swept by the free air, and
mantled by the pure snow, the meek Quaker communed with the strict
Baptist, and they both took sweet counsel together. The bright torch
that Garrison had held up to the people in Vermont was to be
transferred to the people of Baltimore, who were "sitting in
darkness." So, as a result of this conference, Garrison agreed to join
Lundy in conducting "The Genius of Universal Emancipation."
Accordingly, in September, 1829, Garrison took the principal charge of
the Journal, enlarged it, and issued it as a weekly. Lundy was to
travel, lecture, and solicit subscribers in its interest, and
contribute to its editorial columns as he could from time to time.
Both men were equally against slavery: Lundy for gradual emancipation
and _colonization_; but Garrison for _immediate and unconditional
emancipation_. Garrison said of this difference: "But I wasn't much
help to him, for he had been all for gradual emancipation, and as soon
as I began to look into the matter, I became convinced that immediate
abolition was the doctrine to be preached, and I scattered his
subscribers like pigeons."
But the good "Friend" contemplated the destructive zeal of his young
helper with the complacency so characteristic of his class, standing
by his doctrine that every one should follow "his own light." But it
was not long before Garrison made a bold attack upon one of the vilest
features of the slave-trade, which put an end to his paper, and
resulted in his arrest, trial for libel, conviction, and imprisonment.
The story runs as follows:
"A certain ship, the 'Francis Todd,' from Newburyport, came to
Baltimore and took in a load of slaves for the New Orleans
market. All the harrowing cruelties and separations which attend
the rending asunder of families and the sale of slaves, were
enacted under the eyes of the youthful philanthropist, and in a
burning article he denounced the inter-State slave-trade as
piracy, and piracy of an aggravated and cruel kind, inasmuch as
those born and educated in civilized and Christianized society
have more sensibility to feel the evils thus inflicted than
imbruted savages. He denounced the owners of the ship and all the
parties in no measured terms, and expressed his determination to
'cover with thick infamy all who were engaged in the
transaction.'"
Then, to be sure, the sleeping tiger was roused, for there was a vigor
and power in the young editor's eloquence that quite dissipated the
good-natured contempt which had hitherto hung round the paper. He was
indicted for libel, found guilty, of course, condemned, imprisoned in
the cell of a man who had been hanged for murder. His mother at this
time was not living, but her heroic, undaunted spirit still survived
in her son, who took the baptism of persecution and obloquy not merely
with patience, but with the joy which strong spirits feel in
endurance. He wrote sonnets on the walls of his prison, and by his
cheerful and engaging manners made friends of his jailer and family,
who did everything to render his situation as comfortable as possible.
Some considerable effort was made for his release, and much interest
was excited in various quarters for him.[13]
Finally, the benevolent Arthur Tappan came forward and paid the
exorbitant fine imposed upon Garrison, and he went forth a more
inveterate foe of slavery. This incident gave the world one of the
greatest reformers since Martin Luther. Without money, social
influence, or friends, Garrison lifted again the standard of liberty.
He began a lecture tour in which God taught him the magnitude of his
work. Everywhere mouths were sealed and public halls closed against
him. At length, on January 1, 1831, he issued the first number of "The
Liberator," which he continued to edit for thirty-five years, and
discontinued it only when every slave in America was free! His methods
of assailing the modern Goliath of slavery were thus tersely put:
"I determined, at every hazard, to lift up the standard of
emancipation in the eyes of the nation, within sight of Bunker
Hill, and in the birthplace of liberty. That standard is now
unfurled; and long may it float, unhurt by the spoliations of
time or the missiles of a desperate foe; yea, till every chain be
broken, and every bondman set free! Let Southern oppressors
tremble; let their secret abettors tremble; let all the enemies
of the persecuted Black tremble. Assenting to the self-evident
truths maintained in the American Declaration of
Independence,--'that all men are created equal, and endowed by
their Creator with certain inalienable rights, among which are
life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,' I shall strenuously
contend for the immediate enfranchisement of our slave
population.
* * * * *
"I am aware that many object to the severity of my language; but
is there not cause for severity? I will be as harsh as truth, and
as uncompromising as justice. On this subject I do not wish to
think, or speak, or write with moderation. No! No! Tell a man
whose house is on fire to give a moderate alarm; tell him to
moderately rescue his wife from the hands of the ravisher; tell
the mother to gradually extricate her babe from the fire into
which it has fallen; but urge me not to use moderation in a cause
like the present! I am in earnest. I will not equivocate--I will
not excuse--I will not retreat a single inch. AND I WILL BE
HEARD. The apathy of the people is enough to make every statue
leap from its pedestal, and to hasten the resurrection of the
dead.
"It is pretended that I am retarding the cause of emancipation by
the coarseness of my invective and the precipitancy of my
measures. The charge is not true. On this question, my influence,
humble as it is, is felt at this moment to a considerable extent;
and it shall be felt in coming years--not perniciously, but
beneficially,--not as a curse, but as a blessing; and POSTERITY
WILL BEAR TESTIMONY THAT I WAS RIGHT. I desire to thank God that
He enables me to disregard 'the fear of man which bringeth a
snare,' and to speak truth in its simplicity and power; and I
here close with this dedication:
* * * * *
"Oppression! I have seen thee, face to face,
And met thy cruel eye and cloudy brow;
By thy soul-withering glance I fear not now--
For dread to prouder feelings doth give place,
Of deep abhorrence! Scorning the disgrace
Of slavish knees that at thy footstool bow,
I also kneel--but with far other vow
Do hail thee and thy herd of hirelings base;
I swear, while life-blood warms my throbbing veins,
Still to oppose and thwart, with heart and hand,
Thy brutalizing sway--till Afric's chains
Are burst, and Freedom rules the rescued land,
Trampling Oppression and his iron rod;
Such is the vow I take--so help me, God!"
There never was a grander declaration of war against slavery. There
never was a more intrepid leader than William Lloyd Garrison. Words
more prophetic were never uttered by human voice. His paper did indeed
make "Southern oppression tremble," while its high resolves and
sublime sentiments found a response in the hearts of many people. It
is pleasant to record that this first impression of "The Liberator"
brought a list of twenty-five subscribers from Philadelphia, backed by
$50 in cash, sent by James Forten, a Colored man!
One year from the day he issued the first number of his paper, William
Lloyd Garrison, at the head of eleven others, organized _The American
Anti-Slavery Society_. It has been indicated already that he was in
favor of immediate emancipation; but, in addition to that principle,
he took the ground that slavery was supported by the Constitution;
that it was "a covenant with death and an agreement with hell"; that
as a Christian it was his duty to obey God rather than man; that his
conscience was paramount to the Constitution, and, therefore, his duty
was to work outside of the Constitution for the destruction of
slavery. Thus did Garrison establish the first Anti-slavery Society in
this country to adopt aggressive measures and demand immediate and
unconditional emancipation. It is not claimed that his methods were
original. Daniel O'Connell was perhaps the greatest _agitator_ of the
present century. In a speech delivered at Cork, he said:--
"I speak of liberty in commendation. Patriotism is a virtue, but
it can be selfish. Give me the great and immortal Bolivar, the
savior and regenerator of his country. He found her a province,
and he has made her a nation. His first act was to give freedom
to the slaves upon his own estate. (Hear, hear.) In Colombia, all
castes and all colors are free and unshackled. But how I like to
contrast him with the far-famed Northern heroes! George
Washington! That great and enlightened character--the soldier and
the statesman--had but one blot upon his character. He had
slaves, and he gave them liberty when he wanted them no longer.
(Loud cheers.) Let America, in the fulness of her pride wave on
high her banner of freedom and its blazing stars. I point to her,
and say: There is one foul blot upon it: you have negro slavery.
They may compare their struggles for freedom to Marathon and
Leuctra, and point to the rifleman with his gun, amidst her woods
and forests, shouting for liberty and America. In the midst of
their laughter and their pride, I point them to the negro
children screaming for the mother from whose bosom they have been
torn. America, it is a foul stain upon your character! (Cheers.)
This conduct kept up by men who had themselves to struggle for
freedom, is doubly unjust. Let them hoist the flag of liberty,
with the whip and rack on one side, and the star of freedom upon
the other. The Americans are a sensitive people; in fifty-four
years they have increased their population from three millions to
twenty millions; they have many glories that surround them, but
their beams are partly shorn, for they have slaves. (Cheers.)
Their hearts do not beat so strong for liberty as mine.... I will
call for justice, in the name of the living God, and I shall find
an echo in the breast of every human being. (Cheers.)"[14]
But while Garrison's method of agitation was not original, it was new
to this country. He spoke as one having authority, and his fiery
earnestness warmed the frozen feeling of the Northern people, and
startled the entire South. One year from the formation of the society
above alluded to (December 4, 5, and 6, 1833), a _National
Anti-Slavery Convention_ was held in Philadelphia, with sixty
delegates from ten States! In 1836 there were 250 auxiliary
anti-slavery societies in thirteen States; and eighteen months later
they had increased to 1,006. Money came to these societies from every
direction, and the good work had been fairly started.
William Lloyd Garrison created a party, and it will be known in
history as the _Garrisonian Party_.
While Mr. Garrison had taken the position that slavery was
constitutional, there were those who held the other view, that slavery
was unconstitutional, and, therefore, upon constitutional grounds
should be abolished.
The Whig party was the nearest to the anti-slavery society of any of
the political organizations of the time. It had promised, in
convention assembled, "to promote all constitutional measures for the
overthrow of slavery, and to oppose at all times, with uncompromising
zeal and firmness, any further addition of slave-holding States to
this Union, out of whatever territory formed.[15] But the party never
got beyond this. Charles Sumner was a member of the Whig party, but
was greatly disturbed about its indifference on the question of
slavery. In 1846 he delivered a speech before the Whig convention of
Massachusetts on "_The Anti-Slavery Duties of the Whig Party_." He
declared his positive opposition to slavery; said that he intended to
attack the institution on constitutional grounds; that slavery was not
a "covenant with death or an agreement with hell"; that he intended to
do his work for the slave inside of the Constitution. He said:--
"There is in the Constitution no compromise on the subject of
slavery of a character not to be reached legally and
constitutionally, which is the only way in which I propose to
reach it. Wherever power and jurisdiction are secured to
Congress, they may unquestionably be exercised in conformity with
the Constitution. And even in matters beyond existing powers and
jurisdiction there is a constitutional mode of action. The
Constitution contains an article pointing out how at any time
amendments may be made thereto. This is an important article,
giving to the Constitution a progressive character, and allowing
it to be moulded to suit new exigencies and new conditions of
feeling. The wise framers of this instrument did not treat the
country as a Chinese foot, never to grow after its infancy, but
anticipated the changes incident to its growth."
He proposed to the Whigs as their rallying watchword, the "REPEAL OF
SLAVERY UNDER THE CONSTITUTION AND LAWS OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT."
Discussing the methods, he continued:--
"The time has passed when this can be opposed on constitutional
grounds. It will not be questioned by any competent authority
that Congress may by express legislation abolish slavery, first,
in the District of Columbia; second, in the territories, if there
should be any; third, that it may abolish the slave-trade on the
high seas between the States; fourth, that it may refuse to admit
any new State with a constitution sanctioning slavery. Nor can it
be doubted that the people of the free States may, in the manner
pointed out by the Constitution, proceed to its amendment."
Thus did Charles Sumner lay down a platform for a _Political Abolition
Party_, and of such a party he became the laurelled champion and
leader.
The year 1846 was marked by the most bitter political discussion;
Garrison the _Agitator_, the Mexican war, and other issues had greatly
exercised the people. At a meeting held in Tremont Temple, Boston, on
the 5th of November, 1846, Mr. Sumner took occasion to give his
reasons for bolting the nominee of the Whig party for Congress, Mr.
Winthrop.[16] Mr. Sumner said that he had never heard Mr. Winthrop's
voice raised for the slave; and that, judging from the past, he never
expected to hear it. "Will he oppose," asked Mr. Sumner, "at all
times, without compromise, any further addition of slave-holding
States? Here, again, if we judge him by the past, he is wanting. None
can forget that in 1845, on the 4th of July, a day ever sacred to
memories of freedom, in a speech at Faneuil Hall, he volunteered, in
advance of any other Northern Whig, to receive Texas with a welcome
into the family of States, although on that very day she was preparing
a constitution placing slavery beyond the reach of Legislative
change."[17]
Here, then, was another party created--a _Political Abolition
Party_--for the suppression of slavery.
In 1848, Mr. Sumner left the Whig party, and gave his magnificent
energies and splendid talents to the organization of the _Free-Soil
Party_, upon the principles he had failed to educate the Whigs to
accept.
Charles Sumner was in the United States Senate, where "his words were
clothed with the majesty of Massachusetts." The young lawyer who had
upbraided Winthrop for his indifference respecting the slave, and
opposed the Mexican war, was consistent in the Senate, and in harmony
with his early love for humanity. He closed his great speech on
FREEDOM NATIONAL, SLAVERY SECTIONAL, in the following incisive
language:--
"At the risk of repetition, but for the sake of clearness, review
now this argument, and gather it together. Considering that
slavery is of such an offensive character that it can find
sanction only in positive law, and that it has no such 'positive'
sanction in the Constitution; that the Constitution, according to
its Preamble, was ordained to 'establish justice,' and 'secure
the blessings of liberty'; that in the convention which framed
it, and also elsewhere at the time, it was declared not to
'sanction'; that according to the Declaration of Independence,
and the address of the Continental Congress, the nation was
dedicated to 'Liberty' and the 'rights of human nature'; that
according to the principles of common law, the Constitution must
be interpreted openly, actively, and perpetually for Freedom;
that according to the decision of the Supreme Court, it acts upon
slaves, _not as property_, but as _persons_; that at the first
organization of the national government under Washington, slavery
had no national favor, existed nowhere on the national territory,
beneath the national flag, but was openly condemned by the
nation, the Church, the colleges, and literature of the times;
and finally, that according to an amendment of the Constitution,
the national government can only exercise powers delegated to it,
among which there is none to support slavery;--considering these
things, sir, it is impossible to avoid the single conclusion that
slavery is in no respect a national institution, and that the
Constitution nowhere upholds property in man."
This speech set men in the North to thinking. Sumner was now the
acknowledged leader of the only political party in the country that
had a wholesome anti-slavery plank in its platform.
Daniel Webster and the Whig party were in their grave. After the
Democratic Convention had met and adjourned without mentioning
Webster, a Northern farmer exclaimed when he had read the news, "_The
South never pay their slaves_!"
During all these years of agitation and struggle, the pulpit of New
England maintained an unbroken silence on the slavery question. Doctor
Lyman Beecher was the acknowledged leader of the orthodox pulpit. Dr.
William E. Channing was the champion of Unitarianism and the leader of
the heterodox pulpit. Dr. Beecher was fond of controversy, enjoyed a
battle of words upon every thing but the slavery question. He
proclaimed the doctrine of "_immediate repentance_"; was earnest in
his entreaties to men to quit their "cups" at _once_; but on the
slavery question was a slow coach. He was for _gradual_ emancipation.
He frowned not a little upon the vigorous editorials in "The
Liberator." He regarded Mr. Garrison as a hot-head; "having zeal, but
not according to knowledge." Abolitionism received no encouragement
from this venerable divine.
Dr. Channing was a gentle, pure-hearted, and humane sort of a man. He
dreaded controversy, and shunned the agitation and agitators of
anti-slavery.
The lesser lights followed the example of these bright stars in the
churches.
But all could not keep silent,--for slavery needed apologists in the
North. Stewart, of Andover; Alexander, of Princeton; Fisk, of
Wilberham, and many other leading ministers endeavored to prove the
_Divine Origin and Biblical Authority of Slavery_.
The silence of the pulpit drove out many anti-slavery men who, up to
this time, had been hoping for aid from this quarter. Many went out of
the Church temporarily, hoping that the scales would drop from the
eyes of the preachers ere long; but others never returned-were driven
to infidelity and bitter hatred of the Christian Church. Dr. Albert
Barnes said: "That there was no power out of the Church that would
sustain slavery an hour if it were not sustained in it."
Among the leaders of the HETERODOX ANTI-SLAVERY PARTY--those who
attacked the reticency, silent acquiescence, or act of support the
Church gave slavery,--were Parker Pillsbury, James G. Birney, Stephen
S. Foster, and Samuel Brooke. The platform of this party was clearly
defined by Mr. Pillsbury:--
"That slavery finds its surest and sternest defence in the
prevailing religion of the country, is no longer questionable.
Let it be driven from the Church, with the burning seal of its
reprobation and execration stamped on its iron brow, and its fate
is fixed forever. Only while its horrors are baptized and
sanctified in the name of Christianity, can it maintain an
existence.
"The Anti-Slavery movement has unmasked the character of the
American Church. _Our religion has been found at war with the
interests of humanity and the laws of God._ And it is more than
time the world was awakened to its unhallowed influence on the
hopes and happiness of man, while it makes itself the palladium
of the foulest iniquity ever perpetrated in the sight of
heaven."[18]
This was a bold movement, but it was doubtless a sword that was as
dangerous to those who essayed to handle it, as to the Church whose
destruction it was intended to effect. The doctrine that was to
sustain and inspire this party can be briefly stated in a sentence:
THE FATHERHOOD OF GOD, AND THE BROTHERHOOD OF MAN.
Once outside the orthodox church, Theodore Parker gave himself wholly
to this idea. He preached the "_Gospel of Humanity_"; and, standing
upon a broad platform, preaching a broad doctrine, bound by no
ecclesiastical law, his claims to a place in the history of his
county, and in the gratitude of his countrymen can be fairly audited
when his work for the emancipation of evangelical churches from the
thraldom of slavery is considered. He did more in his day to rupture
the organic and sympathetic relation existing between the Northern and
Southern churches, and, thereby, hasten the struggle between the
sections for the extension or extinction of domestic slavery, than any
other man in America. The men who found themselves on the outside of
the Church gathered about Parker, and applauded his invective and
endorsed his arraignment of the churches that had placed their hands
upon their mouths, and their mouths in the dust, before the slave
power. He touched a chord in the human heart, and it yielded rich
music. He educated the pew until an occasional voice broke the long
silence respecting the bondman of the land. First, the ministers were
not so urgent in their invitations to Southern ministers to occupy
their pulpits. This coldness was followed by feeble prayer and
moderate speech on behalf of those who were bound. And the churches
themselves began to feel that they were "an offence" to the world.
Every note of sympathy that fell from the pulpit was amplified into a
grand chorus of pity for the slave. And thus the leaven of human
sympathy hid in the orthodox church of New England, leavened the whole
body until a thousand pulpits were ablaze with a righteous
condemnation of the wrongs of the slaves. Even Dr. Channing came to
the conclusion that something should be "So done as not to put in
jeopardy the peace of the slave-holding States!"[19]
THE ECONOMIC ANTI-SLAVERY PARTY was headed by the industrious and
indomitable Horace Greeley. His claim to the feelings of humanity
should never be disputed; but as a practical man who sought to solve
the riddle of every-day life he placed his practical views in the
foreground. As a political economist he reasoned that slave labor was
degrading to free labor; that free labor was better than slave labor,
and, therefore, he most earnestly desired its abolition. Wherever you
turn in his writings this idea gives the edge to all his arguments
concerning slavery. "But slavery," wrote Mr. Greeley, "primarily
considered, has still another aspect--that of a natural relation of
simplicity to cunning, of ignorance to knowledge, of weakness to
power. Thomas Carlyle, before his melancholy decline and fall into
devil-worship, truly observed, that the capital mistake of Rob Roy was
his failure to comprehend that it was cheaper to buy the beef he
required in the Grassmarket at Glasgow than to obtain it without
price, by harrying the lowland farms. So the first man whoever imbibed
or conceived the fatal delusion that it was more advantageous to him,
or to any human being, to procure whatever his necessities or his
appetites required by address and scheming than by honest work--by the
unrequited rather than the fairly and faithfully recompensed toil of
his fellow-preachers--was, in essence and in heart, a slave-holder,
and only awaited opportunity to become one in deed and practice.... It
is none the less true, however, that ancient civilization, in its
various national developments, was habitually corrupted, debauched,
and ultimately ruined by slavery, which rendered labor dishonorable,
and divided society horizontally into a small caste of the wealthy,
educated, refined, and independent, and a vast hungry, sensual,
thriftless, and worthless populace; rendered impossible the
preservation of republican liberty and of legalized equality, even
among the nominally free. Diogenes, with his lantern, might have
vainly looked, through many a long day, among the followers of Marius,
or Catiline, or Cæsar, for a specimen of the poor but virtuous and
self-respecting Roman citizen of the days of Cincinnatus, or even of
Regulus."[20]
But Mr. Greeley's philosophy was as destructive as his logic was
defective. He wished the slave free, not because he loved him; but
because of the deep concern he had for the welfare of the free, white
working-men of America. He was willing the Negro should be free, but
never suggested any plan of relief for his social condition, or
prescribed for his spiritual and intellectual health. He handled the
entire Negro problem with the icy fingers of the philosopher, and
always applied the flinty logic of abstract political economy. He was
an _anti-slavery_ advocate, but not an _abolitionist_. He was opposed
to slavery, as a system at war with the social and commercial
prosperity of the nation; but so far as the humanity of the question,
in reaching out after the slave as an injured member of society, was
concerned, he was silent.
THE AGGRESSIVE ANTI-SLAVERY PARTY had its birth in the pugnacious
brains of E. P. Lovejoy, James G. Birney, Cassius M. Clay, and John
Brown. All of the anti-slavery parties had taught the doctrine of
_non-resistance_; that if "thy enemy smite thee on thy cheek, turn the
other also." But there were a few men who believed they were possessed
of sacred rights, and that it was their duty to defend them, even with
their lives. It was not a popular doctrine; and yet a conscientious
few practised it with sublime courage whenever occasion required. In
1836 James G. Birney, editor of _The Philanthropist_, published at
Cincinnati, Ohio, defended his press, as best he could, against a mob,
who finally destroyed it. And on the 7th of November, 1837, the Rev.
Mr. Lovejoy sealed the sacred doctrine of the liberty of the press
with his precious blood in the defence of his printing-press at Alton,
Illinois. Cassius M. Clay went armed, and insisted upon his right to
freely and peaceably discuss the cause of anti-slavery.
But these men only laid down a great, fundamental truth; it was given
to John Brown to write the lesson upon the hearts of the American
people, so that they were enabled, a few years later, to practise the
doctrine of _resistance_, and preserve the _Nation_ against the bloody
aggressions of the Southern Confederacy.
THE COLONIZATION ANTI-SLAVERY SOCIETY ante-dated any of the other
organizations. Benjamin Lundy was one of the earliest advocates of
colonization. The object of colonizationists was to transport to
Liberia, on the West Coast of Africa, all manumitted slaves. Only
_free_ Negroes were to be colonized. It was claimed by the advocates
of the scheme that this was the only hope of the free Negro; that the
proscription everywhere directed against his social and intellectual
endeavors cramped and lamed him in the race of life; that in Liberia
he could build his own government, schools, and business; and there
would be nothing to hinder him in his ambition for the highest places
in Church or State. Moreover, they claimed that the free Negro owed
something to his benighted brethren who were still in pagan darkness;
that a free Negro government on the West Coast of Africa could exert a
missionary influence upon the natives, and thus the evangelization of
Africa could be effected by the free Negro himself.[21]
To this method Henry Clay, of Kentucky, Horace Mann, of Massachusetts;
Rev. Howard Malcom, of Pennsylvania; Rev. R. R. Gurley, of New York;
and many other persons of distinction, gave their endorsement and
assistance. The American Colonization Society was organized in 1817.
Its earliest supporters were from the Southern and Middle States. A
fair idea can be had of the character of the men who sustained the
cause of colonization by an examination of the following list of
officers elected in March, 1834.
"_President._--JAMES MADISON, of Virginia.
"_Vice-Presidents._--Chief-Justice MARSHALL; General LAFAYETTE,
of France, Hon. WM. H. CRAWFORD, of Georgia; Hon. HENRY CLAY, of
Lexington, Kentucky; Hon. JOHN C. HERBERT, of Maryland; ROBERT
RALSTON, Esq., of Philadelphia; Gen. JOHN MASON, of Georgetown,
D. C.; SAMUEL BAYARD, Esq., of New Jersey; ISAAC MCKIM, Esq., of
Maryland; Gen. JOHN HARTWELL COCKE, of Virginia; Rt. Rev. Bishop
WHITE, of Pennsylvania; Hon. DANIEL WEBSTER, of Boston; Hon.
CHARLES F. MERCER, of Virginia; JEREMIAH DAY, D.D., of Yale
College; Hon. RICHARD RUSH, of Pennsylvania; Bishop MCKENDREE;
PHILIP E. THOMAS, Esq., of Maryland; Dr. THOMAS C. JAMES, of
Philadelphia; Hon. JOHN COTTON SMITH, of Connecticut; Hon.
THEODORE FRELINGHUYSEN, of New Jersey; Hon. LOUIS MCLANE, of
Washington City; GERRIT SMITH, of New York; J. H. M'CLURE, Esq.,
of New Jersey; Gen. ALEXANDER MACOMB, of Washington City; MOSES
ALLEN, Esq., of New York; Gen. WALTER JONES, of Washington City;
F. S. KEY, Esq., of Georgetown, D. C.; SAMUEL H. SMITH, Esq., of
Washington City; JOSEPH GALES, Jr., Esq., of Washington City; Rt.
Rev. WM. MEADE, D.D., Assistant Bishop of Virginia; Hon.
ALEXANDER PORTER, of Louisiana; JOHN MCDONOUGH, Esq., of
Louisiana; Hon. SAMUEL L. SOUTHARD, of New Jersey.
"_Managers._--Rev. JAMES LAURIE, D.D.; Gen. WALTER JONES; FRANCIS
S. KEY; Rev. WM. HALEY; JOHN UNDERWOOD; WILLIAM W. SEATON; WALTER
LOWRIE; Dr. PHINEAS BRADLEY; Dr. THOMAS SEWALL.
"_Secretaries._--Rev. RALPH R. GURLEY, WILLIAM H. MACFARLAND.
"_Treasurer._--JOSEPH GALES, Senior.
"_Recorder._--PHILLIP R. FENDALL."
The Colonization Society was never able to secure the sympathy of the
various anti-slavery societies of the country; and was unable to gain
the confidence of the Colored people to any great extent. But it had
the advantage of being in harmony with what little humane sentiment
there was at the South. It did not attempt to agitate. It only sought
to colonize on the West Coast of Africa all Negroes who could secure
legal manumission. Nearly all the Southern States had laws upon their
statute-books requiring all emancipated slaves to leave the State. The
question as to where they should go was supposed to be answered by the
Colonization Society. It had much influence with Congress, and did not
hesitate to use it. A Mr. Joseph Bryan, of Alabama, petitioned
Congress for the establishment "of a line of Mail Steam-ships to the
Western Coast of Africa," in the summer of 1850. The Committee on
Naval Affairs reported favorably the following bill:
"A BILL TO ESTABLISH A LINE OF WAR STEAMERS TO THE COAST OF
AFRICA. [Report No. 438.]
"_In the House of Representatives, August 1, 1850. Read twice,
and committed to the Committee of the whole House on the State of
the Union._
"Mr. F. P. Stanton, from the Committee on Naval Affairs, reported
the following bill:--A bill to establish a line of war steamers
to the coast of Africa, for the suppression of the slave-trade,
and the promotion of commerce and colonization:
SEC. 1. "_Be it enacted_ by the Senate and House of
Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress
assembled, That it shall be the duty of the Secretary of the
Navy, immediately after the passage of this act, to enter into
contract with Joseph Bryan, of Alabama, and George Nicholas
Saunders, of New York, and their associates, for the building,
equipment, and maintenance of three steam-ships to run between
the United States and the coast of Africa, upon the following
terms and conditions, to wit:
"The said ships to be each of not less than four thousand tons
burden, to be so constructed as to be convertible, at the least
possible expense, into war steamers of the first class, and to be
built and equipped in accordance with plans to be submitted to
and approved by the Secretary of the Navy, and under the
superintendence of an officer to be appointed by him, two of said
ships to be finished and ready for sea in two and a half years,
and the other within three years after the date of the contract,
and the whole to be kept up by alterations, repairs, or
additions, to be approved by the Secretary of the Navy, so as to
be fully equal to the exigencies of the service and the faithful
performance of the contract. The said Secretary, at all times, to
exercise such control over said ships as may not be inconsistent
with the provisions of this act, and especially to have the power
to direct, at the expense of the Government, such changes in the
machinery and internal arrangements of the ships as he may at any
time deem advisable.
"Each of said ships to be commanded by an officer of the Navy,
who with four Passed Midshipmen to act as watch officers, and any
mail agents who may be sent by the Government, shall be
accommodated and provided for in a manner suitable to their rank,
at the expense of the contractors. Each of said ships, if
required by the Secretary, shall receive two guns of heavy
calibre, and the men from the United States Navy necessary to
serve them, who shall be provided for as aforesaid. In the event
of war the Government to have the right to take any or all of
said ships for its own exclusive use on payment of the value
thereof; such value not exceeding the cost, to be ascertained by
appraisers chosen by the Secretary of the Navy and the
contractors.
"Each of said ships to make four voyages per annum; one shall
leave New Orleans every three months; one shall leave Baltimore
every three months, touching at Norfolk and Charleston; and one
shall leave New York every three months, touching at Savannah;
all having liberty to touch at any of the West India Islands; and
to proceed thence to Liberia, touching at any of the islands or
ports on the coast of Africa; thence to Gibraltar, carrying the
Mediterranean mails; thence to Cadiz, or some other Spanish port
to be designated by the Secretary of the Navy; thence to Lisbon;
thence to Brest, or some other French port to be designated as
above; thence, to London, and back to the place of departure,
bringing and carrying the mails to and from said ports.
"The said contractors shall further agree to carry to Liberia so
many emigrants being free persons of color, and not exceeding
twenty-five hundred for each voyage, as the American Colonization
Society may require, upon the payment by said Society of ten
dollars for each emigrant over twelve years of age, and five
dollars for each one under that age, these sums, respectively, to
include all charges for baggage of emigrants and the daily supply
of sailors' rations. The contractors, also, to carry, bring back,
and accommodate, free from charge, all necessary agents of the
said Society.
"The Secretary of the Navy shall further stipulate to advance to
said contractors, as the building of said ships shall progress,
two thirds of the amount expended thereon; such advances to be
made in the bonds of the United States, payable thirty years
after date, and bearing five per cent. interest, and not to
exceed six hundred thousand dollars for each ship. And the said
contractors shall stipulate to repay the said advances in equal
annual instalments, with interest from the date of the completion
of said ships until the termination of the contract, which shall
continue fifteen years from the commencement of the service. The
Secretary of the Navy to require ample security for the faithful
performance of the contract, and to reserve a lien upon the ships
for the sum advanced. The Government to pay said contractors
forty thousand dollars for each trip, or four hundred and eighty
thousand dollars per annum.
"SEC. 2. _And be it further enacted_, That the President of the
United States shall cause to be issued the bonds of the United
States, as the same may, from time to time, be required by the
Secretary of the Navy to carry out the contract aforesaid."
Public sentiment, North and South, was greatly in favor of the
measure. T. J. Durant, Esq., of New Orleans, in an elaborate letter
addressed to the "Commercial Bulletin" of New Orleans, under date of
September 12, 1850, answered objections, and warmly urged the passage
of the bill. The Chaplain of the U. S. Senate, Rev. R. R. Gurley,
wrote a letter on the 10th of October, 1850, to George N. Saunders,
Esq., urging the measure as of paramount importance to both America
and Africa. The press of the country generally endorsed the bill, and
commented upon the general good to follow in numerous editorials. A
scheme of such gigantic proportions poorly set forth the profound
thought that harassed the public mind in regard to the crime of
keeping men in slavery. A few extracts from the papers will suffice to
show how the matter was regarded.
EXTRACTS FROM THE PRESS.
"The Report of the Naval Committee to the House of
Representatives in favor of the establishment of a line of mail
steam-ships to the Western Coast of Africa, and thence via the
Mediterranean to London, has been received by the public press
throughout the Union with the warmest expressions of approbation.
The Whig, Democratic, and neutral papers of the North and South,
in the slave-holding and non-slave-holding States, with a very
few exceptions, appear to vie with each other in pressing its
consideration upon the public attention. This earnest and almost
unanimous support of the measure by the organs of public opinion,
without respect to party or section, shows the deep hold which
the objects it proposes to effect have upon the public favor.
Those objects are to promote the emigration of free persons of
color from this country to Liberia; also to increase the steam
navy, and to extend the commerce of the United States,--all, it
will be almost universally conceded, desirable objects. The
desirableness of the objects being admitted, the question is,
does the mode proposed for promoting them recommend itself to the
sanction of Congress? We are forced to the conclusion that it
does. We are aware that while all agree as to the expediency of
increasing our steam navy--some are in favor of the Government's
building its own steam-ships, and others advocate the
encouragement of lines of steam-packets, to be established by
private enterprise under the auspices of Government....
"The considerations, however, which in our opinion should commend
this measure to the favorable attention of Congress are so
obvious, and have been so clearly and strongly presented in the
report of the committee, that we need not here repeat them. If
the voice of the press, of all sections and of all parties, be
any indication of popular opinion, we are free to say, that it
would be difficult for Congress to pass a measure which would be
received with more _general_ satisfaction by the people of the
United States."[22]
"AFRICAN STEAM-LINES.--The entertainment by the Government of
Great Britain of a project for the establishment of a powerful
line of steam-vessels between that country and the African coast,
ostensibly for the conveyance of a monthly mail, and the more
effectual checking of the slave-traffic, is strong proof, we
think, of the value that the commerce between the two countries
is capable of becoming. It may, in addition, be regarded as
corroborative of the justness of the position taken by the
advocates of a mail-steamer line between this country and Africa.
We are by no means disposed to look invidiously on the
enterprising spirit exhibited abroad for securing a closer
connection with a country, the great mercantile wealth of which
is yet, comparatively speaking, untouched. This spirit should
have on us no other than a stimulating effect. Besides, for
years, if not ages, to come, the trade with Africa can admit of
no very close competition. The promised vastness of this trade,
whilst excluding all idea of monopoly, must continue to excite
the new enterprise by its unlimited rewards. It is unnecessary
that we should exhibit statistics to show her how largely England
has been benefited by persevering though frequently interrupted
communication with the interior parts of that great continent;
nor to make plain how, with better knowledge and more ready means
of access, mercantile risks will be lessened and mercantile
profits enlarged. It will be remembered that the Congressional
committee to whom the question of establishing mail steamers
between this country and Africa was referred, adverted in their
report to the aid its adoption would afford in the consummation
of the plans of the Colonization Society. On the intimate
relation between the one and the other, it was supposed that a
good part of the required success was dependent. It is something
singular that the colored race--those in reality most interested
in the future destinies of Africa--should be so lightly affected
by the evidences continually being presented in favor of
colonization. He will do a service to this country as well as
Africa who shall do any thing to open the eyes of the colored
race to the advantages of emigration to the fertile and, to them,
congenial shores of Africa."[23]
"AFRICA AND STEAM-SHIPS.--If but a single line of steam-ships is
to be authorized this Session--and the state and prospects of the
finances must counsel frugality and caution,--we think a line to
Africa fairly entitled to the preference. That continent on its
western side is comparatively proximate and accessible; it is
filled with inhabitants who need the articles we can abundantly
fabricate, and it is the ancestral soil of more than three
millions of our people--of a race on whose account we are deeply
debtors to justice and to heaven. That race is more plastic and
less conservative than the Chinese; their soil produces in
spontaneous profusion many articles which are to us comforts and
luxuries, while nearly every thing we produce is in eager demand
among its inhabitants, if they can but find the wherewithal to
pay for them. Instead of being a detriment and a depression to
our own manufacturing and mechanical industry, as the trade
induced by our costly steam-ship lines to Liverpool, Bremen, and
Havre mainly is, all the commerce with Africa which a more
intimate communication with her would secure, would be
advantageous to every department of American labor. Her surplus
products are so diverse from ours, that no collision of interests
between her producers and ours could ever be realized, while
millions' worth of her tropical products which will not endure
the slow and capricious transportation which is now their only
recourse, would come to us in good order by steam-ships, and
richly reward the labor of the gatherers and the enterprise of
the importers.
"But the social and moral aspects of this subject are still more
important. We are now expending life and treasure, in concert
with other nations, to suppress the African slave-trade, and it
is now generally conceded that such suppression can never be
effected by the means hitherto relied on. The colonization of the
Slave Coast, with direct reference to its Christianization and
civilization, is the only sure means of putting an end to this
inhuman traffic. And this colonization, all who are interested in
the work seem heartily to agree, would be immensely accelerated
by the establishment of a line of African steam-ships. Liberia,
now practically distant as Buenos Ayres, would, by such a line,
be brought as near us as Bremen, and the ports regularly visited
by our steamers could not fail rapidly to assume importance as
centres of commerce and of increasing intelligence and
industry."[24]
"THE COLONY OF LIBERIA AND ITS PROSPECTUS.--By every arrival from
Liberia we learn that the colony of free negroes from the United
States is progressing at a rate truly astonishing, and that
before many years it promises to be a strong and powerful
republic. The experiment of self-government has been completely
successful; the educational interests of the inhabitants are duly
cared for; civilization is making great headway among the
aborigines; and, by means of Liberia, there is a very flattering
prospect of the slave-trade on the coast of Africa being entirely
destroyed. Governor Roberts, a very intelligent colored man, of
mixed blood, goes even so far as to say that Liberia is destined
to rival the United States, and that both republics, by a unity
of action, can civilize and Christianize the world, and
especially benighted Africa. We are pleased to hear such good
accounts from Liberia, and we shall always be pleased to hear of
its success, and of the progress and welfare of its inhabitants.
Founded, as it has been, by American philanthropists, and peopled
by our emancipated slaves, the United States will ever watch its
progress with interest, and aid and assist it as far as it
possibly can."[25]
But notwithstanding the apparent favor the cause of colonization
received from the press, it was an impractical, impossible, wild, and
visionary scheme that could not be carried to the extent its
projectors designed. It lost strength yearly, until all were convinced
that the Negro would be emancipated here and remain here; that it was
as impossible to colonize a race of people as to colonize the sun,
moon, and stars.
THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD organization was perhaps one of the most
useful auxiliaries the cause of agitation had. It could scarcely be
called an organization. Unlike the other societies, it did not print
its reports.[26] Like good Samaritans, its conductors did not ask
passengers their creed; but wherever they found human beings wounded
in body and mind by slavery, they gave them passage to the "Inn" of
Freedom on Canadian soil.
In a sense, the Underground Railroad was a secret organization. This
was necessary, as the fugitive-slave law gave the master the right to
pursue his slave when "fleeing from labor and service in one State
into another," and apprehend him by due process of Federal law. The
men who managed this road felt that they should obey God rather than
man; that the slave's right to his freedom was greater than any law
the nation could make through its representatives. So the Underground
Railroad was made up of a company of godly men who stretched
themselves across the land, from the borders of the sunny slave States
to the snow-white shores of Canada. When men came up out of the hell
of slavery gasping for a breath of free air, these good friends
sheltered and fed them; and then hastened them off in the stillness of
the night, with the everlasting stars as their ministers, toward
Canada. The fugitives would be turned over to another conductor, who
would conceal them until nightfall, when he would load his living
freight into a covered conveyance, and drive all night to reach the
next "station"; and so on until the fugitives found themselves free
and safe under the English flag in Canada.
This was the safety-valve to the institution of slavery. As soon as
leaders arose among the slaves, refusing to endure the yoke, they came
North. Had they remained, the direful scenes of St. Domingo would have
been enacted, and the hot, vengeful breath of massacre would have
swept the South as a tornado, and blanched the cheek of the civilized
world.
ANTI-SLAVERY LITERATURE wrought mightily for God in its field.[27]
Frederick Douglass's book, "My Bondage and My Freedom"; Bishop
Loguen's, "As a Slave and As a Freeman"; "Autobiography of a Fugitive
Negro," by the Rev. Samuel Ringgold Ward; "Twenty-two Years a Slave,
and Forty Years a Freeman," by the Rev. Austin Stewart; "Narrative of
Solomon Northup," "Walker's Appeal,"--all by eminent Negroes, exposed
the true character of slavery, informed the public mind, stimulated
healthy thought, and touched the heart of two continents with a
sympathy almost divine.
But the uncounted millions of anti-slavery tracts, pamphlets,
journals, and addresses of the entire period of agitation were little
more than a paper wad compared with the solid shot "Uncle Tom's Cabin"
was to slavery. Written in vigorous English, in scintillating,
perspicuous style; adorned with gorgeous imagery, bristling with
living "_facts_", going to the lowest depths, mounting to the greatest
altitudes, moving with panoramic grandeur, picturing humanity forlorn
and outraged; giving forth the shrillest, most _despairing_ cries of
the afflicted, and the sublimest strains of Christian faith; the
struggle of innocent, defenceless womanhood, the subdued sorrow of
chattel-babyhood, the yearnings of fettered manhood, and the piteous
sobs of helpless old age,--made Mrs. Harriet Beecher Stowe's "Uncle
Tom's Cabin" the magnifying wonder of enlightened Christendom! It
pleaded the cause of the slave in twenty different languages; it
engrossed the thought of philosophers, and touched the heart of youth
with a strange pity for the slave. It covered audiences with the
sunlight of laughter, wrapt them in sorrow, and veiled them in tears.
It illustrated the power of the Gospel of Love, the gentleness of
Negro character, and the powers and possibilities of the race. It was
God's message to a people who had refused to listen to his
anti-slavery prophets and priests; and its sad, weird, and
heart-touching descriptions and dialogues restored the milk of human
kindness to a million hearts that had grown callous in an age of
self-seeking and robbery of the poor.
In a political and sectional sense, the "Impending Crisis," by Helper,
exerted a wide influence for good. It was read by merchants and
politicians.
Diverse and manifold as were the methods of the friends of universal
freedom, and sometimes apparently conflicting, under God no honest
effort to rid the Negro and the country of the curse of slavery was
lost. All these agencies, running along different lines, converged at
a common centre, and aimed at a common end--the ultimate extinction of
the foreign and domestic slave-trade.
FOOTNOTES:
[12] In the Library of the New York Historical Society there is "An
Oration Upon the Moral and Political Evil of Slavery. Delivered at a
Public Meeting of the Maryland Society for Promoting the Abolition of
Slavery and the Relief of Free Negroes and Others Unlawfully Held in
Bondage, Baltimore, July 4, 1791. By George Buchanan, M.D., Member of
the American Philosophical Society. Baltimore: Printed by Phillip
Edwards, MDCCXCIII."
[13] Men of our Times, pp. 162, 163.
[14] Speech delivered at the Annual Meeting of the Cork Anti-Slavery
Society, 1829.
[15] Sumner's Works, vol. i. p. 336.
[16] At the election that took place on the 9th of November, 1846, the
vote stood as follows: Winthrop (Whig), 5,980; Howe (Anti-Slavery),
1,334; Homer (Democrat), 1,688; Whiton (Independent), 331. The number
of tickets in the field indicated the state of public feeling.
[17] Sumner's Works, vol. 1. p. 337.
[18] Church As It Is, etc., Introduction.
[19] Channing's Works, vol. ii. p. 10, sq.
[20] American Conflict, vol. i. pp. 25, 26.
[21] The following were the objects of the Colonization Society:
"1st. To rescue the free colored people of the United States from
their political and social disadvantages.
"2d. To place them in a country where they may enjoy the benefits of
free government, with all the blessings which it brings in its train.
"3d. To spread civilization, sound morals, and true religion through
the continent of Africa.
"4. To arrest and destroy the slave-trade.
"5. To afford slave-owners who wish, or are willing, to liberate their
slaves an asylum for their reception."
[22] The Republic, Sept. 11, 1850.
[23] National Intelligencer, October 23, 1850.
[24] Tribune, December 25, 1850.
[25] Herald, December, 17, 1850.
[26] It is to be regretted that William Still, the author of the U. G.
R. R., failed to give any account of its origin, organization,
workings, or the number of persons helped to freedom. It is an
interesting narrative of many cases, but is shorn of that minuteness
of detail so indispensable to authentic historical memorials.
[27] Judge Stroud, William Goodell, Wendell Phillips, William Jay, and
hundreds of other white men contributed to the anti-slavery literature
of the period.
CHAPTER VI.
ANTI-SLAVERY EFFORTS OF FREE NEGROES.
INTELLIGENT INTEREST OF FREE NEGROES IN THE AGITATION
MOVEMENT.--"FIRST ANNUAL CONVENTION OF THE PEOPLE OF COLOR" HELD
AT PHILADELPHIA.--REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OF
A COLLEGE FOR YOUNG MEN OF COLOR.--PROVISIONAL COMMITTEE
APPOINTED IN EACH CITY.--CONVENTIONAL ADDRESS.--SECOND CONVENTION
HELD AT BENEZET HALL, PHILADELPHIA.--RESOLUTIONS OF THE
MEETING.--CONVENTIONAL ADDRESS.--THE MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL
COLORED ASSOCIATION.--CONVENTION OF ANTI-SLAVERY WOMEN OF AMERICA
AT NEW YORK.--PREJUDICE AGAINST ADMITTING NEGROES INTO WHITE
SOCIETIES.--COLORED ORATORS.--THEIR ELOQUENT PLEAS FOR THEIR
ENSLAVED RACE.
The free Negroes throughout the Northern States were not passive
during the agitation movement. They took a lively interest in the
cause that had for its ultimate end the freedom of the slave. They did
not comfort themselves with the consciousness that _they_ were free;
but thought of _their brethren_ who were bound, and sympathized with
them.
"_The First Annual Convention of the People of Color_" was held in
Philadelphia from the 6th to the 11th of June, 1831. Its sessions were
held "in the brick Wesleyan Church, Lombard Street," "pursuant to
public notice, ... signed by Dr. Belfast Burton and William Whipper."
The following delegates were present:
_Philadelphia_--John Bowers, Dr. Belfast Burton, James Cornish,
Junius C. Morel, William Whipper.
_New York_--Rev. Wm. Miller, Henry Sipkins, Thos. L. Jennings,
Wm. Hamilton, James Pennington.
_Maryland_--Rev. Abner Coker, Robert Cowley.
_Delaware_--Abraham D. Shad, Rev. Peter Gardiner.
_Virginia_--Wm. Duncan.
The following officers were chosen:
_President_--John Bowers.
_Vice-Presidents_--Abraham D. Shad, William Duncan.
_Secretary_--William Whipper.
_Assistant Secretary_--Thos. L. Jennings.
The first concern of this convention was the condition of that class
which it directly represented--the "free persons of color" in the
United States. A committee, consisting of Messrs. Morel, Shad, Duncan,
Cowley, Sipkins, and Jennings, made the following report on the
condition of the free persons of color in the United States:
"_Brethren and Fellow-Citizens:_
"We, the Committee of Inquiry, would suggest to the Convention
the propriety of adopting the following resolutions, viz.:
"_Resolved_, That, in the opinion of this Convention, it is
highly necessary that the different societies engaged in the
_Canadian Settlement_ be earnestly requested to persevere in
their praiseworthy and philanthropic undertaking; firmly
believing that, at a future period, their labors will be crowned
with success.
"The Committee would also recommend this Convention to call on
the free people of color to assemble _annually_ by delegation at
such place as may be designated as suitable.
"They would also respectfully submit to your wisdom the necessity
of your deliberate reflection on the dissolute, intemperate, and
ignorant condition of a large portion of the colored population
of the United States. They would not, however, refer to their
unfortunate circumstances to add degradation to objects already
degraded and miserable; nor, with some others, improperly class
the virtuous of our color with the abandoned, but with the most
sympathizing and heartfelt commiseration, show our sense of
obligation as the true guardians of our interests, by giving
wholesome advice and good counsel.
"The Committee consider it as highly important that the
Convention recommend the necessity of creating a general fund, to
be denominated the CONVENTIONAL FUND, for the purpose of
advancing the objects of this and future conventions, as the
public good may require.
"They would further recommend, that the Declaration of
Independence and the Constitution of the United Stales be read in
our Conventions; believing, that the truths contained in the
former are incontrovertible, and that the latter guarantees in
letter and spirit to every freeman born in this country, all the
rights and immunities of citizenship.
"Your Committee with regret have witnessed the many oppressive,
unjust, and unconstitutional laws which have been enacted in the
different parts of the Union against the free people of color,
and they would call upon this Convention, as possessing the
rights of freemen, to recommend to the people, through their
delegation, the propriety of memorializing the proper
authorities, whenever they may feel themselves aggrieved, or
their rights invaded, by any cruel or oppressive laws.
"And your Committee would further report, that, in their opinion,
_Education_, _Temperance_, and _Economy_ are best calculated to
promote the elevation of mankind to a proper rank and standing
among men, as they enable him to discharge all those duties
enjoined on him by his Creator. We would, therefore, respectfully
request an early attention to those virtues among our brethren
who have a desire to be useful.
"And lastly, your Committee view with unfeigned regret, and
respectfully submit to the wisdom of this Convention, the
operations and misrepresentations of the American Colonization
Society in these United States.
"We feel sorrowful to see such an immense and wanton waste of
lives and property, not doubting the benevolent feelings of some
individuals engaged in that cause. But we cannot for a moment
doubt, but that the cause of many of our unconstitutional,
unchristian, and unheard-of sufferings emanate from that
unhallowed source; and we would call on Christians of every
denomination firmly to resist it."[28]
The convention was in session for several days. It attracted public
attention on account of the intelligence, order, and excellent
judgment which prevailed. It deeply touched the young white men who
had, but a few months previous, enlisted under the broad banner Wm.
Lloyd Garrison had given to the breeze. They called to see Colored men
conduct a convention. The Rev. S. S. Jocelyn, of New Haven,
Connecticut; Arthur Tappan, of New York; Benjamin Lundy, of
Washington, D. C.; William Lloyd Garrison, of Boston, Massachusetts;
Thomas Shipley and Charles Pierce, of Philadelphia, visited the
convention and were cordially received. Messrs. Jocelyn, Tappan, and
Garrison were invited to address the convention. They delivered
stirring addresses, and especially urged the necessity of establishing
a college for the education of "Young Men of Color." At the suggestion
of the speaker the convention appointed a committee with whom the
speaker conferred. The report of the committee was as follows:
"That a plan had been submitted to them by the above-named
gentlemen, for the liberal education of Young Men of Color, on
the Manual-Labor System, all of which they respectfully submit to
the consideration of the Convention, are as follow:
"The plan proposed is, that a College be established at New
Haven, Conn., as soon as $20,000 are obtained, and to be on the
Manual-Labor System, by which, in connection with a scientific
education, they may also obtain a useful Mechanical or
Agricultural profession; and (they further report, having
received information) that a benevolent individual has offered to
subscribe one thousand dollars toward this object, provided that
a farther sum of nineteen thousand dollars can be obtained in one
year.
"After an interesting discussion, the above report was
unanimously adopted; one of the inquiries by the Convention was
in regard to the place of location. On interrogating the
gentlemen why New Haven should be the place of location, they
gave the following as their reasons:--
"1st. The site is healthy and beautiful.
"2d. Its inhabitants are friendly, pious, generous, and humane.
"3d. Its laws are salutary and protecting to all, without regard
to complexion.
"4th. Boarding is cheap and provisions are good.
"5th. The situation is as central as any other that can be
obtained with the same advantages.
"6th. The town of New Haven carries on an extensive West India
trade, and many of the wealthy colored residents in the Islands,
would, no doubt, send their sons there to be educated, and thus a
fresh tie of friendship would be formed, which might be
productive of much real good in the end.
"And last, though not the least, the literary and scientific
character of New Haven, renders it a very desirable place for the
location of the college."
The report of the Committee was received and adopted. The Rev. Samuel
E. Cornish was appointed general agent to solicit funds, and Arthur
Tappan was selected as treasurer. A Provisional Committee was
appointed in each city, as follows:
"_Boston_--Rev. Hosea Easton, Robert Roberts, James G. Barbadoes,
and Rev. Samuel Snowden.
"_New York_--Rev. Peter Williams, Boston Cromwell, Philip Bell,
Thomas Downing, Peter Voglesang.
"_Philadelphia_--Joseph Cassey, Robert Douglass, Sr., James
Forten, Richard Howell, Robert Purvis.
"_Baltimore_--Thomas Green, James P. Walker, Samuel G. Mathews,
Isaac Whipper, Samuel Hiner.
"_New Haven_--Biars Stanley, John Creed, Alexander C. Luca.
"_Brooklyn, L. I._--Jacob Deyes, Henry Thomson, Willis Jones.
"_Wilmington, Del._--Rev. Peter Spencer, Jacob Morgan, William S.
Thomas.
"_Albany_--Benjamin Latimore, Captain Schuyler, Captain Francis
March.
"_Washington, D. C._--William Jackson, Arthur Waring, Isaac
Carey.
"_Lancaster, Pa._--Charles Butler and Jared Grey.
"_Carlisle, Pa._--John Peck and Rowland G. Roberts.
"_Chambersburg, Pa._--Dennis Berry.
"_Pittsburgh_--John B. Vashon, Lewis Gardiner, Abraham Lewis.
"_Newark, N. J._--Peter Petitt, Charles Anderson, Adam Ray.
"_Trenton_--Samson Peters, Leonard Scott."
The proceedings of the convention were characterized by a deep
solemnity and a lively sense of the gravity of the situation. The
delegates were of the ablest Colored men in the country, and were
conversant with the wants of their people. The subjoined address shows
that the committee that prepared it had a thorough knowledge of the
public sentiment of America on the subject of race prejudice.
"CONVENTIONAL ADDRESS.
"_Respected Brethren and Fellow-Citizens:_
* * * * *
"Our attention has been called to investigate the political
standing of our brethren wherever dispersed, but more
particularly the situation of those in this great Republic.
"Abroad, we have been cheered with pleasant views of humanity,
and the steady, firm, and uncompromising march of equal liberty
to the human family. Despotism, tyranny, and injustice have had
to retreat, in order to make way for the unalienable rights of
man. Truth has conquered prejudice, and mankind are about to rise
in the majesty and splendor of their native dignity.
"The cause of general emancipation is gaining powerful and able
friends abroad. Britain and Denmark have performed such deeds as
will immortalize them for their humanity, in the breasts of the
philanthropists of the present day; whilst, as a just tribute to
their virtues, after-ages will yet erect unperishable monuments
to their memory. (Would to God we could say thus of our own
native soil!)
"And it is only when we look to our own native land, to the
birthplace of our _fathers_, to the land for whose prosperity
their blood and our sweat have been shed and cruelly extorted,
that the Convention has had cause to hang its head and blush.
Laws, as cruel in themselves as they were unconstitutional and
unjust, have in many places been enacted against our poor
unfriended and unoffending brethren; laws, (without a shadow of
provocation on our part,) at whose bare recital the very savage
draws him up for fear of the contagion,--looks noble, and prides
himself because he bears not the name of a Christian.
"But the Convention would not wish to dwell long on this subject,
as it is one that is too sensibly felt to need description.
"We would wish to turn you from this scene with an eye of pity,
and a breast glowing with mercy, praying that the recording angel
may drop a tear, which shall obliterate forever the remembrance
of so foul a stain upon the national escutcheon of this great
Republic.
"This spirit of persecution was the cause of our Convention. It
was that first induced us to seek an asylum in the Canadas; and
the Convention feels happy to report to its brethren, that our
efforts to establish a settlement in that province have not been
made in vain. Our prospects are cheering; our friends and funds
are daily increasing; wonders have been performed far exceeding
our most sanguine expectations; already have our brethren
purchased eight hundred acres of land--and two thousand of them
have left the soil of their birth, crossed the lines, and laid
the foundation for a structure which promises to prove an asylum
for the colored population of these United States. They have
erected two hundred log-houses, and have five hundred acres under
cultivation.
"And now it is to your fostering care the Convention appeals, and
we appeal to you as to men and brethren, yet to enlarge their
borders.
"We therefore ask of you, brethren,--we ask of you,
philanthropists of every color and of every kindred,--to assist
us in this undertaking. We look to a kind Providence and to you
to say whether our desires shall be realized and our labors
crowned with success.
"The Convention has done its duty, and it now remains for you,
brethren, to do yours. Various obstacles have been thrown in our
way by those opposed to the elevation of the human species; but,
thanks to an all-wise Providence, his goodness has as yet cleared
the way, and our advance has been slow but steady. The only thing
now wanted, is an accumulation of funds, in order to enable us to
make a purchase agreeable to the direction of the first
Convention; and, to effect that purpose, the Convention has
recommended, to the different Societies engaged in that cause, to
preserve and prosecute their designs with double energy; and we
would earnestly recommend to every colored man (who feels the
weight of his degradation), to consider himself in duty bound to
contribute his mite toward this great object. We would say to
all, that the prosperity of the rising generation mainly depends
upon our active exertions.
"Yes, it is with us to say whether they shall assume a rank and
standing among the nations of the earth, as men and freemen, or
whether they shall still be prized and held at market-price. Oh,
then, by a brother's love, and by all that makes man dear to man,
awake in time! Be wise! Be free! Endeavor to walk with
circumspection; be obedient to the laws of our common country;
honor and respect its lawmakers and law-givers; and, through all,
let us not forget to respect ourselves.
"During the deliberations of this Convention, we had the favor of
advising and consulting with some of our most eminent and tried
philanthropists--men of unblemished character and of acknowledged
rank and standing. Our sufferings have excited their sympathy;
our ignorance appealed to their humanity; and, brethren, we feel
that gratitude is due to a kind and benevolent Creator, that our
excitement and appeal have neither been in vain. A plan has been
proposed to the Convention for the erection of a college for the
instruction of young men of color, on the manual-labor system, by
which the children of the poor may receive a regular classical
education, as well as those of their more opulent brethren, and
the charge will be so regulated as to put it within the reach of
all. In support of this plan, a benevolent individual has offered
the sum of one thousand dollars, provided that we can obtain
subscriptions to the amount of nineteen thousand dollars in one
year.
"The Convention has viewed the plan with considerable interest,
and, after mature deliberation, on a candid investigation, feels
strictly justified in recommending the same to the liberal
patronage of our brethren, and respectfully solicits the aid of
those philanthropists who feel an interest in sending light,
knowledge, and truth to all of the human species.
"To the friends of general education, we do believe that our
appeal will not be in vain. For the present ignorant and degraded
condition of many of our brethren in these United States (which
has been a subject of much concern to the Convention) can excite
no astonishment (although used by our enemies to show our
inferiority in the scale of human beings); for, what
opportunities have they possessed for mental cultivation or
improvement? Mere ignorance, however, in a people divested of the
means of acquiring information by books, or an extensive
connection with the world, is no just criterion of their
intellectual incapacity; and it had been actually seen, in
various remarkable instances, that the degradation of the mind
and character, which has been too hastily imputed to a people
kept, as we are, at a distance from those sources of knowledge
which abound in civilized and enlightened communities, has
resulted from no other causes than our unhappy situation and
circumstances.
"True philanthropy disdains to adopt those prejudices against any
people which have no better foundation than accidental
diversities of color, and refuses to determine without
substantial evidence and incontestible fact as the basis of her
judgment. And it is in order to remove these prejudices, which
are the actual causes of our ignorance, that we have appealed to
our friends in support of the contemplated institution.
"The Convention has not been unmindful of the operations of the
American Colonization Society, and it would respectfully suggest
to that august body of learning, talent, and worth, that, in our
humble opinion, strengthened, too, by the opinions of eminent men
in this country, as well as in Europe, that they are pursuing the
direct road to perpetuate slavery, with all its unchristianlike
concomitants, in this boasted land of freedom; and, as citizens
and men whose best blood is sapped to gain popularity for that
institution, we would, in the most feeling manner, beg of them to
desist; or, if we must be sacrificed to their philanthropy, we
would rather die at home. Many of our fathers, and some of us,
have fought and bled for the liberty, independence, and peace
which you now enjoy; and, surely, it would be ungenerous and
unfeeling in you to deny us an humble and quiet grave in that
country which gave us birth!
"In conclusion, the Convention would remind our brethren that
knowledge is power, and to that end, we call on you to sustain
and support, by all honorable, energetic, and necessary means,
those presses which are devoted to our instruction and elevation,
to foster and encourage the mechanical arts and sciences among
our brethren, to encourage simplicity, neatness, temperance, and
economy in our habits, taking due care always to give the
preference to the production of freemen wherever it can be had.
Of the utility of a General Fund, the Convention believes there
can exist but one sentiment, and that is for a speedy
establishment of the same. Finally, we trust our brethren will
pay due care to take such measures as will ensure a general and
equal representation in the next Convention
[Signed] "BELFAST BURTON,
"JUNIUS C. MOREL,
"WILLIAM WHIPPER,
"_Publishing Committee_."
Encouraged by the good results that followed the first convention,
another one was called, and assembled in Philadelphia, at Benezet
Hall, Seventh Street, June 4, 1832. The following delegates were
admitted to seats in the convention:
PENNSYLVANIA.
_Pittsburgh_--John B. Vashon.
_Philadelphia_--John Bowers, William Whipper, J. C. Morel,
Benjamin Paschal, F. A. Hinton.
_Carlisle_--John Peck.
_Lewistown, Miffin County_--Samuel Johnson.
NEW YORK.
_New York City_--William Hamilton, Thomas L. Jennings, Henry
Sipkins, Philip A. Bell.
_Brooklyn_--James Pennington.
DELAWARE.
_Wilmington_--Joseph Burton, Jacob Morgan, Abm. D. Shad, William
Johnson, Peter Gardiner.
MARYLAND.
_Baltimore_--Samuel Elliott, Robert Cowley, Samuel Hiner.
NEW JERSEY.
_Gloucester_--Thomas D. Coxsin, Thomas Banks.
_Trenton_--Aaron Roberts.
MASSACHUSETTS.
_Boston_--Hosea Easton.
_New Bedford_--Nathan Johnson.
CONNECTICUT.
_Hartford_--Paul Drayton.
_New Haven_--Scipio C. Augustus.
RHODE ISLAND.
_Providence_--Ichabod Northrop.
On the following day the convention adjourned to the "First African
Presbyterian Church." The following report was adopted:
"_Resolved_, That in the opinion of this Committee, the plan
suggested by the first General Convention, of purchasing land or
lands in Upper Canada, for the avowed object of forming a
settlement in that province, for such colored persons as may
choose to emigrate there, still merits and deserves our united
support and exertions; and further, that the appearances of the
times, in this our native land, demand an immediate action on
that subject. Adopted.
"_Resolved_, That in the opinion of this committee, we still
solemnly and sincerely protest against any interference, on the
part of the American Colonization Society, with the free colored
population in these United States, so long as they shall
countenance or endeavor to use coercive measures (either directly
or indirectly) to colonize us in any place which is not the
object of our choice. And we ask of them respectfully, as men and
as Christians, to cease their unhallowed persecutions of a
people already sufficiently oppressed, or if, as they profess to
have our welfare and prosperity at heart, to assist us in the
object of our choice.
"_Resolved_, That this committee would recommend to the members
of this Convention, to discountenance, by all just means in their
power, any emigration to Liberia or Hayti, believing them only
calculated to distract and divide the whole colored family."
In accordance with a resolution of the previous day the Rev. R. R.
Gurley, Secretary of the American Colonization Society, was invited to
address the convention. He endeavored to offer an acceptable
explanation of the Society, and to advocate its principles. But the
Colored people, almost to a man, were opposed to colonization; and
most of the anti-slavery societies regarded colonization as
impracticable and hurtful to the cause of emancipation. William Lloyd
Garrison happened to be present, and followed Gurley in a speech that
destroyed the hopes of the friends of colonization, and greatly
delighted the convention.
While the Colored people opposed colonization they regarded Canada as
a proper place to go. They felt that as citizens they had the right to
decide where to go, and, when they got ready, to go on their own
account. Canada had furnished an asylum to their flying,
travel-soiled, foot-sore, and needy brethren,--was not so very far
away, and, therefore, it was preferred to the West Coast of Africa.
The committee having under consideration this subject, made the
following comprehensive report:
"_Resolved_, That the members of this Convention take into
consideration the propriety of effecting the purchase of lands in
the province of Upper Canada, as an asylum for those of our
bretheren who may be compelled to remove from these United
States, beg leave, most respectfully to report:
"That, after due consideration, they believe the resolution
embraces three distinct inquiries for the consideration of this
Convention, which should be duly weighed before they can adopt
the sentiments contained in the above-named resolution.
Therefore, your Committee conceive the resolution premature, and
now proceed to state the enquiries separately.
"_First._--Is it proper for the Free people of color in this
country, under existing circumstances, to remove to any distant
territory beyond these United States?
"_Secondly._--Does Upper Canada possess superior advantages and
conveniences to those held out in these United States or
elsewhere?
"_Thirdly._--Is there any certainty that the people of color will
be compelled by oppressive legislative enactments to abandon the
land of their birth for a home in a distant region?
"Your Committee, before examining those enquiries, would most
respectfully take a retrospective view of the object for which
the Convention was first associated, and the causes which have
actuated their deliberations.
"The expulsory laws of Ohio, in 1829, which drove our people to
seek a new home in Upper Canada, and their impoverished situation
afterward, excited a general burst of sympathy for their
situation, by the wise and good, over the whole country. This
awakened public feeling on their behalf, and numerous meetings
were called to raise funds to alleviate their present miseries.
The bright prospects that then appeared to dawn on the new
settlement, awakened our people to the precariousness of their
situations, and, in order more fully to be prepared for future
exigencies, and to extend the system of benevolence still further
to those who should remove to Upper Canada, a circular was issued
by five individuals, viz.:--the Rev. Richard Allen, Cyrus Black,
Junius C. Morel, Benjamin Pascal, and James C. Cornish, in behalf
of the citizens of Philadelphia, calling a convention of the
colored delegates from the several States, to meet on the 20th
day of September, 1830, to devise plans and means for the
establishment of a colony in Upper Canada, under the patronage of
the general Convention, then called.
"That Convention met, pursuant to public notice, and recommended
the formation of a parent society, to be established, with
auxiliaries in the different towns where they had been
represented in _general_ convention, for the purpose of raising
moneys to defray the object of purchasing a colony in the
province of Upper Canada, for those who should hereafter wish to
emigrate thither, and that immediately after its organization, a
corresponding agent should be appointed to reside at or near the
intended purchase.
"Our then limited knowledge of the manners, customs, and
privileges, and rights of aliens in Upper Canada, together with
the climate, soil, and productions thereof, rendered it necessary
to send out agents to examine the same, who returned with a
favorable report, except that citizens of these United States
could not purchase lands in Upper Canada, and legally transfer
the same to other individuals.
"The Convention resolved to reassemble on the first Monday in
June, 1831, during which time the order of the Convention had
been carried into operation, relative to establishing Societies
for the promotion of said object; and the sum and total of their
proceedings were, that the Convention recommended to the colored
people generally, when persecuted as were our brethren in Ohio,
to seek an Asylum in Upper Canada. During which time,
information having been received that a part of the white
inhabitants of said province had, through prejudice and the fear
of being overburthened with an ejected population, petitioned the
provincial parliament to prohibit the general influx of colored
population from entering their limits, which threw some
consternation on the prospect. The Convention did not wholly
abandon the subject, but turned its attention more to the
elevation of our people in this, our native home.
"The recent occurrences at the South have swelled the tide of
prejudice until it has almost revolutionized public sentiment,
which has given birth to severe legislative enactments in some of
the States, and almost ruined our interests and prospects in
others, in which, in the opinion of your Committee, our situation
is more precarious than it has been at any other period since the
Declaration of Independence.
"The events of the past year have been more fruitful in
persecution, and have presented more inducements than any other
period of the history of our country, for the men of color to fly
from the graves of their fathers, and seek new homes in a land
where the roaring billows of prejudice are less injurious to
their rights and privileges.
"Your Committee would now approach the present Convention and
examine the resolution under consideration, beginning with the
first interrogatory, viz.: Is it proper for the Free people of
color in this country, under existing circumstances, to remove to
any distant territory beyond the United States?
"If we admit the first interrogatory to be true, as it is the
exact spirit of the language of this resolution, now under
consideration, it is altogether unnecessary for us to make
further preparation for either our moral, intellectual, or
political advancement in this our own, our native land.
"Your Committee also believe that if this Convention shall adopt
a resolution that will, as soon as means can be obtained, remove
our colored population to the province of Upper Canada, the best
and brightest prospect of the philanthropists who are laboring
for our elevation in this country will be thwarted, and they will
be brought to the conclusion that the great object which actuated
their labors would now be removed, and they might now rest from
their labors and have the painful feeling of transmitting to
future generations, that an oppressed people, in the land of
their birth, supported by the genuine philanthropists of the age,
amidsts friends, companions, and their natural attachments, a
genial clime, a fruitful soil,--amidst the rays of as proud
institutions as ever graced the most favored spot that has ever
received the glorious rays of a meridian sun,--have abandoned
their homes on account of their persecutions, for a home almost
similarly precarious, for an abiding-place among strangers!
"Your Committee further believe that any express plan to colonize
our people beyond the limits of these United States, tends to
weaken the situation of those who are left behind, without any
peculiar advantage to those who emigrate. But it must be
admitted, that the rigid oppression abroad in the land is such,
that a _part_ of our suffering brethren cannot live under it, and
that the compulsory laws and the inducements held out by the
American Colonization Society are such as will cause them to
alienate all their natural attachments to their homes, and accept
of the only mode left open, which is to remove to a distant
Country to receive those rights and privileges of which they have
been deprived. And as this Convention is associated for the
purpose of recommending to our people the best mode of
alleviating their present miseries,
"Therefore, your Committee would, most respectfully, recommend to
the general Convention, now assembled, to exercise the most
vigorous means to collect monies through their auxiliaries, or
otherwise, to be applied in such manner, as will advance the
interests, and contribute to the wants of the free colored
population of this country generally.
"Your Committee would now most respectfully approach the _second
inquiry_, viz.:--Does Upper Canada possess superior advantages
and conveniences to those held out in the United States or
elsewhere?
"Your Committee, without summing up the advantages and
disadvantages of other situations, would, most respectfully
answer in the affirmative. At least they are willing to assert
that the advantage is much in favor of those who are obliged to
leave their present homes. For your more particular information
on that subject we would, most respectfully, refer you to the
interesting account given by our real and indefatigable friend,
Benjamin Lundy, in a late number of the "Genius of Universal
Emancipation." _Vide_ "Genius of Universal Emancipation," No. 10,
vol. 12.
"From the history there laid down, your Committee would, most
respectfully, request the Convention to aid, so far as in their
power lies, those who are obliged to seek an asylum in the
province of Upper Canada; and, in order that they may more
effectually carry their views into operation, they would
respectfully request them to appoint an Agent in Upper Canada, to
receive such funds as may be there transmitted for their use.
"Your Committee have now arrived at the _third_ and last inquiry,
viz.:--Is there any certainty that we, as a people, will be
compelled to leave this our native land, for a home in a distant
region? To this inquiry your Committee are unable to answer; it
belongs to the fruitful events of time to determine. The mistaken
policy of some of the friends of our improvement, that the same
could be effected on the shore of Africa, has raised the tide of
our calamity until it has overflowed the valleys of peace and
tranquillity--the dark clouds of prejudice have rained
persecution--the oppressor and the oppressed have suffered
together--and we have yet been protected by that Almighty arm,
who holds in his hands the destinies of nations, and whose
presence is a royal safeguard, should we place the utmost
reliance on his wisdom and power.
"Your Committee, while they rejoice at the noble object for which
the Convention was first associated, have been unable to come to
any conclusive evidence that lands can be purchased by this
Convention and legally transferred to individuals, residents of
said colony, so long as the present laws exist. But, while they
deem it inexpedient for the Convention to purchase lands in Upper
Canada for the purpose of erecting a colony thereon, do again,
most respectfully, hope that they will exercise the same laudable
exertions to collect funds for the comfort and happiness of our
people there situated, and those who may hereafter emigrate, and
pursue the same judicious measures in the appropriation of said
funds, as they would in procuring a tract of land, as expressed
by the resolution.
"Your Committee, after examining the various circumstances
connected with our situation as a people, have come, unanimously,
to the conclusion to recommend to this Convention to adopt the
following resolution, as the best mode of alleviating the
miseries of our oppressed brethren:
"_Resolved_, That this Convention recommend the establishment of
a Society, or Agent, in Upper Canada, for the purpose of
purchasing lands and contributing to the wants of our people
generally, who may be, by oppressive legislative enactments,
obliged to flee from these United States and take up residence
within her borders. And that this Convention will employ its
auxiliary societies, and such other means as may lie in its
power, for the purpose of raising monies, and remit the same for
the purpose of aiding the proposed object.
[Signed] "ROBERT COWLEY, }
"JOHN PECK, } _Committee._"
"WM. HAMILTON, }
"WM. WHIPPER, }
"BENJ. PASCHAL, }
"THOS. D. COXSIN, }
"J. C. MOREL, }
This convention's work was carefully done, its plans were laid upon a
broader scale, and the Colored people, beholding its proceedings, took
heart, and went forward with zeal and courage seeking to increase
their intelligence and wealth, and improve their social condition. In
their address the convention did not fail to give the Colonization
Society a parting shot.
"CONVENTIONAL ADDRESS.
"_To the Free Colored Inhabitants of these United States_:
"FELLOW-CITIZENS: We have again been permitted to associate in
our representative character, from the different sections of this
Union, to pour into one common stream, the afflictions, the
prayers, and sympathies of our oppressed people; the axis of time
has brought around this glorious, annual event. And we are again
brought to rejoice that the wisdom of Divine Providence has
protected us during a year whose autumnal harvest has been a
reign of terror and persecution, and whose winter has almost
frozen the streams of humanity by its frigid legislation. It is
under the influence of times and feelings like these, that we now
address you. Of a people situated as we are, little can be said,
except that it becomes our duty strictly to watch those causes
that operate against our interests and privileges; and to guard
against whatever measures that will either lower us in the scale
of being, or perpetuate our degradation in the eyes of the
civilized world.
"The effects of Slavery on the bond and Colonization on the free.
Of the first we shall say but little, but will here repeat the
language of a high-minded Virginian in the Legislature of that
State, on the recent discussion of the slave question before that
honorable body, who declared, that man could not hold property in
man, and that the master held no right to the slave, either by a
law of nature or a patentee from God, but by the will of society;
which we declare to be an unjust usurpation of the rights and
privileges of men.
"But how beautiful must the prospect be to the philanthropist, to
view us, the children of persecution, grown to manhood,
associating in our delegated character to devise plans and means
for our moral elevation, and attracting the attention of the wise
and good over the whole country, who are anxiously watching our
deliberations.
"We have here to inform you, that we have patiently listened to
the able and eloquent arguments produced by the Rev. R. R.
Gurley, Secretary of the American Colonization Society, in behalf
of the doings of said Society, and Wm. Lloyd Garrison, Esq., in
opposition to its action.
"A more favorable opportunity to arrive at truth seldom has been
witnessed, but while we admire the distinguished piety and
Christian feelings with which he so solemnly portrayed the
doctrines of that institution, we do now _assert_, that the
result of the same has tended more deeply to rivet our solid
conviction, that the doctrines of said Society are at enmity with
the principles and precepts of religion, humanity, and justice,
and should be regarded by every man of color in these United
States as an evil, for magnitude, unexcelled, and whose doctrines
aim at the entire extinction of the free colored population and
the riveting of slavery.
"We might here repeat our protest against that institution, but
it is unnecessary; your views and sentiments have long since gone
to the world; the wings of the wind have borne your
disapprobation to that institution. Time itself cannot erase it.
You have dated your opposition from its beginning, and your views
are strengthened by time and circumstances, and they hold the
uppermost seat in your affections. We have not been unmindful of
the compulsory laws which caused our brethren in Ohio to seek new
homes in a distant land, there to share and suffer all the
inconveniences of exiles in an uncultivated region; which has led
us to admire the benevolent feelings of a rival government in its
liberal protection to strangers; which has induced us to
recommend to you, to exercise your best endeavors, to collect
monies to secure the purchase of lands in the Canadas, for those
who may by oppressive legislative enactments be obliged to move
thither.
"In contributing to our brethren that aid which will secure them
a refuge in a storm, we would not wish to be understood as
possessing any inclination to remove, nor in the least to
impoverish, that noble sentiment which we rejoice in exclaiming--
"This is _our_ own,
Our native land.
"All that we have done, humanity dictated it; neither inclination
nor alienated feelings to our country prescribed it, but that
power which is above all other considerations, viz.: the law of
necessity.
"We yet anticipate in the moral strength of this nation, a final
redemption from those evils that have been illegitimately
entailed on us as a people. We yet expect, by due exertions on
our part, together with the aid of the benevolent philanthropists
of our country, to acquire a moral and intellectual strength that
will unshaft the calumnious darts of our adversaries, and present
to the world a general character that they will feel bound to
respect and admire.
"It will be seen by a reference to our proceedings, that we have
again recommended the further prosecution of the contemplated
college, proposed by the last Convention, to be established at
New Haven, under the rules and regulations then established. A
place for its location will be selected in a climate and
neighborhood where the inhabitants are less prejudiced to our
rights and privileges. The proceedings of the citizens of New
Haven, with regard to the erection of the college, were a
disgrace to them, and cast a stigma on the reputed fame of New
England and the country. We are unwilling that the character of
the whole country should sink by the proceedings of a few. We are
determined to present to another portion of the country not far
distant, and at no very remote period, the opportunity of
gaining for them the character of a truly philanthropic spirit,
and of retrieving the character of the country, by the
disreputable proceedings of New Haven. We must have colleges and
high-schools on the manual-labor system, where our youth may be
instructed in all the arts of civilized life. If we ever expect
to see the influence of prejudice decrease, and ourselves
respected, it must be by the blessings of an enlightened
education. It must be by being in possession of that classical
knowledge which promotes genius, and causes man to soar up to
those high intellectual enjoyments and acquirements, which place
him in a situation to shed upon a country and a people that
scientific grandeur which is imperishable by time, and drowns in
oblivion's cup their moral degradation. Those who think that our
primary schools are capable of effecting this, are a century
behind the age when to have proved a question in the rule of
three was considered a higher attainment than solving the most
difficult problem in Euclid is now. They might have at that time
performed what some people expect of them now, in the then barren
state of science; but they are now no longer capable of
reflecting brilliancy on our national character, which will
elevate us from our present situation. If we wish to be
respected, we must build our moral character on a base as broad
and high as the nation itself; our country and our character
require it; we have performed all the duties from the menial to
the soldier,--our fathers shed their blood in the great struggle
for independence. In the late war between Great Britain and the
United States, a proclamation was issued to the free colored
inhabitants of Louisiana, September 21, 1814, inviting them to
take up arms in defence of their country, by Gen. Andrew Jackson.
And in order that you may have an idea of the manner in which
they acquitted themselves on that perilous occasion, we will
refer you to the proclamation of Thomas Butler, Aid-de-Camp.
"You there see that your country expects much from you, and that
you have much to call you into action, morally, religiously, and
scientifically. Prepare yourselves to occupy the several stations
to which the wisdom of your country may promote you. We have been
told in this Convention, by the Secretary of the American
Colonization Society, that there are causes which forbid our
advancement in this country, which no humanity, no legislation,
and no religion can control. Believe it not. Is not humanity
susceptible of all the tender feelings of benevolence? Is not
legislation supreme--and is not religion virtuous? Our oppressed
situation arises from their opposite causes. There is an
awakening spirit in our people to promote their elevation, which
speaks volumes in their behalf. We anticipated at the close of
the last Convention, a larger representation and an increased
number of delegates; we were not deceived, the number has been
tenfold. And we have a right to expect that future Conventions
will be increased by a geometrical ratio, until we shall present
a body not inferior in numbers to our State Legislatures, and the
_phenomenon_ of an _oppressed people_, deprived of the rights of
citizenship, in the midst of an enlightened nation, devising
plans and measures for their personal and mental elevation, by
_moral suasion alone_.
"In recommending you a path to pursue for our present good and
future elevation, we have taken into consideration the
circumstances of the free colored population, so far as it was
possible to ascertain their views and sentiments, hoping that at
a future Convention, you will all come ably represented, and that
your wishes and views may receive that deliberation and attention
for which this body is particularly associated.
"Finally, before taking our leave, we would admonish you, by all
that you hold dear, beware of that bewitching evil, that bane of
society, that curse of the world, that fell destroyer of the best
prospects and the last hope of civilized man,--INTEMPERANCE.
"Be righteous, be honest, be just, be economical, be prudent,
offend not the laws of your country,--in a word, live in that
purity of life, by both precept and example,--live in the
constant pursuit of that moral and intellectual strength which
will invigorate your understandings and render you illustrious in
the eyes of civilized nations, when they will assert that all
that illustrious worth which was once possessed by the Egyptians,
and slept for ages, has now arisen in their descendents, the
inhabitants of the New World."
Excellent as was the work of these conventions of men of color, they
nevertheless became the magazines from which the pro-slavery element
secured dangerous ammunition with which to attack the anti-slavery
movement. The white anti-slavery societies were charged with harboring
a spirit of race prejudice; with inconsistency, in that while seeking
freedom for the Negro by means of agitation, separate efforts were put
forth by the white and black anti-slavery people of the North. And
this had its due effect. Massachusetts and other States had abolition
societies composed entirely of persons of Color. "_The Massachusetts
General Colored Association_" organized in the early days of the
agitation movement. It had among its leading men the most intelligent
and public-spirited Colored citizens of Boston. James G. Barbadoes,
Coffin Pitts, John E. Scarlett, the Eastons, Hosea and Joshua; Wm. C.
Nell, Thomas Cole, Thomas Dalton, Frederick Brimley, Walker Lewis, and
John T. Hilton were a few of "the faithful." In January, 1833, the
following communication was sent to the white anti-slavery society of
New England.
"BOSTON, January 15, 1833.
"_To the Board of Managers of the New-England Anti-Slavery
Society_:
"The Massachusetts General Colored Association, cordially
approving the objects and principles of the New-England
Anti-Slavery Society, would respectfully communicate their desire
to become auxiliary thereto. They have accordingly chosen one of
their members to attend the annual meeting of the Society as
their delegate (Mr. JOSHUA EASTON, of North Bridgewater), and
solicit his acceptance in that capacity.
"THOMAS DALTON, _President_,
"WILLIAM C. NELL, _Vice-President_.
"JAMES G. BARBADOES, _Secretary_."
The request was granted, but a few hints among friends on the outside
sufficed to demonstrate the folly and hurtfulness of anti-slavery
societies composed exclusively of men of color. Within the next two
years Colored organizations perished, and their members took their
place in the white societies. Such Colored men as John B. Vashon and
Robert Purvis, of Pennsylvania; David Ruggles and Philip A. Bell, of
New York; and Charles Lenox Remond and Wm. Wells Brown, of
Massachusetts, were soon seen as orators and presiding officers, in
the different anti-slavery societies of the free States. Frederick
Douglass, the Rev. Samuel Ringgold Ward, James McCune Smith, M.D.;
James W. C. Pennington, D.D.; Henry Highland Garnett, D.D.; Alexander
Crummell, D.D.; and other Colored men were eloquent, earnest, and
effective in their denunciation of the institution that enslaved their
brethren. In England and in Europe a corps of intelligent Colored
orators was kept busy painting, to interested audiences, the cruelties
and iniquities of American slavery. By association and sympathy these
Colored orators took on the polish of Anglo-Saxon scholarship. Of the
influence of the American Anti-slavery Society upon the Colored man,
Maria Weston Chapman once said, it is "church and university, high
school and common school, to all who need real instruction and true
religion. Of it what a throng of authors, editors, lawyers, orators,
and accomplished gentlemen of color have taken their degree! It has
equally implanted hopes and aspirations, noble thoughts, and sublime
purposes, in the hearts of both races. It has prepared the white man
for the freedom of the black man, and it has made the black man scorn
the thought of enslavement, as does a white man, as far as its
influence has extended. _Strengthen that noble influence!_ Before its
organization, the country only saw here and there in slavery some
'faithful Cudjoe or Dinah,' whose strong natures blossomed even in
bondage, like a fine plant beneath a heavy stone. Now, under the
elevating and cherishing influence of the American Anti-slavery
Society, the colored race, like the white, furnishes Corinthian
capitals for the noblest temples. Aroused by the American Anti-slavery
Society, the very white men who had forgotten and denied the claim of
the black man to the rights of humanity, now thunder that claim at
every gate, from cottage to capitol, from school-house to university,
from the railroad carriage to the house of God. He has a place at
their firesides, a place in their hearts--the man whom they once
cruelly hated for his color. So feeling, they _cannot_ send him to
Coventry with a horn-book in his hand, and call it _instruction_! They
inspire him to climb to their side by a visible, acted gospel of
freedom. Thus, instead of bowing to prejudice, they conquer it."
In January, 1836, Rev. Mr. Follen offered the following resolution in
a meeting of the New England Anti-slavery Society:
"_Resolved_, That we consider the Anti-slavery cause the cause of
philanthropy, with regard to which all human beings, white men
and colored men, citizens and foreigners, men and women, have the
same duties and the same rights."
In support of his resolution, he said:
"We have been advised, if we really wished to benefit the slave
and the colored race generally, not unnecessarily to shock the
feelings, though they were but prejudices, of the white people,
by admitting colored persons to our Anti-slavery meetings and
societies. We have been told that many who would otherwise act in
unison with us were kept away by our disregard of the feelings of
the community in this respect.... But what, I would ask, is the
great, the single object of all our meetings and societies? Have
we any other object than to impress upon the community this one
principle, that the _colored man is a man_? And, on the other
hand, is not the prejudice which would have us exclude colored
people from our meetings and societies the same which, in our
Southern States, dooms them to perpetual bondage?"
In May, 1837, the _Anti-slavery Women of America_ met in convention in
New York. In a circular issued by the authority of the convention, and
signed by Mary S. Parker, President, Angelina E. Grimkie, Secretary,
another attack was made upon proscription in anti-slavery societies.
There was a Colored lady named Sarah Douglass on the Central
Committee. The following paragraphs from the circular are specimens
sufficient to show the character of the circular; and the poetry at
the end, written by a Colored member. Miss Sarah Forten, justified the
hopes of her white sisters concerning the race:
"Those Societies that reject colored members, or seek to avoid
them, have never been active or efficient. The blessing of God
does not rest upon them, because they 'keep back a part of the
price of the land,'--they do not lay _all_ at the apostle's feet.
"The abandonment of prejudice is required of us as a proof of our
sincerity and consistency. How can we ask our Southern brethren
to make sacrifices, if we are not even willing to encounter
inconveniences? First cast the beam from thine own eye, then wilt
thou see clearly to cast it from his eye.
"We are thy sisters. God has truly said
That of one blood the nations He has made.
O Christian woman! in a Christian land,
Canst thou unblushing read this great command?
Suffer the wrongs which wring our inmost heart,
To draw one throb of pity on thy part?
Our Skins may differ, but from thee we claim
A sister's privilege and a sister's name."
Every barrier was now broken down inside of anti-slavery
organizations; and having conquered the prejudice that crippled their
work, they enjoyed greater freedom in the prosecution of their labors.
The Colored orators wrought a wonderful change in public sentiment. In
the inland white communities throughout the Northern States Negroes
were few, and the majority of them were servants; some of them
indolent and vicious. From these few the moral and intellectual
photograph of the entire race was taken. So it was meet that Negro
orators of refinement should go from town to town. The North needed
arousing and educating on the anti-slavery question, and no class did
more practical work in this direction than the little company of
orators, with the peerless Douglass at its head, that pleaded the
cause of their brethren in the flesh before the cultivated audiences
of New England, the Middle and Western States,--yea, even in the
capital cities of conservative Europe.
FOOTNOTES:
[28] The Minutes, in possession of the author.
CHAPTER VII.
NEGRO INSURRECTIONS.
THE NEGRO NOT SO DOCILE AS SUPPOSED.--THE REASON WHY HE WAS KEPT
IN BONDAGE.--NEGROES POSSESSED COURAGE BUT LACKED
LEADERS.--INSURRECTION OF SLAVES.--GEN. GABRIEL AS A
LEADER.--NEGRO INSURRECTION PLANNED IN SOUTH CAROLINA.--EVILS OF
SLAVERY REVEALED.--THE "NAT. TURNER" INSURRECTION IN SOUTH
HAMPTON COUNTY, VIRGINIA.--THE WHITES ARM THEMSELVES TO REPEL THE
INSURRECTIONISTS.--CAPTURE AND TRIAL OF "NAT. TURNER."--HIS
EXECUTION.--EFFECT OF THE INSURRECTION UPON SLAVES AND
SLAVE-HOLDERS.
The supposed docility of the American Negro was counted among the
reasons why it was thought he could never gain his freedom on this
continent. But this was a misinterpretation of his real character.
Besides, it was next to impossible to learn the history of the Negro
during the years of his enslavement at the South. The question was
often asked: Why don't the Negroes rise at the South and exterminate
their enslavers? Negatively, not because they lacked the courage, but
because they lacked leaders [as has been stated already, they sought
the North and their freedom through the Underground R. R.] to organize
them. But notwithstanding this great disadvantage the Negroes _did_
rise on several different occasions, and did effective work.
"Three times, at intervals of thirty years, has a wave of
unutterable terror swept across the Old Dominion, bringing
thoughts of agony to every Virginian master, and of vague hope to
every Virginian slave. Each time has one man's name become a
spell of dismay and a symbol of deliverance. Each time has that
name eclipsed its predecessor, while recalling it for a moment to
fresher memory; John Brown revived the story of Nat. Turner, as
in his day Nat. Turner recalled the vaster schemes of
Gabriel."[29]
Mention has been made of the insurrection of slaves in South Carolina
in the last century. Upon the very threshold of the nineteenth
century, "General Gabriel" made the master-class of Virginia quail
with mortal dread. He was a man of more than ordinary intelligence;
and his plans were worthy of greater success. The following newspaper
paragraph reveals the condition of the minds of Virginians respecting
the Negroes:
"For the week past, we have been under momentary expectation of a
rising among the negroes, who have assembled to the number of
nine hundred or a thousand, and threatened to massacre all the
whites. They are armed with desperate weapons, and secrete
themselves in the woods. God only knows our fate; we have strong
guards every night under arms."
The above was communicated to the "United States Gazette," printed in
Philadelphia, under date of September 8, 1800, by a Virginia
correspondent. The people felt that they were sleeping over a
magazine. The movement of Gabriel was to have taken place on Saturday,
September 1st. The rendezvous of the Negro troops was a brook, about
six miles from Richmond. The force was to comprise eleven hundred men,
divided into three divisions. Richmond--then a town of eight thousand
inhabitants--was the point of attack, which was to be effected under
cover of night. The right wing was to fall suddenly upon the
penitentiary, lately improvised into an arsenal; the left wing was to
seize the powder-house; and, thus equipped and supplied with the
munitions of war, the two columns were to assign the hard fighting to
the third column. This column was to have possession of all the guns,
swords, knives, and other weapons of modern warfare. It was to strike
a sharp blow by entering the town from both ends, while the other two
columns, armed with shovels, picks, clubs, etc., were to act as a
reserve. The white troops were scarce, and the situation, plans, etc.,
of the Negroes were admirable.
"... the penitentiary held several thousand stand of arms; the
powder-house was well-stocked; the capitol contained the State
treasury; the mills would give them bread; the control of the
bridge across James River would keep off enemies from beyond.
Thus secured and provided, they planned to issue proclamations
summoning to their standard 'their fellow-negroes and the friends
of humanity throughout the continent.' In a week, it was
estimated, they would have fifty thousand men on their side, with
which force they could easily possess themselves of other towns;
and, indeed, a slave named John Scott--possibly the dangerous
possessor of ten dollars--was already appointed to head the
attack on Petersburg. But in case of final failure, the project
included a retreat to the mountains, with their newfound
property. John Brown was therefore anticipated by Gabriel sixty
years before, in believing the Virginia mountains to have been
'created, from the foundation of the world, as a place of refuge
for fugitive slaves.'"[30]
The plot failed, but everybody, and the newspapers also, said the plan
was well conceived.
In 1822 another Negro insurrection was planned in Charleston, S. C.
The leader of this affair was Denmark Vesey.[31] This plot for an
insurrection extended for forty-five or fifty miles around Charleston,
and intrusted its secrets to thousands. Denmark Vesey, assisted by
several other intelligent and trusty Negroes, had conceived the idea
of slaughtering the whites in and about Charleston, and thus securing
liberty for the blacks. A recruiting committee was formed, and every
slave enlisted was sworn to secrecy. Household servants were rarely
trusted. Talkative and intemperate slaves were not enlisted. Women
were excluded from the affair that they might take care of the
children. Peter Poyas, it was said, had enlisted six hundred without
assistance. There were various opinions respecting the number
enlisted. Some put it at hundreds, others thousands; one witness at
the trial said there were nine thousand, another six thousand. But no
white person ever succeeded in gaining the confidence of the black
conspirators. Never was a plot so carefully guarded for so long a
time.
"During the excitement and the trial of the supposed
conspirators, rumor proclaimed all, and doubtless more than all,
the horrors of the plot. The city was to be fired in every
quarter, the arsenal in the immediate vicinity was to be broken
open, and the arms distributed to the insurgents, and an
universal massacre of the white inhabitants to take place. Nor
did there seem to be any doubt in the mind of the people that
such would actually have been the result, had not the plot
fortunately been detected before the time appointed for the
outbreak. It was believed, as a matter of course, that every
black in the city would join in the insurrection, and that, if
the original design had been attempted, and the city taken by
surprise, the negroes would have achieved a complete and easy
victory. Nor does it seem at all impossible that such might have
been or yet may be the case, if any well-arranged and resolute
rising should take place."[32]
This bold plot failed because a Negro named William Paul began to make
enlistments without authority. He revealed the secret to a household
servant, just the very man he should have left to the skilful
manipulations of Peter Poyas or Denmark Vesey. As an evidence of the
perfection of the plot it should be stated that after a month of
official investigation only fifteen out of the thousands had been
apprehended!
"The leaders of this attempt at insurrection died as bravely as they
had lived; and it is one of the marvels of the remarkable affair, that
none of this class divulged, any of their secrets to the court. The
men who did the talking were those who knew but little."
The effect was to reveal the evils of slavery, to stir men to thought,
and to hasten the day of freedom.
"Nat." Turner combined the lamb and lion. He was a Christian and a
_man_. He was conscious that he was a man and not a "thing";
therefore, driven by religious fanaticism, he undertook a difficult
and bloody task. Nathaniel Turner was born in Southampton County,
Virginia, October 2, 1800. His master was one Benjamin Turner, a very
wealthy and aristocratic man. He owned many slaves, and was a cruel
and exacting master. Young "Nat." was born of slave parents, and
carried to his grave many of the superstitions and traits of his
father and mother. The former was a preacher; the latter a "mother in
Israel." Both were unlettered, but, nevertheless, very pious people.
The mother began when Nat. was quite young to teach him that he was
born, like Moses, to be the deliverer of his race. She would sing to
him snatches of wild, rapturous songs, and repeat portions of prophecy
she had learned from the preachers of those times. Nat. listened with
reverence and awe, and believed every thing his mother said. He
imbibed the deep religious character of his parents, and soon
manifested a desire to preach. He was solemnly set apart to "the
Gospel Ministry" by his father, the Church, and visiting preachers. He
was quite low in stature, dark, and had the genuine African features.
His eyes were small, but sharp, and gleamed like fire when he was
talking about his "mission," or preaching from some prophetic passage
of Scripture. It is said that he never laughed. He was a dreamy sort
of a man, and avoided the crowd. Like Moses, he lived in the solitudes
of the mountains and brooded over the condition of his people. There
was something grand to him in the rugged scenery that nature had
surrounded him with. He believed that he was a prophet, a leader
raised up by God to burst the bolts of the prison-house and set the
oppressed free. The thunder, the hail, the storm-cloud, the air, the
earth, the stars, at which he would sit and gaze half the night, all
spake the language of the God of the oppressed. He was seldom seen in
a large company, and never drank a drop of ardent spirits. Like John
the Baptist, when he had delivered his message, he would retire to the
fastness of the mountain, or seek the desert, where he could meditate
upon his great work.
At length he declared that God spake to him. He began to dream dreams
and to see visions. His grandmother, a very old and superstitious
person, encouraged him in his dreaming. But, notwithstanding, he
believed that he had communion with God, and saw the most remarkable
visions, he denounced in the severest terms the familiar practices
among slaves, known as "conjuring," "gufering," and fortune-telling.
The people regarded him with mixed feelings of fear and reverence. He
preached with great power and authority. He loved the prophecies, and
drew his illustrations from nature. He presented God as the
"_All-Powerful_"; he regarded him as a great "_Warrior_." His master
soon discovered that Nat. was the acknowledged leader among the
slaves, and that his fame as "prophet" and "leader" was spreading
throughout the State. The poor slaves on distant plantations regarded
the name of Nat. Turner as very little removed from that of God.
Though having never seen him, yet they believed in him as the man
under whose lead they would some time march out of the land of
bondage. His influence was equally great among the preachers, while
many white people honored and feared him. His master thought it
necessary to the safety of his property, to hire Nat. out to a most
violent and cruel man. Perhaps he thought to have him "broke." If so,
he was mistaken. Nat. Turner was the last slave to submit to an insult
given by a white man. His new master could do nothing with him. He ran
off, and spent thirty days in the swamps--but returned. He was
upbraided by some of his fellow-slaves for not seeking, as he
certainly could have done, "the land of the free." He answered by
saying, that a voice said to him: "Return to your earthly master; for
he who knoweth his Master's will and doeth it not, shall be beaten
with many stripes." It was no direction to submit to an earthly
master, but to return to him in order to carry out the will of his
Heavenly Master. He related some of the visions he saw during his
absence. "About that time I had a vision, and saw white spirits and
black spirits engaged in battle; and the sun was darkened, the thunder
rolled in the heavens, and blood flowed in streams; and I heard a
voice saying: 'Such is your luck, such are you called on to see; and
let it come, rough or smooth, you must surely bear it.' It was not
long after this when he saw another vision. He says a spirit appeared
unto him and spake as follows: "The serpent is loosened, and Christ
has laid down the yoke he has borne for the sins of men; and you must
take it up and fight against the serpent, for the time is fast
approaching when the first shall be last, and the last shall be
first." These visions and many others enthused Nat., and led him to
believe that the time was near when the Blacks would be "first" and
the whites "last."
The plot for a general uprising was laid in the month of February,
1831. He had seen the last vision. He says: "I was told I should arise
and prepare myself, and slay my enemies with their own weapons." He
was now prepared to arrange the details of his plot. He appointed a
meeting, to which he invited four trusted friends, Sam. Edwards, Hark
Travis, Henry Porter, and Nelson Williams. A wild and desolate glen
was chosen as the place of meeting, and night the time when they could
perfect their plans without being molested by the whites. They brought
with them provisions, and ate while they debated among themselves the
methods by which to carry out their plan of blood and death. The main
difficulty that confronted them was how to get arms. Nat. remembered
that a spirit had instructed him to "slay my enemies with their own
weapons," so they decided to follow these instructions. After they had
decided upon a plan, "the prophet Nat." arose, and, like a great
general, made a speech to his small but brave force. "Friends and
brothers," said he, "we are to commence a great work to-night! Our
race is to be delivered from slavery, and God has appointed us as the
men to do his bidding; and let us be worthy of our calling. I am told
to slay all the whites we encounter, without regard to age or sex. We
have no arms or ammunition, but we will find these in the houses of
our oppressors; and, as we go on, others can join us. Remember, we do
not go forth for the sake of blood and carnage; but it is necessary
that, in the commencement of this revolution, all the whites we meet
should die, until we have an army strong enough to carry on the war
upon a Christian basis. Remember that ours is not a war for robbery,
nor to satisfy our passions; it is a _struggle for freedom_. Ours must
be deeds, not words. Then let's away to the scene of action!"
The blow was struck on the night of the 21st of August, 1831, in
Southampton County, near Jerusalem Court-House. The latter place is
about seventy miles from Richmond. Not only Southampton County but old
Virginia reeled under the blow administered by the heavy hand of Nat.
Turner. On their way to the first house they were to attack, that of a
planter by the name of Joseph Travis, they were joined by a slave
belonging to a neighboring plantation. We can find only one name for
him, "Will." He was the slave of a cruel master, who had sold his wife
to the "nigger traders." He was nearly six feet in height, well
developed, and the most powerful and athletic man in the county. He
was marked with an ugly scar, extending from his right eye to the
extremity of the chin. He hated his master, hated slavery, and was
glad of an opportunity to wreak his vengeance upon the whites. He
armed himself with a sharp broadaxe, under whose cruel blade many a
white man fell. Nat.'s speech gives us a very clear idea of the scope
and spirit of his plan. We quote from his confession at the time of
the trial, and will let him tell the story of this terrible
insurrection.
"On returning to the house, Hark went to the door with an axe,
for the purpose of breaking it open, as we knew we were strong
enough to murder the family should they be awakened by the noise;
but, reflecting that it might create an alarm in the
neighborhood, we determined to enter the house secretly, and
murder them whilst sleeping. Hark got a ladder and set it against
the chimney, on which I ascended, and, hoisting a window, entered
and came down stairs, unbarred the doors, and removed the guns
from their places. It was then observed that I must spill the
first blood, on which, armed with a hatchet and accompanied by
Will., I entered my master's chamber. It being dark, I could not
give a death-blow. The hatchet glanced from his head; he sprang
from his bed and called his wife. It was his last word. Will.
laid him dead with a blow of his axe."
After they had taken the lives of this family, they went from
plantation to plantation, dealing death-blows to every white man,
woman, or child they found. They visited vengeance upon every white
household they came to. The excitement spread rapidly, and the whites
arose and armed themselves in order to repel these insurrectionists.
"The first news concerning the affair was in the shape of a
letter from Col. Trezvant, which reached Richmond Tuesday
morning, too late for the columns of the (Richmond) "Enquirer,"
which was a triweekly. The letter was written on the 21st of
August, and lacked definiteness, which gave rise to doubts in
reference to the 'insurrection.' It was first sent to
Petersburgh, and was then immediately dispatched to the Mayor of
Richmond.
* * * * *
"Arms and ammunition were dispatched in wagons to the county of
Southampton. The four volunteer companies of Petersburgh, the
dragoons and Lafayette artillery company of Richmond, one
volunteer company from Norfolk and one from Portsmouth, and the
regiments of Southampton and Sussex, were at once ordered out.
The cavalry and infantry took up their line of march on Tuesday
evening, while the artillery embarked on the steamer 'Norfolk,'
and landed at Smithfield.... A member of the Richmond dragoons,
writing from Petersburgh, under date of the 23d, after careful
examination, thought that 'about two hundred and fifty negroes
from a camp-meeting about the Dismal Swamp had murdered about
sixty, persons, none of them families much known.'"[33]
Will., the revengeful slave, proved himself the most destructive and
cruel of Nat.'s followers. A hand to hand battle came. The whites were
well armed, and by the force of their superior numbers overcame the
army of the "Prophet,"--five men. Will. would not surrender. He laid
three white men dead at his feet, when he fell mortally wounded. His
last words were: "Bury my axe with me," believing that in the next
world he would need it for a similar purpose. Nat. fought with great
valor and skill with a short sword, and finding it useless to continue
the struggle, escaped with some of his followers to the swamps, where
he defied the vigilance of the military and the patient watching of
the citizens for more than two months. He was finally compelled to
surrender. When the Court asked: "Guilty or not guilty?" he pleaded:
"Not guilty." He was sustained during his trial by his unfaltering
faith in God. Like Joan of Arc, he "heard the spirits," the "voices,"
and believed that God had "sent him to free His people."
In the impression of the "Enquirer" of the 30th of August, 1831, the
first editorial, or leader, is under the caption of THE BANDITTE. The
editor says:
"They remind one of a parcel of blood-thirsty wolves rushing down
from the Alps; or, rather like a former incursion of the Indians
upon the white settlements. Nothing is spared: neither age nor
sex respected--the helplessness of women and children pleads in
vain for mercy.... The case of Nat. Turner warns us. No black-man
ought to be permitted to turn a Preacher through the country. The
law must be enforced--or the tragedy of Southampton appeals to us
in vain."[34]
A remarkable prophecy was made by Nat. The trial was hurried, and,
like a handle on a pitcher, was on one side only. He was sentenced to
die on the gallows. He received the announcement with stoic
indifference, and was executed at Jerusalem, the county seat of
Southampton, in April, 1831. He died like a man, bravely, calmly;
looking into eternity, made radiant by a faith that had never
faltered. He prophesied that on the day of his execution the sun would
be darkened, and other evidences of divine disapprobation would be
seen. The sheriff was much impressed by Nat.'s predictions, and
consequently refused to have any thing to do with the hanging. No
Colored man could be secured to cut the rope that held the trap. An
old white man, degraded by drink and other vices, was engaged to act
as executioner, and was brought forty miles. Whether it was a
fulfilment of Nat.'s prophecy or not, the sun was hidden behind angry
clouds, the thunder rolled, the lightning flashed, and the most
terrific storm visited that county ever known. All this, in connection
with Nat.'s predictions, made a wonderful impression upon the minds of
the Colored people, and not a few white persons were frightened, and
regretted the death of the "Prophet."
The results of this uprising, led by a lone man--he was alone, and
yet he was not alone,--are apparent when we consider that fifty-seven
whites and seventy-three Blacks were killed and many were wounded.
The first reliable list of the victims of the "tragedy" was written on
the 24th of August, 1831.
"List of the dead that have been buried:--At Mrs. Whiteheads', 7;
Mrs. Waller's, 13; Mr. Williams', 3; Mr. Barrows', 2; Mr.
Vaughn's, 5; Mrs. Turner's, 3; Mr. Travis's, 5; Mr. J. Williams',
5; Mr. Reice's, 4; Names unknown, 10; Total, 57."
Then there was a feeling of unrest among the slaves and a fear among
the whites throughout the State. Even the proceedings of the trial of
Nat. were suppressed for fear of evil consequences among the slaves.
But now all are free, and the ex-planters will not gnash their teeth
at this revelation. Nat. Turner's insurrection, like all other
insurrections led by oppressed people, lacked detail and method.
History records but one successful uprising--San Domingo has the
honor. Even France failed in 1789, and in 1848. There is always a zeal
for freedom, but not according to knowledge. No stone marks the
resting-place of this martyr to freedom, this great religious fanatic,
this Black John Brown. And yet he has a prouder and more durable
monument than was ever erected of stone or brass. The image of Nat.
Turner is carved on the fleshy tablets of four million hearts. His
history has been kept from the Colored people, at the South, but the
women have handed the tradition to their children, and the "Prophet
Nat." is still marching on.
Of the character of this remarkable man, Mr. Gray, the gentleman to
whom he made his confession, had the following to say:--
"It has been said that he was ignorant and cowardly, and that his
object was to murder and rob, for the purpose of obtaining money
to make his escape. It is notorious that he was never known to
have a dollar in his life, to swear an oath, or drink a drop of
spirits. As to his ignorance, he certainly never had the
advantages of education; but he can read and write, and for
natural intelligence and quickness of apprehension, is surpassed
by few men I have ever seen. As to his being a coward, his
reason, as given, for not resisting Mr. Phipps, shows the
decision of his character. When he saw Mr. Phipps present his
gun, he said he knew it was impossible for him to escape, as the
woods were full of men; he therefore thought it was better for
him to surrender, and trust to fortune for his escape.
"He is a complete fanatic, or plays his part most admirably. On
other subjects he possesses an uncommon share of intelligence,
with a mind capable of attaining any thing, but warped and
perverted by the influence of early impressions. He is below the
ordinary stature, though strong and active, having the true negro
face, every feature of which is strongly marked. I shall not
attempt to describe the effect of his narrative, as told and
commented on by himself, in the condemned hole of the prison: the
calm, deliberate composure with which he spoke of his late deeds
and intentions; the expression of his fiend-like face, when
excited by enthusiasm; still bearing the stains of the blood of
helpless innocence about him, clothed with rags and covered with
chains, yet daring to raise his manacled hands to Heaven, with a
spirit soaring above the attributes of man. I looked on him, and
the blood curdled in my veins."
In the "Richmond Enquirer," of September 2, 1831, appeared the
following: "It is reported that a map was found, and said to have been
drawn by Nat. Turner, with _polk-berry juice_, which was a description
of the county of Southampton."
The influence of this bloody insurrection spread beyond the Old
Dominion, and for years afterward, in nearly every Southern State the
whites lived in a state of dread. To every dealer in flesh and blood
the "Nat. Turner Insurrection" was a stroke of poetic justice.
FOOTNOTES:
[29] Atlantic Monthly, vol. x. p. 337.
[30] Atlantic Monthly, vol. x. p. 339.
[31] Atlantic Monthly, vol. vii. pp. 728, 744.
[32] Atlantic Monthly, vol. vii. p. 737.
[33] Richmond Enquirer, August 26, 1831.
[34] Richmond Enquirer, August 26 and 30, 1831.
CHAPTER VIII.
THE "AMISTAD" CAPTIVES.
THE SPANISH SLAVER "AMISTAD" SAILS FROM HAVANA, CUBA, FOR PORTO
PRINCIPE.--FIFTY-FOUR NATIVE AFRICANS ON BOARD.--JOSEPH CINQUEZ,
THE SON OF AN AFRICAN PRINCE.--THE "AMISTAD" CAPTURED AND TAKEN
INTO NEW LONDON, CONN.--TRIAL AND RELEASE OF THE SLAVES.--TOUR
THROUGH THE UNITED STATES.--RETURN TO THEIR NATIVE COUNTRY IN
COMPANY WITH MISSIONARIES.--THE ANTI-SLAVERY CAUSE BENEFITED BY
THEIR STAY IN THE UNITED STATES.--THEIR APPRECIATION OF CHRISTIAN
CIVILIZATION.
On the 28th of June, 1839, the "Amistad," a Spanish slaver (schooner),
with Captain Ramon Ferrer in command, sailed from Havana, Cuba, for
Porto Principe, a place in the island of Cuba, about 100 leagues
distant. The passengers were Don Pedro Montes and Jose Ruiz, with
fifty-four Africans just from their native country, Lemboko, as
slaves. Among the slaves was one man, called in Spanish, Joseph
Cinquez,[35] said to be the son of an African prince. He was possessed
of wonderful natural abilities, and was endowed with all the elements
of an intelligent and intrepid leader. The treatment these captives
received was very cruel. They were chained down between the
decks--space not more than four feet--by their wrists and ankles;
forced to eat rice, sick or well, and whipped upon the slightest
provocation. On the fifth night out, Cinquez chose a few trusty
companions of his misfortunes, and made a successful attack upon the
officers and crew. The captain and cook struck down, two sailors put
ashore, the Negroes were in full possession of the vessel. Montes was
compelled, under pain of death, to navigate the vessel to Africa. He
steered eastwardly during the daytime, but at night put about hoping
to touch the American shore. Thus the vessel wandered until it was
cited off of the coast of the United States during the month of
August. It was described as a "long, low, black schooner." Notice was
sent to all the collectors of the ports along the Atlantic Coast, and
a steamer and several revenue cutters were dispatched after her.
Finally, on the 26th of August, 1839, Lieut. Gedney, U. S. Navy,
captured the "Amistad," and took her into New London, Connecticut.
The two Spaniards and a Creole cabin boy were examined before Judge
Andrew T. Judson, of the United States Court, who, without examining
the Negroes, bound them over to be tried as pirates. The poor Africans
were cast into the prison at New London. Public curiosity was at a
high pitch; and for a long time the "_Amistad captives_" occupied a
large place in public attention. The Africans proved to be natives of
the Mendi country, and quite intelligent. The romantic story of their
sufferings and meanderings was given to the country through a
competent interpreter; and many Christian hearts turned toward them in
their lonely captivity in a strange land. The trial was continued
several months. During this time the anti-slavery friends provided
instruction for the Africans. Their minds were active and receptive.
They soon learned to read, write, and do sums in arithmetic. They
cultivated a garden of some fifteen acres, and proved themselves an
intelligent and industrious people.
The final decision of the court was that the "Amistad captives" were
not slaves, but freemen, and, as such, were entitled to their liberty.
The good and liberal Lewis Tappan had taken a lively interest in these
people from the first, and now that they were released from prison,
felt that they should be sent back to their native shores and a
mission started amongst their countrymen. Accordingly he took charge
of them and appeared before the public in a number of cities of New
England. An admission fee of fifty cents was required at the door, and
the proceeds were devoted to leasing a vessel to take them home. Large
audiences greeted them everywhere, and the impression they made was of
the highest order. Mr. Tappan would state the desire of the people to
return to their native land, appeal to the philanthropic to aid them,
and then call upon the people to read the Scriptures, sing songs in
their own language, and then in the English. Cinquez would then
deliver an account of their capture, the horrors of the voyage, how he
succeeded in getting his manacles off, how he aided his brethren to
loose their fetters, how he invited them to follow him in an attempt
to gain their liberty, the attack, and their rescue, etc., etc. He was
a man of magnificent physique, commanding presence, graceful manners,
and effective oratory. His speeches were delivered in Mendi, and
translated into English by an interpreter.
"It is impossible," wrote Mr. Tappan from Boston, "to describe
the novel and deeply interesting manner in which he acquitted
himself. The subject of his speech was similar to that of his
countrymen who had spoken in English; but he related more
minutely and graphically the occurrences on board the "Amistad."
The easy manner of Cinquez, his natural, graceful, and energetic
action, the rapidity of his utterance, and the remarkable and
various expressions of his countenance, excited admiration and
applause. He was pronounced a powerful natural orator, and one
born to sway the minds of his fellow-men. Should he be converted
and become a preacher of the cross in Africa what delightful
results may be anticipated!"
A little fellow called Kali, only eleven years of age, pleased the
audience everywhere he went by his ability not only to spell any word
in the Gospels, but sentences, without blundering. For example, he
would spell out a sentence like the following sentence, naming each
letter and syllable, and recapitulating as he went along, until he
pronounced the whole sentence: "Blessed are the meek, for they shall
inherit the earth."
Of their doings in Philadelphia, Mr. Joseph Sturge wrote:
"On this occasion, a very crowded and miscellaneous assembly
collected to see and hear the Mendians, although the admission
had been fixed as high as half a dollar, with the view of raising
a fund to carry them to their native country. Fifteen of them
were present, including one little boy and three girls. Cinque,
their chief, spoke with great fluency in his native language; and
his action and manner were very animated and graceful. Not much
of his speech was translated, yet he greatly interested his
audience. The little boy could speak our language with facility;
and each of them read, without hesitation, one or two verses in
the New Testament. It was impossible for any one to go away with
the impression, that in native intellect these people were
inferior to the whites. The information which I privately
received from their tutor, and others who had full opportunities
of appreciating their capacities and attainments, fully confirmed
my own very favorable impressions."
But all the while their sad hearts were turning toward their home and
the dear ones so far away. One of them eloquently declared: "If Merica
men offer me as much gold as fill this cap full up, and give me
houses, land, and every ting, so dat I stay in this country, I say:
'No! no! I want to see my father, my mother, my brother, my sister.'"
Nothing could have been more tender and expressive. They were willing
to endure any hardships short of life that they might once more see
their own, their native land. The religious instruction they had
enjoyed made a wonderful impression on their minds. One of them said:
"We owe every thing to God; he keeps us alive, and makes us free. When
we go to home to Mendi we tell our brethren about God, Jesus Christ,
and heaven." Another one was asked: "What is faith?" and replied:
"Believing in Jesus Christ, and trusting in him." Reverting to the
murder of the captain and cook of the "Amistad," one of the Africans
said that if it were to be done over again he would pray for rather
than kill them. Cinquez, hearing this, smiled and shook his head. When
asked if he would not pray for them, said: "Yes, I would pray for 'em,
an' kill 'em too."
These captives were returned to their native country in the fall of
1841, accompanied by five missionaries. Their objective point was
Sierra Leone, from which place the British Government assisted them to
their homes. Their stay in the United States did the anti-slavery
cause great good. Here were poor, naked, savage pagans, unable to
speak English, in less than three years able to speak the English
language and appreciate the blessings of a Christian civilization.
FOOTNOTES:
[35] Sometimes written Cinque.
PART 6.
_THE PERIOD OF PREPARATION._
CHAPTER IX.
NORTHERN SYMPATHY AND SOUTHERN SUBTERFUGES.
1850-1860.
VIOLENT TREATMENT OF ANTI-SLAVERY ORATORS.--THE SOUTH
MISINTERPRETS THE MOBOCRATIC SPIRIT OF THE NORTH.--THE
"GARRISONIANS" AND "CALHOUNITES"--SLAVE POPULATION OF
1830-1850.--THE THIRTY-FIRST CONGRESS.--MOTION FOR THE ADMISSION
OF NEW MEXICO AND CALIFORNIA.--THE DEMOCRATIC AND WHIG PARTIES ON
THE TREATMENT OF THE SLAVE QUESTION.--CONVENTION OF THE
DEMOCRATIC PARTY AT BALTIMORE, MARYLAND.--NOMINATION OF FRANKLIN
PIERCE FOR PRESIDENT.--WHIG PARTY CONVENTION.--NOMINATION OF GEN.
WINFIELD SCOTT FOR THE PRESIDENCY BY THE WHIGS.--MR. PIERCE
ELECTED PRESIDENT IN 1853.--A BILL INTRODUCED TO REPEAL THE
"MISSOURI COMPROMISE."--SPEECH BY STEPHEN A. DOUGLASS.--MR.
CHASE'S REPLY.--AN ACT TO ORGANIZE THE TERRITORIES OF KANSAS AND
NEBRASKA.--STATE MILITIA IN THE SOUTH MAKE PREPARATIONS FOR
WAR.--PRESIDENT BUCHANAN IN SYMPATHY WITH THE SOUTH.
The arguments of anti-slavery orators were answered everywhere
throughout the free States by rotten eggs, clubs, and missiles. The
public journals, as a rule, were unfriendly and intolerant. Even
Boston could contemplate, with unruffled composure, a mob of her most
"reputable citizens" dragging Mr. Garrison through the streets with a
halter about his neck. Public meetings were broken up by pro-slavery
mobs; owners of public halls required a moneyed guarantee against the
destruction of their property, when such halls were used for
anti-slavery meetings. Colored schools were broken up, the teachers
driven away, and the pupils maltreated.
The mobocratic demonstrations in the Northern States were the
thermometer of public feeling upon the subject of slavery. The South
was, therefore, emboldened; for the political leaders in that section
thought they saw a light from the distance that encouraged them to
entertain the belief and indulge the hope that their present sectional
institution could be made national. Southerners thought slavery would
grow in the cold climate of the North, excited into a lively existence
by the warmth of a generous sympathy. But the South misinterpreted the
real motive that inspired opposition to anti-slavery agitation in the
North. The violent opposition came from the mercantile class and
foreign element who believed that the agitation of the slavery
question was a practical disturbance of their business affairs. The
next class, more moderate in opposition to agitation, believed slavery
constitutional, and, therefore, argued that anti-slavery orators were
traitors to the government. The third class, conservative, did not
take sides, because of the unpopularity of agitation on the one hand,
and because of an harassing conscience on the other.
There were two classes of men who were seeking the dissolution of the
Union. The Garrisonians sought this end in the hope of forming another
Union _without_ slavery.
In an address delivered by Wm. Lloyd Garrison, July 20, 1860, at the
Framingham celebration, he declares:
"Our object is the abolition of slavery _throughout the land_;
and whether in the prosecution of our object this party goes up
or the other party goes down, it is nothing to us. We cannot
alter our course one hair's breadth, nor accept a compromise of
our principles for the hearty adoption of our principles. I am
for _meddling with slavery everywhere_--_attacking it by night
and by day, in season and out of season_ (no, it can never be out
of season)--in order to _effect its overthrow_. (Loud applause.)
Higher yet will be my cry. Upward and onward! No union with
slave-holders! Down with this slave-holding government! Let this
'covenant with death and agreement with hell' be annulled! _Let
there be a free, independent, Northern republic_, and _the speedy
abolition of slavery_ will inevitably follow! (Loud applause.) So
I am laboring to dissolve this blood-stained Union as a work of
paramount importance. Our mission is to regenerate public
opinion."
The Calhounites sought the dissolution of the Union in order that
another Union might be formed _with_ slavery as its chief
corner-stone. Inspired by this hope and misguided by the apparent
sympathy of the North, Southern statesmen began _preparations to
dissolve the Union of the United States_.
During these years of agitation and discussion, although the foreign
slave-trade had been suppressed, the slave population increased at a
wonderful ratio.
CENSUS OF 1830.--SLAVE POPULATION.
District of Columbia 6,119
Delaware 3,292
Florida 15,501
Georgia 217,531
Illinois 747
Kentucky 165,213
Louisiana 109,588
Maryland 102,994
Alabama 117,549
Mississippi 65,659
Missouri 25,091
New Jersey 2,254
North Carolina 245,601
South Carolina 315,401
Tennessee 141,603
Virginia 469,757
Arkansas 4,576
---------
Aggregate 2,008,476
Now, this was the year the agitation movement began. Instead of the
slave population decreasing during the first decade of anti-slavery
discussion and work, it really increased 478,412![36]
CENSUS OF 1840.--SLAVE POPULATION.
Alabama 253,532
Arkansas 19,935
District of Columbia 4,694
Delaware 2,605
Florida 25,717
Georgia 280,944
Illinois 331
Kentucky 182,258
Louisiana 168,452
Maryland 89,737
Mississippi 195,211
Missouri 58,240
New Jersey 674
New York 4
CENSUS OF 1840.--SLAVE POPULATION.--(_Continued._)
Pennsylvania 64
North Carolina 245,817
South Carolina 327,038
Tennessee 183,059
Virginia 449,087
---------
Aggregate 2,487,399
During the next decade the slave population swept forward to an
increase of 716,858. The entire population of slaves was 3,204,313;
2,957,657 were unmixed Africans, and 246,656 were Mulattoes. The free
Colored population amounted to 434,495, of whom 275,400 were unmixed,
and 159,095 mixed or Mulatto. The total number of families owning
slaves in 1850 was 347,525.
CENSUS OF 1850.--SLAVE POPULATION.
Alabama 342,844
Arkansas 47,100
District of Columbia 3,687
Delaware 2,290
Florida 39,310
Georgia 381,682
Kentucky 210,981
Louisiana 244,809
Maryland 90,368
Mississippi 309,878
Missouri 87,422
New Jersey 236
North Carolina 288,548
South Carolina 384,984
Tennessee 239,459
Texas 58,161
Virginia 472,528
Utah Territory 26
---------
Total 3,204,313
The Thirty-first Congress was three weeks attempting an organization,
and at last effected it by the election of a Southerner to the
Speakership, the Hon. Howell Cobb, of Georgia. President Zachary
Taylor had called the attention of Congress to the admission of
California and New Mexico into the Union, in his message to that body
upon its assembling. On the 4th of January, 1850, Gen. Sam. Houston,
United States Senator from Texas, submitted the following proposition
to the Senate:
"WHEREAS, The Congress of the United States, possessing only a
delegated authority, has no power over the subject of negro
slavery within the limits of the United States, either to
prohibit or to interfere with it in the States, territories, or
districts, where, by municipal law, it now exists, or to
establish it in any State or territory where it does not exist;
but as an assurance and guarantee to promote harmony, quiet
apprehension, and remove sectional prejudice, which by
possibility might impair or weaken love and devotion to the Union
in any part of the country, it is hereby
"_Resolved_, That, as the people in territories have the same
inherent rights of self-government as the people in the States,
if, in the exercise of such inherent rights, the people in the
newly acquired territories, by the annexation of Texas and the
acquisition of California and New Mexico, south of the parallel
of thirty-six degrees and thirty minutes of north latitude,
extending to the Pacific Ocean, shall establish negro slavery in
the formation of their State governments, it shall be deemed no
objection to their admission as a State or States into the Union,
in accordance with the Constitution of the United States."
On the 29th of January, Henry Clay, of Kentucky, submitted to the
United States Senate the following propositions looking toward an
amicable adjustment of the entire slavery question:
"1. _Resolved_, That California, with suitable boundaries, ought,
upon her application, to be admitted as one of the States of this
Union, without the imposition by Congress of any restriction in
respect to the exclusion or introduction of slavery within those
boundaries.
"2. _Resolved_, That as slavery does not exist by law, and is not
likely to be introduced into any of the territory acquired by the
United States from the republic of Mexico, it is inexpedient for
Congress to provide by law either for its introduction into, or
exclusion from, any part of the said territory; and that
appropriate territorial governments ought to be established by
Congress in all the said territory not assigned as within the
boundaries of the proposed State of California, without the
adoption of any restriction or condition on the subject of
slavery.
"3. _Resolved_, That the western boundary of the State of Texas
ought to be fixed on the Rio del Norte, commencing one marine
league from its mouth, and running up that river to the southern
line of New Mexico, thence with that line eastwardly, and so
continuing in the same direction to the line as established
between the United States and Spain, excluding any portion of New
Mexico, whether lying on the east or west of that river.
"4. _Resolved_, That it be proposed to the State of Texas, that
the United States will provide for the payment of all that
portion of the legitimate and _bona-fide_ public debt of that
State contracted prior to its annexation to the United States,
and for which the duties on foreign imports were pledged by the
said State to its creditors, not exceeding the sum of----
dollars, in consideration of the said duties so pledged having
been no longer applicable to that object after the said
annexation, but having thenceforward become payable to the United
States; and upon the condition, also, that the said State of
Texas shall, by some solemn and authentic act of her Legislature,
or of a convention, relinquish to the United States any claim
which she has to any part of New Mexico.
"5. _Resolved_, That it is inexpedient to abolish slavery in the
District of Columbia whilst that institution continues to exist
in the State of Maryland, without the consent of that State,
without the consent of the people of the District, and without
just compensation to the owners of slaves within the District.
"6. _But Resolved_, That it is expedient to prohibit within the
District, the slave-trade in slaves brought into it from States
or places beyond the limits of the District, either to be sold
therein as merchandise, or to be transported to other markets
without the District of Columbia.
"7. _Resolved_, That more effectual provision ought to be made by
law, according to the requirement of the Constitution, for the
restitution and delivery of persons bound to service or labor in
any State, who may escape into any other State or territory in
the Union. And
"8. _Resolved_, That Congress has no power to prohibit or
obstruct the trade in slaves between the slave-holding States,
but that the admission or exclusion of slaves brought from one
into another of them, depends exclusively upon their own
particular laws."
Senator Bell, of Tennessee, offered a series of resolutions on the
same question on the 28th of February, containing nine resolves. As
usual, on all propositions respecting slavery, the debate was
protracted, earnest, and able. The Clay resolutions attracted most
attention. Jefferson Davis, of Mississippi, said:
"Sir, we are called upon to receive this as a measure of
compromise! As a measure in which we of the minority are to
receive nothing. A measure of compromise! I look upon it as but a
modest mode of taking that, the claim to which has been more
boldly asserted by others; and, that I may be understood upon
this question, and that my position may go forth to the country
in the same columns that convey the sentiments of the Senator
from Kentucky, I here assert, that never will I take less than
the Missouri compromise line extended to the Pacific Ocean, with
the specific recognition of the right to hold slaves in the
territory below that line; and that, before such territories are
admitted into the Union as States, slaves may be taken there from
any of the United States at the option of the owners. I can never
consent to give additional power to a majority to commit further
aggressions upon the minority in this Union, and will never
consent to any proposition which will have such a tendency,
without a full guaranty or counteracting measure is connected
with it."
A number of very able speeches were made on the resolutions of Mr.
Clay, but the most characteristic one--the one most thoroughly
representing the sentiment of the South--was made by John C. Calhoun.
He said:
"The Union was in danger. The cause of this danger was the
discontent at the South. And what was the cause of this
discontent? It was found in the belief which prevailed among them
that they could not, consistently with honor and safety, remain
in the Union. And what had caused this belief? One of the causes
was the long-continued agitation of the slave question at the
North, and the many aggressions they had made on the rights of
the South. But the primary cause was in the fact, that the
equilibrium between the two sections at the time of the adoption
of the Constitution had been destroyed. The first of the series
of acts by which this had been done, was the ordinance of 1787,
by which the South had been excluded from all the northwestern
region. The next was the Missouri compromise, excluding them from
all the Louisiana territory north of thirty-six degrees thirty
minutes, except the State of Missouri,--in all 1,238,025 square
miles, leaving to the South the southern portion of the original
Louisiana territory, with Florida, to which had since been added
the territory acquired with Texas,--making in all but 609,023
miles. And now the North was endeavoring to appropriate to
herself the territory recently acquired from Mexico, adding
526,078 miles to the territory from which the South was, if
possible, to be excluded. Another cause of the destruction of
this equilibrium was our system of revenue (the tariff), the
duties falling mainly upon the Southern portion of the Union, as
being the greatest exporting States, while more than a due
proportion of the revenue had been disbursed at the North.
"But while these measures were destroying the equilibrium between
the two sections, the action of the government was leading to a
radical change in its character. It was maintained that the
government itself had the right to decide, in the last resort,
as to the extent of its powers, and to resort to force to
maintain the power it claimed. The doctrines of General Jackson's
proclamation, subsequently asserted and maintained by Mr.
Madison, the leading framer and expounder of the Constitution,
were the doctrines which, if carried out, would change the
character of the government from a federal republic, as it came
from the hands of its framers, into a great national consolidated
democracy."
Mr. Calhoun also spoke of the anti-slavery agitation, which, if not
arrested, would destroy the Union; and he passed a censure upon
Congress for receiving abolition petitions. Had Congress in the
beginning adopted the course which he had advocated, which was to
refuse to take jurisdiction, by the united voice of all parties, the
agitation would have been prevented. He charged the North with false
professions of devotion to the Union, and with having violated the
Constitution. Acts had been passed in Northern States to set aside and
annul the clause of the slavery question, with the avowed purpose of
abolishing slavery in the States, which was another violation of the
Constitution. And during the fifteen years of this agitation, in not a
single instance had the people of the North denounced these agitators.
How then could their professions of devotion to the Union be sincere?
Mr. Calhoun disapproved both the plan of Mr. Clay and that of
President Taylor, as incapable of saving the Union. He would pass by
the former without remark, as Mr. Clay had been replied to by several
Senators. The Executive plan could not save the Union, because it
could not satisfy the South that it could safely or honorably remain
in the Union. It was a modification of the Wilmot proviso, proposing
to effect the same object, the exclusion of the South from the new
territory. The Executive proviso was more objectionable than the
Wilmot. Both inflicted a dangerous wound upon the Constitution, by
depriving the Southern States of equal rights as joint partners in
these territories; but the former inflicted others equally great. It
claimed for the inhabitants the right to legislate for the
territories, which belonged to Congress. The assumption of this right
was utterly unfounded, unconstitutional, and without example. Under
this assumed right, the people of California had formed a constitution
and a State government, and appointed Senators and Representatives. If
the people as adventurers had conquered the territory and established
their independence, the sovereignty of the country would have been
vested in them. In that case they would have had the right to form a
State government, and afterward they might have applied to Congress
for admission into the Union. But the United States had conquered and
acquired California; therefore, to them belonged the sovereignty and
the powers of government over the territory. Michigan was the first
case of departure from the uniform rule of acting. Hers, however, was
a slight departure from established usage. The ordinance of 1787
secured to her the right of becoming a State when she should have
60,000 inhabitants. Congress delayed taking the census. The people
became impatient; and after her population had increased to twice that
number, they formed a constitution without waiting for the taking of
the census; and Congress waived the omission, as there was no doubt of
the requisite number of inhabitants. In other cases there had existed
territorial governments.
Having shown how the Union could not be saved, he then proceeded to
answer the question how it could be saved. There was but one way
certain. Justice must be done to the South, by a full and final
settlement of all the questions at issue. The North must concede to
the South an equal right to the acquired territory, and fulfil the
stipulations respecting fugitive slaves; must cease to agitate the
slave question, and join in an amendment of the Constitution,
restoring to the South the power she possessed of protecting herself,
before the equilibrium between the two sections had been destroyed by
the action of the government.
Here was a clear statement of the position and feelings of the South
respecting slavery. The ordinance of 1787 and the Missouri compromise
of 1820 "were destroying the equilibrium between the _two sections_!"
And the anti-slavery agitation, "if not arrested, would destroy the
Union!" The sophistry of Calhoun sought a reasonable excuse for the
South to dissolve the Union. In a speech of his, written during a
spell of sickness, and read by Mr. Mason, of Virginia, he referred to
Washington as "the illustrious Southerner." When it was read in the
Senate Mr. Cass said:
"Our Washington--the Washington of our whole country--receives in
this Senate the epithet of 'Southerner,' as if that great man,
whose distinguished characteristic was his attachment to his
country, and his whole country, who was so well known, and who,
more than any one, deprecated all sectional feeling and all
sectional action, loved Georgia better than he loved New
Hampshire, because he happened to be born on the southern bank of
the Potomac. I repeat, sir, that I heard with great pain that
expression from the distinguished Senator from South Carolina."
There was certainly no ground for reasonable complaint on the part of
the South. From the convention that framed the Federal Constitution,
through all Congressional struggle, and in national politics as well,
the South had secured nearly all measures asked for. And the
discussion in Congress at this time was intended to divert attention
from the real object of the South. Another fugitive-slave law was
demanded by the South, and the Northern members voted them the right
to hunt slaves upon free soil. The law passed, and was approved on the
18th of September, 1850.
It was difficult to choose between the Democratic and Whig parties by
reading the planks in their platforms referring to the subject of
slavery. On the 1st of June, 1852, the Democratic Convention, at
Baltimore, Maryland, nominated Franklin Pierce, of New Hampshire, for
the Presidency, on the forty-ninth ballot. This plank defined the
position of that party on the question of slavery.
"That Congress has no power under the Constitution to interfere
with or control the domestic institutions of the several States,
and that such States are the sole and proper judges of every
thing appertaining to their own affairs, not prohibited by the
Constitution; that all efforts of the abolitionists, or others,
made to induce Congress to interfere with questions of slavery,
or to take incipient steps in relation thereto, are calculated to
lead to the most alarming and dangerous consequences; and that
all such efforts have an inevitable tendency to diminish the
happiness of the people, and endanger the stability and
permanency of the Union, and ought not to be countenanced by any
friend of our political institutions.
"That the foregoing proposition covers, and was intended to
embrace, the whole subject of slavery agitation in Congress; and
therefore the Democratic party of the Union, standing on this
national platform, will abide by and adhere to a faithful
execution of the acts known as the compromise measures settled by
the last Congress--the act for reclaiming fugitives from service
or labor included; which act being designed to carry out an
express provision of the Constitution, can not with fidelity
thereto be repealed, nor so changed as to destroy or impair its
efficiency.
"That the Democratic party will resist all attempts at renewing,
in Congress or out of it, the agitation of the slavery question,
under whatever shape or color the attempt may be made."
The Whig party, at the same city, in convention assembled, on the 16th
of June, 1852, nominated Gen. Winfield Scott, for the Presidency, on
the fifty-third ballot. The Whig party declared its position on the
slavery question as follows:
"That the series of acts of the Thirty-first Congress--the act
known as the fugitive-slave law included--are received and
acquiesced in by the Whig party of the United States, as a
settlement in principle and substance of the dangerous and
exciting question which they embrace; and so far as they are
concerned, we will maintain them and insist on their strict
enforcement, until time and experience shall demonstrate the
necessity of further legislation, to guard against the evasion of
the laws on the one hand, and the abuse of their powers on the
other, not impairing their present efficiency; and we deprecate
all agitation of the question thus settled, as dangerous to our
peace; and will discountenance all efforts to continue or renew
such agitation whenever, wherever, or however the attempt may be
made; and we will maintain this system as essential to the
nationality of the Whig party of the Union."
The political contest ended in the autumn in favor of Mr. Pierce. The
public journals in many parts of the country thought the end of the
"slavery question" had come, and that as the Whigs were determined to
"discountenance all efforts to continue or renew" the agitation of the
subject, there was no fear of sectional strife.
In his inaugural address, March 4, 1853, President Pierce said:
"I believe that involuntary servitude is recognized by the
Constitution. I believe that the States where it exists are
entitled to efficient remedies to enforce the constitutional
provisions. I hold that the compromise measures of 1850 are
strictly constitutional, and to be unhesitatingly carried into
effect. And now, I fervently hope that the question is at rest,"
etc.
In the month of December, upon the assembling of Congress, the
President, in his message to that body, again referred to slavery as
"a subject which had been set at rest by the deliberate judgment of
the people." But on the 15th of December, nine days after the message
of the President had been received by Congress, Mr. Dodge, of Iowa,
submitted to the Senate a bill to organize the territory of Nebraska,
which was referred to the Committee on Territories. After some
discussion in the committee, it was finally reported back to the
Senate by Mr. Douglass, of Illinois, with amendments. The report was
elaborate, and raised considerable doubt as to whether the amendments
did not repeal the Missouri compromise. A special report was made on
the 4th of January, 1854, so amending the bill as to remove all doubt;
and, contemplating the opening of all the vast territory secured
forever to freedom, startled the nation from the "repose" it had
apparently taken from agitation on the slavery question, and opened an
interminable controversy.
On the 16th of January, Mr. Dixon, of Kentucky, gave notice that he
would introduce a bill clearly repealing the Missouri compromise. The
first champion of the repeal of the compromise of 1820 was a Northern
Senator, Stephen A. Douglass, of Illinois. He hung a massive
argument--excelling rather in quantity than in quality--upon the
following propositions:
"From these provisions, it is apparent that the compromise
measures of 1850 affirm, and rest upon, the following
propositions:
"_First._--That all questions pertaining to slavery in the
territories, and the new States to be formed therefrom, are to be
left to the decision of the people residing therein, by their
appropriate representatives, to be chosen by them for that
purpose.
"_Second._--That 'all cases involving title to slaves,' and
'questions of personal freedom,' are to be referred to the
adjudication of the local tribunals, with the right of appeal to
the Supreme Court of the United States.
"_Third._--That the provision of the Constitution of the United
States in respect to fugitives from service, is to be carried
into faithful execution in all 'the original territories,' the
same as in the States.
"The substitute for the bill which your committee have prepared,
and which is commended to the favorable action of the Senate,
proposes to carry these propositions and principles into
practical operation, in the precise language of the compromise
measures of 1850."
Mr. Douglass said:
"The legal effect of this bill, if passed, was neither to
legislate slavery into nor out of these territories, but to leave
the people to do as they pleased. And why should any man, North
or South, object to this principle? It was by the operation of
this principle, and not by any dictation from the Federal
government, that slavery had been abolished in half of the twelve
States in which it existed at the time of the adoption of the
Constitution."
On the 3d of February, Mr. Chase, of Ohio, moved to amend by striking
out the words, "was superseded by the principles of the legislation of
1850, commonly called the compromise measures, and," so that the
clause would read: "That the Constitution, and all laws of the United
States which are not locally inapplicable, shall have the same force
and effect within the said territory of Nebraska as elsewhere within
the United States, except the eighth section of the act preparatory to
the admission of Missouri into the Union, approved March 6, 1820,
which is hereby declared inoperative."
Mr. Chase then proceeded to reply to Mr. Douglass. He called attention
to that part of the President's message which referred to the "repose"
of the subject of slavery, and then said:
"The agreement of the two old political parties, thus referred to
by the Chief Magistrate of the country, was complete, and a large
majority of the American people seemed to acquiesce in the
legislation of which he spoke. A few of us, indeed, doubted the
accuracy of these statements, and the permanency of this repose.
We never believed that the acts of 1850 would prove to be a
permanent adjustment of the slavery question. But, sir, we only
represented a small, though vigorous and growing party in the
country. Our number was small in Congress. By some we were
regarded as visionaries, by some as factionists; while almost all
agreed in pronouncing us mistaken. And so, sir, the country was
at peace. As the eye swept the entire circumference of the
horizon and upward to mid-heaven, not a cloud appeared; to common
observation there was no mist or stain upon the clearness of the
sky. But suddenly all is changed; rattling thunder breaks from
the cloudless firmament. The storm bursts forth in fury. And now
we find ourselves in the midst of an agitation, the end and issue
of which no man can foresee.
"Now, sir, who is responsible for this renewal of strife and
controversy? Not we, for we have introduced no question of
territorial slavery into Congress; not we, who are denounced as
agitators and factionists. No, sir; the quietists and the
finalists have become agitators; they who told us that all
agitation was quieted, and that the resolutions of the political
conventions put a final period to the discussion of slavery. This
will not escape the observation of the country. It is _slavery_
that renews the strife. It is slavery that again wants room. It
is slavery with its insatiate demand for more slave territory and
more slave States. And what does slavery ask for now? Why, sir,
it demands that a time-honored and sacred compact shall be
rescinded--a compact which has endured through a whole
generation--a compact which has been universally regarded as
inviolable, North and South--a compact, the constitutionality of
which few have doubted, and by which all have consented to
abide."
But notwithstanding the able and eloquent speech of Mr. Chase, his
amendment only received thirteen votes. The debate went on until the
3d of March, when the bill was placed upon its passage, and even then
the discussion went on. When the vote was finally taken, the bill
passed by a vote of 37 yeas to 14 nays. The bill went to the House,
where it was made a substitute to a bill already introduced, and
passed by a vote of 113 yeas to 100 nays as follows:
"Representatives from free States in favor of the bill, 44.
"Representatives from slave States in favor of the bill, 69.
----
113.
"Representatives from free States against the bill, 91.
"Representatives from slave States against the bill, 9.
----
100."
And thus, approved by the President, the measure became a law under
the title of "_An Act to Organize the Territories of Kansas and
Nebraska_."
Congress had violated the sublimest principles of law, had broken
faith with the people; had opened a wide door to slavery; had blotted
from the map of the United States the last asylum where the oppressed
might seek protection; had put the country in a way to be reddened
with a fratricidal war, and made our flag a flaunting lie in the eyes
of the civilized world. There was nothing to be done now but to let
the leaven of sectional malice work, that had been hurled into the
slavery discussions in Congress. The bloodless war of words was now
transferred to the territory of Kansas, where a conflict of political
parties, election frauds, and assassination did their hateful work.
The South began to put her State militia upon a war footing, and to
make every preparation for battle. The Administration of President
Buchanan was in the interest of the South from beginning to end. He
refused to give Gov. John W. Geary, of Kansas, the military support
the "_border ruffians_" made necessary; allowed the public debt to
increase, our precious coin to go abroad, our treasury to become
depleted, our navy to go to the distant ports of China and Japan, our
army to our extremest frontiers, the music of our industries to cease;
and the faith of a loyal people in the perpetuity of the republic was
allowed to faint amid the din of mobs and the threats of secession.
FOOTNOTES:
[36] There were nearly 500 slaves held in Northern States not placed
in this census.
CHAPTER X.
THE "BLACK LAWS" OF "BORDER STATES."
STRINGENT LAWS ENACTED AGAINST FREE NEGROES AND
MULATTOES.--FUGITIVE-SLAVE LAW RESPECTED IN OHIO.--A LAW TO
PREVENT KIDNAPPING.--THE FIRST CONSTITUTION OF OHIO.--HISTORY OF
THE DRED SCOTT CASE.--JUDGE TANEY'S OPINION IN THIS CASE.--OHIO
CONSTITUTION OF 1851 DENIED FREE NEGROES THE RIGHT TO VOTE.--THE
ESTABLISHMENT OF COLORED SCHOOLS.--LAW IN INDIANA TERRITORY IN
REFERENCE TO EXECUTIONS.--AN ACT FOR THE INTRODUCTION OF NEGROES
AND MULATTOES INTO THE TERRITORY.--FIRST CONSTITUTION OF
INDIANA.--THE ILLINOIS CONSTITUTION OF 1818.--CRIMINAL CODE
ENACTED.--ILLINOIS LEGISLATURE PASSES AN ACT TO PREVENT THE
EMIGRATION OF FREE NEGROES INTO THE STATE.--FREE NEGROES OF THE
NORTHERN STATES ENDURE RESTRICTION AND PROSCRIPTION.
Although slavery was excluded from all the new States northwest of the
Ohio River, the free Negro was but little better off in Ohio, Indiana,
and Illinois than in any of the Southern States. From the earliest
moment of the organic existence of the border free States, severe laws
were enacted against free Negroes and Mulattoes. At the second session
of the first Legislature of the State of Ohio, "_An Act to Regulate
Black and Mulatto Persons_"[37] was passed.
Sec. 1. That no black or mulatto person shall be permitted to
settle or reside in this State "without a certificate of his or
her actual freedom."
2. Resident blacks and mulattoes to have their names recorded,
etc. (Amended in 1834, Jan. 5 1, Curwen, 126.) _Proviso_, "That
nothing in this act contained shall bar the lawful claim to any
black or mulatto person."
3. Residents prohibited from hiring black or mulatto persons not
having a certificate.
4. Forbids, under penalty, to "harbor or secrete any black or
mulatto person the property of any person whatever," or to
"hinder or prevent the lawful owner or owners from re-taking,"
etc.
5. Black or mulatto persons coming to reside in the State with a
legal certificate, to record the same.
6. "That in case any person or persons, his or their agent or
agents, claiming any black or mulatto person or persons that now
are or hereafter may be in this State, may apply, upon making
satisfactory proof that such black or mulatto person or persons
are the property of him or her who applies, to any associate
judge or justice of the peace within the State, the associate
judge or justice is hereby empowered and required, by his
precept, to direct the sheriff or constable to arrest such black
or mulatto person or persons, and deliver the same, in the county
or township where such officers shall reside, to the claimant or
claimants, or his or their agent or agents, for which service the
sheriff or constable shall receive such compensation as he is
entitled to receive in other cases for similar services."
7. "That any person or persons who shall attempt to remove or
shall remove from this State, or who shall aid and assist in
removing, contrary to the provisions of this act, any black or
mulatto person or persons, without first proving, as herein
before directed, that he, she, or they is or are legally entitled
so to do, shall, on conviction thereof before any court having
cognizance of the same, forfeit and pay the sum of one thousand
dollars, one half to the use of the informer and the other half
to the use of the State, to be recovered by the action of debt
_quitam_ or indictment, and shall moreover be liable to the
action of the party injured."
So here upon free soil, under a State government that did not
recognize slavery in its constitution, the Negro was compelled to
produce a certificate of freedom. Thus the fugitive-slave law was
recognized, but at the same time an unlawful removal of free Negroes
from the State was forbidden.
At the session of 1806-7, "_An Act to Amend the Act Entitled 'an Act
Regulating Black and Mulatto Persons_,'" was passed amending the old
law. The first act simply required "a certificate of freedom"; the
amended law required Negroes and Mulattoes intending to settle in Ohio
to give a bond not to become a charge upon the county in which they
settled. Section four reads as follows:
"4. That no black or mulatto person or persons shall hereafter be
permitted to be sworn or give evidence in any court of record or
elsewhere in this State, in any cause depending or matter of
controversy where either party to the sale is a white person, or
in any prosecution which shall be instituted in behalf of this
State, against any white person."[38]
But this law did not apply to persons a shade nearer white than
Mulatto [the seven-eighths law].[39] Their testimony was admissible,
while that of Negroes and Mulattoes was not admitted against them. In
Jordan _vs._ Smith [1846], 14, Ohio, p. 199: "A black person sued by a
white, may make affidavit to a plea so as to put the plaintiff to
proof."
Attention has been called to the fact that the fugitive-slave law was
respected in Ohio. In 1818-19, a law was passed to prevent the
unlawful kidnapping of free Negroes, which, in its preamble, recites
the provisions of the law of Congress, passed February 12, 1793,
respecting fugitives from service and labor.[40] And in 1839 the
Legislature passed another act relating to "fugitives from labor,"
etc., paving the way by the following recital:
"WHEREAS, The second section of the fourth article of the
Constitution of the United States declares that 'no person'
[etc., reciting it]; and whereas the laws now in force within the
State of Ohio are wholly inadequate to the protection pledged by
this provision of the Constitution to the Southern States of this
Union; and whereas it is the duty of those who reap the largest
measure of benefits conferred by the Constitution to recognize to
their full extent the obligations which that instrument imposes;
and whereas it is the deliberate conviction of this General
Assembly that the Constitution can only be sustained as it was
framed by a spirit of just compromise; therefore."
Sec. 1. Authorizes judges of courts of record, "or any justice of
the peace, or the mayor of any city or town corporate," on
application, etc., of claimant, to bring the fugitive before a
judge within the county where the warrant was issued, or before
some State judge with certain cautions as to proving the official
character of the officer issuing the warrant; gives the form of
warrant, directing the fugitive to be brought before, etc., "to
be be dealt with as the law directs."[41]
J. Peck, Esq. [9, Ohio, p. 212], refers to the laws of 1818-19, and
1830-31, as a recognition by the State of Ohio of the power of
Congress to pass the act of 1793, though that the act was not
specially mentioned.
The first constitution of Ohio [1802] restricted the right of suffrage
to "all white male inhabitants." "In all elections, all white male
inhabitants above the age of twenty-one years, having resided in the
State one year next preceding the election, and who have paid or are
charged with a State or county tax, shall enjoy the right of an
elector," etc.[42] This was repeated in the Bill of Rights adopted in
1851.[43]
Article iv., Section 2, of the Constitution of the United States says:
"The citizens of each State shall be entitled to all privileges and
immunities of citizens in the several States." The question as to
whether free Negroes were included in the above was discussed at great
length in the Dred Scott case, where Chief-Justice Taney took the
ground that a Negro was not a citizen under the fourth article of the
Constitution. But the fourth article of the Articles of Confederation
[1778] recognized free Negroes as citizens. It is given here:
"ART. 4.--The better to secure and perpetuate mutual friendship
and intercourse among the people of the different States in this
Union, the free inhabitants of each of these States--paupers,
vagabonds, and fugitives from justice excepted--shall be entitled
to all privileges and immunities of free citizens in the several
States; and the people of each State shall have free ingress and
regress to and from any other State, and shall enjoy therein all
the privileges of trade and commerce, subject to the same duties,
impositions, and restrictions as the inhabitants thereof,
respectively; provided that such restrictions shall not extend so
far as to prevent the removal of property imported into any
State, from any other State, of which the owner is an inhabitant;
provided, also, that no imposition, duty, or restriction shall be
laid by any State on the property of the United States, or either
of them."[44]
By this it is evident that "paupers, vagabonds, and fugitives from
justice" were the only persons excluded from the right of citizenship.
The following is the history of the Dred Scott case:
"In the year 1834, the plaintiff was a negro slave belonging to
Dr. Emerson, who was a surgeon in the army of the United States.
In that year, 1834, said Dr. Emerson took the plaintiff from the
State of Missouri to the military post at Rock Island, in the
State of Illinois, and held him there as a slave until the month
of April or May, 1836. At the time last mentioned, said Dr.
Emerson removed the plaintiff from said military post at Rock
Island to the military post at Fort Snelling, situate on the west
bank of the Mississippi River, in the territory known as Upper
Louisiana, acquired by the United States of France, and situate
north of the latitude of thirty-six degrees thirty minutes north,
and north of the State of Missouri. Said Dr. Emerson held the
plaintiff in slavery at said Fort Snelling, from said
last-mentioned date until the year 1838.
"In the year 1835, Harriet, who is named in the second count of
the plaintiff's declaration, was the negro slave of Major
Taliaferro, who belonged to the army of the United States. In
that year, 1835, said Major Taliaferro took said Harriet to said
Fort Snelling, a military post, situated as herein before stated,
and kept her there as a slave until the year 1836, and then sold
and delivered her as a slave at said Fort Snelling unto the said
Dr. Emerson herein before named. Said Dr. Emerson held said
Harriet in slavery at said Fort Snelling until the year 1838.
"In the year 1836, the plaintiff and said Harriet at said Fort
Snelling, with the consent of said Dr. Emerson, who then claimed
to be their master and owner, intermarried, and took each other
for husband and wife. Eliza and Lizzie, named in the third count
of the plaintiff's declaration, are the fruit of that marriage.
Eliza is about fourteen years old, and was born on board the
steamboat 'Gipsey,' north of the north line of the State of
Missouri, and upon the river Mississippi. Lizzie is about seven
years old, and was born in the State of Missouri, at the military
post called Jefferson Barracks.
"In the year 1838, said Dr. Emerson removed the plaintiff and
said Harriet and their said daughter Eliza from said Fort
Snelling to the State of Missouri, where they have ever since
resided.
"Before the commencement of this suit, said Dr. Emerson sold and
conveyed the plaintiff, said Harriet, Eliza, and Lizzie to the
defendant, as slaves, and the defendant has ever since claimed to
hold them and each of them as slaves.
"At the time mentioned in the plaintiff's declaration, the
defendant, claiming to be owner as aforesaid, laid his hands upon
said plaintiff, Harriet, Eliza, and Lizzie, and imprisoned them,
doing in this respect, however, no more than what he might
lawfully do if they were of right his slaves at such times.
* * * * *
"It is agreed that Dred Scott brought suit for his freedom in the
Circuit Court of St. Louis County; that there was a verdict and
judgment in his favor; that on a writ of error to the Supreme
Court the judgment below was reversed, and the same remanded to
the Circuit Court, where it has been continued to await the
decision of this case.
"In May, 1854, the cause went before a jury, who found the
following verdict, viz.: 'As to the first issue joined in this
case, we of the jury find the defendant not guilty; and as to the
issue secondly above joined, we of the jury find that before and
at the time when, etc., in the first count mentioned, the said
Dred Scott was a negro slave, the lawful property of the
defendant; and as to the issue thirdly above joined, we, the
jury, find that before and at the time when, etc., in the second
and third counts mentioned, the said Harriet, wife of said Dred
Scott, and Eliza and Lizzie, the daughters of the said Dred
Scott, were negro slaves, the lawful property of the defendant.'
"Whereupon, the court gave judgment for the defendant.
"After an ineffectual motion for a new trial, the plaintiff filed
the following bill of exceptions.
"On the trial of this cause by the jury, the plaintiff, to
maintain the issues on his part, read to the jury the following
agreed statement of facts (see agreement above). No further
testimony was given to the jury by either party. Thereupon the
plaintiff moved the court to give to the jury the following
instructions, viz.:
"'That, upon the facts agreed to by the parties, they ought to
find for the plaintiff.' The court refused to give such
instruction to the jury, and the plaintiff, to such refusal, then
and there duly excepted.
The court then gave the following instruction to the jury, on
motion of the defendant:
"'The jury are instructed, that upon the facts in this case, the
law is with the defendant.' The plaintiff excepted to this
instruction.
"Upon these exceptions, the case came up to the Supreme Court,
December term, 1856."[45]
Judge Taney gave the following opinion:
"The question is simply this: Can a negro, whose ancestors were
imported into this country and sold as slaves, become a member of
the political community formed and brought into existence by the
Constitution of the United States, and as such become entitled to
all the rights and privileges and immunities guaranteed by that
instrument to the citizen? One of which rights is the privilege
of suing in a court of the United States in the cases specified
in the Constitution.
"It will be observed that the plea applies to that class of
persons only whose ancestors were negroes of the African race,
and imported into this country, and sold and held as slaves. The
only matter in issue before the court, therefore, is, whether the
descendants of such slaves, when they shall be emancipated, or
who are born of parents who had become free before their birth,
are citizens of a State, in the sense in which the word citizen
is used in the Constitution of the United States. And this being
the only matter in dispute on the pleadings, the court must be
understood as speaking in this opinion of that class only, that
is, of those persons who are the descendants of Africans who were
imported into this country and sold as slaves.
* * * * *
"We proceed to examine the case as presented by the pleadings.
"The words 'people of the United States' and 'citizens' are
synonymous terms, and mean the same thing. They both describe the
political body who, according to our republican institutions,
form the sovereignty, and who hold the power and conduct the
government through their representatives. They are what we
familiarly call the 'sovereign people, and every citizen is one
of this people, and a constituent member of this sovereignty. The
question before us is, whether the class of persons described in
the plea in abatement compose a portion of this people, and are
constituent members of this sovereignty. We think they are not,
and that they are not included, and were not intended to be
included, under the word 'citizen' in the Constitution, and can
therefore claim none of the rights and privileges which that
instrument provides for and secures to citizens of the United
States. On the contrary, they were at that time considered as a
subordinate [405] and inferior class of beings, who had been
subjugated by the dominant race, and, whether emancipated or not,
yet remained subject to their authority, and had no rights or
privileges but such as those who held the power and the
government might choose to grant them.
"It is not the province of the court to decide upon the justice
or injustice, the policy or impolicy, of these laws....
"In discussing this question, we must not confound the rights of
citizenship which a State may confer within its own limits, and
the rights of citizenship as a member of the Union. It does not
by any means follow, because he has all the rights and privileges
of a citizen of a State, that he must be a citizen of the United
States. He may have all of the rights and privileges of the
citizen of a State, and yet not be entitled to the rights and
privileges of a citizen of any other State. For, previous to the
adoption of the Constitution of the United States, every State
had the undoubted right to confer on whomsoever it pleased the
character of citizen, and to endow him with all its rights. But
this character of course was confined to the boundaries of the
State, and gave him no rights or privileges in other States
beyond those secured to him by the laws of nations and the comity
of States. Nor have the several States surrendered the power of
conferring these rights and privileges by adopting the
Constitution of the United States. Each State may still confer
them upon an alien, or any one it thinks proper, or upon any
class or description of persons; yet he would not be a citizen in
the sense in which that word is used in the Constitution of the
United States, nor entitled to sue as such in one of its courts,
nor to the privileges and immunities of a citizen in the other
States. The rights which he would acquire would be restricted to
the State which gave them. The Constitution has conferred on
Congress the right to establish an uniform rule of
naturalization, and this right is evidently exclusive, and has
always been held by this court to be so. Consequently no State,
since the adoption of the Constitution, can, by naturalizing an
alien, invest him with the rights and privileges secured to a
citizen of a State under the Federal Government, although, so far
as the State alone was concerned, he would undoubtedly be
entitled to the rights of a citizen, and clothed with all the
[406] rights and immunities which the Constitution and laws of
the State attached to that character.
"It is very clear, therefore, that no State can, by any act or
law of its own, passed since the adoption of the Constitution,
introduce a new member into the political community created by
the Constitution of the United States. It cannot make him a
member of this community by making him a member of its own. And,
for the same reason, it cannot introduce any person or
description of persons who were not intended to be embraced in
this new political family, which the Constitution brought into
existence, but were intended to be excluded from it.
"The question then arises, whether the provisions of the
Constitution, in relation to the personal rights and privileges
to which the citizen of a State should be entitled, embraced the
negro African race, at that time in this country, or who might
afterwards be imported, who had then or should afterwards be made
free in any State; and to put it in the power of a single State
to make him a citizen of the United States, and indue him with
the full rights of citizenship in every other State without their
consent. Does the Constitution of the United States act upon him
whenever he shall be made free under the laws of a State, and
raised there to the rank of a citizen, and immediately clothe him
with all the privileges of a citizen in every other State and in
its own courts?
"The court think the affirmative of these propositions cannot be
maintained. And if it cannot, the plaintiff in error could not be
a citizen of the State of Missouri, within the meaning of the
Constitution of the United States, and, consequently, was not
entitled to sue in its courts."[46]
This decision of the Supreme Court on the plea in abatement that the
plaintiff (a Negro, Dred Scott) was not a citizen in the sense of the
word in Article iii, Sec. 2 of the Constitution, was based upon an
erroneous idea respecting the location of the word _citizen_ in the
instrument. The premise of the court was wrong, and hence the
feebleness of the reasoning and the false conclusions. Article iii,
Section 2 of the Constitution, extends judicial power to all cases, in
law and equity, "between citizens of different States, between
citizens of the same State," etc. But Article iv, Section 2, declares
that "citizens of each State shall be entitled to all privileges and
immunities of citizens in the several States." The plea in abatement
was brought under Article iii, but all the judges, except Justice
McLean, built their decision upon the word _citizen_ as it stood in
Article iv.
By the constitution of Ohio, adopted in 1851, free Negroes were not
only denied the right to vote, but were excluded from the militia
service. This law was not repealed until 1878.
Neither the constitution of 1802, nor that of 1851, discriminated
against free Negroes in matters of education; but separate schools
have been maintained in Ohio from the beginning down to the present
time, by special acts of the Legislature.
In the territory of Indiana there were quite a number of Negroes from
the beginning of the century. Some were slaves. In 1806, the first
Legislature, at its second session, passed a law in reference to
_executions_, as follows:
"Sec. 7. And whereas doubts have arisen whether the time of
service of negroes and mulattoes, bound to service in this
territory, may be sold on execution against the master, _Be it
therefore enacted_ that the time of service of such negroes or
mulattoes may be sold on execution against the master, in the
same manner as personal estate, immediately from which sale the
said negroes or mulattoes shall serve the purchaser or purchasers
for the residue of their time of service; and the said purchasers
and negroes and mulattoes shall have the same remedies against
each other as by the laws of the territory are mutually given
them in the several cases therein mentioned, and the purchasers
shall be obliged to fulfil to the said servants the contracts
they made with the masters, as expressed in the indenture or
agreement of servitude, and shall, for want of such contract, be
obliged to give him or them their freedom due at the end of the
time of service, as expressed in the second section of the law of
the territory, entitled 'Law concerning servants,' adopted the
twenty-second day of September, eighteen hundred and three. This
act shall commence and be in force from and after the first day
of February next."[47]
This was bold legislation; but it was not all. Negroes were required
to carry passes, as in the slave States. And on the 17th of September,
1807, "_An Act for the Introduction of Negroes and Mulattoes into_"
the territory was passed.
"Sec. 1. That it shall and may be lawful for any person being the
owner or possessor of any negroes or mulattoes of and above the
age of fifteen years, and owning service and labor as slaves in
any of the States or territories of the United States, or for any
citizens of the said States or territories purchasing the same to
bring the said negroes and mulattoes into this territory.
"Sec. 2. The owners or possessors of any negroes or mulattoes as
aforesaid, and bringing the same into this territory, shall,
within thirty days after such removal, go with the same before
the clerk of Court of Common Pleas of proper county, and in
presence of said clerk the said owner or possessor shall
determine and agree to, and with his or her negro or mulatto,
upon the term of years which the said negro or mulatto will and
shall serve his or her said owner or possessor, and the clerk
shall make a record.
"Sec. 3. If any negro or mulatto removed into this territory as
aforesaid shall refuse to serve his or her owner as aforesaid, it
shall and may be lawful for such person, within sixty days
thereafter, to remove the said negro or mulatto to any place [to]
which by the laws of the United States or territory from whence
such owner or possessor may [have come] or shall be authorized to
remove the same. (As quoted in Phoebe v. Jay, Breese, Ill. R.,
208.)
"Sec. 4. An owner failing to act as required in the preceding
sections should forfeit all claim and right to the service of
such negro or mulatto.
"Sec. 5. Declares that any person removing into this territory
and being the owner or possessor of any negro or mulatto as
aforesaid, under the age of fifteen years, or if any person shall
hereafter acquire a property in any negro or mulatto under the
age aforesaid, and who shall bring them into this territory, it
shall and may be lawful for such person, owner, or possessor to
hold the said negro to service or labor--the males until they
arrive at the age of thirty-five, and females until they arrive
at the age of thirty-two years.
"Sec. 6. Provides that any person removing any negro or mulatto
into this territory under the authority of the preceding
sections, it shall be incumbent on such person, within thirty
days thereafter, to register the name and age of such negro or
mulatto with the clerk of the Court of Common Pleas for the
proper county.
"Sec. 7. Requires new registry on removal to another county."
"Secs. 8, 9. Penalties by fine for breach of this act.
"Sec. 10. Clerk to take security that negro be not chargeable
when his term expires.
"Sec. 12. Fees.
"Sec. 13. That the children born in said territory of a parent of
color owning service or labor, by _indenture_ according to law,
should serve the master or mistress of such parent--the males
until the age of thirty, and the females until the age of
twenty-eight years. (As quoted in Boon v. Juliet, 1836, 1,
Scammon, 258.)
"Sec. 14. That an act respecting apprentices misused by their
master or mistress should apply to such children. (See the
statute cited in Rankin v. Lydia, 2, A. K. Marshall's Ky., 467;
and in Jarrot v. Jarrot, 2, Gilman, 19.) This act was repealed in
1810."[48]
Under the first constitution of Indiana, adopted in 1816, Negroes were
not debarred from the elective franchise. In Article i, Section 1, of
the Bill of Rights, this remarkable language occurs: "That all men are
born equally free and independent, and have certain natural, inherent,
and unalienable rights," etc. But the very next year the primal rights
of the Negro as a citizen were struck down by the following: "No
negro, mulatto, or Indian shall be a witness, except in pleas of the
State against negroes, mulattoes, or Indians, or in civil cases where
negroes, mulattoes, or Indians alone shall be parties."[49]
In 1819 [March 22d], an execution law was passed by which the time of
service of Negroes could be sold on execution against the master, in
the same manner as personal estate. From the time of the sale, such
Negroes or Mulattoes were compelled to serve the buyer until the
expiration of the term of service.[50]
In 1831, an act regulating free Negroes and Mulattoes, servants and
slaves, declared:
"Sec. 1. Negroes and mulattoes emigrating into the State shall
give bond, etc.
"Sec. 2. In failure of this, such negro, etc., may be hired out
and the proceeds applied to his benefit, or removed from the
State under the poor law.
"Sec. 3. Penalty for committing such without authority.
"Sec. 4. Penalty for harboring such who have not given bond.
"Sec. 5. That the right of any persons to pass through this
State, with his, her, or their negroes or mulattoes, servant or
servants, when emigrating or travelling to any other State or
territory or country, making no unnecessary delay, is hereby
declared and secured."[51]
In 1851 the new constitution limited the right of franchise to "white
male citizens of the United States." "No negro or mulatto shall have
the right of suffrage."
"Art. xii., Sec. 1. The militia shall consist of all able-bodied
white male persons, between, etc.
"Art. xiii., Sec. 1. No negro or mulatto shall come into, or
settle in the State after the adoption of this Constitution.
"Sec. 2. All contracts made with any negro or mulatto coming into
the State contrary to the foregoing section shall be void; and
any person who shall employ such negro or mulatto or encourage
him to remain in the State shall be fined not less than ten, nor
more than five hundred dollars.
"Sec. 3. All fines which may be collected for a violation of the
provisions of this article, or of any law hereafter passed for
the purpose of carrying the same into execution, shall be set
apart and appropriated for the colonization of such negroes and
mulattoes and their descendants as may be in the State at the
adoption of this Constitution and may be willing to emigrate.
"Sec. 4. The General Assembly shall pass laws to carry out the
provisions of this article."
Other severe laws were enacted calculated to modify and limit the
rights of free persons of color.
The first constitution of the State of Illinois, adopted in 1818,
limited the [Art. ii, Sec. 27] elective franchise to "free white"
persons. Article v, Sec. 1, exempted "negroes, mulattoes, and Indians"
from service in the militia. In March, 1819, "_An Act Respecting Free
Negroes, Mulattoes, Servants, and Slaves_" passed. Sec. 1 required
Negro and Mulatto persons coming into the State to produce a
certificate of freedom. Sec. 2 required them to register their family
as well as themselves. Sec. 3 required persons bringing slaves into
the State, for the purpose of emancipating them, to give bonds. Passes
were required of Colored people, and many other hard exactions. The
bill above referred to contained twenty-five sections.[52]
On the 6th of January, 1827, a criminal code was enacted for offences
committed by Negroes and servants, which contained many cruel
features. On the 2d of February a law was passed declaring that all
Negroes, Mulattoes, and Indians were incompetent to be witnesses in
any court against a white person; and that a person having one fourth
part Negro blood shall be adjudged a Mulatto. This law was re-enacted
in 1845.[53] In 1853, February 12th, the Legislature of Illinois
passed "_An Act to Prevent the Immigration of Free Negroes into this
State_."
"Secs. 1, 2. Fine and imprisonment for bringing slave, for any
purpose, into the State. _Proviso_: 'That this shall not be
construed so as to affect persons or slaves, _bona fide_,
travelling through this State from and to any other State in the
United States.'
"Sec. 3. Misdemeanor for negro or mulatto, bond or free, to come
with intention of residing.
"Sec. 4. Such may be prosecuted and fined or sold, for time, for
fine and costs.
"Secs. 5, 6, 7. If such do not afterwards remove, increased fine
and like proceedings, etc., etc. Appeal allowed to the circuit.
"Sec. 8. If claimed as fugitive slave, after being thus arrested,
a justice of the peace, 'after hearing the evidence, and being
satisfied that the person or persons claiming said negro or
mulatto is or are the owner or owners of and entitled to the
custody of said negro or mulatto, in accordance with the laws of
the United States passed upon this subject,' shall give the owner
a certificate, after his paying the costs and the negro's unpaid
fine, 'and the said owner or agent so claiming shall have a right
to take and remove said slave out of the State.'
"Sec. 9. Punishment of justice for nonfeasance, and of witness
falsely accusing negro."[54]
While slavery had no legal, constitutional existence in the three
border States, there were, in fact, quite a number of slaves within
their jurisdiction during the first generation of their existence. And
the free people of Color were, _first_, denied the right of
citizenship; _second_, excluded from the militia service; _third_,
ruled out of the courts whenever their testimony was offered against a
white person; _fourth_, could not come into the free border States
without producing a certificate of freedom; and, _fifth_, were annoyed
by many little, mean laws in the exercise of the few rights they were
suffered to enjoy. A full description of the infamous "_Black Code_"
of these States would occupy too much space, and, therefore, the dark
subject must be dismissed. Posterity shall know, however, how
patiently the free Negroes of the Northern States endured the
restrictions and proscriptions which law and public sentiment threw
across their social and political pathway!
FOOTNOTES:
[37] 1, Chase, p. 393, sects. 1-7.
[38] 1, Chase, p. 555.
[39] Jeffries _vs._ Ankeny, 11, Ohio, p. 375.
[40] 2, Chase L., p. 1052.
[41] Curwen, p. 533.
[42] Revised Statutes of Ohio, vol. i. p. 60.
[43] Ibid., p. 111.
[44] Elliot's Debates, vol. i. p. 79.
[45] Sanford's Dred Scott Case, pp. 397-399.
[46] Howard's Reports, vol. xix. pp. 403-405, sq.
[47] Hurd, vol ii. p. 123.
[48] Terr. laws 1807-8, p. 423.
[49] Laws of 1817, ch. 3, sec. 52.
[50] See Hurd, vol. ii. p. 129.
[51] Revised Laws of Indiana, 1838.
[52] Session Laws, 1819, p. 354. R. S., 1833, p. 466.
[53] R. S., 1845, p. 154.
[54] Rev. St. of 1856, p. 780.
CHAPTER XI.
THE NORTHERN NEGROES.
NOMINAL RIGHTS OF NEGROES IN THE SLAVE STATES.--FUGITIVE SLAVES
SEEK REFUGE IN CANADA.--NEGROES PETITION AGAINST TAXATION WITHOUT
REPRESENTATION.--A LAW PREVENTING NEGROES FROM OTHER STATES FROM
SETTLING IN MASSACHUSETTS.--NOTICE TO BLACKS, INDIANS, AND
MULATTOES, WARNING THEM TO LEAVE THE COMMONWEALTH.--THE RIGHTS
AND PRIVILEGES OF THE NEGRO RESTRICTED.--COLORED MEN TURN THEIR
ATTENTION TO THE EDUCATION OF THEIR OWN RACE.--JOHN V. DEGRASSE,
THE FIRST COLORED MAN ADMITTED TO THE MASSACHUSETTS MEDICAL
SOCIETY.--PROMINENT COLORED MEN OF NEW YORK AND
PHILADELPHIA.--THE ORGANIZATION OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST
EPISCOPAL AND COLORED BAPTIST CHURCHES.--COLORED MEN DISTINGUISH
THEMSELVES IN THE PULPIT.--REPORT TO THE OHIO ANTI-SLAVERY
SOCIETY OF COLORED PEOPLE IN CINCINNATI IN 1835.--MANY PURCHASE
THEIR FREEDOM.--HENRY BOYD, THE MECHANIC AND BUILDER.--HE BECOMES
A SUCCESSFUL MANUFACTURER IN CINCINNATI.--SAMUEL T. WILCOX, THE
GROCER.--HIS SUCCESS IN BUSINESS IN CINCINNATI.--BALL AND THOMAS,
THE PHOTOGRAPHERS.--COLORED PEOPLE OF CINCINNATI EVINCE A DESIRE
TO TAKE CARE OF THEMSELVES.--LYDIA P. MOTT ESTABLISHES A HOME FOR
COLORED ORPHANS.--THE ORGANIZATION EFFECTED IN 1844.--ITS
SUCCESS.--FORMATION OF A COLORED MILITARY COMPANY CALLED "THE
ATTUCKS GUARDS."--EMIGRATION OF NEGROES TO LIBERIA.--THE COLORED
PEOPLE LIVE DOWN MUCH PREJUDICE.
In 1850 there were 238,187 free Negroes in the slave States. Their
freedom was merely nominal. They were despised beneath the slaves, and
were watched with suspicious eyes, and disliked by their brethren in
bondage.
In 1850 there were 196,016 free Negroes in the Northern States. Their
increase came from [chiefly] two sources, viz.: births and emancipated
persons from the South. Fugitive slaves generally went to Canada, for
in addition to being in danger of arrest under the fugitive-slave law,
none of the State governments in the North sympathized with escaped
Negroes. The Negroes in the free States were denied the rights of
citizenship, and were left to the most destroying ignorance. In 1780,
some free Negroes, of the town of Dartmouth, petitioned the General
Court of Massachusetts for relief from taxation, because they were
denied the privileges and duties of citizenship. The petition set
forth the hardships free Negroes were obliged to endure, even in
Massachusetts, and was in itself a proof of the fitness of the
petitioners for the duties of citizenship.
"_To the Honorable Council and House of Representatives, in
General Court Assembled, for the State of Massachusetts Bay, in
New England_:
"The petition of several poor negroes and mulattoes, who are
inhabitants of the town of Dartmouth, humbly showeth:
"That we being chiefly of the African extract, and by reason of
long bondage and hard slavery, we have been deprived of enjoying
the profits of our labor or the advantage of inheriting estates
from our parents, as our neighbors the white people do, having
some of us not long enjoyed our own freedom; yet of late,
contrary to the invariable custom and practice of the country, we
have been, and now are, taxed both in our polls and that small
pittance of estate which, through much hard labor and industry,
we have got together to sustain ourselves and families withall.
We apprehend it, therefore, to be hard usage, and will doubtless
(if continued) reduce us to a state of beggary, whereby we shall
become a burthen to others, if not timely prevented by the
interposition of your justice and power.
"Your petitioners further show, that we apprehend ourselves to be
aggrieved, in that, while we are not allowed the privilege of
freemen of the State, having no vote or influence in the election
of those that tax us, yet many of our color (as is well known)
have cheerfully entered the field of battle in the defence of the
common cause, and that (as we conceive) against a similar
exertion of power (in regard to taxation) too well known to need
a recital in this place.
"We most humble request, therefore, that you would take our
unhappy case into your serious consideration, and, in your wisdom
and power, grant us relief from taxation, while under our present
depressed circumstances; and your poor petitioners, as in duty
bound, shall ever pray, etc.
"JOHN CUFFE,
"ADVENTUR CHILD,
"PAUL CUFFE,
"SAMUEL GRAY, [his x mark.]
"PERO ROWLAND, [his x mark.]
"PERO RUSSELL, [his x mark.]
"PERO COGGESHALL.
"Dated at Dartmouth, the 10th of February, 1780.
"Memorandum in the handwriting of John Cuffe:
"This is the copy of the petition which we did deliver unto the
Honorable Council and House, for relief from taxation in the days
of our distress. But we received none. JOHN CUFFE."[55]
Not discouraged at the failure that attended the above petition, the
indefatigable Paul Cuffe, addressed the following to the selectmen of
his town the next year.
"A REQUEST.
"_To the Selectmen of the Town of Dartmouth, Greeting_:
We, the subscribers, your humble petitioners, desire that you
would, in your capacity, put a stroke in your next warrant for
calling a town meeting, so that it may legally be laid before
said town, by way of vote, to know the mind of said town, whether
all free negroes and mulattoes shall have the same privileges in
this said Town of Dartmouth as the white people have, respecting
places of profit, choosing of officers, and the like, together
with all other privileges in all cases that shall or may happen
or be brought in this our said Town of Dartmouth. We, your
petitioners, as in duty bound, shall ever pray,
[Signed] "JOHN CUFFE,
"PAUL CUFFE,
"Dated at Dartmouth, the 22d of the 4th mo., 1781,"
As early as 1788 Massachusetts passed a law requiring all Negroes who
were not citizens, to leave the Commonwealth within two months from
the date of the publication of the law. It has been said, upon good
authority, that this law was drawn by several of the ablest lawyers in
the Bay State, and was intended to keep out all Negroes from the South
who, being emancipated, might desire to settle there. It became a law
on the 26th of March, 1788, and instead of becoming a dead letter, was
published and enforced in post-haste. The following section is the
portion of the act pertinent to this inquiry.
"V. _Be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid_ [the
Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled],
that no person being an African or Negro, other than a subject of
the Emperor of Morocco, or a citizen of some one of the United
States (to be evidenced by a certificate from the Secretary of
the State of which he shall be a citizen), shall tarry within
this Commonwealth, for a longer time than two months, and upon
complaint made to any Justice of the Peace within this
Commonwealth, that any such person has been within the same more
than two months, the said Justice shall order the said person to
depart out of this Commonwealth, and in case that the said
African or Negro shall not depart as aforesaid, any Justice of
the Peace within this Commonwealth, upon complaint and proof
made that such person has continued within this Commonwealth ten
days after notice given him or her to depart as aforesaid, shall
commit the said person to any house of correction within the
county, there to be kept to hard labor, agreeable to the rules
and orders of the said house, until the Sessions of the Peace,
next to be holden within and for the said county; and the master
of the said house of correction is hereby required and directed
to transmit an attested copy of the warrant of commitment to the
said Court on the first day of their said session, and if upon
trial at the said Court, it shall be made to appear that the said
person has thus continued within the Commonwealth, contrary to
the tenor of this act, he or she shall be whipped not exceeding
ten stripes, and ordered to depart out of this Commonwealth
within ten days; and if he or she shall not so depart, the same
process shall be had and punishment inflicted, and so _toties
quoties_."[56]
The following notice, with the subjoined names, shows that the cruel
law was enforced.
NOTICE TO BLACKS.
The Officers of Police having made return to the Subscriber of
the names of the following persons, who are Africans or Negroes,
not subjects of the Emperor of _Morocco_ nor citizens of the
_United States_, the same are hereby warned and directed to
depart out of this Commonwealth before the 10th day of October
next, as they would avoid the pains and penalties of the law in
that case provided, which was passed by the Legislature, March
26, 1788.
CHARLES BULFINCH,
_Superintendent_.
_By Order and Direction of the Selectmen._
_Portsmouth_--Prince Patterson, Eliza Cotton, Flora Nash.
_Rhode Island_--Thomas Nichols and Philis Nichols, Hannah
Champlin, Plato Alderson, Raney Scott, Jack Jeffers, Thomas
Gardner, Julius Holden, Violet Freeman, Cuffy Buffum, Sylvia
Gardner, Hagar Blackburn, Dolly Peach, Polly Gardner, Sally
Alexander, Philis Taylor.
_Providence_--Dinah Miller, Salvia Hendrick, Rhode Allen, Nancy
Hall, Richard Freeman, Elizabeth Freeman, Nancy Gardner, Margaret
Harrison.
_Connecticut_--Bristol Morandy, John Cooper, Scipio Kent,
Margaret Russell, Phoebe Seamore, Phoebe Johnson, Jack Billings.
_New London_--John Denny, Thomas Burdine, Hannah Burdine.
_New York_--Sally Evens, Sally Freeman, Cæsar West and Hannah
West, Thomas Peterson, Thomas Santon, Henry Sanderson, Henry
Wilson, Robert Willet, Edward Cole, Mary Atkins, Polly Brown,
Amey Spalding, John Johnson, Rebecca Johnson, George Homes,
Prince Kilsbury, Abraham Fitch, Joseph Hicks, Abraham Francis,
Elizabeth Francis, Sally Williams, William Williams, Rachel
Pewinck, David Dove, Esther Dove, Peter Bayle, Thomas Bostick,
Katy Bostick, Prince Hayes, Margaret Bean, Nancy Hamik, Samuel
Benjamin, Peggy Ocamum, Primus Hutchinson.
_Philadelphia_--Mary Smith, Richard Allen, Simon Jeffers, Samuel
Posey, Peter Francies, Prince Wales, Elizabeth Branch, Peter
Gust, William Brown, Butterfield Scotland, Clarissa Scotland,
Cuffy Cummings, John Gardner, Sally Gardner, Fortune Gorden,
Samuel Stevens.
_Baltimore_--Peter Larkin and Jenny Larkin, Stepney Johnson, Anne
Melville.
_Virginia_--James Scott, John Evens, Jane Jackson, Cuffey Cook,
Oliver Nash, Robert Woodson, Thomas Thompson.
_North Carolina_--James Jurden, Polly Johnson, Janus Crage.
_South Carolina_--Anthony George, Peter Cane.
_Halifax_--Catherine Gould, Charlotte Gould, Cato Small, Philis
Cole, Richard M'Coy.
_West Indies_--James Morfut and Hannah his wife, Mary Davis,
George Powell, Peter Lewis, Charles Sharp, Peter Hendrick,
William Shoppo and Mary Shoppo, Isaac Johnson, John Pearce,
Charles Esings, Peter Branch, Newell Symonds, Rosanna Symonds,
Peter George, Lewis Victor, Lewis Sylvester, John Laco, Thomas
Foster, Peter Jesemy, Rebecca Jesemy, David Bartlet, Thomas
Grant, Joseph Lewis, Hamet Lewis, John Harrison, Mary Brown,
Boston Alexander.
_Cape François_--Casme Francisco and Nancy his wife, Mary
Fraceway.
_Aux Cayes_--Susannah Ross.
_Port-au-Prince_--John Short.
_Jamaica_--Charlotte Morris, John Robinson.
_Bermuda_--Thomas Williams.
_New Providence_--Henry Taylor.
_Liverpool_--John Mumford.
_Africa_--Francis Thompson, John Brown, Mary Joseph, James
Melvile, Samuel Bean, Hamlet Earl, Cato Gardner, Charles Mitchel,
Sophia Mitchel, Samuel Frazier, Samuel Blackburn, Timothy
Philips, Joseph Ocamum.
_France_--Joseph ----
_Isle of France_--Joseph Lovering.
LIST OF INDIANS AND MULATTOES.
The following persons from several of the United States, being
people of colour, commonly called Mulattoes, are presumed to come
within the intention of the same law, and are accordingly warned
and directed to depart out of the Commonwealth before the 10th
day of October next.
_Rhode Island_--Peter Badger, Kelurah Allen, Waley Green, Silvia
Babcock.
_Providence_--Polly Adams, Paul Jones.
_Connecticut_--John Brown, Polly Holland, John Way and Nancy Way,
Peter Virginia, Leville Steward, Lucinda Orange, Anna Sprague,
Britton Doras, Amos Willis, Frank Francies.
_New London_--Hannah Potter.
_New York_--Jacob and Nelly Cummings, James and Rebecca Smith,
Judith Chew, John Schumagger, Thomas Willouby, Peggy Willouby,
John Reading, Mary Reading, Charles Brown, John Miles, Hannah
Williams, Betsy Harris, Douglass Brown, Susannah Foster, Thomas
Burros, Mary Thomson, James and Freelove Buck, Lucy Glapcion,
Lucy Lewis, Eliza Williams, Diana Bayle, Cæsar and Sylvia Caton,
---- Thompson, William Guin.
_Albany_--Elone Virginia, Abijah Reed and Lydia Reed, Abijah
Reed, Jr., Rebecca Reed and Betsy Reed.
_New Jersey_--Stephen Boadley, Hannah Victor.
_Philadelphia_--Polly Boadley, James Long, Hannah Murray,
Jeremiah Green, Nancy Principeso, David Johnson, George Jackson
William Coak, Moses Long.
_Maryland_--Nancy Gust.
_Baltimore_--John Clark, Sally Johnson.
_Virginia_--Sally Hacker, Richard and John Johnson, Thomas
Stewart, Anthony Paine, Mary Burk, William Hacker, Polly Losours,
Betsy Guin, Lucy Brown.
_Africa_--Nancy Doras.[57]
The constitutions of nearly all the States, statutes, or public
sentiment drove the Negro from the ballot-box, excused him from the
militia, and excluded him from the courts. Although born on the soil,
a soldier in two wars, an industrious, law-abiding _person_, the
Negro, nevertheless, was not regarded as a member of political
society. He was taxed, but enjoyed no representation; was governed by
laws, and yet, had no voice in making the laws.
The doors of nearly all the schools of the entire North were shut in
his face; and the few separate schools accorded him were given
grudgingly. They were usually held in the lecture-room of some Colored
church edifice, or thrust off to one side in a portion of the city or
town toward which aristocratic ambition would never turn. These
schools were generally poorly equipped; and the teachers were either
Colored persons whose opportunities of securing an education had been
poor, or white persons whose mental qualifications would not encourage
them to make an honest living among their own race; there were noble
exceptions.
A deeply rooted prejudice shut the Negro out from the trades. He could
not acquire the art of setting type, civil engineering, building
machinery, house carpentering, or any of the trades. The schools of
medicine, law, and theology were not open to him; and even if he
secured admission into some gentleman's office, or instruction from
some divine, the future gave him no promise. The white wings of hope
were broken in an ineffectual attempt to move against the bitter winds
of persecution, under the dark sky of hate and proscription.
Corporations, churches, theatres, and political parties made the Negro
a subject of official action. If a Negro travelled by stage coach, it
was among the baggage in the "boot," or on top with the driver. If he
were favored with a ride on a street car, it was in a separate car
marked, "_This car for Colored people_." If he journeyed any distance
by rail, he was assigned to the "Jim Crow" car, or "smoker," where
himself and family were subjected to inconvenience, insult, and the
society of the lowest class of white rowdies. If he were hungry and
weary at the end of the journey, there was "no room for him in the
inn," and, like his Master, was assigned a place among the cattle. If
he were so fortunate as to get into a hotel as a servant, bearing the
baggage of his master, he slept in the garret, and took his meals in
the kitchen. It mattered not who the Colored man was--whether it was
Langston, the lawyer, McCune Smith, the physician, or Douglass, the
orator--he found no hotel that would give him accommodations. And
forsooth, if some host had the temerity to admit a Negro to his
dining-room, a dozen white guests would leave the hotel rather than
submit to the "_outrage_!"
The places of amusements in all the large cities in the North excluded
the Negro; and when he did gain admission, he was shown to the
gallery, where he could enjoy peanut-hulls, boot-blacks, and
"black-legs." Occasionally the side door of a college was put ajar for
some invincible Negro. But this was a performance of very rare
occurrence; and the instances are easily remembered.
When courts and parties, corporations and companies had refused to
accord the Negro the rights that were his due as a man, he carried his
case to the highest earthly court, the Christian Church. He felt sure
of sympathy and succor from this source. The Church had stood through
the centuries as a refuge for the unfortunate and afflicted. But,
alas! the Church shrank from the Negro as if he had been a reptile. If
he gained admission it was to the "Negro pew" in the "organ loft." If
he secured the precious "emblems of the broken body and shed blood" of
his Divine Master, it was after the "white folks" were through. If the
cause of the Negro were mentioned in the prayer or sermon, it was in
the indistinct whisper of the moral coward who occupied the sacred
desk. And when the fight was on at fever heat, when it was popular to
plead the cause of the slave and demand the rights of the free Negro,
the Church was the last organization in the country to take a position
on the question; and even then, her "moderation was known to all men."
If the Negro had suffered from neglect only, had been left to solve
the riddle of his anomalous existence without further embarrassment,
it would have been well. But no, it was not so. Studied insolence
jostled Colored men and women from the streets of the larger cities;
mobocratic violence broke up assemblages and churches of Colored
people; and malice sought them in the quiet of their homes--outraged
and slew them in cold blood. Thus with the past as a haunting, bitter
recollection, the present filled with fear and disaster, and the
future a shapeless horror, think ye life was sweet to the Negro?
Bitter? Bitter as death? Ay, bitter as hell!
Driven down from the lofty summit of laudable ambitions into the
sultry plains of domestic drudgery and menial toil, nearly every ray
of hope had perished upon the strained vision of the Negro. The only
thing young Colored men could aspire to was the position of a waiter,
the avocation of a barber, the place of a house-servant or groom, and
teach or preach to their own people with little or no qualifications.
Denied the opportunities and facilities of securing an education, they
were upbraided by the press and pulpit, in private gatherings and
public meetings, for their ignorance, which was enforced by a narrow
and contracted public prejudice.
But "none of these things moved" the Negro. Undismayed he bowed to his
herculean task with a complacency and courage worthy of any race or
age of the world's history. The small encouragement that came to him
from the conscientious minority of white men and women was as
refreshing as the cool ocean breeze at even-tide to the feverish brow
of a travel-soiled pilgrim. The Negro found it necessary to exert
_himself_, to lift himself out of his social, mental, and political
dilemma by the straps of his boots. Colored men turned their attention
to the education of themselves and their children. Schools were begun,
churches organized, and work of general improvement and self-culture
entered into with alacrity and enthusiasm. Boston had among its
teachers the scholarly Thomas Paul; among its clergymen Leonard A.
Grimes and John T. Raymond; among its lawyers Robert Morris and E. G.
Walker; among its business men J. B. Smith and Coffin Pitts; among its
physicians John R. Rock and John V. DeGrasse; among its authors Brown
and Nell; and among its orators Remond and Hilton. Robert Morris was
admitted to the bar in Boston, on Thursday, June 27, 1850, at a
meeting of the members of the Suffolk County Bar. The record is as
follows:
"_Resolved_, That ROBERT MORRIS, Esq., be recommended for
admittance to practice as a Counsellor and Attorney of the
Circuit and District Courts of the United States.
"(Signed) ELLIS GRAY LORING, _Chairman_.
"CHAS. THEO. RUSSELL, _Secretary_."
John V. DeGrasse, M.D., an eminent physician of Boston was perhaps the
most accomplished Colored gentleman in New England between 1850-1860.
The following notice appeared in a Boston journal in August, 1854:
"On the 24th of August, 1854, Mr. DeGrasse was admitted in due
form a member of the 'Massachusetts Medical Society.' It is the
first instance of such honor being conferred upon a colored man
in this State, at least, and probably in the country; and
therefore it deserves particular notice, both because the means
by which he has reached this distinction are creditable to his
own intelligence and perseverance, and because others of his
class may be stimulated to seek an elevation which has hitherto
been supposed unattainable by men of color. The Doctor is a
native of New York City, where he was born in June, 1825, and
where he spent his time in private and public schools till 1840.
He then entered the Oneida Institute, Beriah Green, President,
and spent one year; but as Latin was not taught there, he left
and entered the Clinton Seminary, where he remained two years,
intending to enter college in the fall of 1843. He was turned
from this purpose, however, by the persuasions of a friend in
France, and after spending two years in a college in that
country, he returned to New York in November, 1845, and commenced
the study of medicine with Dr. Samuel R. Childs, of that city.
There he spent two years in patient and diligent study, and then
two more in attending the medical lectures of Bowdoin College,
Me. Leaving that institution with honor in May, 1849, he went
again to Europe in the autumn of that year, and spent
considerable time in the hospitals of Paris, travelling, at
intervals, through parts of France, England, Italy, and
Switzerland. Returning home in the ship 'Samuel Fox,' in the
capacity of surgeon, he was married in August, 1852, and since
that time he has practised medicine in Boston. Earning a good
reputation here by his diligence and skill, he was admitted a
member of the Medical Society, as above stated. Many of our most
respectable physicians visit and advise with him whenever counsel
is required. The Boston medical profession, it must be
acknowledged, has done itself honor in thus discarding the law of
caste, and generously acknowledging real merit, without regard to
the hue of the skin."
The Colored population of New York was equal to the great emergency
that required them to put forth their personal exertions. Dr. Henry
Highland Garnet, Dr. Charles B. Ray, and the Rev. Peter Williams in
the pulpit; Charles L. Reason and William Peterson as teachers; James
McCune Smith and Philip A. White as physicians and chemists; James
Williams and Jacob Day among business men, did much to elevate the
Negro in self-respect and self-support.
Philadelphia early ranked among her foremost leaders of the Colored
people, William Whipper, Stephen Smith, Robert Purvis, William Still,
Frederick A. Hinton, and Joseph Cassey. From an inquiry instituted in
1837, it was ascertained that out of the 18,768 Colored people in
Philadelphia, 250 had paid for their freedom the aggregate sum of
$79,612, and that the real and personal property owned by them was
near $1,500,000. There were returns of several chartered benevolent
societies for the purpose of affording mutual aid in sickness and
distress, and there were sixteen houses of public worship, with over
4,000 communicants. And in Western Pennsylvania there were John Peck,
John B. Vashon, Geo. Gardner, and Lewis Woodson. Every State in the
North seemed to produce Colored men of marked ability to whom God
committed a great work. Their examples of patient fortitude, industry,
and frugality, and their determined efforts to obtain knowledge and
build up character, stimulated the youth of the Negro race to greater
exertions in the upward direction.
The African Methodist Episcopal Church was organized as early as 1816.
Its churches grew and its ministry increased in numbers, intelligence,
and piety, until it became the most powerful organization of Colored
men on the continent. The influence of this organization upon the
Colored race in America was excellent. It brought the people together,
not only in religious sympathy, but by the ties of a common interest
in all affairs of their race and condition. The men in the
organization who possessed the power of speech, who had talents to
develop, and an ambition to serve their race, found this church a wide
field of usefulness.
The Colored Baptists were organized before the Methodists, [in
Virginia,] but their organization has always lacked strength. The form
of government, being purely Democratic, was adapted to a people of
larger intelligence and possessed of greater capacity for
self-government. But, notwithstanding this fact, the "independent"
order of Colored Baptists gave the members and clergymen of the
denomination exalted ideas of government, and abiding confidence in
the capacity of the Negro for self-government. No organization of
Colored people in America has produced such able men as the Colored
Baptist Church.
In Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan, Colored men distinguished
themselves in the pulpit, in the forum, in business, and letters.
William Howard Day, of Cleveland, during this period [1850-1860]
Librarian of the Cleveland Library and editor of a newspaper; John
Mercer Langston, of Oberlin; John Liverpool and John I. Gaines, of
Cincinnati, Ohio, were good men and true. What they did for their race
was done worthily and well. At the Ohio Anti-Slavery Convention, held
at Putnam on the 22d, 23d, and 24th of April, 1835, the committee on
the condition of the "people of Color," made the following report from
Cincinnati:
The number of Colored people in Cincinnati is about 2,500. As
illustrating their general condition, we will give the statistics
of one or two small districts. The families in each were visited
from house to house, taking them all as far as we went:
Number of families in one of these districts 26
" of individuals 125
" of heads of families 49
" of heads of families who are professors of religion 19
" of children at school 20
" of _heads of families_ who have been slaves 39
" of individuals who have been slaves 95
Time since they obtained their freedom, from 1 to 15 years;
average, 7 years.
Number of individuals who have purchased themselves 23
Whole amount paid for themselves $9,112
Number of fathers and mothers still in slavery 9
" of children 18
" of brothers and sisters 98
" of newspapers taken 0
" of heads of families who can read 2
EMPLOYMENT OF HEADS OF FAMILIES.
Common laborers and porters 7
Dealers in second-hand clothing 1
Hucksters 1
Carpenters 2
Shoe-blacks 6
Cooks and waiters 11
Washer-women 18
Five of these women purchased themselves from slavery. One paid
four hundred dollars for herself, and has since bought a house
and lot worth six hundred dollars. All this she has done by
washing.
Another individual had bargained for his wife and two children.
Their master agreed to take four hundred and twenty dollars for
them. He succeeded at length in raising the money, which he
carried to their owner. "I shall charge you thirty dollars more
than when you was here before," said the planter, "for your wife
is in a family-way, and you may pay thirty dollars for that or
not take her, just as you please." "And so," said he (patting
the head of a little son, three years old, who hung upon his
knee), "I had to pay thirty dollars for this little fellow six
months before he was born."
Number of families in another district 63
" of individuals 258
" of heads of families 106
" of families who are professors of religion 16
" of heads of families at school 53
" of newspapers taken 7
Amount of property in real estate $9,850
Number of _individuals_ who have been slaves 108
" of _heads of families_ who have been slaves 69
Age at which they obtained their freedom, from 3 months to
60 years; average, 33 years.
Time since they obtained their freedom, from 4 weeks to 27
years; average, 9 years.
Number of heads of families who have purchased themselves, 36
Whole amount paid for themselves $21,515.00
Average price $597.64
Number of children which the same families have already
purchased 14
Whole amount paid for these children $2,425.75
Average price $173.27
Total amount paid for these parents and children $23,940.75
Number of parents still in slavery 16
" of husbands or wives 7
" of children 35
" of brothers and sisters 144
These districts were visited without the least reference to their
being exhibited separately. If they give a fair specimen of the
whole population (and we believe that to be a fact), then we have
the following results: 1,129 of the Colored population of
Cincinnati have been in slavery; 476 have purchased themselves,
at the total expense of $215,522.04, averaging for each, $452.77;
163 parents are still in slavery, 68 husbands and wives, 346
children, 1,579 brothers and sisters.
There are a large number in the city who are now working out
their own freedom--their free papers being retained as security.
One man of our acquaintance has just given his master seven notes
of one hundred dollars each, one of which he intends to pay every
year, till he has paid them all; his master promises then to give
him his free papers. After paying for himself, he intends to buy
his wife and then his children. Others are buying their husbands
or wives, and others again their parents or children. To show
that on this subject they have sympathies like other people, we
will state a single fact. A young man, after purchasing himself,
earned three hundred dollars. This sum he supposed was sufficient
to purchase his aged mother, a widow, whom he had left in slavery
five years before, in Virginia. Hearing that she was for sale, he
started immediately to purchase her. But, after travelling five
hundred miles, and offering all his money, he was refused. Not
because she was not for sale, nor because he did not offer her
full value. She had four sons and daughters with her, and the
planter thought he could do better to keep the family together
and send them all down the river. In vain the affectionate son
pleaded for his mother. The planter's heart was steel. He would
not sell her, and with a heavy heart the young man returned to
Cincinnati. He has since heard that they were sold in the New
Orleans market "_in lots to suit purchasers_."
Cincinnati produced quite a number of business men among her Colored
population.
HENRY BOYD
was born in the State of Kentucky, on the 14th day of May, 1802. He
received some instruction in reading and writing. He was bound out to
a gentleman, from whom he learned the cabinet-making trade. He
developed at quite an early age a genius for working in all kinds of
wood--could make any thing in the business. He came to Ohio in 1826,
and located in Cincinnati. He was a fine-looking man of twenty-four
years, and a master mechanic. He expected to secure employment in some
of the cabinet shops in the city. Accordingly, he applied at several,
but as often as he applied he was refused employment on the ground of
complexional prejudice. In some instances the proprietor was willing
that a Colored man should work for him, but the white mechanics would
not work by the side of a Colored man. In other cases it was quite
different. The proprietors would not entertain the idea of securing
the services of a "Black mechanic." So it was for weeks that Mr. Boyd
sought an opportunity to use his skill in the direction of his genius
and training; but he sought in vain. Disappointed, though not
disheartened, he turned to the work of a stevedore, which he did for
four months. At the expiration of this time he found employment with a
house-builder. Within six months from the time he began work as a
builder he had so thoroughly mastered the trade that he quit working
as a journeyman, formed a co-partnership with a white man, and went
into business. The gentleman with whom he joined his fortunes was a
mechanic of excellent abilities, and acknowledged the superior fitness
of Boyd for the business.
As a builder he succeeded first-rate for four years. But his color was
against him. His white partner would make the contracts, secure the
jobs, and then Boyd would come forward when the work was to be done.
He had an abundance of work, and always finished it to the entire
satisfaction of his patrons. It is impossible to estimate just how
many houses he built, but the number is not small. He had made a
beginning, and secured some capital. He did not like the builder's
trade, and only entered it at the first from necessity--as a
stepping-stone to his own trade, for which he had a great deal of
enthusiasm. In 1836, ten years after his arrival in Cincinnati, he
engaged in the manufacture of bedsteads. For six years he carried on
this business--found a ready market and liberal pay. He brought to his
business some of the oldest buyers in the bedstead line, and had a
trade that kept him busy at all seasons of the year. His very
excellent business habits won for him many friends, and through their
solicitations he enlarged his business by manufacturing all kinds of
furniture. He put up a building on the corner of Eighth Street and
Broadway, where he carried on his manufacturing from 1836 till 1859, a
period of twenty-three years. His business required four large
buildings and a force of skilful workmen, never less than twenty,
frequently fifty. He used the most approved machinery and paid
excellent wages.
His manufactory presented, perhaps, what was never seen in this
country before or since. His workmen represented almost all the
leading races. There were Negroes, Americans, Irishmen, Scotchmen,
Englishmen, Frenchmen, and men of other nationalities. And they didn't
bite each other! Their relations were pleasant.
He was burned out three times, but he rebuilt and went ahead. He was
doing such an extensive business that some thought it advisable to
destroy his buildings. His losses were very heavy, yet he kept right
on, and kept up his business for some time; but finally had to yield
at the last fire, when he had no insurance.
He invented a machine to turn the rails of a bed, but being a Colored
man he could not take out a patent. He, therefore, had one taken out
in the name of a white gentleman. "The Boyd bedstead" sold throughout
the United States then, and was popular for many years after he quit
the business.
He has been engaged in several different businesses since he quit
manufacturing, and for the last nine years has been in the employ of
the city.
SAMUEL T. WILCOX.
In 1850 Samuel T. Wilcox decided to embark in some business venture in
Cincinnati. Accordingly he built a store on the northeast corner of
Broadway and Fifth streets. He at once occupied it as a grocer. In
those days fancy groceries were not kept. But Mr. Wilcox opened a new
era in the business. He introduced fancy articles, such as all
varieties of canned fruit, choice liquors, cigars, first quality of
hams, all kinds of dried fruit, the best brands of sugars, molasses,
and fine soaps. He made a specialty of these, and succeeded admirably.
His trade was divided between two classes--the finest river packets
and the best families of the city. His customers were the very _best
families_--people of wealth and high standing. And perhaps no grocer
of his times in Cincinnati did so large a business as Samuel T.
Wilcox.
His business increased rapidly until he did about $140,000 _of trade
per year_! This continued for six years, when his social habits were
not favorable to permanent success. He had been sole owner of the
business up to this time. He sold out one half of the store to Charles
Roxboro, Sr.; thus the firm name became "Wilcox & Roxboro." The latter
gentleman was energetic and business-like in his habits. He cast his
courage and marvellous tact against the high tide of business disaster
that came sweeping along in the last days of the firm. He resorted to
every honorable and safe expedient in order to avert failure. But the
handwriting was upon the wall. He failed. Wilcox had begun business
with $25,000 cash. He had accumulated $60,000 in real estate, and had
transacted $140,000 of business in a single year! He failed because
his life was immoral, his habits extravagant, and his attention to
business indifferent.
ALEX. S. THOMAS.
This gentleman came to Cincinnati in 1852, where he made the
acquaintance of a Colored gentleman of intelligence, J. P. Ball, who
was in the daguerrian business at Nos. 28 and 30 West Fourth Street.
Mr. Thomas became affianced to Miss Elizabeth Ball, sister of J. P.
Ball; and after they were married, Mr. Thomas accepted the position of
reception clerk for his brother-in-law. He filled this position with
credit and honor for the space of one year. It was now 1853.
Daguerrotypes were all the "rage." Photography was unknown. Mr. Ball
had an excellent run of custom, and was making money rapidly.
As operator, Mr. Ball soon discovered that Mr. Thomas was a man of
quick perception, thorough, and entirely trustworthy. He soon became
familiar with the instrument, and in 1854 began to "operate." He
continued at the instrument during the remainder of the time he spent
at 28 West Fourth Street. He shortly acquired the skill of an old and
well-trained operator; and his success in this department of the
business added greatly to the already well-established reputation of
the gallery.
Mr. Thomas was not satisfied with being a successful clerk and
first-class operator. He wanted to go into business for himself.
Accordingly he opened a gallery at No. 120 West Fourth Street, near
the "Commercial," under the firm name of "Ball & Thomas." The rooms
were handsomely fitted up, and the building leased for five years.
In May, 1860, a severe tornado passed over the city, destroying much
property and several lives. The roof of the Commercial [Potter's
Building] was carried away; part passed over the gallery of Ball &
Thomas, while part went through the operating room, and some fragments
of timber, etc., penetrated a saloon in the rear of the photographic
gallery, and killed a child and a woman. The gallery was a complete
wreck, the instruments, chemicals, scenery, cases, pictures, carpets,
furniture, and every thing else, were ruined. This was in the early
days of the firm. All their available capital had been converted into
stock, used in fitting up the gallery. Ball & Thomas were young
men--they were Colored men, and were financially ruined. Apparently
their business was at an end. But they were artists; and many white
families in Cincinnati recognized them as such. Their white friends
came to the rescue. The gallery was fitted up again most elaborately,
and was known as "the finest photographic gallery west of the
Alleghany Mountains."
This marked a distinct era in the history of the firm, and many
persons often remarked that the luckiest moment in their history was
when the roof of the Commercial building sat down upon them. For years
the best families of the city patronized the famous firm of Ball &
Thomas. They had more business than they could attend to at times, and
consequently had to engage extra help. These were years of
unprecedented success. One hundred dollars a day was small money then.
The firm became quite wealthy. After spending fifteen years at 120
they returned to 30 West Fourth Street, where they remained until May,
1874.
Photographers move considerable, and it is seldom that men in this
business remain in one street or building as long as Ball & Thomas.
They passed twenty-one of the best years of the firm in Fourth Street.
This is both a compliment to the public and themselves. It shows, on
the one hand, that Colored men can conduct business like white men,
and, on the other hand, if Colored men have ability to carry on any
kind of business, white people will patronize them.
The old stand at 30 West Fourth Street was fitted up anew, and
business began with all the wonted zeal and desire to please the
public which characterized the firm in former years. The rooms were at
once elegant and capacious. Their motto was to do the best work at the
cheapest rates. But as in all other businesses, so in photographic
art, there was competition. And rather than do poor work at the low
rates of competitors, they decided to remove to another locality.
Accordingly, in May, 1874, they moved into No. 146 West Fifth Street.
The building was leased for a term of years. It was in no wise adapted
to the photographic business. The walls were cut out, doors made,
stairs changed, skylight put in, chemical rooms constructed,
gas-fixtures put in, papering, painting, and graining done, carpets
and new furniture ordered. It cost the firm more than $2,800 to enter
this new stand.
The first year at the new stand was characterized by liberal custom
and excellent work. The old customers who were delighted with the work
done at 30 West Fourth Street, were convinced that the firm had
redoubled its artistic zeal, and was determined to outdo the palmy
days of Fourth Street. The business, which at this time was in a
flourishing condition, was destined to suffer an interruption in the
death of Thomas Carroll Ball, the senior member of the firm. It was
at a time when the trade demanded the energies of both gentlemen. But
Death never tarries to consider the far-reach of results or the wishes
of the friends of his subject. The business continued. Ball Thomas,
the son of Mr. A. S. Thomas, who had grown up under the faithful
tuition of his father, now became a successful retouching artist. For
the last two years Mr. Thomas has conducted the business alone. He is
now doing business at 166 West Fifth Street, and it is said that he is
doing a good business.
* * * * *
The Colored people of Cincinnati evinced not only an anxiety to take
care of themselves, but took steps early toward securing a home for
the orphans in their midst.
In _ante-bellum_ days there was no provision made for Colored paupers
or Colored orphans. Where individual sympathy or charity did not
intervene, they were left to die in the midst of squalid poverty, and
were cast into the common ditch, without having medical aid or
ministerial consolation. There was not simply studious neglect, but a
strong prohibition against their entrance into institutions sustained
by the county and State for white persons not more fortunate than
they. At one time a good Quaker was superintendent of the county
poorhouse. His heart was touched with kindest sympathy for the
uncared-for Colored paupers in Cincinnati. He acted the part of a true
Samaritan, and gave them separate quarters in the institution of which
he was the official head. This fact came to the public ear, and the
trustees of the poorhouse, in accordance with their own convictions
and in compliance with the complexional prejudices of the community,
discharged the Quaker for this breach of the law. The Colored paupers
were turned out of this lazar-house on the Sabbath. The time to
perpetuate this crime against humanity was indeed significant--on the
Lord's day. The God of the poor and His followers beheld the streets
of Christian Cincinnati filled with the maimed, halt, sick, and poor,
who were denied the common fare accorded the white paupers! There was
no sentiment in those days, either in the pulpit or press, to raise
its voice against this act of cruelty and shame.
Lydia P. Mott, an eminent member of the Society of Friends and an able
leader of a conscientious few, espoused the cause of the motherless,
fatherless, and homeless Colored children of this community. She
attracted the attention and won the confidence of the few
Abolitionists of this city. She determined to establish a home for
these little wanderers, and immediately set to work at a plan. The
late Salmon P. Chase was then quite young, a man of brilliant
abilities and of anti-slavery sentiments. He joined himself to the
humane movement of Lydia P. Mott, with the following persons:
Christian Donaldson, James Pullan, William Donaldson, Robert Buchanan,
John Liverpool, Richard Phillips, John Woodson, Charles Satchell, Wm.
W. Watson, William Darnes, Michael Clark, A. M. Sumner, Reuben P.
Graham, Louis P. Brux, Sarah B. McLain, Mrs. Eustis, Mrs. Dr. Stanton,
Mrs. Hannah Cooper, Mrs. Mary Jane Gordon, Mrs. Susan Miller, Mrs.
Rebecca Darnes, Mrs. Charlotte Armstrong, Mrs. Eliza Clark, Mrs. Ruth
Ellen Watson, and others. Six of the gentlemen and four of the ladies
were white. Only six of this noble company are living at this time.
The organization was effected in 1844, and the act of incorporation
was drawn up by Salmon P. Chase. It was chartered in February, 1845,
the passage of the act having been assured through the personal
influence of Mr. Chase upon the members of the Legislature.
The first Board of Trustees under the charter were William Donaldson,
John Woodson, Richard Phillips, Christian Donaldson, Reuben P. Graham,
Richard Pullan, Charles Satchell, Louis P. Brux, and John Liverpool.
But one is alive--Richard Pullan.
The first building the Trustees secured as an asylum was on Ninth
Street, between Plum and Elm. They paid a rental of $12.50 per month.
The building was owned by Mr. Nicholas Longworth, but the ground was
leased by him from Judge Burnet. The Trustees ultimately purchased the
building for $1,500; and in 1851 the ground also was purchased of Mr.
Groesbeck for $4,400 in cash.
During the three or four years following, the institution had quite an
indifferent career. The money requisite to run it was not forthcoming.
The children were poorly fed and clothed, and many times there was no
money in the treasury at all. The Trustees were discouraged, and it
seemed that the asylum would have to be closed. But just at this time
that venerable Abolitionist and underground railroader, Levi Coffin,
with his excellent wife, "Aunt Kitty," came to the rescue. He took
charge of the institution as superintendent, and his wife assumed the
duties of matron. Through their exertions and adroit management they
succeeded in enlisting the sympathy of many benevolent folk, and
secured the support of many true friends.
It was now 1866. The asylum building presented a forlorn aspect. It
was far from being a comfortable shelter for the children. But a lack
of funds forbade the Trustees from having it repaired. They began to
look about for a more desirable and comfortable building. During the
closing year of the Rebellion a large number of freedmen sought the
shelter of our large Northern cities. Cincinnati received her share of
them, and acted nobly toward them. The government authorities built a
hospital for freedmen in a very desirable locality in Avondale. At
this time (1866), the building, which was very capacious, was not
occupied. The Trustees secured a change in the charter, permitting
them, by consent of the subscribers, to sell the Ninth Street
property, and purchase the hospital building and the accompanying six
acres in Avondale. The Ninth Street property brought $9,000; the
purchase in Avondale, refitting, etc., cost $11,000, incurring a debt
of $2,000.
During the first twenty-two years of the institution much good was
accomplished. Hundreds of children--orphans and friendless
children--found shelter in the asylum, which existed only through the
almost superhuman efforts of the intelligent Colored persons in the
community, and the unstinted charity of many generous white persons.
The asylum has been pervaded with a healthy religious atmosphere; and
many of its inmates have gone forth to the world giving large promise
of usefulness. An occasional letter from former inmates often proves
that much good has been done; and that some of these children, without
the kindly influence and care of the asylum, instead of occupying
places of usefulness and trust in society, might have drifted into
vagrancy and crime.
Amidst the struggle for temporal welfare, the Colored people of
Cincinnati were not unmindful of the interests and destinies of the
Union. A military company was formed, bearing the name of _Attucks
Guards_. On the 25th of July, 1855, an association of ladies presented
a flag to the company. The address, on the part of the ladies, was
delivered by Miss Mary A. Darnes. Among many excellent things, she
said:
"Should the love of liberty and your country ever demand your
services, may you, in imitation of that noble patriot whose name
you bear, promptly respond to the call, and fight to the last
for the great and noble principles of liberty and justice, to the
glory of your fathers and the land of your birth.
"The time is not far distant when the _slave must be free_; if
not by moral and intellectual means, it must be done by the
sword. Remember, gentlemen, should duty call, it will be yours to
obey, and strike to the last for freedom or the grave.
"But God forbid that you should be called upon to witness our
peaceful homes involved in war. May our eyes never behold this
flag in any conflict; let the quiet breeze ever play among its
folds, and the fullest peace dwell among you!"
While the great majority of the Colored people in the country were
bowing themselves cheerfully to the dreadful task of living among
wolves, some of the race were willing to brave the perils of the sea,
and find a new home on the West Coast of Africa. Between the years of
1850-1856, 9,502 Negroes went to Liberia, of whom 3,676 had been born
free. In 1850, there were 1,467 manumitted, while 1,011 ran away from
their masters.
Notwithstanding the many disadvantages under which the free Negroes of
the North had to labor, they accomplished a great deal. In an
incredibly short time they built schools, planted churches,
established newspapers; had their representatives in law, medicine,
and theology before the world as the marvel of the centuries. Shut out
from every influence calculated to incite them to a higher life, and
provoke them to better works, nevertheless, the Colored people were
enabled to live down much prejudice, and gained the support and
sympathy of noble men and women of the Anglo-Saxon race.
FOOTNOTES:
[55] This is inserted in this volume as the more appropriate place.
[56] Slavery in Massachusetts, pp. 228, 229.
[57] Massachusetts Mercury, vol. xvi. No. 22, Sept. 16, 1780.
CHAPTER XII.
NEGRO SCHOOL LAWS.
1619-1860.
THE POSSIBILITIES OF THE HUMAN INTELLECT.--IGNORANCE FAVORABLE TO
SLAVERY.--AN ACT BY THE LEGISLATURE OF ALABAMA IMPOSING A PENALTY
ON ANY ONE INSTRUCTING A COLORED PERSON.--EDUCATIONAL PRIVILEGES
OF THE CREOLES IN THE CITY OF MOBILE.--PREJUDICE AGAINST COLORED
SCHOOLS IN CONNECTICUT.--THE ATTEMPT OF MISS PRUDENCE CRANDALL TO
ADMIT COLORED GIRLS INTO HER SCHOOL AT CANTERBURY.--THE
INDIGNATION OF THE CITIZENS AT THIS ATTEMPT TO MIX THE RACES IN
EDUCATION.--THE LEGISLATURE OF CONNECTICUT PASSES A LAW
ABOLISHING THE SCHOOL.--THE BUILDING ASSAULTED BY A MOB.--MISS
CRANDALL ARRESTED AND IMPRISONED FOR TEACHING COLORED CHILDREN
AGAINST THE LAW.--GREAT EXCITEMENT.--THE LAW FINALLY
REPEALED.--AN ACT BY THE LEGISLATURE OF DELAWARE TAXING PERSONS
WHO BROUGHT INTO, OR SOLD SLAVES OUT OF, THE STATE.--UNDER ACT OF
1829 MONEY RECEIVED FOR THE SALE OF SLAVES IN FLORIDA WAS ADDED
TO THE SCHOOL FUND IN THAT STATE.--GEORGIA PROHIBITS THE
EDUCATION OF COLORED PERSONS UNDER HEAVY PENALTY.--ILLINOIS
ESTABLISHES SEPARATE SCHOOLS FOR COLORED CHILDREN.--THE "FREE
MISSION INSTITUTE" AT QUINCY, ILLINOIS, DESTROYED BY A MISSOURI
MOB.--NUMEROUS AND CRUEL SLAVE LAWS IN KENTUCKY RETARD THE
EDUCATION OF THE NEGROES.--AN ACT PASSED IN LOUISIANA PREVENTING
THE NEGROES IN ANY WAY FROM BEING INSTRUCTED.--MAINE GIVES EQUAL
SCHOOL PRIVILEGES TO WHITES AND BLACKS.--ST. FRANCIS ACADEMY FOR
COLORED GIRLS FOUNDED IN BALTIMORE IN 1831.--THE WELLS
SCHOOL.--THE FIRST SCHOOL FOR COLORED CHILDREN ESTABLISHED IN
BOSTON BY INTELLIGENT COLORED MEN IN 1798.--A SCHOOL-HOUSE FOR
THE COLORED CHILDREN BUILT AND PAID FOR OUT OF A FUND LEFT BY
ABIEL SMITH FOR THAT PURPOSE.--JOHN B. RUSSWORM ONE OF THE
TEACHERS AND AFTERWARD GOVERNOR OF THE COLONY OF CAPE PALMAS,
LIBERIA.--FIRST PRIMARY SCHOOL FOR COLORED CHILDREN ESTABLISHED
IN 1820.--MISSOURI PASSES STRINGENT LAWS AGAINST THE INSTRUCTION
OF NEGROES.--NEW YORK PROVIDES FOR THE EDUCATION OF
NEGROES.--ELIAS NEAU OPENS A SCHOOL IN NEW YORK CITY FOR NEGRO
SLAVES IN 1704.--"NEW YORK AFRICAN FREE SCHOOL" IN 1786.--VISIT
OF LAFAYETTE TO THE AFRICAN SCHOOLS IN 1824.--HIS
ADDRESS.--PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOR COLORED CHILDREN IN NEW
YORK.--COLORED SCHOOLS IN OHIO.--"CINCINNATI HIGH SCHOOL" FOR
COLORED YOUTHS FOUNDED IN 1844.--OBERLIN COLLEGE OPENS ITS DOORS
TO COLORED STUDENTS.--THE ESTABLISHMENT OF COLORED SCHOOLS IN
PENNSYLVANIA BY ANTHONY BENEZET IN 1750.--HIS WILL.--"INSTITUTE
FOR COLORED YOUTHS" ESTABLISHED IN 1837.--"AVERY COLLEGE," AT
ALLEGHENY CITY, PENNSYLVANIA, FOUNDED IN 1849.--ASHMUN INSTITUTE,
OR LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, FOUNDED IN OCTOBER, 1856.--SOUTH CAROLINA
TAKES DEFINITE ACTION AGAINST THE EDUCATION OR PROMOTION OF THE
COLORED RACE IN 1800-1803-1834.--TENNESSEE MAKES NO
DISCRIMINATION AGAINST COLOR IN THE SCHOOL LAW OF 1840.--LITTLE
OPPORTUNITY AFFORDED IN VIRGINIA FOR THE COLORED MAN TO BE
ENLIGHTENED.--STRINGENT LAWS ENACTED.--HISTORY OF SCHOOLS FOR THE
COLORED POPULATION IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.
The institution of American slavery needed protection from the day of
its birth to the day of its death. Whips, thumbscrews, and manacles of
iron were far less helpful to it than the thraldom of the intellects
of its hapless victims. "Created a little lower than the angels,"
"crowned with glory and honor," armed with authority "over every
living creature," man was intended by his Maker to rule the world
through his intellect. The homogeneousness of the crude faculties of
man has been quite generally admitted throughout the world; while even
scientists, differing widely in many other things, have united in
ascribing to the human mind everywhere certain possibilities. But one
class of men have dissented from this view--the slave-holders of all
ages. A justification of slavery has been sought in the alleged belief
of the inferiority of the persons enslaved; while the broad truism of
the possibilities of the human mind was confessed in all legislation
that sought to prevent slaves from acquiring knowledge. So the
slave-holder asserted his belief in the mental inferiority of the
Negro, and then advertised his lack of faith in his assertion by
making laws to prevent the Negro intellect from receiving those truths
which would render him valueless as a slave, but equal to the duties
of a freeman.
ALABAMA
had an act in 1832 which declared that "Any person or persons who
shall attempt to teach any free person of color or slave to spell,
read, or write, shall, upon conviction thereof by indictment, be fined
in a sum not less than $250, nor more than $500." This act also
prohibited with severe penalties, by flogging, "any free negro or
person of color" from being in company with any slaves without written
permission from the owner or overseer of such slaves; it also
prohibited the assembling of more than five male slaves at any place
off the plantation to which they belonged; but nothing in the act was
to be considered as forbidding attendance at places of public worship
held by white persons. No slave or free person of color was permitted
to "preach, exhort, or harangue any slave or slaves, or free persons
of color, except in the presence of five respectable slave-holders, or
unless the person preaching was licensed by some regular body of
professing Christians in the neighborhood, to whose society or church
the negroes addressed properly belonged."
In 1833, the mayor and aldermen of the city of Mobile were authorized
by an act of the Legislature to grant licenses to such persons as they
deemed suitable to give instruction to the children of free Colored
Creoles. This applied only to those who resided in the city of Mobile
and county of Baldwin. The instruction was to be given at brief
periods, and the children had to secure a certificate from the mayor
and aldermen. The ground of this action was the treaty between France
and the United States in 1803, by which the rights and privileges of
citizens had been secured to the Creoles residing in the above places
at the time of the treaty.
ARKANSAS,
so far as her laws appear, did not prohibit the education of Negroes;
but a study of her laws leaves the impression that the Negroes there
were practically denied the right of instruction.
CONNECTICUT
never legislated against educating Colored persons, but the prejudice
was so strong that it amounted to the same thing. The intolerant
spirit of the whites drove the Colored people of Hartford to request a
separate school in 1830. Prejudice was so great against the presence
of a Colored school in a community of white people, that a school,
established by a very worthy white lady, was mobbed and then
legislated out of existence.
"In the summer of 1832, Miss Prudence Crandall, an excellent,
well-educated Quaker young lady, who had gained considerable
reputation as a teacher in the neighboring town of Plainfield,
purchased, at the solicitation of a number of families in the
village of Canterbury, Connecticut, a commodious house in that
village, for the purpose of establishing a boarding and day
school for young ladies, in order that they might receive
instruction in higher branches than were taught in the public
district school. Her school was well conducted, but was
interrupted early in 1833 in this wise: Not far from the village
a worthy colored man was living, by the name of Harris, the owner
of a good farm, and in comfortable circumstances. His daughter
Sarah, a bright girl, seventeen years of age, had passed with
credit through the public school of the district in which she
lived, and was anxious to acquire a better education, to qualify
herself to become a teacher of the colored people. She applied to
Miss Crandall for admission to her school. Miss Crandall
hesitated, for prudential reasons, to admit a colored person
among her pupils; but Sarah was a young lady of pleasing
appearance and manners, well known to many of Miss Crandall's
present pupils, having been their classmate in the district
school, and was, moreover, a virtuous, pious girl, and a member
of the church in Canterbury. No objection could be made to her
admission, except on acount of her complexion, and Miss Crandall
decided to receive her as a pupil. No objection was made by the
other pupils, but in a few days the parents of some of them
called on Miss Crandall and remonstrated; and although Miss
Crandall pressed upon their consideration the eager desire of
Sarah for knowledge and culture, and the good use she wished to
make of her education, her excellent character, and her being an
accepted member of the same Christian church to which they
belonged, they were too much prejudiced to listen to any
arguments--'they would not have it said that their daughters went
to school with a nigger girl.' It was urged that if Sarah was not
dismissed, the white pupils would be withdrawn; but although the
fond hopes of success for an institution which she had
established at the risk of all her property, and by incurring a
debt of several hundred dollars, seemed to be doomed to
disappointment, she decided not to yield to the demand for the
dismissal of Sarah; and on the 2d day of March, 1833, she
advertised in the 'Liberator' that on the first Monday in April
her school would be open for 'young ladies and little misses of
color.' Her determination having become known, a fierce
indignation was kindled and fanned by prominent people of the
village and pervaded the town. In this juncture, the Rev. Samuel
J. May, of the neighboring town of Brooklyn, addressed her a
letter of sympathy, expressing his readiness to assist her to the
extent of his power, and was present at the town meeting held on
the 9th of March, called for the express purpose of devising and
adopting such measures as 'would effectually avert the nuisance
or speedily abate it if it should be brought into the village.'
"The friends of Miss Crandall were authorized by her to state to
the moderator of the town meeting that she would give up her
house, which was one of the most conspicuous in the village, and
not wholly paid for, if those who were opposed to her school
being there would take the property off her hands at the price
for which she had purchased it, and which was deemed a reasonable
one, and allow her time to procure another house in a more
retired part of the town.
"The town meeting was held in the meeting-house, which, though
capable of holding a thousand people, was crowded throughout to
its utmost capacity. After the warning for the meeting had been
read, resolutions were introduced in which were set forth the
disgrace and damage that would be brought upon the town if a
school for colored girls should be set up there, protesting
emphatically against the impending evil, and appointing the civil
authority and select-men a committee to wait upon 'the person
contemplating the establishment of said school, and persuade her,
if possible, to abandon the project.'
"The resolutions were advocated by Rufus Adams, Esq., and Hon.
Andrew T. Judson, who was then the most prominent man of the
town, and a leading politician in the State, and much talked of
as the Democratic candidate for governor, and was a
representative in Congress from 1835 to 1839, when he was elected
judge of the United States District Court, which position he held
until his death in 1853, adjudicating, among other causes, the
libel of the 'Amistad' and the fifty-four Africans on board.
After his address on this occasion, Mr. May, in company with Mr.
Arnold Buffum, a lecturing agent of the New England Anti-Slavery
Society, applied for permission to speak in behalf of Miss
Crandall, but their application was violently opposed, and the
resolutions being adopted, the meeting was declared, by the
moderator, adjourned.
"Mr. May at once stepped upon the seat where he had been sitting,
and rapidly vindicated Miss Crandall, replying to some of the
misstatements as to her purposes and the character of her
expected pupils, when he gave way to Mr. Buffum, who had spoken
scarcely five minutes before the trustees of the church ordered
the house to be vacated and the doors to be shut. There was then
no alternative but to yield.
"Two days afterward Mr. Judson called on Mr. May, with whom he
had been on terms of a pleasant acquaintance, not to say of
friendship, and expressed regret that he had applied certain
epithets to him; and went on to speak of the disastrous effect on
the village from the establishment of 'a school for nigger
girls.' Mr. May replied that his purpose was, if he had been
allowed to do so, to state at the town meeting Miss Crandall's
proposition to sell her house in the village at its fair
valuation, and retire to some other part of the town. To this Mr.
Judson replied: 'Mr. May, we are not merely opposed to the
establishment of that school in Canterbury, we mean there shall
not be such a school set up anywhere in the State.'
"Mr. Judson continued, declaring that the colored people could
never rise from their menial condition in our country, and ought
not to be permitted to rise here; that they were an inferior race
and should not be recognized as the equals of the whites; that
they should be sent back to Africa, and improve themselves there,
and civilize and Christianize the natives. To this Mr. May
replied that there never would be fewer colored people in this
country than there were then; that it was unjust to drive them
out of the country; that we must accord to them their rights or
incur the loss of our own; that education was the primal,
fundamental right of all the children of men; and that
Connecticut was the last place where this should be denied.
"The conversation was continued in a similar strain, in the
course of which Mr. Judson declared with warmth: 'That nigger
school shall never be allowed in Canterbury, nor in any town of
this State'; and he avowed his determination to secure the
passage of a law by the Legislature then in session, forbidding
the institution of such a school in any part of the State.
"Undismayed by the opposition and the threatened violence of her
neighbors, Miss Crandall received, early in April, fifteen or
twenty colored young ladies and misses from Philadelphia, New
York, Providence, and Boston, and the annoyances of her
persecutors at once commenced: all accommodations at the stores
in Canterbury being denied her, her pupils being insulted
whenever they appeared on the streets, the doors and door-steps
of her house being besmeared, and her well filled with filth;
under all of which, both she and her pupils remained firm. Among
other means used to intimidate, an attempt was made to drive away
those innocent girls by a process under the obsolete vagrant law,
which provided that the select-men of any town might warn any
person, not an inhabitant of the State, to depart forthwith,
demanding $1.67 for every week he or she remained after receiving
such warning; and in case the fine was not paid and the person
did not depart before the expiration of ten days after being
sentenced, _then he or she should be whipped on the naked body,
not exceeding ten stripes_.
"A warrant to that effect was actually served upon Eliza Ann
Hammond, a fine girl from Providence, aged seventeen years; but
it was finally abandoned, and another method was resorted to,
most disgraceful to the State as well as the town. Foiled in
their attempts to frighten away Miss Crandall's pupils by their
proceedings under the obsolete 'pauper and vagrant law,' Mr.
Judson and those who acted with him pressed upon the Legislature,
then in session, a demand for the enactment of a law which should
enable them to accomplish their purpose; and in that bad purpose
they succeeded, by securing the following enactment, on the 24th
of May, 1833, known as the '_black law_.'
"'Whereas, attempts have been made to establish literary
institutions in this State for the instruction of colored persons
belonging to other States and countries, which would tend to the
great increase of the colored population of the State, and
thereby to the injury of the people: therefore,
"'_Be it enacted, etc._, That no person shall set up or establish
in this State any school, academy, or other literary institution
for the instruction or education of colored persons, who are not
inhabitants of this State, or harbor or board, for the purpose of
attending or being taught or instructed in any such school,
academy, or literary institution, any colored person who is not
an inhabitant of any town in this State, without the consent in
writing, first obtained, of a majority of the civil authority,
and also of the select-men of the town in which such school,
academy, or literary institution is situated,' etc.
"'And each and every person who shall knowingly do any act
forbidden as aforesaid, or shall be aiding or assisting therein,
shall for the first offense forfeit and pay to the treasurer of
this State a fine of $100, and for the second offense $200, and
so double for every offense of which he or she shall be
convicted; and all informing officers are required to make due
presentment of all breaches of this act.'
"On the receipt of the tidings of the passage of this law, the
people of Canterbury were wild with exultation; the bells were
rung and a cannon was fired to manifest the joy. On the 27th of
June, Miss Crandall was arrested and arraigned before Justices
Adams and Bacon, two of those who had been the earnest opponents
of her enterprise; and the result being predetermined, the trial
was of course brief, and Miss Crandall was 'committed' to take
her trial at the next session of the Supreme Court at Brooklyn,
in August. A messenger was at once dispatched by the party
opposed to Miss Crandall to Brooklyn, to inform Mr. May, as her
friend, of the result of the trial, stating that she was in the
hands of the sheriff, and would be put in jail unless he or some
of her friends would 'give bonds' for her in a certain sum."
The denouement may be related most appropriately in the language of
Mr. May:
"I calmly told the messenger that there were gentlemen enough in
Canterbury whose bond for that amount would be as good or better
than mine, and I should leave it for them to do Miss Crandall
that favor. 'But,' said the young man, 'are you not her friend?'
'Certainly,' I replied, 'too sincerely her friend to give relief
to her enemies in their present embarrassment, and I trust you
will not find any one of her friends, or the patrons of her
school, who will step forward to help them any more than myself.'
'But, sir,' he cried, 'do you mean to allow her to be put in
jail?' 'Most certainly,' was my answer, 'if her persecutors are
unwise enough to let such an outrage be committed.' He turned
from me in blank surprise, and hurried back to tell Mr. Judson
and the justices of his ill success.
"A few days before, when I first heard of the passage of the law,
I had visited Miss Crandall with my friend, Mr. George W. Benson,
and advised with her as to the course she and her friends ought
to pursue when she should be brought to trial. She appreciated at
once and fully the importance of leaving her persecutors to show
to the world how base they were, and how atrocious was the law
they had induced the Legislature to enact--a law, by the force of
which a woman might be fined and imprisoned as a felon in the
State of Connecticut for giving instruction to colored girls. She
agreed that it would be best for us to leave her in the hands of
those with whom the law originated, hoping that, in their
madness, they would show forth all their hideous features.
"Mr. Benson and I, therefore, went diligently around to all who
he knew were friendly to Miss Crandall and her school, and
counselled them by no means to give bonds to keep her from
imprisonment, because nothing would expose so fully to the public
the egregious wickedness of the law and the virulence of her
persecutors as the fact that they had thrust her into jail.
"When I found that her resolution was equal to the trial which
seemed to be impending, that she was ready to brave and to bear
meekly the worst treatment that her enemies would venture to
subject her to, I made all the arrangements for her comfort that
were practicable in our prison. It fortunately happened that the
most suitable room, unoccupied, was the one in which a man named
Watkins had recently been confined for the murder of his wife,
and out of which he had been taken and executed. This
circumstance we foresaw would add not a little to the public
detestation of the _black law_. The jailer, at my request,
readily put the room in as nice order as was possible, and
permitted me to substitute for the bedstead and mattrass on which
the murderer had slept, fresh and clean ones from my own house
and Mr. Benson's.
"About 2 o'clock, P.M., another messenger came to inform me that
the sheriff was on the way from Canterbury to the jail with Miss
Crandall, and would imprison her unless her friends would give
the required bail. Although in sympathy with Miss Crandall's
persecutors, he saw clearly the disgrace that was about to be
brought upon the State, and begged me and Mr. Benson to avert it.
Of course we refused. I went to the jailer's house and met Miss
Crandall on her arrival. We stepped aside. I said: 'If now you
hesitate--if you dread the gloomy place so much as to wish to be
saved from it, I will give bonds for you even now.' 'Oh, no,' she
promptly replied, 'I am only afraid they will not put me in jail.
Their evident hesitation and embarrassment show plainly how much
they deprecated the effect of this part of their folly, and
therefore I am the more anxious that they should be exposed, if
not caught in their own wicked devices.
"We therefore returned with her to the sheriff and the company
that surrounded him, to await his final act. He was ashamed to do
it. He knew it would cover the persecutors of Miss Crandall and
the State of Connecticut with disgrace. He conferred with several
about him, and delayed yet longer. Two gentlemen came and
remonstrated with me in not very seemly terms: 'It would be a
---- shame, an eternal disgrace to the State, to have her put
into jail--into the very room that Watkins had last occupied.'
"'Certainly, gentlemen,' I replied, 'and this you may prevent if
you please.'
"'Oh!' they cried, 'we are not her friends; we are not in favor
of her school; we don't want any more ---- niggers coming among
us. It is your place to stand by Miss Crandall and help her now.
You and your ---- abolition brethren have encouraged her to
bring this nuisance into Canterbury, and it is ---- mean in you
to desert her now.'
"I rejoined: 'She knows we have not deserted her, and do not
intend to desert her. The law which her persecutors have
persuaded our legislators to enact is an infamous one, worthy of
the dark ages. It would be just as bad as it is whether we would
give bonds for her or not. But the people generally will not so
soon realize how bad, how wicked, how cruel a law it is unless we
suffer her persecutors to inflict upon her all the penalties it
prescribes. She is willing to bear them for the sake of the cause
she has so nobly espoused. If you see fit to keep her from
imprisonment in the cell of a murderer for having proffered the
blessings of a good education to those who in our country need it
most, you may do so; _we shall not_.'
"They turned from us in great wrath, words falling from their
lips which I shall not repeat.
"The sun had descended nearly to the horizon; the shadows of
night were beginning to fall around us. The sheriff could defer
the dark deed no longer. With no little emotion, and with words
of earnest deprecation, he gave that excellent, heroic, Christian
young lady into the hands of the jailer, and she was led into the
cell of Watkins. So soon as I had heard the bolts of her prison
door turned in the lock, and saw the key taken out, I bowed and
said: 'The deed is done, completely done. It cannot be recalled.
It has passed into the history of our nation and our age.' I went
away with my steadfast friend, George W. Benson, assured that the
legislators of the State had been guilty of a most unrighteous
act, and that Miss Crandall's persecutors had also committed a
great blunder; that they all would have much more reason to be
ashamed of her imprisonment than she or her friends could ever
have.
"The next day we gave the required bonds. Miss Crandall was
released from the cell of the murderer, returned home, and
quietly resumed the duties of her school until she should be
summoned as a culprit into court, there to be tried by the
infamous '_Black Law of Connecticut_.' And, as we expected, so
soon as the evil tidings could be carried in that day, before
Professor Morse had given to Rumor her telegraphic wings, it was
known all over the country and the civilized world, that an
excellent young lady had been imprisoned as a criminal--yes, put
into a murderer's cell--in the State of Connecticut, for opening
a school for the instruction of colored girls. The comments that
were made upon the deed in almost all the newspapers were far
from grateful to the feelings of her persecutors. Even many who,
under the same circumstances, would probably have acted as badly
as Messrs. A. T. Judson & Co., denounced their procedure as
'un-Christian, inhuman, anti-Democratic, base, mean.'
"On the 23d of August, 1833, the first trial of Miss Crandall
was had in Brooklyn, the seat of the county of Windham, Hon.
Joseph Eaton presiding at the county court.
"The prosecution was conducted by Hon. A. T. Judson, Jonathan A.
Welch, Esq., and I. Bulkley, Esq. Miss Crandall's counsel was
Hon. Calvin Goddard, Hon. W. W. Elsworth, and Henry Strong, Esq.
"The judge, somewhat timidly, gave it as his opinion 'that the
law was constitutional and obligatory on the people of the
State.'
"The jury, after an absence of several hours, returned into
court, not having agreed upon a verdict. They were instructed and
sent out again, and again a third time, in vain; they stated to
the judge that there was no probability that they could ever
agree. Seven were for conviction and five for acquittal, so they
were discharged.
"The second trial was on the 3d of October, before Judge Daggett
of the Supreme Court, who was a strenuous advocate of the black
law. His influence with the jury was overpowering, insisting in
an elaborate and able charge that the law was constitutional,
and, without much hesitation, the verdict was given against Miss
Crandall. Her counsel at once filed a bill of exceptions, and
took an appeal to the Court of Errors, which was granted. Before
that, the highest legal tribunal in the State, the cause was
argued on the 22d of July, 1834. Both the Hon. W. W. Elsworth and
the Hon. Calvin Goddard argued with great ability and eloquence
against the constitutionality of the black law. The Hon. A. T.
Judson and Hon. C. F. Cleaveland said all they could to prove
such a law consistent with the _Magna Charta_ of our republic.
The court reserved a decision for some future time; and that
decision was never given, it being evaded by the court finding
such defects in the information prepared by the State's attorney
that it ought to be quashed.
"Soon after this, an attempt was made to set the house of Miss
Crandall on fire, but without effect. The question of her duty to
risk the lives of her pupils against this mode of attack was then
considered, and upon consultation with friends it was concluded
to hold on and bear a little longer, with the hope that this
atrocity of attempting to fire the house, and thus expose the
lives and property of her neighbors, would frighten the
instigators of the persecution, and cause some restraint on the
'baser sort.' But a few nights afterward, about 12 o'clock, being
the night of the 9th of September, her house was assaulted by a
number of persons with heavy clubs and iron bars, and windows
were dashed to pieces. Mr. May was summoned the next morning, and
after consultation it was determined that the school should be
abandoned."
Mr. May thus concluded his account of this event, and of the
enterprise:
"The pupils were called together and I was requested to announce
to them our decision. Never before had I felt so deeply sensible
of the cruelty of the persecution which had been carried on for
eighteen months in that New England village, against a family of
defenseless females. Twenty harmless, well-behaved girls, whose
only offense against the peace of the community was that they had
come together there to obtain useful knowledge and moral culture,
were to be told that they had better go away, because, forsooth,
the house in which they dwelt would not be protected by the
guardians of the town, the conservators of the peace, the
officers of justice, the men of influence in the village where it
was situated. The words almost blistered my lips. My bosom glowed
with indignation. I felt ashamed of Canterbury, ashamed of
Connecticut, ashamed of my country, ashamed of my color."[58]
Thus ended the generous, disinterested, philanthropic Christian
enterprise of Prudence Crandall, but the law under which her
enterprise was defeated was repealed in 1838.
It is to be regretted that Connecticut earned such an unenviable place
in history as this. It seems strange, indeed, that such an occurrence
could take place in the nineteenth century in a free State in a
republic in North America! But such is "the truth of history."
DELAWARE
never passed any law against the instruction of Negroes, but in 1833
passed an act taxing every person who sold a slave out of the State,
or brought one into the State, five dollars, which went into a school
fund for the education of _white children alone_. In 1852, the Revised
Statutes provided for the taxation of all the property of the State
for the support of the schools for _white children_ alone. So, by
implication, Delaware prohibited the education of Colored children.
In 1840, the Friends formed the African School Association in
Wilmington; and under its management two excellent schools, for boys
and girls, were established.
FLORIDA.
On the 28th of December, 1848, an act was passed providing "for the
establishment of common schools." The right to vote at district
meetings was conferred upon every person whose property was liable to
taxation for school purposes; but only white children were allowed
school privileges.
In the same year an act was passed providing that the school funds
should consist of "the proceeds of the school lands," and of all
estates, real or personal, escheating to the State, and "the proceeds
of all property found on the coast or shores of the State." In 1850
the counties were authorized to provide, by taxation, not more than
four dollars for each child within their limits of the proper school
age. In the same year the amount received from the sale of any slave,
under the act of 1829, was required to be added to the school fund.
The common school law was revised in 1853, and the county
commissioners were authorized to add from the county treasury any sum
they thought proper for the support of common schools.[59]
GEORGIA
passed a law in 1770 (copied from S. C. Statutes, passed in 1740),
fixing a fine of £20 for teaching a slave to read or write. In 1829
the Legislature enacted the following law:
"If any slave, negro, or free person of color, or any white
person, shall teach any other slave, negro, or free person of
color to read or write either written or printed characters, the
said free person of color or slave shall be punished by fine and
whipping, or fine or whipping, at the discretion of the court;
and if a white person so offend, he, she, or they shall be
punished with a fine not exceeding $500, and imprisonment in the
common jail at the discretion of the court."
In 1833 the above law was consolidated into a penal code. A penalty of
$100 was provided against persons who employed any slave or free
person of Color to set type or perform any other labor about a
printing-office requiring a knowledge of reading or writing. During
the same year an ordinance was passed in the city of Savannah, "that
if any person shall teach or cause to be taught any slave or free
person of color to read or write within the city, or who shall keep a
school for that purpose, he or she shall be fined in a sum not
exceeding $100 for each and every such offense; and if the offender be
a slave or free person of color, he or she may also be whipped, not
exceeding thirty-nine lashes."
In the summer of 1850 a series of articles by Mr. F. C. Adams appeared
in one of the papers of Savannah, advocating the education of the
Negroes as a means of increasing their value and of attaching them to
their masters. The subject was afterward taken up in the Agricultural
Convention which met at Macon in September of the same year. The
matter was again brought up in September, 1851, in the Agricultural
Convention, and after being debated, a resolution was passed that a
petition be presented to the Legislature for a law granting permission
to educate the slaves. The petition was presented to the Legislature,
and Mr. Harlston introduced a bill in the winter of 1852, which was
discussed and passed in the lower House, to repeal the old law, and to
grant to the masters the privilege of educating their slaves. The bill
was lost in the senate by two or three votes.[60]
ILLINOIS'
school laws contain the word "white" from beginning to end. There is
no prohibition against the education of Colored persons; but there
being no mention of them, is evidence that they were purposely
omitted. Separate schools were established for Colored children before
the war, and a few white schools opened their doors to them. The Free
Mission Institute at Quincy was destroyed by a mob from Missouri in
_ante-bellum_ days, because Colored persons were admitted to the
classes.
INDIANA
denied the right of suffrage to her Negro population in the
constitution of 1851. No provision was made for the education of the
Negro children. And the cruelty of the laws that drove the Negro from
the State, and pursued him while in it, gave the poor people no hope
of peaceful habitation, much less of education.
KENTUCKY
never put herself on record against the education of Negroes. By an
act passed in 1830, all the inhabitants of each school district were
taxed to support a common-school system. The property of Colored
persons was included, but they could not vote or enjoy the privileges
of the schools. And the slave laws were so numerous and cruel that
there was no opportunity left the bondmen in this State to acquire any
knowledge of books even secretly.
LOUISIANA
passed an act in 1830, forbidding free Negroes to enter the State. It
provided also, that whoever should "write, print, publish, or
distribute any thing having a tendency to produce discontent among the
free colored population, or insubordination among the slaves," should,
on conviction thereof, be imprisoned "_at hard labor for life, or
suffer death_, at the discretion of the court." And whoever used
language calculated to produce discontent among the free or slave
population, or was "instrumental in bringing into the State any paper,
book, or pamphlet having such tendency," was to "suffer imprisonment
at hard labor, not less than three years nor more than twenty-one
years, or death, at the discretion of the court." "All persons,"
continues the act, "who shall teach, or permit, or cause to be taught,
any slave to read or write, shall be imprisoned not less than one
month nor more than twelve months."
In 1847, a system of common schools for "the education of white youth
was established." It was provided that "one mill on the dollar, upon
the _ad valorem_ amount of the general list of taxable property,"
should be levied for the support of the schools.
MAINE
gave the elective franchise and ample school privileges to all her
citizens, without regard to race or color, by her constitution of
1820.
MARYLAND
always restricted the right of suffrage to her "white male
inhabitants," and, therefore, always refused to make any provisions
for the education of her Negro population. There is nothing upon her
statute-books prohibiting the instruction of Negroes, but the law that
designates her schools for "white children" is sufficient proof that
Negro children were purposely omitted and excluded from the benefits
of the schools.
St. Frances Academy for Colored girls was founded in connection with
the Oblate Sisters of Providence Convent, in Baltimore, June 5, 1829,
under the hearty approbation of the Most Rev. James Whitfield, D.D.,
the Archbishop of Baltimore at that time, and receiving the sanction
of the Holy See, October 2, 1831. The convent originated with the
French Fathers, who came to Baltimore from San Domingo as refugees, in
the time of the revolution in that island in the latter years of last
century. There were many Colored Catholic refugees who came to
Baltimore during that period, and the French Fathers soon opened
schools there for the benefit of the refugees and other Colored
people. The Colored women who formed the original society which
founded the convent and seminary, were from San Domingo; though they
had, some of them, certainly, been educated in France. The schools
which preceded the organization of the convent were greatly favored
by. Most Rev. Ambrose Marechal, D.D., who was a French Father, and
Archbishop of Baltimore from 1817 to 1828, Archbishop Whitfield being
his successor. The Sisters of Providence is the name of a religious
society of Colored women who renounced the world to consecrate
themselves to the Christian education of Colored girls. The following
extract from the announcement which, under the caption of "Prospectus
of a School for Colored Girls under the Direction of the Sisters of
Providence," appeared in the columns of the "Daily National
Intelligencer," October 25, 1831, shows the spirit in which the school
originated, and at the same time shadows forth the predominating ideas
pertaining to the province of the race at that period.
The prospectus says:
"The object of this institute is one of great importance,
greater, indeed, than might at first appear to those who would
only glance at the advantages which it is calculated to directly
impart to the leading portion of the human race, and through it
to society at large. In fact, these girls will either become
mothers of families or household servants. In the first case the
solid virtues, the religious and moral principles which they may
have acquired in this school will be carefully transferred as a
legacy to their children. Instances of the happy influence which
the example of virtuous parents has on the remotest lineage in
this humble and naturally dutiful class of society are numerous.
As to such as are to be employed as servants, they will be
intrusted with domestic concerns and the care of young children.
How important, then, it will be that these girls shall have
imbibed religious principles, and have been trained up in habits
of modesty, honesty, and integrity."[61]
The Wells School, established by a Colored man by the name of Nelson
Wells, in 1835, gave instruction to free children of color. It was
managed by a board of trustees who applied the income of $7,000 (the
amount left by Mr. Wells) to the support of the school. It
accomplished much good.
MASSACHUSETTS.
A separate school for Colored children was established in Boston, in
1798, and was held in the house of a reputable Colored man named
Primus Hall. The teacher was one Elisha Sylvester, whose salary was
paid by the parents of the children whom he taught. In 1800 sixty-six
Colored citizens presented a petition to the School Committee of
Boston, praying that a school might be established for their benefit.
A sub-committee, to whom the petition had been referred, reported in
favor of granting the prayer, but it was voted down at the next town
meeting. However, the school taught by Mr. Sylvester did not perish.
Two young gentlemen from Harvard University, Messrs. Brown and
Williams, continued the school until 1806. During this year the
Colored Baptists built a church edifice in Belknap Street, and fitted
up the lower room for a school for Colored children. From the house of
Primus Hall the little school was moved to its new quarters in the
Belknap Street church. Here it was continued until 1835, when a
school-house for Colored children was erected and paid for out of a
fund left for the purpose by Abiel Smith, and was subsequently called
"Smith School-house." The authorities of Boston were induced to give
$200.00 as an annual appropriation, and the parents of the children in
attendance paid 12½ cents per week. The school-house was dedicated
with appropriate exercises, Hon. William Minot delivering the
dedicatory address.
The African school in Belknap Street was under the control of the
school committee from 1812 to 1821, and from 1821 was under the charge
of a special sub-committee. Among the teachers was John B. Russworm,
from 1821 to 1824, who entered Bowdoin College in the latter year, and
afterward became governor of the colony of Cape Palmas in Southern
Liberia.
The first primary school for Colored children in Boston was
established in 1820, two or three of which were subsequently kept
until 1855, when they were discontinued as separate schools, in
accordance with the general law passed by the Legislature in that
year, which provided that, "in determining the qualifications of
scholars to be admitted into any public school, or any district school
in this commonwealth, no distinction shall be made on account of the
race, color, or religious opinions of the applicant or scholar." "Any
child, who, on account of his race, color, or religious opinions
should be excluded from any public or district school, if otherwise
qualified," might recover damages in an action of _tort_, brought in
the name of the child in any court of competent jurisdiction, against
the city or town in which the school was located.[62]
MISSISSIPPI
passed an act in 1823 providing against the meeting together of
slaves, free Negroes, or Mulattoes above the number of five. They were
not allowed to meet at any public house in the night; or at any house,
for teaching, reading, or writing, in the day or night. The penalty
for the violation of this law was whipping, "not exceeding
thirty-nine" lashes.
In 1831 an act was passed making it "unlawful for any slave, free
negro, or mulatto to preach the Gospel," upon pain of receiving
thirty-nine lashes upon the naked back of the presumptuous preacher.
If a Negro received written permission from his master he might preach
to the Negroes in his immediate neighborhood, providing six
respectable white men, owners of slaves, were present.
In 1846, and again in 1848, school laws were enacted, but in both
instances schools and education were prescribed for "white youth
between the ages of six and twenty years."
MISSOURI
ordered all free persons of color to move out of the State in 1845. In
1847 an act was passed providing that "no person shall keep or teach
any school for the instruction of negroes or mulattoes in reading or
writing in this State."
NEW YORK
had the courage and patriotism, in 1777, to extend the right of
suffrage to every male inhabitant of full age. But by the revised
constitution, in 1821, this liberal provision was abridged so that
"no man of color, unless he shall have been for three years a citizen
of this State, and for one year next preceding any election, shall be
seized and possessed of a freehold estate of $250 over and above all
debts and encumbrances charged thereon, and shall have been actually
rated and paid a tax thereon, shall be entitled to vote at any such
election. And no person of color shall be subject to direct taxation
unless he shall be seized and possessed of such real estate as
aforesaid." In 1846, and again in 1850, a Constitutional amendment
conferring equal privileges upon the Negroes, was voted down by large
majorities.
A school for Negro slaves was opened in the city of New York in 1704
by Elias Neau, a native of France, and a catechist of the "Society for
the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts." After a long
imprisonment for his public profession of faith as a Protestant, he
founded an asylum in New York. His sympathies were awakened by the
condition of the Negroes in slavery in that city, who numbered about
1,500 at that time. The difficulties of holding any intercourse with
them seemed almost insurmountable. At first he could only visit them
from house to house, after his day's toil was over; afterward he was
permitted to gather them together in a room in his own house for a
short time in the evening. As the result of his instructions at the
end of four years, in 1708, the ordinary number under his instruction
was 200. Many were judged worthy to receive the sacrament at the hands
of Mr. Vesey, the rector of Trinity Church, some of whom became
regular and devout communicants, remarkable for their orderly and
blameless lives.
But soon after this time some Negroes of the Carmantee and Pappa
tribes formed a plot for setting fire to the city and murdering the
English on a certain night. The work was commenced but checked, and
after a short struggle the English subdued the Negroes. Immediately a
loud and angry clamor arose against Elias Neau, his accusers saying
that his school was the cause of the murderous attempt. He denied the
charge in vain; and so furious were the people that, for a time, his
life was in danger. The evidence, however, at the trial proved that
the Negroes most deeply engaged in this plot were those whose masters
were most opposed to any means for their instruction. Yet the offence
of a few was charged upon the race, and even the provincial government
lent its authority to make the burden of Neau the heavier. The common
council passed an order forbidding Negroes "to appear in the streets
after sunset, without lanthorns or candles"; and as they could not
procure these, the result was to break up the labors of Neau. But at
this juncture Governor Hunter interposed, and went to visit the school
of Neau, accompanied by several officers of rank and by the society's
missionaries, and he was so well pleased that he gave his full
approval to the work, and in a public proclamation called upon the
clergy of the province to exhort their congregations to extend their
approval also. Vesey, the good rector of Trinity Church, had long
watched the labors of Neau and witnessed the progress of his scholars,
as well as assisted him in them; and finally the governor, the
council, mayor, recorder, and two chief justices of New York joined in
declaring that Neau "in a very eminent degree deserved the
countenance, favor, and protection of the society." He therefore
continued his labors until 1722, when, "amid the unaffected sorrow of
his negro scholars and the friends who honored him for their sake, he
was removed by death."
The work was then continued by "Huddlestone, then schoolmaster in New
York"; and he was succeeded by Rev. Mr. Wetmore, who removed in 1726
to Rye; whereupon the Rev. Mr. Colgan was appointed to assist the
rector of Trinity Church, and to carry on the instruction of the
Negroes. A few years afterward Thomas Noxon assisted Mr. Colgan, and
their joint success was very satisfactory. Rev. R. Charlton, who had
been engaged in similar labor at New Windsor, was called to New York
in 1732, where he followed up the work successfully for fifteen years,
and was succeeded by Rev. Samuel Auchmuty. Upon the death of Thomas
Noxon, in 1741, Mr. Hildreth took his place, who, in 1764, wrote that
"not a single black admitted by him to the holy communion had turned
out badly, or in any way disgraced his profession." Both Auchmuty and
Hildreth received valuable support from Mr. Barclay, who, upon the
death of Mr. Vesey, in 1746, had been appointed to the rectory of
Trinity Church.
The frequent kidnapping of free persons of color excited public alarm
and resulted in the formation of "The New York Society for Promoting
the Manumission of Slaves, and Protecting such of them as have been or
may be Liberated." These are the names of the gentlemen who organized
the society, and became the board of trustees of the "_New York
African Free School_":
Melancthon Smith, Jno. Bleeker, James Cogswell, Lawrence Embree,
Thomas Burling, Willett Leaman, Jno. Lawrence, Jacob Leaman, White
Mattock, Mathew Clarkson, Nathaniel Lawrence, Jno. Murray, Jr.
Their school, located in Cliff Street, between Beekman and Ferry, was
opened in 1786, taught by Cornelius Davis, attended by about forty
pupils of both sexes, and appears, from their book of minutes, to have
been satisfactorily conducted. In the year 1791 a female teacher was
added to instruct the girls in needle-work, the expected advantages of
which measure were soon realized and highly gratifying to the society.
In 1808 the society was incorporated, and in the preamble it is
recorded that "a free school for the education of such persons as have
been liberated from bondage, that they may hereafter become useful
members of the community," has been established. It may be proper here
to remark that the good cause in which the friends of this school were
engaged, was far from being a popular one. The prejudices of a large
portion of the community were against it; the means in the hands of
the trustees were often very inadequate, and many seasons of
discouragement were witnessed; but they were met by men who, trusting
in the Divine support, were resolved neither to relax their exertions
nor to retire from the field.
Through the space of about twenty years they struggled on; the number
of scholars varying from forty to sixty, until the year 1809, when the
Lancasterian, or monitorial, system of instruction was introduced
(this being the second school in the United States to adopt the plan),
under a new teacher, E. J. Cox, and a very favorable change was
produced, the number of pupils, and the efficiency of their
instruction being largely increased.
Soon after this, however, in January, 1814, their school-house was
destroyed by fire, which checked the progress of the school for a
time, as no room could be obtained large enough to accommodate the
whole number of pupils. A small room in Doyer Street was temporarily
hired, to keep the school together till further arrangements could be
made, and an appeal was made to the liberality of the citizens and to
the corporation of the city, which resulted in obtaining from the
latter a grant of two lots of ground in William. Street, on which to
build a new school-house; and in January, 1815, a commodious brick
building, to accommodate 200 pupils, was finished on this lot, and
the school was resumed with fresh vigor and increasing interest. In a
few months the room became so crowded that it was found necessary to
engage a separate room, next to the school, to accommodate such of the
pupils as were to be taught sewing. This branch had been for many
years discontinued, but was now resumed under the direction of Miss
Lucy Turpen, a young lady whose amiable disposition and faithful
discharge of her duties rendered her greatly esteemed both by her
pupils and the trustees. This young lady, after serving the board for
several years, removed with her parents to Ohio, and her place was
supplied by Miss Mary Lincrum, who was succeeded by Miss Eliza J. Cox,
and the latter by Miss Mary Ann Cox, and she by Miss Carolina Roe,
under each of whom the school continued to sustain a high character
for order and usefulness.
The school in William Street increasing in numbers, another building
was found necessary, and was built on a lot of ground 50 by 100 feet
square, on Mulberry Street, between Grand and Hester streets, to
accommodate five hundred pupils, and was completed and occupied, with
C. C. Andrews for teacher, in May, 1820.
General Lafayette visited this school September 10, 1824, an abridged
account of which is copied from the "Commercial Advertiser" of that
date:
VISIT OF LAFAYETTE TO THE AFRICAN SCHOOL IN 1824.
"At 1 o'clock the general, with the company invited for the
occasion, visited the African free school, on Mulberry Street.
This school embraces about 500 scholars; about 450 were present
on this occasion, and they are certainly the best disciplined and
most interesting school of children we have ever witnessed. As
the general was conducted to a seat, Mr. Ketchum adverted to the
fact that as long ago as 1788 the general had been elected a
member of the institution (Manumission Society) at the same time
with Granville Sharp and Thomas Clarkson, of England. The general
perfectly remembered the circumstances, and mentioned
particularly the letter he had received on that occasion from the
Hon. John Jay, then president of the society. One of the pupils,
Master James M. Smith, aged eleven years, then stepped forward
and gracefully delivered the following address:
"'GENERAL LAFAYETTE: In behalf of myself and fellow-schoolmates
may I be permitted to express our sincere and respectful
gratitude to you for the condescension you have manifested this
day in visiting this institution, which is one of the noblest
specimens of New York philanthropy. Here, sir, you behold
hundreds of the poor children of Africa sharing with those of a
lighter hue in the blessings of education; and while it will be
our pleasure to remember the great deeds you have done for
America, it will be our delight also to cherish the memory of
General Lafayette as a friend to African emancipation, and as a
member of this institution.'
"To which the general replied, in his own characteristic style,
'I thank you, my dear child.'
"Several of the pupils underwent short examinations, and one of
them explained the use of the globes and answered many questions
in geography."
PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOR COLORED CHILDREN.
These schools continued to flourish under the same management, and
with an attendance varying from 600 in 1824 to 862 in 1832, in the
latter part of which year the Manumission Society, whose schools were
not in part supported by the public fund, applied to the Public School
Society for a committee of conference to effect a union. It was felt
by the trustees that on many accounts it was better that the two sets
of schools should remain separate, but, fearing further diversion of
the school fund, it was desirable that the number of societies
participating should be as small as possible, and arrangements were
accordingly made for a transfer of the schools and property of the
elder society. After some delay, in consequence of legislative action
being found necessary to give a title to their real estate, on the 2d
of May, 1834, the transfer was effected, all their schools and school
property passing into the hands of the New York Public School Society,
at an appraised valuation of $12,130.22.
The aggregate register of these schools at the time of the transfer
was nearly 1,400, with an average attendance of about one half that
number. They were placed in charge of a committee with powers similar
to the committee on primary schools, but their administration was not
satisfactory, and it was soon found that the schools had greatly
diminished in numbers, efficiency, and usefulness. A committee of
inquiry was appointed, and reported that, in consequence of the great
anti-slavery riots and attacks on Colored people, many families had
removed from the city, and of those that remained many kept their
children at home; they knew the Manumission Society as their special
friends, but knew nothing of the Public School Society; the reduction
of all the schools but one to the grade of primary had given great
offence; also the discharge of teachers long employed, and the
discontinuance of rewards, and taking home of spelling books; strong
prejudices had grown up against the Public School Society. The
committee recommended a prompt assimilation of the Colored schools to
the white; the establishment of two or more upper schools in a new
building; a normal school for Colored monitors; and the appointment of
a Colored man as school agent, at $150 a year. The school on Mulberry
Street at this time, 1835, was designated Colored Grammar School No.
1. A. Libolt was principal, and registered 317 pupils; there were also
six primaries, located in different parts of the city, with an
aggregate attendance of 925 pupils.
In 1836 a new school building was completed in Laurens Street, opened
with 210 pupils, R. F. Wake (colored), principal, and was designated
Colored Grammar School No. 2. Other means were taken to improve the
schools, and to induce the Colored people to patronize them; the
principal of No. 1, Mr. Libolt, was replaced by Mr. John Peterson,
colored, a sufficient assurance of whose ability and success we have
in the fact that he has been continued in the position ever since. A
"Society for the Promotion of Education among Colored Children" was
organized, and established two additional schools, one in Thomas
Street, and one in Centre, and a marked improvement was manifest; but
it required a long time to restore the confidence and interest felt
before the transfer, and even up to 1848 the aggregate attendance in
all the Colored schools was only 1,375 pupils.
In the winter of 1852 the first evening schools for Colored pupils
were opened; one for males and one for females, and were attended by
379 pupils. In the year 1853 the Colored schools, with all the schools
and school property of the Public School Society, were transferred to
the "Board of Education of the City and County of New York," and still
further improvements were made in them; a normal school for Colored
teachers was established, with Mr. John Peterson, principal, and the
schools were graded in the same manner as those for white children.
Colored Grammar School No. 3, was opened at 78 West Fortieth Street,
Miss Caroline W. Simpson, principal, and in the ensuing year three
others were added; No. 4 in One Hundred and Twentieth Street (Harlem),
Miss Nancy Thompson, principal; No. 5, at 101 Hudson Street, P. W.
Williams, principal; and No. 6, at 1,167 Broadway, Prince Leveridge,
principal. Grammar Schools Nos. 2, 3, and 4, had primary departments
attached, and there were also at this time three separate primary
schools, and the aggregate attendance in all was 2,047. Since then the
attendance in these schools has not varied much from these figures.
The schools themselves have been altered and modified from time to
time, as their necessity seemed to indicate; though under the general
management of the Board of Education, they have been in the care of
the school officers of the wards in which they are located, and while
in some cases they received the proper attention, in others they were
either wholly, or in part, neglected. A recent act has placed them
directly in charge of the Board of Education, who have appointed a
special committee to look after their interests, and measures are
being taken by them which will give this class of schools every
opportunity and convenience possessed by any other, and, it is hoped,
will also improve the grade of its scholarship.[63]
NORTH CAROLINA
suffered her free persons of color to maintain schools until 1835,
when they were abolished by law. During the period referred to, the
Colored schools were taught by white teachers, but after 1835 the few
teachers who taught Colored children in private houses were Colored
persons. The public-school system of North Carolina provided that no
descendant from Negro ancestors, to the fourth generation inclusive,
should enjoy the benefit thereof.
OHIO.
The first schools for Colored children in Ohio were established at
Cincinnati in 1820, by Colored men. These schools were not kept up
regularly. A white gentleman named Wing, who taught a night school
near the corner of Vine and Sixth Streets, admitted Colored pupils
into his school. Owen T. B. Nickens, a public-spirited and intelligent
Colored man, did much to establish schools for the Colored people.
In 1835 a school for Colored children was opened in the Baptist Church
on Western Row. It was taught at different periods by Messrs. Barbour,
E. Fairchild, W. Robinson, and Augustus Wattles; and by the
following-named ladies: Misses Bishop, Matthews, Lowe, and Mrs.
Merrell. Although excellent teachers as well as upright ladies and
gentlemen, they were subjected to great persecutions. They were unable
to secure board, because the spirit of the whites would not
countenance the teachers of Negro schools, and they spelled the word
with two g's. And at times the teachers were compelled to close the
school on account of the violence of the populace. The salaries of the
teachers were paid partly by an educational society of white
philanthropists, and partly by such Colored persons as had means. Of
the latter class were John Woodson, John Liverpool, Baker Jones,
Dinnis Hill, Joseph Fowler, and William O'Hara.
In 1844, the Rev. Hiram S. Gilmore, founded the "Cincinnati High
School" for Colored youth. Mr. Gilmore was a man rich in sentiments of
humanity, and endowed plenteously with executive ability and this
world's goods. All these he consecrated to the elevation and education
of the Colored people.
This school-house was located at the east end of Harrison Street, and
was in every sense a model building, comprising five rooms, a chapel,
a gymnasium, and spacious grounds. The pupils increased yearly, and
the character of the school made many friends for the cause. The
following persons taught in this school: Joseph H. Moore, Thomas L.
Boucher, David P. Lowe, Dr. A. L. Childs, and W. F. Colburn. Dr.
Childs became principal of the school in 1848.
In 1849, the Legislature passed an act establishing schools for
Colored children, to be maintained at the public expense. In 1850, a
board of Colored trustees was elected, teachers employed, and
buildings hired. The schools were put in operation. The law of 1849
provided that so much of the funds belonging to the city of Cincinnati
as would fall to the Colored youth, by a _per capita_ division, should
be held subject to the order of the Colored trustees. But their order
was not honored by the city treasurer, upon the ground that under the
constitution of the State only electors could hold office; that
Colored men were not electors, and, therefore, could not hold office.
After three months the Colored schools were closed, and the teachers
went out without their salaries.
John I. Gaines, an intelligent and fearless Colored leader, made a
statement of the case to a public meeting of the Colored people of
Cincinnati, and urged the employment of counsel to try the case in
the courts. Money was raised, and Flamen Ball, Sr., was secured to
make an application for _mandamus_. The case was finally carried to
the Supreme Court and won by the Colored people.
In 1851, the schools were opened again; but the rooms were small and
wretchedly appointed, and the trustees unable to provide better ones.
Without notice the Colored trustees were deposed. The management of
the Colored schools was vested in a board of trustees and school
visitors, who were also in charge of the schools for the white
children. This board, under a new law, had authority to appoint six
Colored men who were to manage the Colored schools with the exception
of the school fund. This greatly angered the leading Colored men, and,
therefore, they refused to endorse this new management.
The law was altered in 1856, giving the Colored people the right to
elect, by ballot, their own trustees.
In 1858, Nicholas Longworth built the first school-house for the
Colored people, and gave them the building on a lease of fourteen
years, in which time they were to pay for it--$14,000. In 1859, a
large building was erected on Court Street.
Oberlin College opened its doors to Colored students from the moment
of its existence in 1833, and they have never been closed at any time
since. It was here that the incomparable Finney, with the fierceness
of John Baptist, the gentleness of John the Evangelist, the logic of
Paul, and the eloquence of Isaiah, pleaded the cause of the American
slave, and gave instruction to all who sat at his feet regardless of
color or race. George B. Vashon, William Howard Day, John Mercer
Langston, and many other Colored men graduated from Oberlin College
before any of the other leading colleges of the country had consented
to give Colored men a classical education.
PENNSYLVANIA.
Anthony Benezet established, in 1750, the first school for Colored
people in this State, and taught it himself without money and without
price. He solicited funds for the erection of a school-house for the
Colored children, and of their intellectual capacities said: "I can
with truth and sincerity declare that I have found among the negroes
as great variety of talents as among a like number of whites, and I am
bold to assert that the notion entertained by some, that the blacks
are inferior in their capacity, is a vulgar prejudice, founded on the
pride or ignorance of their lordly masters, who have kept their slaves
at such a distance as to be unable to form a right judgment of them."
He died on the 3d of May, 1784, universally beloved and sincerely
mourned, especially by the Negro population of Pennsylvania, for whose
education he had done so much. The following clause in his will
illustrates his character in respect to public instruction:
"I give my above said house and lot, or ground-rent proceeding
from it, and the rest and residue of my estate which shall remain
undisposed of after my wife's decease, both real and personal, to
the public school of Philadelphia, founded by charter, and to
their successors forever, in trust, that they shall sell my house
and lot on perpetual ground-rent forever, if the same be not
already sold by my executors, as before mentioned, and that as
speedily as may be they receive and take as much of my personal
estate as may be remaining, and therewith purchase a yearly
ground-rent, or ground-rents, and with the income of such
ground-rent proceeding from the sale of my real estate, hire and
employ a religious-minded person, or persons, to teach a number
of negro, mulatto, or Indian children to read, write, arithmetic,
plain accounts, needle-work, etc. And it is my particular desire,
founded on the experience I have had in that service, that in the
choice of such tutors, special care may be had to prefer an
industrious, careful person of true piety, who may be or become
suitably qualified, who would undertake the service from a
principle of charity, to one more highly learned, not equally
disposed; this I desire may be carefully attended to, sensible
that from the number of pupils of all ages, the irregularity of
attendance their situation subjects them to will not admit of
that particular inspection in their improvement usual in other
schools, but that the real well-doing of the scholars will very
much depend upon the master making a special conscience of doing
his duty; and shall likewise defray such other necessary expense
as may occur in that service; and as the said remaining income of
my estate, after my wife's decease, will not be sufficient to
defray the whole expense necessary for the support of such a
school, it is my request that the overseers of the said public
school shall join in the care and expense of such school, or
schools, for the education of negro, mulatto, or Indian children,
with any committee which may be appointed by the monthly meetings
of Friends in Philadelphia, or with any other body of benevolent
persons who may join in raising money and employing it for the
education and care of such children; my desire being that as
such a school is now set up, it may be forever maintained in this
city."
Just before his death he addressed the following note to the
"overseers of the school for the instruction of the black people."
"My friend, Joseph Clark, having frequently observed to me his
desire, in case of my inability of continuing the care of the
negro school, of succeeding me in that service, notwithstanding
he now has a more advantageous school, by the desire of doing
good to the black people makes him overlook these pecuniary
advantages, I much wish the overseers of the school would take
his desires under their peculiar notice and give him such due
encouragement as may be proper, it being a matter of the greatest
consequence to that school that the master be a person who makes
it a principle to do his duty."
The noble friends were early in the field as the champions of
education for the Negroes. It was Anthony Benezet, who, on the 26th of
January, 1770, secured the appointment of a committee by the monthly
meeting of the Friends, "to consider on the instruction of negro and
mulatto children in reading, writing, and other useful learning
suitable to their capacity and circumstances." On the 30th of May,
1770, a special committee of Friends sought to employ an instructor
"to teach, not more at one time than thirty children, in the first
rudiments of school learning and in sewing and knitting." Moles
Paterson was first employed at a salary of £80 a year, and an
additional sum of £11 for one half of the rent of his dwelling-house.
Instruction was free to the poor; but those who were able to pay were
required to do so "at the rate of 10s. a quarter for those who write,
and 7s. 6d. for others."
In 1784, William Waring was placed in charge of the larger children,
at a salary of £100; and Sarah Dougherty, of the younger children and
girls, in teaching spelling, reading, sewing, etc., at a salary of
£50. In 1787, aid was received from David Barclay, of London, in
behalf of a committee for managing a donation for the relief of
Friends in America; and the sum of £500 was thus obtained, which, with
the fund derived from the estate of Benezet, and £300 from Thomas
Shirley, a Colored man, was appropriated to the erection of a
school-house. In 1819 a committee of "women Friends," to have
exclusive charge of the admission of girls and the general
superintendence of the girls' school, was associated with the
overseers in the charge of the school. In 1830, in order to relieve
the day school of some of the male adults who had been in the habit of
attending, an evening school for the purpose of instructing such
persons gratuitously was opened, and has been continued to the present
time. In 1844, a lot was secured on Locust Street, extending along
Shield's Alley, now Aurora Street, on which a new house was erected in
1847, the expense of which was paid for in part from the proceeds of
the sale of a lot bequeathed by John Pemberton. Additional
accommodations were made to this building, from time to time, as room
was demanded by new classes of pupils.
In 1849, a statistical return of the condition of the people of color
in the city and districts of Philadelphia shows that there were then
one grammar school, with 463 pupils; two public primary schools, with
339; and an infant school, under the charge of the Pennsylvania
Abolition Society, of 70 pupils, in Clifton Street: a ragged and a
moral-reform school, with 81 pupils. In West Philadelphia there was
also a public school, with 67 pupils; and, in all, there were about 20
private schools, with 300 pupils; making an aggregate of more than
1,300 children receiving an education.
In 1859, according to Bacon's "Statistics of the Colored People of
Philadelphia," there were 1,031 Colored children in public schools,
748 in charity schools of various kinds, 211 in benevolent and
reformatory schools, and 331 in private schools, making an aggregate
of 2,321 pupils; besides four evening schools, one for adult males,
one for females, and one for young apprentices. There were 19
Sunday-schools connected with the congregations of the Colored people,
and conducted by their own teachers, containing 1,667 pupils, and four
Sunday-schools gathered as mission schools by members of white
congregations, with 215 pupils. There was also a "Public Library and
Reading-room" connected with the "Institute for Colored Youth,"
established in 1853, having about 1,300 volumes; besides three other
small libraries in different parts of the city. The same pamphlet
shows that there were 1,700 of the Colored population engaged in
different trades and occupations, representing every department of
industry.[64]
In 1794, the Pennsylvania Abolition Society established a school for
children of the people of color, and in 1809 erected a school building
at a cost of four thousand dollars, which they designated as "Clarkson
Hall," in 1815. In 1813, a board of education was organized consisting
of thirteen persons, with a visiting committee of three, whose duty it
was to visit the schools once each week. In 1818, the school board, in
their report, speak very kindly and encouragingly of the Clarkson
Schools, which, they say, "furnish a decided refutation of the charge
that the mental endowments of the descendants of Africa are inferior
to those possessed by their white brethren. We can assert, without
fear of contradiction, that the pupils of this seminary will sustain a
fair comparison with those of any other institution in which the same
elementary branches are taught."
In 1820, an effort was made to have the authorities of the white
schools provide for the education of the Colored children as well as
the whites, because the laws of the State required the education of
all the youth. The comptrollers of the public schools confessed that
the law provided for the education of "poor and indigent children,"
and that it extended to those of persons of color. Accordingly, in
1822, a school for the education of indigent persons of color of both
sexes, was opened in Lombard Street, Philadelphia. In 1841, a primary
school was opened in the same building. In 1833, the "Unclassified
School" in Coates Street, and at frequent intervals after this several
schools of the same grade, were started in West Philadelphia.
In 1837, by the will of Richard Humphreys, who died in 1832, an
"Institute for Colored Youth" was started. The sum of ten thousand
dollars was devised to certain trustees who were to pay it over to
some society that might be disposed to establish a school for the
education of the "descendants of the African race in school learning
in the various branches of the mechanic arts and trade, and in
agriculture." Thirty members of the society of Friends formed
themselves into an association for the purpose of carrying out the
wishes and plans of Mr. Humphreys. In the preamble of the constitution
they adopted, their ideas and plans were thus set forth:
"We believe that the most successful method of elevating the
moral and intellectual character of the descendants of Africa, as
well as of improving their social condition, is to extend to them
the benefits of a good education, and to instruct them in the
knowledge of some useful trade or business, whereby they may be
enabled to obtain a comfortable livelihood by their own industry;
and through these means to prepare them for fulfilling the
various duties of domestic and social life with reputation and
fidelity, as good citizens and pious men."
In order to carry out the feature of agricultural and mechanic arts,
the association purchased a farm in Bristol township, Philadelphia
County, in 1839, where boys of the Colored race were taught farming,
shoemaking, and other useful trades. The incorporation of the
institution was secured in 1842, and in 1844 another friend
dying--Jonathan Zane--added a handsome sum to the treasury, which,
with several small legacies, made $18,000 for this enterprise. But in
1846 the work came to a standstill; the farm with its equipments was
sold, and for six years very little was done, except through a night
school.
In 1851, a lot for a school building was purchased on Lombard Street,
and a building erected, and the school opened in the autumn of 1852,
for boys, under the care of Charles L. Reason, an accomplished young
Colored teacher from New York. A girls' school was opened the same
year, and, under Mr. Reason's excellent instruction, many worthy and
competent teachers and leaders of the Negro race came forth.
Avery College, at Allegheny City, was founded by the Rev. Charles
Avery, a native of New York, but for the greater part of a long and
useful life adorned by the noblest virtues, a resident of
Pennsylvania. By will he left $300,000 for the christianization of the
African race; $150,000 to be used in Africa, and $150,000 in America.
He left $25,000 as an endowment fund for Avery College.
At a stated meeting during the session of the Presbytery at New
Castle, Pa., October 5, 1853, it was resolved that "there shall be
established within our bounds, and under our supervision, an
institution, to be called the Ashum Institute, for the scientific,
classical, and theological education of colored youth of the male
sex."
Accordingly, J. M. Dickey, A. Hamilton, R. P. Dubois, ministers; and
Samuel J. Dickey and John M. Kelton, ruling elders, were appointed a
committee to perfect the idea. They were to solicit and receive funds,
secure a charter from the State of Pennsylvania, and erect suitable
buildings for the institute. On the 14th of November, 1853, they
purchased thirty acres of land at the cost of $1,250. At the session
of the Legislature in 1854, a charter was granted establishing "at or
near a place called Hinsonville, in the county of Chester, an
institution of learning for the scientific, classical, and theological
education of colored youth of the male sex, by the name and style of
Ashum Institute." The trustees were John M. Dickey, Alfred Hamilton,
Robert P. Dubois, James Latta, John B. Spottswood, James M. Crowell,
Samuel J. Dickey, John M. Kelton, and William Wilson.
By the provisions of the charter the trustees were empowered "to
procure the endowment of the institute, not exceeding the sum of
$100,000; to confer such literary degrees and academic honors as are
usually granted by colleges"; and it was required that "the institute
shall be open to the admission of colored pupils of the male sex, of
all religious denominations, who exhibit a fair moral character, and
are willing to yield a ready obedience to the general regulations
prescribed for the conduct of the pupils and the government of the
institute."
The institute was formally dedicated on the 31st of December, 1856. It
is now known as Lincoln University.
RHODE ISLAND
conferred the right of elective franchise upon her Colored citizens by
her constitution in 1843, and ever since equal privileges have been
afforded them. In 1828 the Colored people of Providence petitioned for
a separate school, but it was finally abolished by an act of the
Legislature.
SOUTH CAROLINA
took the lead in legislating against the instruction of the Colored
race, as she subsequently took the lead in seceding from the Union. In
1740, while yet a British province, the Legislature passed the
following law:
"Whereas the having of slaves taught to write, or suffering them
to be employed in writing, may be attended with inconveniences,
_Be it enacted_, That all and every person and persons
whatsoever, who shall hereafter teach, or cause any slave or
slaves to be taught, or shall use or employ any slave as a scribe
in any manner of writing whatever, hereafter taught to write,
every such person or persons shall for every such offense forfeit
the sum of £100 current money."
In 1800 the State Assembly passed an act, embracing free Colored
people as well as slaves in its shameful provisions, enacting "that
assemblies of slaves, free negroes, mulattoes, and mestizoes, whether
composed of all or any such description of persons, or of all or any
of the same and a proportion of white persons, met together for the
purpose of _mental_ instruction in a confined or secret place, or with
the gates or doors of such place barred, bolted, or locked, so as to
prevent the free ingress to and from the same," are declared to be
unlawful meetings; the officers dispersing such unlawful assemblages
being authorized to "inflict such corporal punishment, not exceeding
twenty lashes, upon such slaves, free negroes, mulattoes, and
mestizoes, as they may judge necessary for deterring them from the
like unlawful assemblage in future." Another section of the same act
declares, "that it shall not be lawful for any number of slaves, free
negroes, mulattoes, or mestizoes, even in company with white persons,
to meet together and assemble for the purpose of mental instruction or
religious worship before the rising of the sun or after the going down
of the same." This section was so oppressive, that in 1803, in answer
to petitions from certain religious societies, an amending act was
passed forbidding any person before 9 o'clock in the evening "to break
into a place of meeting wherever shall be assembled the members of any
religious society of the State, provided a majority of them shall be
white persons, or other to disturb their devotions unless a warrant
has been procured from a magistrate, if at the time of the meeting
there should be a magistrate within three miles of the place; if not,
the act of 1800 is to remain in full force."
On the 17th of December, 1834, definite action was taken against the
education of free Colored persons as well as slaves. The first section
is given:
"SECTION 1. If any person shall hereafter teach any slave to read
or write, or shall aid or assist in teaching any slave to read or
write, or cause or procure any slave to be taught to read or
write, such person, if a free white person, upon conviction
thereof shall, for each and every offense against, this act, be
fined not exceeding $100 and imprisonment not more than six
months; or, if a free person of color, shall be whipped not
exceeding fifty lashes, and fined not exceeding $50, at the
discretion of the court of magistrates and freeholders before
which such free person of color is tried; and if a slave, to be
whipped, at the discretion of the court, not exceeding fifty
lashes, the informer to be entitled to one-half the fine and to
be a competent witness. And if any free person of color or slave
shall keep any school or other place of instruction for teaching
any slave or free person of color to read or write, such free
person of color or slave shall be liable to the same fine,
imprisonment, and corporal punishment as by this act are imposed
and inflicted on free persons of color and slaves for teaching
slaves to write."
The second section forbids, under pain of severe penalties, the
employment of any Colored persons as "clerks or salesmen in or about
any shop, store, or house used for trading."
TENNESSEE
passed a law in 1838 establishing a system of common schools by which
the scholars were designated as "white children over the age of six
years and under sixteen." In 1840 an act was passed in which no
discrimination against color appeared. It simply provided that "all
children between the ages of six and twenty-one years shall have the
privilege of attending the public schools." And while there was never
afterward any law prohibiting the education of Colored children, the
schools were used exclusively by the whites.
TEXAS
never put any legislation on her statute-books withholding the
blessings of the schools from the Negro, for the reason, doubtless,
that she banished all free persons of color, and worked her slaves so
hard that they had no hunger for books when night came.
VIRGINIA,
under Sir William Berkeley, was not a strong patron of education for
the masses. For the slave there was little opportunity to learn, as he
was only allowed part of Saturday to rest, and kept under the closest
surveillance on the Sabbath day. The free persons of color were
regarded with suspicion, and little chance was given them to cultivate
their minds.
On the 2d of March, 1819, an act was passed prohibiting "all meetings
or assemblages of slaves, or free negroes, or mulattoes, mixing and
associating with such slaves, at any meeting-house or houses, or any
other place or places, in the night, or at any school or schools for
teaching them reading and writing either in the day or night." But
notwithstanding this law, schools for free persons of color were kept
up until the Nat. Turner insurrection in 1831, when, on the 7th of
April following, the subjoined act was passed:
"SEC. 4. _And be it enacted_, That all meetings of free negroes
or mulattoes at any school-house, church, meeting-house, or other
place, for teaching them reading or writing, either in the day or
night, under whatsoever pretext, shall be deemed and considered
an unlawful assembly; and any justice of the county or
corporation wherein such assemblage shall be, either from his own
knowledge, or on the information of others of such unlawful
assemblage or meeting, shall issue his warrant directed to any
sworn officer or officers, authorizing him or them to enter the
house or houses where such unlawful assemblage or meeting may be,
for the purpose of apprehending or dispersing such free negroes
or mulattoes, and to inflict corporal punishment on the offender
or offenders, at the discretion of any justice of the peace, not
exceeding 26 lashes.
"SEC. 5. _And be it enacted_, That if any person or persons
assemble with free negroes or mulattoes at any school-house,
church, meeting-house, or other place, for the purpose of
instructing such free negroes or mulattoes to read or write, such
persons or persons shall, on conviction thereof, be fined in a
sum not exceeding $50, and, moreover, may be imprisoned, at the
discretion of a jury, not exceeding two months.
"SEC. 6. _And be it enacted_, That if any white person, for pay
or compensation, shall assemble with any slaves for the purpose
of teaching, and shall teach any slave to read or write, such
person, or any white person or persons contracting with such
teacher so to act, who shall offend as aforesaid, shall, for each
offense, be fined, at the discretion of a jury, in a sum not less
than $10, nor exceeding $100, to be recovered on an information
or indictment."
This law was rigidly enforced, and in 1851, Mrs. Margaret Douglass, a
white lady from South Carolina, was cast into the Norfolk jail for
violating its provisions.
West Virginia was not admitted into the Union until 1863. Wisconsin,
Vermont, New Hampshire, and New Jersey did not prohibit the education
of their Colored children.
THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
presents a more pleasing and instructive field for the examination of
the curious student of history.
In 1807, the first school-house for the use of Colored pupils was
erected in Washington, D. C., by three Colored men, named George Bell,
Nicholas Franklin, and Moses Liverpool. Not one of this trio of Negro
educators knew a letter of the alphabet; but having lived as slaves in
Virginia, they had learned to appreciate the opinion that learning was
of great price. They secured a white teacher, named Lowe, and put
their school in operation.
At this time the entire population of free persons amounted to 494
souls. After a brief period the school subsided, but was reorganized
again in 1818. The announcement of the opening of the school was
printed in the "National Intelligencer" on the 29th of August, 1818.
"_A School_,
Founded by an association of free people of color, of the city of
Washington, called the 'Resolute Beneficial Society,' situate
near the Eastern Public School and the dwelling of Mrs. Fenwick,
is now open for the reception of children of free people of color
and others, that ladies or gentlemen may think proper to send to
be instructed in reading, writing, arithmetic, English grammar,
or other branches of education apposite to their capacities, by a
steady, active, and experienced teacher, whose attention is
wholly devoted to the purposes described. It is presumed that
free colored families will embrace the advantages thus presented
to them, either by subscribing to the funds of the society, or by
sending their children to the school. An improvement of the
intellect and morals of colored youth being the objects of this
institution, the patronage of benevolent ladies, and gentlemen,
by donation or subscription, is humbly solicited in aid of the
fund, the demands thereon being heavy and the means at present
much too limited. For the satisfaction of the public, the
constitution and articles of association are printed and
published. And to avoid disagreeable occurrences, no writings are
to be done by the teacher for a slave, neither directly nor
indirectly, to serve the purpose of a slave on any account
whatever. Further particulars may be known by applying to any of
the undersigned officers.
"WILLIAM COSTIN, _President_.
"GEORGE HICKS, _Vice-President_.
"JAMES HARRIS, _Secretary_.
"GEORGE BELL, _Treasurer_.
"ARCHIBALD JOHNSON, _Marshal_.
"FRED. LEWIS, _Chairman of the Committee_.
"ISAAC JOHNSON,} _Committee_.
"SCIPIO BEENS, }
"N. B.--An evening school will commence on the premises on the
first Monday of October, and continue throughout the season.
"[Symbol: Right pointing hand.] The managers of Sunday-schools in
the eastern district are thus most dutifully informed that on
Sabbath-days the school-house belonging to this society, if
required for the tuition of colored youth, will be uniformly at
their service.
_August 29, 3t._"
This school was first taught by a Mr. Pierpont, of Massachusetts, a
relative of the poet, and after several years was succeeded by a
Colored man named John Adams, the first teacher of his race in the
District of Columbia. The average attendance of this school was about
sixty-five or seventy.
MR. HENRY POTTER'S SCHOOL.
The third school for Colored children in Washington was established by
Mr. Henry Potter, an Englishman, who opened his school about 1809, in
a brick building which then stood on the southeast corner of F and
Seventh streets, opposite the block where the post-office building now
stands. He continued there for several years and had a large school,
moving subsequently to what was then known as Clark's Row on
Thirteenth Street, west, between G and H streets, north.
MRS. HALL'S SCHOOL.
During this period Mrs. Anne Maria Hall started a school on Capitol
Hill, between the old Capitol and Carroll Row, on First Street, east.
After continuing there with a full school for some ten years, she
moved to a building which stood on what is now the vacant portion of
the Casparis House lot on A Street, close to the Capitol. Some years
later she went to the First Bethel Church, and after a year or two she
moved to a house still standing on E Street, north, between Eleventh
and Twelfth, west, and there taught many years. She was a Colored
woman from Prince George's County, Maryland, and had a respectable
education, which she obtained at schools with white children in
Alexandria. Her husband died early, leaving her with children to
support, and she betook herself to the work of a teacher, which she
loved, and in which, for not less than twenty-five years, she met with
uniform success. Her schools were all quite large, and the many who
remember her as their teacher speak of her with great respect.
MRS. MARY BILLING'S SCHOOL.
Of the early teachers of Colored schools in this district there is no
one whose name is mentioned with more gratitude and respect by the
intelligent Colored residents than that of Mrs. Mary Billing, who
established the first Colored school that was gathered in Georgetown.
She was an English woman; her husband, Joseph Billing, a
cabinet-maker, coming from England in 1800, settled with his family
that year in Washington, and dying in 1807, left his wife with three
children. She was well educated, a capable and good woman, and
immediately commenced teaching to support her family. At first, it is
believed, she was connected with the Corporation School of Georgetown.
It was while in a white school certainly that her attention was
arrested by the wants of the Colored children, whom she was accustomed
to receive into her schools, till the opposition became so marked that
she decided to make her school exclusively Colored. She was a woman of
strong religious convictions, and being English, with none of the
ideas peculiar to slave society, when she saw the peculiar destitution
of the Colored children in the community around her, she resolved to
give her life to the class who seemed most to need her services. She
established a Colored school about 1810, in a brick house still
standing on Dunbarton Street, opposite the Methodist church, between
Congress and High streets, remaining there till the winter of
1820-'21, when she came to Washington and opened a school in the house
on H Street, near the Foundry Church, then owned by Daniel Jones, a
Colored man, and still owned and occupied by a member of that family.
She died in 1826, in the fiftieth year of her age. She continued her
school till failing health, a year or so before her death, compelled
its relinquishment. Her school was always large, it being patronized
in Georgetown as well as afterward by the best Colored families of
Washington, many of whom sent their children to her from Capitol Hill
and the vicinity of the Navy Yard. Most of the better-educated Colored
men and women now living, who were school children in her time,
received the best portion of their education from her, and they all
speak of her with a deep and tender sense of obligation. Henry Potter
succeeded her in the Georgetown school, and after him Mr. Shay, an
Englishman, who subsequently came to Washington and for many years had
a large Colored school in a brick building known as the Round Tops, in
the western part of the city, near the Circle, and still later
removing to the old Western Academy building, corner of I and
Seventeenth streets. He was there till about 1830, when he was
convicted of assisting a slave to his freedom, and sent a term to the
penitentiary. Mrs. Billing had a night school in which she was greatly
assisted by Mr. Monroe, a government clerk and a Presbyterian elder,
whose devout and benevolent character is still remembered in the
churches. Mrs. Billing had scholars from Bladensburg and the
surrounding country, who came into Georgetown and boarded with her and
with others. About the time when Mrs. Billing relinquished her school
in 1822 or 1823, what may be properly called
THE SMOTHERS SCHOOL-HOUSE,
was built by Henry Smothers on the corner of Fourteenth and H streets,
not far from the Treasury building. Smothers had a small
dwelling-house on this corner, and built his school-house on the rear
of the same lot. He had been long a pupil of Mrs. Billing, and had
subsequently taught a school on Washington Street, opposite the Union
Hotel in Georgetown. He opened his school in Washington in the old
corporation school-house, built in 1806, but some years before this
period abandoned as a public school-house. It was known as the Western
Academy, and is still standing and used as a school-house on the
corner of I and Nineteenth streets, west. When his school-house on
Fourteenth and H streets was finished, his school went into the new
quarters. This school was very large, numbering always more than a
hundred and often as high as a hundred and fifty scholars. He taught
here about two years, and was succeeded by John W. Prout about the
year 1825. Prout was a man of ability. In 1831, May 4, there was a
meeting, says the "National Intelligencer" of that date, of "the
colored citizens, large and very respectable, in the African Methodist
Episcopal Church," to consider the question of emigrating to Liberia.
John W. Prout was chosen to preside over the assemblage, and the
article in the "Intelligencer" represents him as making "a speech of
decided force and well adapted to the occasion, in support of a set of
resolutions which he had drafted, and which set forth views adverse to
leaving the soil that had given them birth, their true and veritable
home, _without the benefits of education_." The school under Prout was
governed by a board of trustees and was organized as
A FREE SCHOOL,
and so continued two or three years. The number of scholars was very
large, averaging a hundred and fifty. Mrs. Anne Maria Hall was the
assistant teacher. It relied mainly for support upon subscription,
twelve and a half cents a month only being expected from each pupil,
and this amount was not compulsory. The school was free to all Colored
children, without money or price, and so continued two or three years,
when failing of voluntary pecuniary support (it never wanted
scholars), it became a regular tuition school. The school under Mr.
Prout was called the "Columbian Institute," the name being suggested
by John McLeod, the famous Irish school-master, who was a warm friend
of this institution after visiting and commending the scholars and
teachers, and who named his new building, in 1835, the Columbian
Academy. The days of thick darkness to the Colored people were
approaching. The Nat. Turner insurrection in Southampton County,
Virginia, which occurred in August, 1831, spread terror everywhere in
slave communities. In this district, immediately upon that terrible
occurrence, the Colored children, who had in very large numbers been
received into the Sabbath-schools in the white churches, were all
turned out of those schools. This event, though seeming to be a fiery
affliction, proved a blessing in disguise. It aroused the energies of
the Colored people, taught them self-reliance, and they organized
forthwith Sabbath-schools of their own. It was in the Smothers
school-house that they formed their first Sunday-school, about the
year 1832, and here they continued their very large school for several
years, the Fifteenth Street Presbyterian Church ultimately springing
from the school organization. It is important to state in this
connection that
THE SUNDAY-SCHOOL,
always an extremely important means of education for Colored people in
the days of slavery, was emphatically so in the gloomy times now upon
them. It was the Sabbath-school that taught the great mass of the free
people of color about all the school knowledge that was allowed them
in those days, and hence the consternation which came upon them when
they found themselves excluded from the schools of the white churches.
Lindsay Muse, who has been the messenger for eighteen Secretaries of
the Navy, successively, during fifty-four years, from 1828 to the
present time, John Brown, Benjamin M. McCoy, Mr. Smallwood, Mrs.
Charlotte Norris, afterward wife of Rev. Eli Nugent, and Siby McCoy,
are the only survivors of the resolute little band of Colored men and
women who gathered with and guided that Sunday-school. They had, in
the successor of Mr. Prout, a man after their own heart,
JOHN F. COOK,
who came into charge of this school in August, 1834, about eight years
after his aunt, Alethia Tanner, had purchased his freedom. He learned
the shoemaker's trade in his boyhood, and worked diligently, after the
purchase of his freedom, to make some return to his aunt for the
purchase-money. About the time of his becoming of age, he dislocated
his shoulder, which compelled him to seek other employment, and in
1831, the year of his majority, he obtained the place of assistant
messenger in the Land Office. Hon. John Wilson, now Third Auditor of
the Treasury, was the messenger, and was Cook's firm friend till the
day of his death. Cook had been a short time at school under the
instruction of Smothers and Prout, but when he entered the Land Office
his education was at most only the ability to stumble along a little
in a primary reading-book. He, however, now gave himself in all his
leisure moments, early and late, to study. Mr. Wilson remembers his
indefatigable application, and affirms that it was a matter of
astonishment at the time, and that he has seen nothing in all his
observations to surpass and scarcely to equal it. He was soon able to
write a good hand, and was employed with his pen in clerical work by
the sanction of the commissioner, Elisha Hayward, who was much
attached to him. Cook was now beginning to look forward to the life of
a teacher, which, with the ministry, was the only work not menial in
its nature then open to an educated Colored man. At the end of three
years he resigned his place in the Land Office, and entered upon the
work which he laid down only with his life. It was then that he gave
himself wholly to study and the business of education, working with
all his might; his school numbering quite a hundred scholars in the
winter and a hundred and fifty in the summer. He had been in his work
one year when the storm which had been, for some years, under the
discussion of the slavery question, gathering over the country at
large, burst upon this district.
THE SNOW RIOT,
or "Snow storm," as it has been commonly called, which occurred in
September, 1835, is an event that stands vividly in the memory of all
Colored people who lived in this community at that time. Benjamin
Snow, a smart Colored man, keeping a restaurant on the corner of
Pennsylvania Avenue and Sixth Street, was reported to have made some
remark of a bravado kind derogatory to the wives of white mechanics;
whereupon this class, or those assuming to represent them, made a
descent upon his establishment, destroying all his effects. Snow
himself, who denied using the offensive language, with difficulty
escaped unharmed, through the management of white friends, taking
refuge in Canada, where he still resides. The military was promptly
called to the rescue, at the head of which was General Walter Jones,
the eminent lawyer, who characterized the rioters, greatly to their
indignation, as "a set of ragamuffins," and his action was thoroughly
sanctioned by the city authorities.
At the same time, also, there was a fierce excitement among the
mechanics at the Navy Yard, growing out of the fact that a large
quantity of copper bolts being missed from the yard and found to have
been carried out in the dinner-pails by the hands, the commandant had
forbid eating dinners in the yard. This order was interpreted as an
insult to the white mechanics, and threats were made of an assault on
the yard, which was put in a thorough state of defence by the
commandant. The rioters swept through the city, ransacking the houses
of the prominent Colored men and women, ostensibly in search of
anti-slavery papers and documents, the most of the gang impelled
undoubtedly by hostility to the Negro race and by motives of plunder.
Nearly all the Colored school-houses were partially demolished and the
furniture totally destroyed, and in several cases they were completely
ruined. Some private houses were also torn down or burnt. The Colored
schools were nearly all broken up, and it was with the greatest
difficulty that the Colored churches were saved from destruction, as
their Sabbath-schools were regarded, and correctly regarded, as the
means through which the Colored people, at that time, procured much of
their education.
The rioters sought, especially, for John F. Cook, who, however, had
seasonably taken from the stable the horse of his friend, Mr. Hayward,
the Commissioner of the Land Office, an anti-slavery man, and fled
precipitately from the city. They marched to his school-house,
destroyed all the books and furniture, and partially destroyed the
building. Mrs. Smothers, who owned both the school-house and the
dwelling adjoining the lots, was sick in her house at the time, but an
alderman, Mr. Edward Dyer, with great courage and nobleness of spirit,
stood between the house and the mob for her protection, declaring that
he would defend her house from molestation with all the means he could
command. They left the house unharmed, and it is still standing on the
premises. Mr. Cook went to Columbia, Pennsylvania, opened a school
there, and did not venture back to his home till the autumn of 1836.
At the time the riot broke out, General Jackson was absent in
Virginia. He returned in the midst of the tumult, and immediately
issuing orders in his bold, uncompromising manner to the authorities
to see the laws respected at all events, the violence was promptly
subdued. It was, nevertheless, a very dark time for the Colored
people. The timid class did not for a year or two dare to send their
children to school, and the whole mass of the Colored people dwelt in
fear day and night. In August, 1836, Mr. Cook returned from
Pennsylvania and reopened his school, which under him had, in 1834,
received the name of
UNION SEMINARY.
During his year's absence he was in charge of a free Colored public
school in Columbia, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which he
surrendered to the care of Benjamin M. McCoy when he came back to his
home, Mr. McCoy going there to fill out his engagement.
He resumed his work with broad and elevated ideas of his business.
This is clearly seen in the plan of his institution, embraced in the
printed annual announcements and programmes of his annual exhibitions,
copies of which have been preserved. The course of study embraced
three years, and there was a male and a female department, Miss
Catharine Costin at one period being in charge of the female
department. Mr. Seaton, of the "National Intelligencer," among other
leading and enlightened citizens and public men, used to visit his
school from year to year, and watch its admirable working with deep
and lively interest. Cook was at this period not only watching over
his very large school, ranging from 100 to 150 or more pupils, but was
active in the formation of the "First Colored Presbyterian Church of
Washington," which was organized in November, 1841, by Rev. John C.
Smith, D.D., and worshipped in this school-house. He was now also
giving deep study to the preparation for the ministry, upon which, in
fact, as a licentiate of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, he
had already in some degree entered. At a regular meeting of "The
presbytery of the District of Columbia," held in Alexandria, May 3,
1842, this church, now commonly called the Fifteenth Street
Presbyterian Church, was formally received under the care of that
presbytery, the first and still the only Colored Presbyterian church
in the district. Mr. Cook was elected the first pastor July 13, 1843,
and preached his trial sermon before ordination on the evening of that
day in the Fourth Presbyterian Church (Dr. J. C. Smith's) in the city,
in the presence of a large congregation. This sermon is remembered as
a manly production, delivered with great dignity and force, and deeply
imbued with the spirit of his work. He was ordained in the Fifteenth
Street Church the next evening, and continued to serve the church with
eminent success till his death in 1855. Rev. John C. Smith, D.D., who
had preached his ordination sermon, and been his devoted friend and
counsellor for nearly twenty years, preached his funeral sermon,
selecting as his text, "There was a man sent from God whose name was
John." There were present white as well as Colored clergymen of no
less than five denominations, many of the oldest and most respectable
citizens, and a vast concourse of all classes white and Colored. "The
Fifteenth Street Church," in the words of Dr. Smith in relation to
them and their first pastor, "is now a large and flourishing
congregation of spiritually-minded people. They have been educated in
the truth and the principles of our holy religion, and in the new,
present state of things the men of this church are trusted, relied on
as those who fear God and keep His commandments. The church is the
monument to John F. Cook, the first pastor, who was faithful in all
his house, a workman who labored night and day for years, and has
entered into his reward. 'Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.'
'They rest from their labors, and their works do follow them.'"
In 1841, when he entered, in a preliminary and informal way, upon the
pastorate of the Fifteenth Street Church, he seems to have attempted
to turn his seminary into a high school, limited to twenty-five or
thirty pupils, exclusively for the more advanced scholars of both
sexes; and his plan of studies to that end, as seen in his
prospectus, evinces broad and elevated views--a desire to aid in
lifting his race to higher things in education than they had yet
attempted. His plans were not put into execution, in the matter of a
high school, being frustrated by the circumstances that there were so
few good schools in the city for the Colored people, at that period,
that his old patrons would not allow him to shut off the multitude of
primary scholars which were depending upon his school. His seminary,
however, continued to maintain its high standard, and had an average
attendance of quite 100 year after year, till he surrendered up his
work in death.
He raised up a large family and educated them well. The oldest of the
sons, John and George, were educated at Oberlin College. The other
three, being young, were in school when the father died. John and
George, it will be seen, succeeded their father as teachers,
continuing in the business down to the present year. Of the two
daughters, the elder was a teacher till married in 1866, and the other
is now a teacher in the public schools of the city. One son served
through the war as sergeant in the Fortieth Colored Regiment, and
another served in the navy.
At the death of the father, March 21, 1855, the school fell into the
hands of the son, John F. Cook, who continued it till May, 1857, when
it passed to a younger son, George F. T. Cook, who moved it from its
old home, the Smothers House, to the basement of the Presbyterian
Church, in the spring of 1858, and maintained it till July, 1859. John
F. Cook, jr., who had erected a new school-house on Sixteenth Street,
in 1862, again gathered the school which the tempests of the war had
dispersed, and continued it till June, 1867, when the new order of
things had opened ample school facilities throughout the city, and the
teacher was called to other duties. Thus ended the school which had
been first gathered by Smothers nearly forty-five years before, and
which, in that long period, had been continually maintained with
seldom less than one hundred pupils, and for the most part with one
hundred and fifty, the only suspensions being in the year of the Snow
riot, and in the two years which ushered in the war.
The Smothers House, after the Cook school was removed in 1858, was
occupied for two years by a _free Catholic school_, supported by "The
St. Vincent de Paul Society," a benevolent organization of Colored
people. It was a very large school with two departments, the boys
under David Brown, and the girls under Eliza Anne Cook, and averaging
over one hundred and fifty scholars. When this school was transferred
to another house, Rev. Chauncey Leonard, a Colored Baptist clergyman,
now pastor of a church in Washington, and Nannie Waugh opened a school
there, in 1861, that became as large as that which had preceded it in
the same place. This school was broken up in 1862 by the destruction
of the building at the hands of the incendiaries, who, even at that
time, were inspired with all their accustomed vindictiveness toward
the Colored people. But this was their last heathenish jubilee, and
from the ashes of many burnings imperishable liberty has sprung forth.
About the time that Smothers built his school-house, in 1823,
LOUISA PARKE COSTIN'S SCHOOL
was established in her father's house on Capitol Hill, on A Street,
south, under the shadow of the Capitol. This Costin family came from
Mount Vernon immediately after the death of Martha Washington, in
1802. The father, William Costin, who died suddenly in his bed, May
31, 1842, was for twenty-four years messenger for the Bank of
Washington in this city. His death was noticed at length in the
columns of the "National Intelligencer" in more than one communication
at the time. The obituary notice, written under the suggestions of the
bank officers who had previously passed a resolution expressing their
respect for his memory, and appropriating fifty dollars toward the
funeral expenses, says: "It is due to the deceased to say that his
colored skin covered a benevolent heart"; concluding with this
language:
"The deceased raised respectably a large family of children of his
own, and, in the exercise of the purest benevolence, took into his
family and supported four orphan children. The tears of the orphan
will moisten his grave, and his memory will be dear to all those--a
numerous class--who have experienced his kindness"; and adding these
lines:
"Honor and shame from _no condition_ rise;
Act well your part--there all the honor lies."
John Quincy Adams, also, a few days afterward, in a discussion of the
wrongs of slavery, alluded to the deceased in these words, "The late
William Costin, though he was not white, was as much respected as any
man in the district, and the large concourse of citizens that attended
his remains to the grave, as well white as black, was an evidence of
the manner in which he was estimated by the citizens of Washington."
His portrait, taken by the direction of the bank authorities, still
hangs in the directors' room, and it may also be seen in the houses of
more than one of the old and prominent residents of the city.
William Costin's mother, Ann Dandridge, was the daughter of a
half-breed (Indian and Colored), her grandfather being a Cherokee
chief, and her reputed father was the father of Martha Dandridge,
afterward Mrs. Custis, who, in 1759, was married to General
Washington. These daughters, Ann and Martha, grew up together on the
ancestral plantations. William Costin's reputed father was white, and
belonged to a prominent family in Virginia, but the mother, after his
birth, married one of the Mount Vernon slaves by the name of Costin,
and the son took the name of William Costin. His mother, being of
Indian descent made him, under the laws of Virginia, a free-born man.
In 1800 he married Philadelphia Judge (his cousin), one of Martha
Washington's slaves, at Mount Vernon, where both were born in 1780.
The wife was given by Martha Washington at her decease to her
granddaughter, Eliza Parke Custis, who was the wife of Thomas Law, of
Washington. Soon after William Costin and his wife came to Washington,
the wife's freedom was secured on kind and easy terms, and the
children were all born free. This is the account which William Costin
and his wife and his mother, Ann Dandridge, always gave of their
ancestry, and they were persons of great precision in all matters of
family history, as well as of the most marked scrupulousness in their
statements. Their seven children, five daughters and two sons, went to
school with the white children on Capitol Hill, to Mrs. Maria Haley
and other teachers. The two younger daughters, Martha and Frances,
finished their education at the Colored convent in Baltimore. Louisa
Parke and Ann had passed their school days before the convent was
founded. Louisa Parke Costin opened her school at nineteen years of
age, continuing it with much success till her sudden death in 1831,
the year in which her mother also died. When Martha returned from the
convent seminary, a year or so later, she reopened the school,
continuing it till about 1839. This school, which was maintained some
fifteen years, was always very full. The three surviving sister own
and reside in the house which their father built about 1812. One of
these sisters married Richard Henry Fisk, a Colored man of good
education, who died in California, and she now has charge of the
Senate ladies' reception-room. Ann Costin was for several years in the
family of Major Lewis (at Woodlawn, Mount Vernon), the nephew of
Washington. Mrs. Lewis (Eleanor Custis) was the granddaughter of
Martha Washington. This school was not molested by the mob of 1835,
and it was always under the care of a well-bred and well-educated
teacher.
THE WESLEYAN SEMINARY.
While Martha Costin was teaching, James Enoch Ambush, a Colored man,
had also a large school in the basement of the Israel Bethel Church,
on Capitol Hill, for a while, commencing there in April, 1833, and
continuing in various places till 1843, when he built a school-house
on E Street, south, near Tenth, island, and established what was known
as "The Wesleyan Seminary," and which was successfully maintained for
thirty-two years, till the close of August, 1865. The school-house
still stands, a comfortable one-story wooden structure, with the sign
"Wesleyan Seminary" over the door, as it has been there for
twenty-five years. This was the only Colored school on the island of
any account for many years, and in its humble way it accomplished a
great amount of good. For some years Mr. Ambush had given much study
to botanic medicine, and since closing his school he has become a
botanic physician. He is a man of fine sense, and without school
advantages, has acquired a respectable education.
FIRST SEMINARY FOR COLORED GIRLS.
The first seminary in the District of Columbia for Colored girls was
established in Georgetown, in 1827, under the special auspices of
Father Vanlomen, a benevolent and devout Catholic priest, then pastor
of the Holy Trinity Church, who not only gave this interesting
enterprise his hand and his heart, but for several years himself
taught a school of Colored boys three days in a week, near the
Georgetown college gate, in a small frame house, which was afterward
famous as the residence of the broken-hearted widow of Commodore
Decatur. This female seminary was under the care of Maria Becraft, who
was the most remarkable Colored young woman of her time in the
district, and, perhaps, of any time. Her father, William Becraft, born
while his mother, a free woman, was the housekeeper of Charles
Carroll, of Carrollton, always had the kindest attentions of this
great man, and there are now pictures, more than a century and a half
old, and other valuable relics from the Carroll family in the
possession of the Becraft family, in Georgetown, which Charles
Carroll, of Carrollton, in his last days presented to William Becraft
as family keepsakes. William Becraft lived in Georgetown sixty-four
years, coming there when eighteen years of age. He was for many years
chief steward of Union Hotel, and a remarkable man, respected and
honored by everybody. When he died, the press of the district noticed,
in a most prominent manner, his life and character. From one of the
extended obituary notices, marked with heavy black lines, the
following paragraph is copied:
"He was among the last surviving representatives of the old
school of well-bred, confidential, and intelligent domestics, and
was widely known at home and abroad from his connection, in the
capacity of steward for a long series of years, and probably from
its origin, and until a recent date, with the Union Hotel,
Georgetown, with whose guests, for successive generations, his
benevolent and venerable aspect, dignified and obliging manners,
and moral excellence, rendered him a general favorite."
Maria Becraft was marked, from her childhood, for her uncommon
intelligence and refinement, and for her extraordinary piety. She was
born in 1805, and first went to school for a year to Henry Potter, in
Washington, about 1812; afterward attending Mrs. Billing's school
constantly till 1820. She then, at the age of fifteen, opened a school
for girls in Dunbarton Street, in Georgetown, and gave herself to the
work, which she loved, with the greatest assiduity, and with uniform
success. In 1827, when she was twenty-two years of age, her remarkable
beauty and elevation of character so much impressed Father Vanlomen,
the good priest, that he took it in hand to give her a higher style of
school in which to work for her sex and race, to the education of
which she had now fully consecrated herself. Her school was
accordingly transferred to a larger building, which still stands on
Fayette Street, opposite the convent, and there she opened a boarding
and day school for Colored girls, which she continued with great
success till August, 1831, when she surrendered her little seminary
into the care of one of the girls that she had trained, and in October
of that year joined the convent at Baltimore as a Sister of
Providence, where she was the leading teacher till she died, in
December, 1833, a great loss to that young institution, which was
contemplating this noble young woman as its future Mother Superior.
Her seminary in Georgetown averaged from thirty to thirty-five pupils,
and there are those living who remember the troop of girls, dressed
uniformly, which was wont to follow in procession their pious and
refined teacher to devotions on the Sabbath at Holy Trinity Church.
The school comprised girls from the best Colored families of
Georgetown, Washington, Alexandria, and surrounding country. The
sisters of the Georgetown convent were the admirers of Miss Becraft,
gave her instruction, and extended to her most heartfelt aid and
approbation in all her noble work, as they were in those days wont to
do in behalf of the aspiring Colored girls who sought for education,
withholding themselves from such work only when a depraved and
degenerate public sentiment upon the subject of educating the Colored
people had compelled them to a more rigid line of demarcation between
the races. Ellen Simonds and others conducted the school a few years,
but with the loss of its original teacher it began to fail, and
finally became extinct. Maria Becraft is remembered, wherever she was
known, as a woman of the rarest sweetness and exaltation of Christian
life, graceful and attractive in person and manners, gifted,
well-educated, and wholly devoted to doing good. Her name as a Sister
of Providence was Sister Aloyons.
MISS MYRTILLA MINER'S SEMINARY
for Colored girls was initiated in Washington. This philanthropic
woman was born in Brookfield, Madison County, New York, in 1815. Her
parents were farmers, with small resources for the support of a large
family. The children were obliged to work, and the small advantages of
a common school were all the educational privileges furnished to them.
Hop-raising was a feature in their farming, and this daughter was
accustomed to work in the autumn, picking the hops. She was of a
delicate physical organization, and suffered exceedingly all her life
with spinal troubles. Being a girl of extraordinary intellectual
activity, her place at home chafed her spirit. She was restless,
dissatisfied with her lot, looked higher than her father, dissented
from his ideas of woman's education, and, in her desperation, when
about twenty-three years old, wrote to Mr. Seward, then recently
elected Governor of her State, asking him if he could show her how it
was possible for a woman in her circumstances to become a scholar;
receiving from him the reply that he could not, but hoped a better day
was coming, wherein woman might have a chance to be and to do to the
extent of her abilities. Hearing at this time of a school at Clinton,
Oneida County, New York, for young women, on the manual-labor system,
she decided to go there; but her health being such as to make manual
labor impossible at the time, she wrote to the principal of the Clover
Street Seminary, Rochester, New York, who generously received her,
taking her notes for the school bills, to be paid after completing her
education. Grateful for this noble act, she afterward sent her younger
sister there to be educated, for her own associate as a teacher; and
the death of this talented sister, when about to graduate and come as
her assistant in Washington, fell upon her with crushing force. In the
Rochester school, with Myrtilla Miner, were two free Colored girls,
and this association was the first circumstance to turn her thoughts
to the work to which she gave her life. From Rochester she went to
Mississippi, as a teacher of planters' daughters, and it was what she
was compelled to see, in this situation, of the dreadful practices and
conditions of slavery, that filled her soul with a pity for the
Colored race, and a detestation of the system that bound them, which
held possession of her to the last day of her life. She remained there
several years, till her indignant utterances, which she would not
withhold, compelled her employer, fearful of the results, to part
reluctantly with a teacher whom he valued. She came home broken down
with sickness, caused by the harassing sights and sounds that she had
witnessed in plantation life, and while in this condition she made a
solemn vow that whatever of life remained to her should be given to
the work of ameliorating the condition of the Colored people. Here her
great work begins. She made up her mind to do something for the
education of free Colored girls, with the idea that through the
influence of educated Colored women she could lay the solid
foundations for the disenthrallment of their race. She selected the
district for the field of her efforts, because it was the common
property of the nation, and because the laws of the district gave her
the right to educate _free_ Colored children, and she attempted to
teach none others. She opened her plan to many of the leading friends
of freedom, in an extensive correspondence, but found especially, at
this time, a wise and warm encourager and counsellor in her scheme, in
William R. Smith, a Friend, of Farmington, near Rochester, New York,
in whose family she was now a private teacher. Her correspondents
generally gave her but little encouragement, but wished her God-speed
in what she should dare in the good cause. One Friend wrote her from
Philadelphia; entering warmly into her scheme, but advised her to wait
till funds could be collected. "I do not want the wealth of Croesus,"
was her reply; and the Friend sent her $100, and with this capital, in
the autumn of 1851, she came to Washington to establish a Normal
School for the education of Colored girls, having associated with her
Miss Anna Inman, an accomplished and benevolent lady of the Society of
Friends, from Southfield, Rhode Island, who, however, after teaching a
class of Colored girls in French, in the house of Jonathan Jones, on
the island, through the winter, returned to New England. In the autumn
of 1851 Miss Miner commenced her remarkable work here in a small room,
about fourteen feet square, in the frame house then, as now, owned and
occupied by Edward C. Younger, a Colored man, as his dwelling, on
Eleventh Street, near New York Avenue. With but two or three girls to
open the school, she soon had a roomful, and to secure larger
accommodation, moved, after a couple of months, to a house on F
Street, north, between Eighteenth and Nineteenth streets, west, near
the houses then occupied by William T. Carroll and Charles H. Winder.
This house furnished her a very comfortable room for her school, which
was composed of well-behaved girls from the best Colored families of
the district. The persecution of those neighbors, however, compelled
her to leave, as the Colored family who occupied the house was
threatened with conflagration, and after one month her little school
found a more unmolested home in the dwelling-house of a German family
on K Street, near the western market. After tarrying a few months
here, she moved to L Street, into a room in the building known, as
"The Two Sisters," then occupied by a white family. She now saw that
the success of her school demanded a school-house, and in
reconnoitring the ground she found a spot suiting her ideas as to size
and locality, with a house on it, and in the market at a low price.
She raised the money, secured the spot, and thither, in the summer of
1851, she moved her school, where for seven years she was destined to
prosecute, with the most unparalleled energy and conspicuous success,
her remarkable enterprise. This lot, comprising an entire square of
three acres, between Nineteenth and Twentieth streets, west, N and O
streets, north, and New Hampshire Avenue, selected under the guidance
of Miss Miner, the contract being perfected through the agency of
Sayles J. Bowen, Thomas Williamson, and Allen M. Gangewer, was
originally conveyed in trust to Thomas Williamson and Samuel Rhodes,
of the Society of Friends, in Philadelphia. It was purchased of the
executors of the will of John Taylor, for $4,000, the deed being
executed June 8, 1853, the estimated value of the property now being
not less than $30,000. The money was mainly contributed by Friends, in
Philadelphia, New York, and New England. Catharine Morris, a Friend,
of Philadelphia, was a liberal benefactor of the enterprise, advancing
Miss Miner $2,000, with which to complete the purchase of the lot, the
most, if not all, of which sum, it is believed, she ultimately gave to
the institution; and Harriet Beecher Stowe was another generous
friend, who gave her money and her heart to the support of the brave
woman who had been willing to go forth alone at the call of duty. Mr.
Rhodes, some years editor of the "Friends' Quarterly Review," died
several years ago, near Philadelphia. Mr. Williamson, a conveyancer in
that city, and father of Passmore Williamson, is still living, but
some years ago declined the place of trustee. The board, at the date
of the act of incorporation, consisted of Benjamin Tatham, a Friend,
of New York City, Mrs. Nancy M. Johnson, of Washington, and Myrtilla
Miner, and the transfer of the property to the incorporated body was
made a few weeks prior to Miss Miner's death. This real estate,
together with a fund of $4,000 in government stocks, is now in the
hands of a corporate body, under act of Congress approved March 3,
1863, and is styled "The Institution for the Education of Colored
Youth in the District of Columbia." The officers of the corporation at
this time are John C. Underwood, president; Francis G. Shaw,
treasurer; George E. Baker, secretary; who, with Nancy M. Johnson, S.
J. Bowen, Henry Addison, and Rachel Howland, constitute the executive
committee. The purpose of the purchase of this property is declared,
in a paper signed by Mr. Williamson and Mr. Rhodes, dated
Philadelphia, June 8, 1858, to have been "_especially for the
education of colored girls_."
This paper also declares that "the grounds were purchased at the
special instance of Myrtilla Miner," and that "the contributions by
which the original price of said lot, and also the cost of the
subsequent improvements thereof, were procured chiefly by her
instrumentality and labors." The idea of Miss Miner in planting a
school here was to train up a class of Colored girls, in the midst of
slave institutions, who should show forth in their culture and
capabilities, to the country and to mankind, that the race was fit for
something higher than the degradation which rested upon them. The
amazing energy with which this frail woman prosecuted her work is well
known to those who took knowledge of her career. She visited the
Colored people of her district from house to house, and breathed a new
life into them pertaining to the education of their daughters. Her
correspondence with the philanthropic men and women of the North was
immense. She importuned Congressmen, and the men who shaped public
sentiment through the columns of the press, to come into her school
and see her girls, and was ceaseless in her activities day and night,
in every direction, to build up, in dignity and refinement, her
seminary, and to force its merits upon public attention.
The buildings upon the lot when purchased--a small frame dwelling of
two stories, not more than twenty-five by thirty-five feet in
dimensions, with three small cabins on the other side of the
premises--served for the seminary and the homes of the teacher and her
assistant. The most aspiring and decently bred Colored girls of the
district were gathered into the school; and the very best Colored
teachers in the schools, of the district at the present time, are
among those who owe their education to this self-sacrificing teacher
and her school. Mrs. Means, aunt of the wife of General Pierce, then
President of the United States, attracted by the enthusiasm of this
wonderful person, often visited her in the midst of her work, with the
kindest feelings; and the fact that the carriage from the Presidential
mansion was in this way frequently seen at the door of this humble
institution, did much to protect it from the hatred with which it was
surrounded.
Mr. Seward and his family were very often seen at the school, both
Mrs. Seward and her daughter Fanny being constant visitors; the
latter, a young girl at the time, often spending a whole day there.
Many other Congressmen of large and generous instincts, some of them
of pro-slavery party relations, went out there, all confessing their
admiration of the resolute woman and her school, and this kept evil
men in abeyance.
The opposition to the school throughout the district was strong and
very general, among the old as well as the young. Even Walter Lenox,
who, as mayor, when the school was first started, gave the teacher
assurances of favor in her work, came out in 1857, following the
prevailing current of depraved public sentiment and feeding its tide,
in an elaborate article in the "National Intelligencer," under his own
signature; assailed the school in open and direct language, urging
against it that it was raising the standard of education among the
Colored population, and distinctly declaring that the white population
of the district would not be just to themselves to permit the
continuance of an institution which had the temerity to extend to the
Colored people "a degree of instruction so far beyond their social and
political condition, which condition must continue," the article goes
on to say, "in this and every other slave-holding community." This
article, though fraught with extreme ideas, and to the last degree
prescriptive and inflammatory, neither stirred any open violence, nor
deterred the courageous woman in the slightest degree from her work.
When madmen went to her school-room threatening her with personal
violence, she laughed them to shame; and when they threatened to burn
her house, she told them that they could not stop her in that way, as
another house, better than the old, would immediately rise from its
ashes.
The house was set on fire in the spring of 1860, when Miss Miner was
asleep in the second story, alone, in the night-time, but the smell of
the smoke awakened her in time to save the building and herself from
the flames, which were extinguished. The school-girls, also, were
constantly at the mercy of coarse and insulting boys along the
streets, who would often gather in gangs before the gate to pursue and
terrify these inoffensive children, who were striving to gather wisdom
and understanding in their little sanctuary. The police took no
cognizance of such brutality in those days. But their dauntless
teacher, uncompromising, conscientious, and self-possessed in her
aggressive work, in no manner turned from her course by this
persecution, was, on the other hand, stimulated thereby to higher
vigilance and energy in her great undertaking. The course of
instruction in the school was indeed of a higher order than had
hitherto been opened to the Colored people of the district, as was
denounced against the school by Walter Lenox, in his newspaper attack.
Lectures upon scientific and literary subjects were given by
professional and literary gentlemen, who were friends to the cause.
The spacious grounds afforded to each pupil an ample space for a
flower bed, which she was enjoined to cultivate with her own hands and
to thoroughly study. And an excellent library, a collection of
paintings and engravings, the leading magazines and choice newspapers,
were gathered and secured for the humble home of learning, which was
all the while filled with students, the most of whom were bright,
ambitious girls, composing a female Colored school, which, in dignity
and usefulness, has had no equal in the district since that day. It
was her custom to gather in her vacations and journeys not only money,
but every thing else that would be of use in her school, and in this
way she not only collected books, but maps, globes, philosophical, and
chemical, and mathematical apparatus, and a great variety of things to
aid in her instruction in illustrating all branches of knowledge. This
collection was stored in the school building during the war, and was
damaged by neglect, plundered by soldiers, and what remains is not of
much value. The elegant sofa-bedstead which she used during all her
years in the seminary, and which would be an interesting possession
for the seminary, was sold, with her other personal effects, to Dr.
Carrie Brown (Mrs. Winslow), of Washington, one of her bosom friends,
who stood at her pillow when she died.
Her plan embraced the erection of spacious structures, upon the site
which had been most admirably chosen, complete in all their
appointments for the full accommodation of a school of one hundred and
fifty boarding scholars. The seminary was to be a female college,
endowed with all the powers and professorships belonging to a
first-class college for the other sex. She did not contemplate its
springing up into such proportions, like a mushroom, in a single
night, but it was her ambition that the institution should one day
attain that rank. In the midst of her anxious, incessant labors, her
physical system began so sensibly to fail, that in the summer of 1858,
under the counsel of the friends of herself and her cause, she went
North to seek health, and, as usual in all her journeys, to beg for
her seminary, leaving her girls in the care of Emily Howland, a noble
young woman, who came down here for the love of the cause, without
money and without price, from the vicinity of Auburn, New York. In the
autumn, Miss Miner returned to her school; Miss Howland still
continuing with her through the winter, a companion in her trials,
aiding her in her duties, and consenting to take charge of the school
again in the summer of 1859, while Miss Miner was on another journey
for funds and health. In the autumn of that year, after returning from
her journey, which was not very successful she determined to suspend
the school, and to go forth into the country with a most persistent
appeal for money to erect a seminary building, as she had found it
impossible to get a house of any character started with the means
already in her hands. She could get no woman, whom she deemed fit to
take her work, willing to continue her school, and in the spring of
1860, leasing the premises, she went North on her errand. In the
ensuing year she traversed many States, but the shadow of the
Rebellion was on her path, and she gathered neither much money nor
much strength. The war came, and in October, 1862, hoping, but vainly,
for health from a sea-voyage and from the Pacific climate, she sailed
from New York to California. When about to return, in 1866, with
vivacity of body and spirit, she was thrown from a carriage in a
fearful manner; blighting all the high hopes of resuming her school
under the glowing auspices she had anticipated, as she saw the
Rebellion and the hated system tumbling to pieces. She arrived in New
York, in August of that year, in a most shattered condition of body,
though with the fullest confidence that she should speedily be well
and at her work in Washington. In the first days of December she went
to Washington in a dying condition, still resolute to resume her work;
was carried to the residence of her tried friend, Mrs. Nancy M.
Johnson; and on the tenth of that month, surrounded by the friends who
had stood with her in other days, she put off her wasted and wearied
body in the city which had witnessed her trials and her triumphs, and
her remains slumber in Oak Hill Cemetery.
Her seminary engaged her thoughts to the last day of her life. She
said in her last hours that she had come back here to resume her work,
and could not leave it thus unfinished. No marble marks the
resting-place of this truly wonderful woman, but her memory is
certainly held precious in the hearts of her throngs of pupils, in the
hearts of the Colored people of this district, and of all who took
knowledge of her life, and who reverenced the cause in which she
offered herself a willing sacrifice. Her assistants in the school were
Helen Moore, of Washington; Margaret Clapp, Amanda Weaver, and Anna H.
Searing, of New York State, and two of her pupils, Matilda Jones, of
Washington, and Emma Brown, of Georgetown, both of whom subsequently,
through the influence of Miss Miner and Miss Howland, finished their
education at Oberlin, and have since been most superior teachers in
Washington. Most of the assistant teachers from the North were from
families connected with the Society of Friends, and it has been seen
that the bulk of the money came from that society. The sketch would be
incomplete without a special tribute to Lydia B. Mann, sister of
Horace Mann, who came here in the fall of 1856, from the Colored
Female Orphan Asylum of Providence, R. I., of which she was then, as
she continues to be, the admirable superintendent, and, as a pure
labor of love, took care of the school in the most superior manner
through the autumn and winter, while Miss Miner was North recruiting
her strength and pleading for contributions. It was no holiday duty to
go into that school, live in that building, and work alone with head
and hands, as was done by all those refined and educated women who
stood from time to time in that humble, persecuted seminary. Miss Mann
is gratefully remembered by her pupils here and their friends.
Mention should also be made of Emily Howland, who stood by Miss Miner
in her darkest days, and whose whole heart was with her in all her
work. She is a woman of the largest and most self-sacrificing
purposes, who has been and still is giving her best years, all her
powers, talents, learning, refinement, wealth, and personal toil, to
the education and elevation of the Colored race. While here she
adopted, and subsequently educated in the best manner, one of Miss
Miner's pupils, and assisted several others of her smart girls in
completing their education at Oberlin. During the war she was teaching
contrabands in the hospital and the camp, and is now engaged in
planting a colony of Colored people in Virginia with homes and a
school-house of their own.
A seminary, such as was embraced in the plan of Miss Miner, is
exceedingly demanded by the interest of Colored female education in
the District of Columbia and the country at large, and any scheme by
which the foundations that she laid so well may become the seat of
such a school, would be heartily approved by all enlightened friends
of the Colored race. The trustees of the Miner property, not
insensible of their responsibilities, have been carefully watching for
the moment when action on their part would seem to be justified. They
have repeatedly met in regard to the matter, but, in their counsels,
hitherto, have deemed it wise to wait further developments. They are
now about to hold another meeting, it is understood, and it is to be
devoutly hoped that some plan will be adopted by which a school of a
high order may be, in due time, opened for Colored girls in this
district, who exceedingly need the refining, womanly training of such
a school.
The original corporators of Miss Miner's institution were Henry
Addison, John C. Underwood, George C. Abbott, William H. Channing,
Nancy M. Johnson, and Myrtilla Miner. The objects, as expressed in the
charter, "are to educate and improve the moral and intellectual
condition of such of the colored youth of the nation as may be placed
under its care and influence."
MARY WORMLEY'S SCHOOL.
In 1830, William Wormley built a school-house for his sister Mary,
near the corner of Vermont Avenue and I Street, where the restaurant
establishment owned and occupied by his brother, James Wormley, now
stands. He had educated his sister expressly for a teacher, at great
expense, at the Colored Female Seminary in Philadelphia, then in
charge of Miss Sarah Douglass, an accomplished Colored lady, who is
still a teacher of note in the Philadelphia Colored High School.
William Wormley was at that time a man of wealth. His livery-stable,
which occupied the place where the Owen House now stands, was one of
the largest and best in the city. Miss Wormley had just brought her
school into full and successful operation when her health broke down,
and she lived scarcely two years. Mr. Calvert, an English gentleman,
still living in the first ward, taught a class of Colored scholars in
this house for a time, and James Wormley was one of the class. In the
autumn of 1834, William Thomas Lee opened a school in the same place,
and it was in a flourishing condition in the fall of 1835, when the
Snow mob dispersed it, sacking the school-house, and partially
destroying it by fire. William Wormley was at that time one of the
most enterprising and influential Colored men of Washington, and was
the original agent of the "Liberator" newspaper for this district.
The mob being determined to lay hold of him and Lee, they fled from
the city to save their lives, returning when General Jackson, coming
back from Virginia a few days after the outbreak, gave notice that the
fugitives should be protected. The persecution of William Wormley was
so violent and persistent, that his health and spirits sank under its
effects, his business was broken up, and he died a poor man, scarcely
owning a shelter for his dying couch. The school-house was repaired
after the riot, and occupied for a time by Margaret Thompson's school,
and still stands in the rear of James Wormley's restaurant.
BENJAMIN M'COY'S, AND OTHER SCHOOLS.
About this time another school was opened in Georgetown, by Nancy
Grant, a sister of Mrs. William Becraft, a well-educated Colored
woman. She was teaching as early as 1828, and had a useful school for
several years. Mr. Nuthall, an Englishman, was teaching in Georgetown
during this period, and as late as 1833 he went to Alexandria and
opened a school in that city. William Syphax, among others now
resident in Washington, attended his school in Alexandria about 1833.
He was a man of ability, well educated, and one of the best teachers
of his time in the district. His school in Georgetown was at first in
Dunbarton Street, and afterward on Montgomery.
The old maxim, that "the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the
Church," seems to find its illustration in this history. There is no
period in the annals of the country in which the fires of persecution
against the education of the Colored race burned more fiercely in this
district, and the country at large, than in the five years from 1831
to 1836, and it was during this period that a larger number of
respectable Colored schools were established than in any other five
years prior to the war. In 1833, the same year in which Ambush's
school was started, Benjamin M. McCoy, a Colored man, opened a school
in the northern part of the city, on L Street, between Third and
Fourth streets, west. In 1834 he moved to Massachusetts Avenue,
continuing his school there till he went to Lancaster County,
Pennsylvania, in the autumn of 1836, to finish the engagement of Rev.
John F. Cook, who came back to Washington at that time and re-opened
his school. The school at Lancaster was a free public Colored school,
and Mr. McCoy was solicited to continue another year; but declining,
came back, and in 1837 opened a school in the basement of Asbury
Church, which, in that room and in the house adjoining, he maintained
with great success for the ensuing twelve years. Mr. McCoy was a pupil
of Mrs. Billing and Henry Smothers; is a man of good sense, and his
school gave a respectable rudimental education to multitudes, who
remember him as a teacher with great respect. He is now a messenger in
the Treasury Department. In 1833, a school was established by Fanny
Hampton, in the western part of the city, on the northwest corner of K
and Nineteenth streets. It was a large school, and was continued till
about 1842, the teacher dying soon afterward. She was half-sister of
Lindsay Muse. Margaret Thompson succeeded her, and had a flourishing
school of some forty scholars on Twenty-sixth Street, near the avenue,
for several years, about 1846. She subsequently became the wife of
Charles H. Middleton, and assisted in his school for a brief time.
About 1830, Robert Brown commenced a small school, and continued it at
intervals for many years till his death. As early as 1833, there was a
school opened in a private house in the rear of Franklin Row, near the
location of the new Franklin School building. It was taught by a white
man, Mr. Talbot, and continued a year or two. Mrs. George Ford, a
white teacher, a native of Virginia, kept a Colored school in a brick
house still standing on New Jersey Avenue, between K and L streets.
She taught there many years, and as early, perhaps, as half a century
ago.
DR. JOHN H. FLEET'S SCHOOL
was opened, in 1836, on New York Avenue, in a school-house which stood
nearly on the spot now occupied by the Richards buildings at the
corner of New York Avenue and Fourteenth Street. It had been
previously used for a white school, taught by Mrs. McDaniel, and was
subsequently again so used. Dr. Fleet was a native of Georgetown, and
was greatly assisted in his education by the late Judge James Morsell,
of that city, who was not only kind to this family, but was always
regarded by the Colored people of the district as their firm friend
and protector. John H. Fleet, with his brothers and sisters, went to
the Georgetown Lancasterian School, with the white children, for a
long period, in their earlier school days, and subsequently to other
white schools. He was also for a time a pupil of Smothers and Prout.
He was possessed of a brilliant and strong intellect, inherited from
his father, who was a white man of distinguished abilities. He studied
medicine in Washington, in the office of Dr. Thomas Henderson, who had
resigned as assistant surgeon in the army, and was a practising
physician of eminence in Washington. He also attended medical lectures
at the old medical college, corner of Tenth and E streets. It was his
intention at that time to go to Liberia, and his professional
education was conducted under the auspices of the Colonization
Society. This, with the influence of Judge Morsell, gave him
privileges never extended here to any other Colored man. He decided,
however, not to go to Liberia, and in 1836 opened his school. He was a
refined and polished gentleman, and conceded to be the foremost
Colored man in culture, in intellectual force, and general influence
in this district at that time. His school-house on New York Avenue was
burned by an incendiary about 1843, and his flourishing and excellent
school was thus ended. For a time he subsequently taught music, in
which he was very proficient; but about 1846 he opened a school on
School-house Hill, in the Hobbrook Military School building, near the
corner of N Street, north, and Twenty-third Street, west, and had a
large school there till about 1851, when he relinquished the business,
giving his attention henceforth exclusively to music, and with eminent
success. He died in 1861. His school was very large and of a superior
character.
CHARLES H. MIDDLETON'S SCHOOL
was started in the same section of the city, in a school-house which
then stood, near the corner of Twenty-second Street, west, and I,
north, and which had been used by Henry Hardy for a white school.
Though both Fleet's and Johnson's schools were in full tide of success
in that vicinity, he gathered a good school, and when his two
competitors retired--as they both did about this time,--his school
absorbed a large portion of their patronage, and was thronged. In
1852, he went temporarily with his school to Sixteenth Street, and
thence to the basement of Union Bethel Church on M Street, near
Sixteenth, in which, during the administration of President Pierce, he
had an exceedingly large and excellent school, at the same period when
Miss Miner was prosecuting her signal work. Mr. Middleton, now a
messenger in the Navy Department, a native of Savannah, Ga., is
free-born, and received his very good education in schools in that
city, sometimes with white and sometimes with Colored children. When
he commenced his school he had just returned from the Mexican war, and
his enterprise is especially worthy of being made prominent, not only
because of his high style as a teacher, but also because it is
associated with
THE FIRST MOVEMENT FOR A FREE COLORED PUBLIC SCHOOL.
This movement originated with a city officer, Jesse E. Dow, who, in
1848 and 1849, was a leading and influential member of the common
council. He encouraged Mr. Middleton to start his school, by assuring
him that he would give all his influence to the establishment of free
schools for Colored as well as for white children, and that he had
great confidence that the council would be brought to give at least
some encouragement to the enterprise. In 1850 Mr. Dow was named among
the candidates for the mayoralty; and when his views in this regard
were assailed by his opponents, he did not hesitate to boldly avow his
opinions, and to declare that he wished no support for any office
which demanded of him any modification of these convictions. The
workmen fail, but the work succeeds. The name of Jesse E. Dow merits
conspicuous record in this history for this bold and magnanimous
action. Mr. Middleton received great assistance in building up his
school from Rev. Mr. Wayman, then pastor of the Bethel Church, and
afterward promoted to the bishopric. The school was surrendered
finally to Rev. J. V. B. Morgan, the succeeding pastor of the church,
who conducted the school as a part of the means of his livelihood.
ALEXANDER CORNISH AND OTHERS.
In the eastern section of the city, about 1840, Alexander Cornish had
a school several years in his own house on D Street, south, between
Third and Fourth, east, with an average of forty scholars. He was
succeeded, about 1846, by Richard Stokes, who was a native of Chester
County, Pa. His school, averaging one hundred and fifty scholars, was
kept in the Israel Bethel Church, near the Capitol, and was continued
for about six years. In 1840, there was a school opened by Margaret
Hill in Georgetown, near Miss English's seminary. She taught a very
good school for several years.
ALEXANDER HAYS'S SCHOOL
was started on Ninth Street, west, near New York Avenue. Mr. Hays was
born in 1802, and belonged originally to the Fowler family in
Maryland. When a boy he served for a time at the Washington Navy Yard,
in the family of Captain Dove, of the navy, the father of Dr. Dove, of
Washington, and it was in that family that he learned to read. Michael
Tabbs had a school at that time at the Navy Yard, which he taught in
the afternoons _under a large tree_, which stood near the old Masonic
Hall. The Colored children used to meet him there in large numbers
daily, and while attending this singular school, Hays was at the same
time taught by Mrs. Dove, with her children. This was half a century
ago. In 1826, Hays went to live in the family of R. S. Coxe, the
eminent Washington lawyer, who soon purchased him, paying Fowler $300
for him. Mr. Coxe did this at the express solicitation of Hays, and
seventeen years after he gave him his freedom--in 1843. While living
with Mr. Coxe he had married Matilda Davis, the daughter of John
Davis, who served as steward many years in the family of Mr. Seaton,
of the "National Intelligencer." The wedding was at Mr. Seaton's
residence, and Mr. Coxe and family were present on the occasion. In
1836, he bought the house and lot which they still own and occupy, and
in 1842, the year before he was free, Hays made his last payment, and
the place was conveyed to his wife. She was a free woman, and had
opened a school in the house in 1841. Hays had many privileges while
with Mr. Coxe, and with the proceeds of his wife's school they paid
the purchase-money ($550) and interest in seven years. Mr. Hays was
taught reading, writing, and arithmetic by Mr. Coxe, his wife, and
daughters, while a slave in their family. When the Colored people were
driven from the churches, in the years of the mobs, Mrs. Coxe
organized a large Colored Sabbath-school in her own parlor, and
maintained it for a long period, with the cooperation of Mr. Coxe and
the daughters. Mr. Hays was a member of this school. He also attended
day schools, when his work would allow of it. This was the education
with which, in 1845, he ventured to take his wife's school in charge.
He is a man of good-sense, and his school flourished. He put up an
addition to his house, in order to make room for his increasing
school, which was continued down to 1857--sixteen years from its
opening. He had also a night school and taught music, and these two
features of his school he has revived since the war. This school
contained from thirty-five to forty-five pupils. Rev. Dr. Samson, Mr.
Seaton, and Mr. Coxe often visited his school and encouraged him in
his excellent work. Thomas Tabbs used also to come into his school and
give him aid and advice, as also did John McLeod.
MR. AND MRS. FLETCHER'S SCHOOL
was opened about 1854, in the building in which Middleton first
taught, on I, near Twenty-second Street. Mr. Fletcher was an
Englishman, a well-educated gentleman, and a thorough teacher. He was
induced to open the school by the importunities of some aspiring
Colored young men in that part of the city, who desired first-rate
instruction. He soon became the object of persecution, though he was a
man of courtesy and excellent character. His school-house was finally
set on fire and consumed, with all its books and furniture; but the
school took, as its asylum, the basement of the John Wesley Church.
The churches which they had been forced to build in the days of the
mobs, when they were driven from the white churches which they had
aided in building, proved of immense service to them in their
subsequent struggles. Mrs. Fletcher kept a variety store, which was
destroyed about the time the school was opened. She then became an
assistant in her husband's school, which numbered over one hundred and
fifty pupils. In 1858, they were driven from the city, as persecution
at that time was particularly violent against all white persons who
instructed the Colored people. This school was conducted with great
thoroughness, and had two departments, Mrs. Fletcher, who was an
accomplished person, having charge of the girls in a separate room.
ELIZA ANNE COOK,
a niece of Rev. John F. Cook, and one of his pupils, who has been
teaching for about fifteen years, should be mentioned. She attended
Miss Miner's school for a time, and was afterward at the Baltimore
convent two years. She opened a school in her mother's house, and
subsequently built a small school-house on the same lot, Sixteenth
Street, between K and L streets. With the exception of three years,
during which she was teaching in the free Catholic school opened in
the Smothers school-house in 1859, and one year in the female school
in charge of the Colored sisters, she has maintained her own private
school from 1854 down to the present time, her number at some periods
being above sixty, but usually not more than twenty-five or thirty.
MISS WASHINGTON'S SCHOOL.
In 1857, Annie E. Washington opened a select primary school in her
mother's house, on K Street, between Seventeenth and Eighteenth
streets, west. The mother, a widow woman, was a laundress, and by her
own labor has given her children good advantages, though she had no
such advantages herself. This daughter was educated chiefly under Rev.
John E. Cook and Miss Miner, with whom she was a favorite scholar. Her
older sister was educated at the Baltimore convent. Annie E.
Washington is a woman of native refinement, and has an excellent
aptitude for teaching, as well as a good education. Her schools have
always been conducted with system and superior judgment, giving
universal satisfaction, the number of her pupils being limited only by
the size of her room. In 1858, she moved to the basement of the
Baptist Church, corner of Nineteenth and I streets, to secure larger
accommodations, and there she had a school of more than sixty scholars
for several years.
A FREE CATHOLIC COLORED SCHOOL.
A free school was established in 1858, and maintained by the St.
Vincent de Paul Society, an association of Colored Catholics, in
connection with St. Matthew's Church. It was organized under the
direction of Father Walter, and kept in the Smothers school-house for
two years, and was subsequently for one season maintained on a smaller
scale in a house on L Street, between Twelfth and Thirteenth streets,
west, till the association failed to give it the requisite pecuniary
support after the war broke out. This school has already been
mentioned.
OTHER SCHOOLS.
In 1843, Elizabeth Smith commenced a school for small children on the
island in Washington, and subsequently taught on Capitol Hill. In
1860, she was the assistant of Rev. Wm. H. Hunter, who had a large
school in Zion Wesley Church, Georgetown, of which he was the pastor.
She afterward took the school into her own charge for a period, and
taught among the contrabands in various places during the war.
About 1850, Isabella Briscoe opened a school on Montgomery Street,
near Mount Zion Church, Georgetown. She was well educated, and one of
the best Colored teachers in the district before the Rebellion. Her
school was always well patronized, and she continued teaching in the
district up to 1868.
Charlotte Beams had a large school for a number of years, as early as
1850, in a building next to Galbraith Chapel, I Street, north, between
Fourth and Fifth, west. It was exclusively a girls' school in its
later years. The teacher was a pupil of Enoch Ambush, who assisted her
in establishing her school.
A year or two later, Rev. James Shorter had a large school in the
Israel Bethel Church, and Miss Jackson taught another good school on
Capitol Hill about the same time. The above-mentioned were all Colored
teachers.
Among the excellent schools broken up at the opening of the war, was
that of Mrs. Charlotte Gordon, Colored, on Eighth Street, in the
northern section of the city. It was in successful operation several
years, and the number in attendance sometimes reached one hundred and
fifty. Mrs. Gordon was assisted by her daughter.
In 1841, David Brown commenced teaching on D Street, south, between
First and Second streets, island, and continued in the business till
1858, at which period he was placed in charge of the large Catholic
free school in the Smothers house, as has been stated.[65]
* * * * *
Here is a picture that every Negro in the country may contemplate with
satisfaction and pride. In the stronghold of slavery, under the shadow
of the legalized institution of slavery, within earshot of the
slave-auctioneer's hammer, amid distressing circumstances, poverty,
and proscription, three unlettered ex-slaves, upon the threshold of
the nineteenth century, sowed the seed of education for the Negro race
in the District of Columbia, from which an abundant harvest has been
gathered, and will be gathered till the end of time!
What the Negro has done to educate himself, the trials and hateful
laws that have hampered him during the long period anterior to 1860,
cannot fail to awaken feelings of regret and admiration among the
people of both sections and two continents.
FOOTNOTES:
[58] Recollections of the Anti-Slavery Conflict, by Rev. Samuel J.
May.
[59] Barnard, p. 337.
[60] Barnard, p. 339.
[61] Barnard, pp. 205, 206.
[62] Barnard, p. 357.
[63] Barnard, pp. 364-366.
[64] Barnard, pp. 377, 378.
[65] Report of the Commissioner of Education for 1871.
CHAPTER XIII.
JOHN BROWN--HERO AND MARTYR.
JOHN BROWN'S APPEARANCE IN KANSAS.--HE DENOUNCES SLAVERY IN A
POLITICAL MEETING AT OSAWATOMIE.--MRS. STEARNS'S PERSONAL
RECOLLECTION OF JOHN BROWN.--KANSAS INFESTED BY BORDER
RUFFIANS.--THE BATTLE OF HARPER'S FERRY.--THE DEFEAT AND CAPTURE
OF CAPTAIN JOHN BROWN.--HIS LAST LETTER WRITTEN TO MRS.
STEARNS.--HIS TRIAL AND EXECUTION.--HIS INFLUENCE UPON THE
SLAVERY QUESTION AT THE NORTH.--HIS PLACE IN HISTORY.
On the 9th of May, 1800, at Torrington, Connecticut, was born a man
who lived for two generations, but accomplished the work of two
centuries. That man was John Brown, who ranks among the world's
greatest heroes. Greater than Peter the Hermit, who believed himself
commissioned of God to redeem the Holy Sepulchre from the hands of
infidels; greater than Joanna Southcote, who deemed herself big with
the promised Shiloh; greater than Ignatius Loyola, who thought the Son
of Man appeared to him, bearing His cross upon His shoulders, and
bestowed upon him a Latin commission of wonderful significance;
greater than Oliver Cromwell, the great Republican Protector; and
greater than John Hampden,--he deserves to rank with William of
Orange.
John Brown was nearly six feet high, slim, wiry, dark in complexion,
sharp in feature, dark hair sprinkled with gray, eyes a dark gray and
penetrating, with a countenance that betokened frankness, honesty, and
firmness. His brow was prominent, the centre of the forehead flat, the
upper part retreating, which, in conjunction with his slightly Roman
nose, gave him an interesting appearance. The crown of his head was
remarkably high, in the regions of the phrenological organs of
firmness, conscientiousness, self-esteem, indicating a stern will,
unswerving integrity, and marvellous self-possession. He walked
rapidly with a firm and elastic tread. He was somewhat like John
Baptist, taciturn in habits, usually wrapped in meditation. He was
rather meteoric in his movements, appearing suddenly and unexpectedly
at this place, and then disappearing in the same mysterious manner.
When Kansas lay bleeding at the feet of border ruffians; when Congress
gave the free-State settlers no protection, but was rather trying to
drag the territory into the Union with a slave constitution,--without
noise or bluster John Brown dropped down into Osage County. He was not
a member of the Republican party; but rather hated its reticency. When
it cried Halt! he gave the command _Forward, march_! He was not in
sympathy with any of the parties, political or anti-slavery. All were
too conservative to suit him. So, as a political orphan he went into
Kansas, organized and led a new party that swore eternal death to
slavery. The first time he appeared in a political meeting in Kansas,
at Osawatomie, the politicians were trimming their speeches and
shaping their resolutions to please each political faction. John Brown
took the floor and made a speech that threw the convention into
consternation. He denounced slavery as the curse of the ages; affirmed
the manhood of the slave; dealt "middle men" terrible blows; and said
he could "see no use in talking." "Talk," he continued, "is a national
institution; but it does no good for the slave." He thought it an
excuse very well adapted for weak men with tender consciences. Most
men who were afraid to fight, and too honest to be silent, deceived
themselves that they discharged their duties to the slave by
denouncing in fiery words the oppressor. His ideas of duty were far
different; the slaves, in his eyes, were prisoners of war; their
tyrants, as he held, had taken up the sword, and must perish by it.
This was his view of the great question of slavery.
The widow of the late Major George L. Stearns gives the following
personal recollections of John Brown, in a bright and entertaining
style. Mrs. Stearns's noble husband was very intimately related to the
"old hero," and what Mrs. Stearns writes is of great value.
"The passage of the Fugitive-Slave Bill in 1850, followed by the
virtual repeal of the Missouri Compromise, under the name of the
Kansas Nebraska Act, in 1854, alarmed all sane people for the
safety of republican institutions; and the excitement reached a
white heat when, on the 22d of May, 1856, Charles Sumner was
murderously assaulted in the Senate chamber by Preston S. Brooks,
of South Carolina, for words spoken in debate: the celebrated
speech of the 19th and 20th of May, known as 'The Crime Against
Kansas.' That same week the town of Lawrence in the territory of
Kansas was sacked and burned in the interest of the slave power.
The atrocities committed by the 'Border Ruffians' upon the
free-State settlers sent a thrill of terror through all
law-abiding communities. In Boston the citizens gathered in
Faneuil Hall to consider what could be done, and a committee was
chosen, with Dr. S. G. Howe as chairman, for the relief of
Kansas, called the 'Kansas Relief Committee.' After some $18,000
or $20,000 had been collected, chiefly in Boston, and forwarded
to Kansas, the interest flagged, and Mr. Stearns, who had been
working with that committee, saw the need of more energetic
action; so one day he went to Dr. Howe, and told him he was ready
to give _all_ his time, and much of his money, to push forward
the work. Dr. Howe seeing that here was the man for the hour,
immediately resigned, and Mr. Stearns was chosen unanimously
chairman of the 'Massachusetts State Kansas Committee,' which
took the place of the one first organized. In the light of
subsequent history it is difficult to believe the apathy and
blindness which failed to recognize the significance of this
attack upon Kansas by the slave-holding power. Only faithful
watchmen in their high towers could see that it was the first
battle-ground between the two conflicting systems of freedom and
slavery, which was finally to culminate in the war of the
Rebellion. 'Working day and night without haste or rest,' failing
in no effort to rouse and stimulate the community, still Mr.
Stearns found that a vitalizing interest was wanting. When Gov.
Reeder was driven in disguise from the territory, he wrote to him
to come to Boston and address the people. He organized a
mass-meeting for him in Tremont Temple, and for a few days the
story he related stimulated to a livelier activity the more
conservative people, who were inclined to think the reports of
the free-State men much exaggerated. Soon, however, things
settled back into the old sluggish way; so that for three
consecutive committee meetings the chairman was the only person
who presented himself at the appointed time and place. Nothing
daunted, he turned to the country towns, and at the end of five
months he had raised by his personal exertions, and through his
agents, the sum of $48,000. Women formed societies all over the
State, for making and furnishing clothing, and various supplies,
which resulted in an addition of some $20,000 or $30,000 more. In
January, 1867, this species of work was stopped, by advices from
Kansas that no more contributions were needed, except for
_defense_. At this juncture Mr. Stearns wrote to John Brown, that
if he would come to Boston and consult with the friends of
freedom he would pay his expenses. They had never met, but
'Osawatomie Brown' had become a cherished household name during
the anxious summer of 1856.[66] Arriving in Boston, they were
introduced to each other in the street by a Kansas man, who
chanced to be with Mr. Stearns on his way to the committee rooms
in Nilis's Block, School Street. Captain Brown made a profound
impression on all who came within the sphere of his moral
magnetism. Emerson called him 'the most ideal of men, for he
wanted to put all his ideas into action.' His absolute
superiority to all selfish aims and narrowing pride of opinion
touched an answering chord in the self-devotion of Mr. Stearns. A
little anecdote illustrates the modest estimate of the work he
had in hand. After several efforts to bring together certain
friends to meet Captain Brown at his home in Medford, he found
that Sunday was the only day that would serve their several
convenience, and being a little uncertain how it might strike his
ideas of religious propriety, he prefaced his invitation with
something like an apology. With characteristic promptness came
the reply: 'Mr. Stearns, I have a little ewe-lamb that I want to
pull out of the ditch, and the Sabbath will be as good a day as
any to do it.'
"It was this occasion which furnished to literature one of the
most charming bits of autobiography. Our oldest son, Harry, a lad
of eleven years, was an observant listener, and drank eagerly
every word that was said of the cruel wrongs in Kansas, and of
slavery everywhere. When the gentlemen rose to go, he privately
asked his father if he might be allowed to give all his spending
money to John Brown. Leave being granted, he bounded away, and
returning with his small treasure, said: 'Captain Brown, will you
buy something with this money for those poor people in Kansas,
and some time will you write to me and tell me _what sort of a
little boy_ you were?' 'Yes, my son, I will, and God bless you
for your kind heart!' The autobiography has been printed many
times, but never before with the key which unlocked it.
"It may not be out of place to describe the impression he made
upon the writer on this first visit. When I entered the parlor,
he was sitting near the hearth, where glowed a bright open fire.
He rose to greet me, stepping forward with such an erect,
military bearing; such fine courtesy of demeanor and grave
earnestness, that he seemed to my instant thought some old
Cromwellian hero suddenly dropped down before me; a suggestion
which was presently strengthened by his saying [proceeding with
the conversation my entrance had interrupted]: 'Gentlemen, I
consider the Golden Rule and the Declaration of Independence one
and inseparable; and it is better that a whole generation of men,
women, and children should be swept away, than that this crime of
slavery should exist one day longer.' These words were uttered
like rifle balls; in such emphatic tones and manner that our
little Carl, not three years old, remembered it in manhood as one
of his earliest recollections. The child stood perfectly still,
in the middle of the room, gazing with his beautiful eyes on this
new sort of man, until his absorption arrested the attention of
Captain Brown, who soon coaxed him to his knee, tho' the look of
awe and childlike wonder remained. His dress was of some dark
brown stuff, quite coarse, but its exactness and neatness
produced a singular air of refinement. At dinner, he declined all
dainties, saying that he was unaccustomed to luxuries, even to
partaking of butter.
"The 'friends of freedom' with whom Mr. Stearns had invited John
Brown to consult were profoundly impressed with his sagacity,
integrity, and devotion; notably among these were R. W. Emerson,
Theodore Parker, H. D. Thoreau, A. Bronson Alcott, F. B. Sanborn,
Dr. S. G. Howe, Col. T. W. Higginson, Gov. Andrew, and others. In
February (1857) he appeared before a committee of the State
Legislature, to urge that Massachusetts should make an
appropriation in money in aid of those persons who had settled in
Kansas from her own soil. The speech is printed in Redpath's
'Life.' He obtained at this time, from the Massachusetts State
Kansas Committee,[67] some two hundred Sharp's rifles, with which
to arm one hundred mounted men for the defense of Kansas, who
could also be of service to the peculiar property of Missouri. In
those dark days of slave-holding supremacy, the friends of
freedom felt justified in aiding the flight of its victims to
free soil whenever and wherever opportunity offered. The
Fugitive-Slave Law was powerless before the law written on the
enlightened consciences of those devoted men and women. These
rifles had been forwarded previously to the National Committee at
Chicago, for the defense of Kansas, but for some unexplained
reasons had never proceeded farther than Tabor, in the State of
Iowa. Later on, Mr. Stearns, in his individual capacity,
authorized Captain Brown to purchase two hundred revolvers from
the Massachusetts Arms Company, and paid for them from his
private funds, thirteen or fifteen hundred dollars. During the
summer of 1857 he united with Mr. Amos A. Lawrence and others in
paying off the mortgage held by Mr. Gerritt Smith on his house
and farm at North Elba, N. Y., he paying two hundred and sixty
dollars. It would be difficult to state the entire amount of
money Mr. Stearns put into the hands of John Brown for
Anti-Slavery purposes and his own subsistence. He kept no account
of what he gave. In April or May, 1857, he gave him a check for
no less a sum than seven thousand dollars. Early in 1858, Hon.
Henry Wilson wrote to Dr. S. G. Howe that he had learned John
Brown was suspected of the intention of using those arms in other
ways than for the _defense_ of Kansas; and by order of the
committee, Mr. Stearns wrote (under date May 14, 1858) to Brown
not to use them for any other purpose, and to hold them subject
to his order, as chairman of said committee. When the operations
of the Massachusetts State Kansas Committee virtually ceased, in
June or July, 1858, it happened that this committee were some
four thousand dollars in debt to Mr. Stearns, for advances of
money from time to time to keep the organization in existence;
and it was voted to make over to the chairman these two hundred
Sharp's rifles as part payment of the committee's indebtedness.
They were of small account to Mr. Stearns. He knew them to be in
good hands, and troubled himself no further about them, either
the rifles or the revolvers; although keeping up from time to
time a correspondence with his friend upon the all-engrossing
subject.
"In February of 1859, John Brown was in Boston, and talked with
some of his friends about the feasibility of entrenching himself,
with a little band of men, in the mountains of Virginia, familiar
to him from having surveyed them as engineer in earlier life. His
plan was to open communication with the slaves of neighboring
plantations, collect them together, and send them off in squads,
as he had done in Missouri, 'without snapping a gun.' Mr. Stearns
had so much more faith in John Brown's opposition to _Slavery_,
than in any theories he advanced of the _modus operandi_, that
they produced much less impression on his mind than upon some
others gifted with more genius for details. _From first to last,
he believed in John Brown._ His plans, or theories, might be
feasible, or they might not. If the glorious old man wanted money
to try his plans, he should have it. His plans might fail;
probably would, but _he_ could never be a failure. There he
stood, unconquerable, in the panoply of divine Justice. Both of
these men were of the martyr type. No thought or consideration
for themselves, for _history_, or the estimation of others, ever
entered into their calculations. It was the service of _Truth_
and _Right_ which brought them together, and in that service they
were ready to die.
"In the words of an eminent writer[68]: 'A common spirit made
these two men recognize each other at first sight; and the power
of both lay in that inability to weigh difficulties against duty,
that instant step of thought to deed, which makes individuals
fully possessed by the idea of the age, the turning-points of its
destiny; hands in the right place for touching the match to the
train it has laid, or for leading the public will to the heart of
its moral need. They knew each other as minute-men on the same
watch; as men to be found _in_ the breach, before others knew
where it was; they were one in pity, one in indignation, one in
moral enthusiasm, burning beneath features set to patient
self-control; one in simplicity, though of widely different
culture; one in religious inspiration, though at the poles of
religious thought. The old frontiersman came from his wilderness
toils and agonies to find within the merchant's mansion of art
and taste by the side of Bunker Hill, a perfect sympathy: the
reverence of children, tender interest in his broken household,
free access to a rich man's resources, and even a valor kindred
with his own.'
"The attack upon Harper's Ferry was a 'side issue,' to quote the
words of John Brown, Jr., and a departure from his father's
original plan. It certainly took all his friends by surprise. In
his letter of Nov. 15, 1859 (while in prison), to his old
schoolmaster, the Rev. H. L. Vaill, are these words: 'I am not as
yet, in the _main_, at all disappointed. I have been a good deal
disappointed as it regards _myself_ in not keeping up to my own
plans; but I now feel entirely reconciled to that even: for God's
plan was infinitely better, _no doubt_, or I should have kept my
own. Had Samson kept to his determination of not telling Delilah
wherein his great strength lay, he would probably have never
overturned the house. _I did not tell Delilah_; but I was induced
to act very _contrary to my better judgment_.'[69]
* * * * *
"It is idle to endeavor to explain, by any methods of the
_understanding_, any rules of worldly wisdom, or prudence, this
influx of the Divine Will, which has made John Brown already an
ideal character. 'The wind bloweth where it listeth, and we hear
the sound thereof; but know not whence it cometh, or whither it
goeth.' So is every one that is born of the Spirit. Man works in
the midst of laws which execute themselves, more especially, if
by virtue of obedience he has lost sight of all selfish aims, and
perceives that Truth and Right alone can claim allegiance.
Emerson says: 'Divine intelligence carries on its administration
by good men; that great men are they who see that the spiritual
are greater than any material forces; and that really there never
was any thing great accomplished but under religious impulse.'
"The deadly _Atheism_ of Slavery was rolling its car of
Juggernaut all over the beautiful Republic, and one pure soul was
inspired to confront it by a practical interpretation of the
Golden Rule.
"That Virginia would hang John Brown was a foregone conclusion.
The Moloch of Slavery would have nothing less. His friends
exerted themselves to secure the best counsel which could be
induced to undertake the _formality_ of a defense, foremost among
whom was Mr. Stearns. A well-organized plan was made to rescue
him, conducted by a brave man from Kansas, Col. James Montgomery,
but a message came from the prisoner, that he should not feel at
liberty to walk out, if the doors were left open; a sense of
honor to his jailer (Captain Acvis) forbidding any thing of the
kind.
"Not a little anxiety was felt lest certain of his adherents
might be summoned as witnesses, whose testimony would lessen the
chances of acquittal, and possibly involve their own lives. John
A. Andrew (afterward Gov. Andrew) gave it as his opinion, after
an exhaustive search of the records, that Virginia would have no
right to summon these persons from Massachusetts, but
subsequently changed his opinion, and urged Mr. Stearns to take
passage to Europe, sending him home one day to pack his valise.
The advice was opposed to his instincts, but he considered that
his wife should have a voice in the matter, who decided, 'midst
many tears and prayers, that if slavery required another victim,
he must be ready.
"With Dr. Howe it was quite different. He became possessed with a
dread that threatened to overwhelm his reason. He was in delicate
health, and constitutionally subject to violent attacks of
nervous headache. One day he came to Medford and insisted that
Mr. Stearns should accompany him to Canada, urging that if he
remained here he should be insane, and that Mr. Stearns of all
his friends was the only one who would be at all satisfactory to
him. This request, or rather demand, Mr. Stearns promptly
declined. How well I remember his agitation, walking up and down
the room, and finally entreating Mr. Stearns for 'friendship's
sake' to go and take care of him. I can recall no instance of
such self-abnegation in my husband's self-denying career. He did
not _stoop_ to an _explanation_, even when Dr. Howe declared in
his presence, some months later, "that he never did any thing in
his life he so much wished to take back." I had hoped that Dr.
Howe would himself have spared me from making this contribution
to the truth of history.
"On the 2d of December, Mr. Stearns yearned for the solitude of
his own soul, in communion of spirit, with the friend who, on
that day, would 'make the gallows glorious like the Cross'; and
he left Dr. Howe and took the train for Niagara Falls. There,
sitting alone beside the mighty rush of water, he solemnly
consecrated his remaining life, his fortune, and all that was
most dear, to the _cause_ in whose service John Brown had died.
"How well and faithfully he kept his vow, may partly be seen in
his subsequent efforts in recruiting the colored troops at a
vital moment in the terrible war of the Rebellion which so
swiftly followed the sublime apotheosis of 'Old John Brown.'"[70]
That John Brown intended to free the slaves, and nothing more, the
record shows clearly. His move on Harper's Ferry was well planned,
and had all the parties interested done their part the work would have
been done well. As to the rectitude of his intentions he gives the
world this leaf of history:
"And now, gentlemen, let me press this one thing on your minds.
You all know how dear life is to you, and how dear your lives are
to your friends: and in remembering that, consider that the lives
of others are as dear to them as yours are to you. Do not,
therefore, take the life of any one if you can possibly avoid it;
but if it is necessary to take life in order to save your own,
then make sure work of it."--John Brown, before the battle at
Harper's Ferry.
"I never did intend murder, or treason, or the destruction of
property, or to excite or incite slaves to rebellion, or to make
insurrection. The design on my part was to free the
slaves."--John Brown, after the battle at Harper's Ferry.
Distance lends enchantment to the view. What the world condemns to-day
is applauded to-morrow.
We must have a "fair count" on the history of yesterday and last year.
The events chronicled yesterday, when the imagination was wrought upon
by exciting circumstances, need revision to-day.
The bitter words spoken this morning reproach at eventide the smarting
conscience. And the judgments prematurely formed, and the conclusions
rapidly reached, maybe rectified and repaired in the light of departed
years and enlarged knowledge.
John Brown is rapidly settling down to his proper place in history,
and "the madman" has been transformed into a "saint." When Brown
struck his first blow for freedom, at the head of his little band of
liberators, it was almost the universal judgment of both Americans and
foreigners that he was a "fanatic." It seemed the very soul of
weakness and arrogance for John Brown to attempt to do so great a work
with so small a force. Men reached a decision with the outer and
surface facts. But many of the most important and historically
trustworthy truths bearing upon the motive, object, and import of that
"bold move," have been hidden from the public view, either by
prejudice or fear.
Some people have thought John Brown--"_The Hero of Harper's Ferry_"--a
hot-headed, blood-thirsty brigand; they animadverted against the
precipitancy of his measures, and the severity of his invectives; said
that he was lacking in courage and deficient in judgment; that he
retarded rather than accelerated the cause he championed. But this
was the verdict of other times, not the judgment of to-day.
John Brown said to a personal friend during his stay in Kansas: "Young
men must learn to wait. Patience is the hardest lesson to learn. I
have waited for twenty years to accomplish my purpose." These are not
the words of a mere visionary idealist, but the mature language of a
practical and judicious leader, a leader than whom the world has never
seen a greater. By greatness is meant deep convictions of duty, a
sense of the Infinite, "a strong hold on truth," a "conscience void of
offence toward God and man," to which the appeals of the innocent and
helpless are more potential than the voices of angry thunder or
destructive artillery. Such a man was John Brown. He was strong in his
moral and mental nature, as well as in his physical nature. He was
born to lead; and he led, and made himself the pro-martyr of a cause
rapidly perfecting. All through his boyhood days he felt himself
lifted and quickened by great ideas and sublime purposes. He had
flowing in his veins the blood of his great ancestor, Peter Brown, who
came over in the "Mayflower"; and the following inscription appears
upon a marble monument in the graveyard at Canton Centre, New York:
"In memory of Captain John Brown, who died in the Revolutionary army,
at New York, September 3, 1776. He was of the fourth generation, in
regular descent, from Peter Brown, one of the Pilgrim Fathers, who
landed from the 'Mayflower,' at Plymouth, Massachusetts, December 22,
1620." This is the best commentary on his inherent love of absolute
liberty, his marvellous courage and transcendent military genius. For
years he elaborated and perfected his plans, working upon the public
sentiment of his day by the most praiseworthy means. He bent and bowed
the most obdurate conservatism of his day, and rallied to his
standards the most eminent men, the strongest intellects in the North.
His ethics and religion were as broad as the universe, and beneficent
in their wide ramification. And it was upon his "religion of
humanity," that embraced our entire species, that he proceeded with
his herculean task of striking off the chains of the enslaved. Few,
very few of his most intimate friends knew his plans--the plan of
freeing the slaves. Many knew his great faith, his exalted sentiments,
his ideas of liberty, in their crudity; but to a faithful few only did
he reveal his stupendous plans in their entirety.
Hon. Frederick Douglass and Colonel Richard J. Hinton, knew more of
Brown's real purposes than any other persons, with the exception of J.
H. Kagi, Osborn Anderson, Owen Brown, Richard Realf, and George B.
Gill.
"Of men born of woman," there is not a greater than John Brown. He was
the forerunner of Lincoln, the great apostle of freedom.
One year before he went to Harper's Ferry, a friend met Brown in
Kansas [in June, 1858], and learned that during the previous month he
had brought almost all of his plans to perfection; and that the day
and hour were fixed to strike the blow. One year before, a convention
had met, on the 8th of May, 1858, at Chatham, Canada. At this
convention a provisional constitution and ordinances were drafted and
adopted, with the following officers: Commander-in-Chief, John Brown;
Secretary of War, J. H. Kagi; Members of Congress, Alfred M.
Ellsworth, Osborn Anderson; Treasurer, Owen Brown; Secretary of the
Treasury, Geo. B. Gill; Secretary of State, Richard Realf.
John Brown made his appearance in Ohio and Canada in the spring of
1859. He wrote letters, made speeches, collected funds for his little
army, and made final arrangements with his Northern allies, etc. He
purchased a small farm, about six miles from Harper's Ferry, on the
Maryland side, and made it his ordnance depot. He had 102 Sharp's
rifles, 68 pistols, 55 bayonets, 12 artillery swords, 483 pikes, 150
broken handles of pikes, 16 picks, 40 shovels, besides quite a number
of other appurtenances of war. This was in July. He intended to make
all of his arrangements during the summer of 1859, and meet his men in
the Alleghanies in the fall of the same year.
The apparent rashness of the John Brown movement may be mitigated
somewhat by the fact that he failed to carry out his original plan.
During the summer of 1859 he instructed his Northern soldiers and
sympathizers to be ready for the attack on the night of the 24th of
October, 1859. But while at Baltimore, in September, he got the
impression that there was conspiracy in his camp, and in order to
preclude its consummation, suddenly, without sending the news to his
friends at the North, determined to strike the first blow on the night
of the 17th of October. The news of his battle and his bold stand
against the united forces of Virginia and Maryland swept across the
country as the wild storm comes down the mountain side. Friend and foe
were alike astonished and alarmed. The enemies of the cause he
represented, when they recovered from their surprise, laughed their
little laugh of scorn, and eased their feelings by referring to him as
the "madman." Friends faltered, and, while they did not question his
earnestness, doubted his judgment. "Why," they asked, "should he act
with such palpable rashness, and thereby render more difficult and
impossible the emancipation of the slaves?" They claimed that the blow
he struck, instead of severing, only the more tightly riveted, the
chains upon the helpless and hapless Blacks. But in the face of
subsequent history we think his surviving friends will change their
views. There is no proof that his fears were not well grounded; that a
conspiracy was in progress. And who can tell whether a larger force
would have been more effective, or the night of the 24th more
opportune? May it not be believed that the good old man was right, and
that Harper's Ferry was just the place, and the 17th of October just
the time to strike for freedom, and make the rock-ribbed mountains of
Virginia to tremble at the presence of a "master!"--the king of
freedom?
He was made a prisoner on the 19th of October, 1859, and remained
until the 7th of November without a change of clothing or medical aid.
Forty-two days from the time of his imprisonment he expiated his crime
upon the scaffold--a crime against slave-holding, timorous Virginia,
for bringing liberty to the oppressed. He was a man, and there was
nothing that interested man which was foreign to his nature. He had
gone into Virginia to save life, not to destroy it. The sighs and
groans of the oppressed had entered into his soul.
He had heard the Macedonian cry to come over and help them. He went,
and it cost him his life, but he gave it freely.
Captain Acvis, the jailer, said: "He was the gamest man I ever saw."
And Mr. Valandingham, at that time a member of Congress from Ohio, and
who examined him in court, said in a speech afterward.
"It is in vain to underrate either the man or the conspiracy.
Captain John Brown is as brave and resolute a man as ever headed
an insurrection, and, in a good cause, and with a sufficient
force, would have been a consummate partisan commander. He has
coolness, daring, persistency, stoic faith and patience, and a
firmness of will and purpose unconquerable! He is the farthest
possible remove from the ordinary ruffian, fanatic, or madman."
No friend, howsoever ardent in his love, could have woven a chaplet
more worthy than the one placed upon the brow of the old hero by his
most embittered foe. A truer estimate of John Brown cannot be had.
South Carolina, Missouri, and Kentucky sent a rope to hang him, but,
the first two lacking strength, Kentucky had the everlasting disgrace
of furnishing the rope to strangle the noblest man that ever lived in
any age.
The last letter he ever wrote was written to Mrs. Geo. L. Stearns, and
she shall give its history:
This letter requires the history which attaches to it, and
illustrates the consideration which the brave martyr had for
those in any way connected with him. It was written on a half
sheet of paper, the exact size of the pages of a book into which
he carefully inserted it, and tied up in a handkerchief with
other books and papers, which he asked his jailer (Mr. Avis) to
be allowed to go with his body to North Elba, and which Mrs.
Brown took with her from the Charlestown prison. Her statement to
me about it is this: She had been at home some two weeks, had
looked over the contents of the handkerchief many times, when one
day in turning the leaves of that particular book, she came upon
this letter, on which she said she found two or three blistered
spots, the only _tear drops_ she had seen among his papers. They
are now yellow with time. On the back of the half sheet was
written: "Please mail this to her," which she did, and so it
reached my hand; seeming as if from the world to which his spirit
had fled. It quite overwhelmed my husband. Presently he said:
"See, dear, how careful the old man has been, he would not even
direct it with your name to go from Virginia to Boston through
the post-offices; and altho' it contains no message to me, one of
those '_farewells_!' is intended for me, and also the 'Love to
_All_ who love their neighbors.'"
"CHARLESTOWN, JEFFERSON CO VA. 29th Nov. 1859.
"MRS. GEORGE L. STEARNS
"Boston, Mass.
"My Dear Friend:--No letter I have received since my imprisonment
here, has given me more satisfaction, or comfort, than yours of
the 8th inst. I am quite cheerful: and never more happy. Have
only time to write you a word. May God forever reward you _and
all yours_.
"_My love to_ ALL who love their neighbors. I have asked to be
_spared_ from having any _mock, or hypocritical prayers made over
me_ when I am publicly _murdered_; and that my only _religious
attendents_ be _poor little, dirty, ragged, bareheaded and
barefooted, Slave Boys; and Girls_, led by some old _gray-headed
slave Mother_.
"Farewell. Farewell.
"Your Friend,
"JOHN BROWN."[71]
The man who hung him, Governor Wise, lived to see the plans of Brown
completed and his most cherished hopes fulfilled. He heard the warning
shot fired at Sumter, saw Richmond fall, the war end in victory to the
party of John Brown; saw the slave-pen converted into the
school-house, and the four millions Brown fought and died for,
elevated to the honors of citizenship. And at last he has entered the
grave, where his memory will perish with his body, while the soul and
fame of John Brown go marching down the centuries!
Galileo, Copernicus, Newton, and John Brown have to wait the calmer
judgments of future generations. These men believed that God sent them
to do a certain work--to reveal a hidden truth; to pour light into the
minds of benighted and superstitious men. They completed their work;
they did nobly and well, then bowed to rest--
"With patriarchs of the infant world--with kings,
The powerful of the earth,"
while generation after generation studies their handwriting on the
wall of time and interprets their thoughts. Despised, persecuted, and
unappreciated while in the flesh, they are honored after death, and
enrolled among earth's good and great, her wise and brave. The shock
Brown gave the walls of the slave institution was felt from its centre
to its utmost limits. It was the entering wedge; it laid bare the
accursed institution, and taught good men everywhere to hate it with a
perfect hatred. Slavery received its death wound at the hands of a
"lonely old man." When he smote Virginia, the non-resistants, the
anti-slavery men, learned a lesson. They saw what was necessary to the
accomplishment of their work, and were now ready for the "worst." He
rebuked the conservatism of the North, and gave an example of
adherence to duty, devotion to truth, and fealty to God and man that
make the mere "professor" to tremble with shame. "John Brown's body
lies mouldering in the clay," but his immortal name will be pronounced
with blessings in all lands and by all people till the end of time.
FOOTNOTES:
[66] This was in the last days of 1856.
[67] The committee also authorized him to draw on their treasurer,
Patrick L. Jackson, for $500.
[68] Samuel Johnson, the accomplished Oriental scholar and devoted
friend of the slave.
[69] The italics are his.
[70] The above account of Capt. Brown was prepared for us by the widow
of the late Major Geo. L. Stearns. It is printed as written, and
breathes a beautiful spirit of love and tender remembrance for the two
heroes mentioned.
[71] This letter is printed for the first time, with Mrs. Stearns's
consent.
PART 7.
_THE NEGRO IN THE WAR FOR THE UNION._
CHAPTER XIV.
DEFINITION OF THE WAR ISSUE.
INCREASE OF SLAVE POPULATION IN SLAVE-HOLDING STATES FROM
1850-1860.--PRODUCTS OF SLAVE LABOR.--BASIS OF SOUTHERN
REPRESENTATION.--SIX SECEDING STATES ORGANIZE A NEW
GOVERNMENT.--CONSTITUTION OF THE CONFEDERATE GOVERNMENT.--SPEECH
BY ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS.--MR. LINCOLN IN FAVOR OF GRADUAL
EMANCIPATION.--HE IS ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.--THE
ISSUE OF THE WAR BETWEEN THE STATES.
In 1860 there were, in the fifteen slave-holding States, 12,240,000
souls, of whom 8,039,000 were whites, 251,000 free persons of color,
and 3,950,000 were slaves. The gain of the entire population of the
slave-holding States, from 1850-1860, was 2,627,000, equal to 27.33
per cent. The slave population had increased 749,931, or 23.44 per
cent., not including the slaves in the District of Columbia, where
they had lost 502 slaves during the decade. The nineteen
non-slave-holding States and the seven territories, including the
District of Columbia, contained 19,203,008 souls, of whom 18,920,771
were whites, 237,283 free persons of color, and 41,725 civilized
Indians. The actual increase of this population was 5,624,101, or
41.24 per cent. During the same period--1850-1860--the total
population of free persons of color in the United States increased
from 434,449 to 487,970, or at the rate of 12.33 per cent., annual
increase of above 1 per cent. In 1850 the Mulattoes were 11.15 per
cent., regarding the United States as one aggregate, and in 1860 were
13.25 per cent., of the entire Colored population.
TOTAL COLORED POPULATION OF THE UNITED STATES.
--------------+-----------------------+---------------
| Numbers. | Proportions.
+-----------+-----------+-------+-------
Colored. | 1850. | 1860. | 1850. | 1860.
--------------+-----------+-----------+-------+-------
Blacks | 3,233,057 | 3,853,478 | 88.85 | 86.75
Mulattoes | 405,751 | 588,352 | 11.15 | 13.25
--------------+-----------+-----------+-------+-------
Total Colored | 3,638,808 | 4,441,830 |100.00 |100.00
--------------+-----------+-----------+-------+-------
So, in ten years, from 1850-1860, the increase of blacks above the
current deaths was 620,421, or more than one half of a million, while
the corresponding increase of Mulattoes was 182,601. Estimating the
deaths to have been 22.4 per cent. during the same period, or one in
40 annually, the total births of Blacks in ten years was about
1,345,000, and the total births of Mulattoes about 273,000. Thus it
appears, in the prevailing order, that of every 100 births of Colored,
about 17 were Mulattoes, and 83 Blacks, indicating a ratio of nearly 1
to 5.
There were:
Deaf and dumb slaves 531
Blind 1,387
Insane 327
Idiotic 1,182
-----
Total 3,427
There were 400,000 slaves in the towns and cities of the South, and
2,804,313 in the country. The products of slave labor in 1850 were as
follows:
SLAVE LABOR PRODUCTS IN 1850.
Cotton $98,603,720
Tobacco 13,982,686
Cane sugar 12,378,850
Hemp 5,000,000
Rice 4,000,000
Molasses 2,540,179
------------
$136,505,435
There were 347,525 slave-holders against 5,873,893 non-slave-holders
in the slave States. The representation in Congress was as follows:
Northern representatives based on white population 142
Northern representatives based on Colored population 2
Southern representatives based on white population 68
Southern representatives based on free Colored population 2
Southern representatives based on slave population 20
Ratio of representation for 1853 93,420
The South owned 16,652 churches, valued at $22,142,085; the North
owned 21,357 churches, valued at $65,167,586. The South printed
annually 92,165,919 copies of papers and periodicals; the North
printed annually 334,146,081 copies of papers and periodicals. The
South owned, other than private, 722 libraries, containing 742,794
volumes; the North owned, other than private, 14,902 libraries,
containing 3,882,217 volumes.
In sentiment, motive, and civilization the two "Sections" were as far
apart as the poles. New England, Puritan, Roundhead civilization could
not fellowship the Cavaliers of the South. There were not only two
sections and two political parties in the United States;--there were
two antagonistic governmental ideas. John C. Calhoun and Alexander H.
Stephens, of the South, represented the idea of the separate and
individual sovereignty of each of the States; while William H. Seward
and Abraham Lincoln, of the North, represented the idea of the
centralization of governmental authority, so far as it was necessary
to secure uniformity of the laws, and the supremacy of the Federal
Constitution. On the 25th of October, 1858, in a speech delivered in
Rochester, N. Y., William H. Seward said:
"Our country is a theatre which exhibits, in full operation, two
radically different political systems: the one resting on the
basis of servile or slave labor; the other on the basis of
voluntary labor of freemen.
* * * * *
"The two systems are at once perceived to be incongruous. They
never have permanently existed together in one country, and they
never can.
... "These antagonistic systems are continually coming in closer
contact, and collision ensues.
"Shall I tell you what this collision means? It is an
irrepressible conflict between opposing and enduring forces, and
it means that the United States must, and will, sooner or later,
become entirely a slave-holding nation, or entirely a free labor
nation. Either the cotton and rice fields of South Carolina, and
the sugar plantations of Louisiana, will ultimately be tilled by
free-labor, and Charleston and New Orleans become marts for
legitimate merchandise alone, or else the rye fields and wheat
fields of Massachusetts and New York must again be surrendered by
their farmers to the slave culture and to the production of
slaves, and Boston and New York become once more markets for
trade in the bodies and souls of men."
Upon the eve of the great Rebellion, Mr. Seward said in the United
States Senate:
"A free Republican government like this, notwithstanding all its
constitutional checks, cannot long resist and counteract the
progress of society.
"Free labor has at last apprehended its rights and its destiny,
and is organizing itself to assume the government of the
Republic. It will henceforth meet you boldly and resolutely here
(Washington); it will meet you everywhere, in the territories and
out of them, where-ever you may go to extend slavery. It has
driven you back in California and in Kansas; it will invade you
soon in Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Missouri, and Texas. It
will meet you in Arizona, in Central America, and even in Cuba.
* * * * *
"You may, indeed, get a start under or near the tropics, and seem
safe for a time, but it will be only a short time. Even there you
will found States only for free labor, or to maintain and occupy.
The interest of the whole race demands the ultimate emancipation
of all men. Whether that consummation shall be allowed to take
effect, with needful and wise precautions against sudden change
and disaster, or be hurried on by violence, is all that remains
for you to decide. The white man needs this continent to labor
upon. His head is clear, his arm is strong, and his necessities
are fixed.
* * * * *
"It is for yourselves, and not for us, to decide how long and
through what further mortifications and disasters the contest
shall be protracted before Freedom shall enjoy her already
assured triumph.
"You may refuse to yield it now, and for a short period, but your
refusal will only animate the friends of freedom with the courage
and the resolution, and produce the union among them, which alone
is necessary on their part to attain the position itself,
simultaneously with the impending overthrow of the existing
Federal Administration and the constitution of a new and more
independent Congress."
Mr. Lincoln said during a discussion of the impending crisis:
"I believe this government cannot endure permanently, half slave
and half free. I do not expect the Union to be dissolved; I do
not expect the house to fall, but I do expect that it will cease
to be divided. It will become all one thing, or all the other.
Either the opponents of slavery will arrest the further spread of
it, and place it where the public mind shall rest in the belief
that it is in the course of ultimate extinction, or its advocates
will push it forward until it shall become alike lawful in all
the States, old as well as new, North as well as South.
"I have always hated slavery as much as any Abolitionist. I have
always been an old-line Whig. I have always hated it, and I
always believed it in a course of ultimate extinction. If I were
in Congress, and a vote should come up on a question whether
slavery should be prohibited in a new territory, in spite of the
Dred Scott decision I would vote that it should."
Notwithstanding the confident tone of Mr. Lincoln's statement that he
did "not expect the house to fall," it _did_ fall, and great was the
fall thereof!
On Saturday, 9th of February, 1861, six seceding States met at
Montgomery, Alabama, and organized an independent government. The
ordinances of secession were passed by the States as follows:
STATE. DATE. YEAS. NAYS.
South Carolina Dec. 20, 1860 169 ----
Mississippi Jan. 9, 1861 84 15
Alabama Jan. 11, 1861 61 39
Florida Jan. 11, 1861 62 7
Georgia Jan. 19, 1861 228 89
Louisiana Jan. 25, 1861 113 17
The following delegates presented their credentials and were admitted
and represented their respective States:
ALABAMA.--R. W. Walker, R. H. Smith, J. L. M. Curry, W. P.
Chilton, S. F. Hale Colon, J. McRae, John Gill Shorter, David P.
Lewis, Thomas Fearn.
FLORIDA.--James B. Owens, J. Patten Anderson, Jackson Morton (not
present).
GEORGIA.--Robert Toombs, Howell Cobb, F. S. Bartow, M. J.
Crawford, E. A. Nisbet, B. H. Hill, A. R. Wright, Thomas R. Cobb,
A. H. Kenan, A. H. Stephens.
LOUISIANA.--John Perkins, Jr., A. Declonet, Charles M. Conrad, D.
F. Kenner, G. E. Sparrow, Henry Marshall.
MISSISSIPPI.--W. P. Harris, Walter Brooke, N. S. Wilson, A. M.
Clayton, W. S. Barry, J. T. Harrison.
SOUTH CAROLINA.--R. B. Rhett, R. W. Barnwell, L. M. Keitt, James
Chestnut, Jr., C. G. Memminger, W. Porcher Miles, Thomas J.
Withers, W. W. Boyce.
A president and vice-president were chosen by unanimous vote.
President--Honorable Jefferson Davis, of Mississippi.
Vice-President--Honorable Alexander H. Stephens, of Georgia. The
following gentlemen composed the Cabinet:
Secretary of State, Robert Toombs; Secretary of Treasury, C. G.
Memminger; Secretary of Interior (Vacancy); Secretary of War, L. P.
Walker; Secretary of Navy, John Perkins, Jr.; Postmaster-General, H.
T. Ebett; Attorney-General, J. P. Benjamin.
The Constitution of the Confederate Government did not differ so very
radically from the Federal Constitution. The following were the chief
points:
"1. The importation of African negroes from any foreign country
other than the slave-holding States of the Confederate States is
hereby forbidden, and Congress is required to pass such laws as
shall effectually prevent the same.
"2. Congress shall also have power to prohibit the introduction
of slaves from any State not a member of this Confederacy.
"The Congress shall have power:
"1. To lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises, for
revenue necessary to pay the debts and carry on the government of
the Confederacy, and all duties, imposts, and excises shall be
uniform throughout the Confederacy.
"A slave in one State escaping to another shall be delivered,
upon the claim of the party to whom said slave may belong, by the
Executive authority of the State in which such slave may be
found; and in any case of abduction or forcible rescue, full
compensation, including the value of slave, and all costs and
expense, shall be made to the party by the State in which such
abduction or rescue shall take place.
"2. The government hereby instituted shall take immediate step's
for the settlement of all matters between the States forming it
and their late confederates of the United States in relation to
the public property and public debt at the time of their
withdrawal from them; these States hereby declaring it to be
their wish and earnest desire to adjust everything pertaining to
the common property, common liabilities, and common obligations
of that Union, upon principles of right, justice, equity, and
good faith."
At first blush it would appear that the new government had not been
erected upon the slave question; that it had gone as far as the
Federal Government to suppress the foreign slave-trade; and that
nobler and sublimer ideas and motives had inspired and animated the
Southern people in their movement for a new government. But the men
who wrote the Confederate platform knew what they were about. They
knew that to avoid the charge that would certainly be made against
them, of having seceded in order to make slavery a national
institution, they must be careful not to exhibit such intentions in
their Constitution. But that the South seceded on account of the
slavery question, there can be no historical doubt whatever. Jefferson
Davis, President, so-called, of the Confederate Government, said in
his Message, April 29, 1861:
"When the several States delegated certain powers to the United
States Congress, a large portion of the laboring population
consisted of African slaves, imported into the colonies by the
mother-country. In twelve out of the thirteen States, negro
slavery existed; and the right of property in slaves was
protected by law. This property was recognized in the
Constitution; and provision was made against its loss by the
escape of the slave.
"The increase in the number of slaves by further importation from
Africa was also secured by a clause forbidding Congress to
prohibit the slave-trade anterior to a certain date; and in no
clause can there be found any delegation of power to the
Congress, authorizing it in any manner to legislate to the
prejudice, detriment, or discouragement of the owners of that
species of property, or excluding it from the protection of the
Government.
"The climate and soil of the Northern States soon proved
unpropitious to the continuance of slave labor; whilst the
converse was the case at the South. Under the unrestricted free
intercourse between the two sections, the Northern States
consulted their own interest, by selling their slaves to the
South, and prohibiting slavery within their limits. The South
were willing purchasers of a property suitable to their wants,
and paid the price of the acquisition without harboring a
suspicion that their quiet possession was to be disturbed by
those who were inhibited not only by want of constitutional
authority, but by good faith as vendors, from disquieting a title
emanating from themselves.
"As soon, however, as the Northern States that prohibited
African slavery within their limits had reached a number
sufficient to give their representation a controlling voice in
the Congress, a persistent and organized system of hostile
measures against the rights of the owners of slaves in the
Southern States was inaugurated, and gradually extended. A
continuous series of measures was devised and prosecuted for the
purpose of rendering insecure the tenure of property in slaves.
* * * * *
"With interests of such overwhelming magnitude imperilled, the
people of the Southern States were driven by the conduct of the
North to the adoption of some course of action to avoid the
danger with which they were openly menaced. With this view, the
Legislatures of the several States invited the people to select
delegates to conventions to be held for the purpose of
determining for themselves what measures were best adapted to
meet so alarming a crisis in their history."[72]
Alexander H. Stephens, Vice-President, as he was called, said, in a
speech delivered at Savannah, Georgia, 21st of March, 1861:
"The new Constitution has put at rest _forever_ all the agitating
questions relating to our peculiar institution,--African slavery
as it exists amongst us, the proper status of the negro in our
form of civilization. _This was the immediate cause of the late
rupture and present revolution._ JEFFERSON, in his forecast, had
anticipated this, as the 'rock upon which the old Union would
split.' He was right. What was conjecture with him is now a
realized fact. But whether he fully comprehended the great truth
upon which that great rock _stood_ and _stands_, may be doubted.
_The prevailing ideas entertained by him and most of the leading
statesmen at the time of the formation of the old Constitution,
were, that the enslavement of the African was in violation of the
laws of nature; that it was wrong in principle, socially,
morally, and politically._ It was an evil they knew not well how
to deal with; but the general opinion of the men of that day was,
that, somehow or other in the order of Providence, the
institution would be evanescent, and pass away. This idea, though
not incorporated in the Constitution, was the prevailing idea at
the time. The Constitution, it is true, secured every essential
guarantee to the institution while it should last; and hence no
argument can be justly used against the constitutional guarantees
thus secured, because of the common sentiment of the day. _Those
ideas, however, were fundamentally wrong. They rested upon the
assumption of the equality of races. This was an error._ It was a
sandy foundation; and the idea of a government built upon
it,--when the 'storm came and the wind blew, it _fell_.'
"_Our new government is founded upon exactly the opposite ideas.
Its foundations are laid, its corner-stone rests, upon the great
truth, that the negro is not equal to the white man; that
slavery, subordination to the superior race, is his natural and
normal condition. This, our new government, is the first, in the
history of the world, based upon this great physical,
philosophical, and moral truth._ This truth has been slow in the
process of its development, like all other truths in the various
departments of science. It has been so even amongst us. Many who
hear me, perhaps, can recollect well that this truth was not
generally admitted, even within their day."[73]
Now, then, what was the real issue between the Confederate States and
the United States? Why, it was extension of slavery by the former, and
the restriction of slavery by the latter. To put the issue as it was
understood by Northern men--in poetic language, it was "_The Union as
it is_." While the South, at length, through its leaders, acknowledged
that slavery was their issue, the North, standing upon the last
analysis of the Free-Soil idea of resistance to the further
inoculation of free territory with the virus of slavery, refused to
recognize slavery as an issue. But what did the battle cry of the
loyal North, "_The Union as it is_," mean? A Union half free and half
slave; a dual government, if not in fact, certainly in the brains and
hearts of the people; two civilizations at eternal and inevitable war
with each other; a Union with the canker-worm of slavery in it,
impairing its strength every year and threatening its life; a Union in
which two hostile ideas of political economy were at work, and where
unpaid slave labor was inimical to the interests of the free
workingmen. And it should not be forgotten that the Republican party
acknowledged the right of Southerns to hunt slaves in the free States,
and to return such slaves, under the fugitive-slave law, to their
masters. Mr. Lincoln was not an Abolitionist, as many people think.
His position on the question was clearly stated in the answers he gave
to a number of questions put to him by Judge Douglass in the latter
part of the summer of 1858. Mr. Lincoln said:
"Having said this much, I will take up the judge's
interrogatories as I find them printed in the Chicago 'Times,'
and answer them _seriatim_. In order that there may be no mistake
about it, I have copied the interrogatories in writing, and also
my answers to them. The first one of these interrogatories is in
these words:
"Question 1. 'I desire to know whether Lincoln to-day stands, as
he did in 1854, in favor of the unconditional repeal of the
Fugitive-Slave Law?'
"Answer. I do not now, nor ever did, stand in favor of the
unconditional repeal of the Fugitive-Slave Law.
"Q. 2. 'I desire him to answer whether he stands pledged to-day,
as he did in 1854, against the admission of any more slave States
into the Union, even if the people want them?'
"A. I do not now, nor ever did, stand pledged against the
admission of any more slave States into the Union.
"Q. 3. 'I want to know whether he stands pledged against the
admission of a new State into the Union with such a constitution
as the people of that State may see fit to make.'
"Q. 4. 'I want to know whether he stands to-day pledged to the
abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia?'
"A. I do not stand to-day pledged to the abolition of slavery in
the District of Columbia.
"Q. 5. 'I desire him to answer whether he stands pledged to the
prohibition of the slave-trade between the different States?'
"A. I do not stand pledged to the prohibition of the slave-trade
between the different States.
"Q. 6. 'I desire to know whether he stands pledged to prohibit
slavery in all the territories of the United States, north as
well as south of the Missouri Compromise line?'
"A. I am impliedly, if not expressly, pledged to a belief in the
_right_ and _duty_ of Congress to prohibit slavery in all the
United States territories. [Great applause.]
"Q. 7. 'I desire him to answer whether he is opposed to the
acquisition of any new territory unless slavery is first
prohibited therein?'
"A. I am not generally opposed to honest acquisition of
territory; and, in any given case, I would or would not oppose
such acquisition, accordingly as I might think such acquisition
would or would not agitate the slavery question among ourselves.
"Now, my friends, it will be perceived upon an examination of
these questions and answers, that so far I have only answered
that I was not _pledged_ to this, that, or the other. The judge
has not framed his interrogatories to ask me any thing more than
this, and I have answered in strict accordance with the
interrogatories, and have answered truly that I am not _pledged_
at all upon any of the points to which I have answered. But I am
not disposed to hang upon the exact form of his interrogatories.
I am rather disposed to take up at least some of these questions,
and state what I really think upon them.
"As to the first one, in regard to the Fugitive-Slave Law, I have
never hesitated to say, and I do not now hesitate to say, that I
think, under the Constitution of the United States, the people of
the Southern States are entitled to a congressional slave law.
Having said that, I have had nothing to say in regard to the
existing Fugitive-Slave Law, further than that I think it should
have been framed so as to be free from some of the objections
that pertain to it, without lessening its efficiency. And
inasmuch as we are not now in an agitation in regard to an
alteration or modification of that law, I would not be the man to
introduce it as a new subject of agitation upon the general
question of slavery.
"In regard to the other question, of whether I am pledged to the
admission of any more slave States into the Union, I state to you
very frankly that I would be exceedingly sorry ever to be put in
a position of having to pass upon that question. I should be
exceedingly glad to know that there would never be another slave
State admitted into the Union; but I must add, that if slavery
shall be kept out of the territories during the territorial
existence of any one given territory, and then the people shall,
having a fair chance and a clear field, when they come to adopt
the constitution, do such an extraordinary thing as to adopt a
slave constitution, uninfluenced by the actual presence of the
institution among them, I see no alternative, if we own the
country, but to admit them into the Union. [Applause.]
"The third interrogatory is answered by the answer to the second,
it being, as I conceive, the same as the second.
"The fourth one is in regard to the abolition of slavery in the
District of Columbia. In relation to that I have my mind very
distinctly made up. I should be exceedingly glad to see slavery
abolished in the District of Columbia. I believe that Congress
possesses the constitutional power to abolish it. Yet, as a
member of Congress, I should not, with my present views, be in
favor of _endeavoring_ to abolish slavery in the District of
Columbia, unless it would be upon these conditions: _First_, that
the abolition should be gradual; _second_, that it should be on a
vote of the majority of qualified voters in the district; and,
_third_, that compensation should be made to unwilling owners.
With these three conditions I confess I would be exceedingly glad
to see Congress abolish slavery in the District of Columbia; and,
in the language of Henry Clay, 'sweep from our capital that foul
blot upon our nation.'
"In regard to the fifth interrogatory, I must say here that, as
to the question of the abolition of the slave-trade between the
different States, I can truly answer, as I have, that I am
_pledged_ to nothing about it. It is a subject to which I have
not given that mature consideration that would make me feel
authorized to state a position so as to hold myself entirely
bound by it. In other words, that question has never been
prominently enough before me to induce me to investigate whether
we really have the constitutional power to do it. I could
investigate it, if I had sufficient time, to bring myself to a
conclusion upon that subject; but I have not done so, and I say
so frankly to you here, and to Judge Douglass. I must say,
however, that if I should be of opinion that Congress does
possess the constitutional power to abolish slave-trading among
the different States, I should still not be in favor of the
exercise of that power unless upon some conservative principle as
I conceive it, akin to what I have said in relation to the
abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia.
"My answer as to whether I desire that slavery should be
prohibited in all territories of the United States, is full and
explicit within itself, and cannot be made clearer by any
comments of mine. So, I suppose, in regard to the question
whether I am opposed to the acquisition of any more territory
unless slavery is first prohibited therein, my answer is such
that I could add nothing by way of illustration, or making myself
better understood, than the answer which I have placed in
writing.
"Now, in all this the judge has me, and he has me on the record.
I suppose he had flattered himself that I was really entertaining
one set of opinions for one place, and another set for another
place--that I was afraid to say at one place what I uttered at
another. What I am saying here I suppose I say to a vast audience
as strongly tending to abolitionism as any audience in the State
of Illinois, and I believe I am saying that which, if it would be
offensive to any persons and render them enemies to myself, would
be offensive to persons in this audience."[74]
Here, then, is the position of Mr. Lincoln set forth with deliberation
and care. He was opposed to any coercive measures in settling the
slavery question; he was for gradual emancipation; and for admitting
States into the Union with a slave constitution. Within twenty-four
months, without a change of views, he was nominated for and elected to
the Presidency of the United States.
With no disposition to interfere with the institution of slavery, Mr.
Lincoln found himself chief magistrate of a great _nation_ in the
midst of a great rebellion. And in his inaugural address on the 4th of
March, 1861, he referred to the question of slavery again in a manner
too clear to admit of misconception, affirming his previous views:
"There is much controversy about the delivering up of fugitives
from service or labor. The clause I now read is as plainly
written in the Constitution as any other of its provisions:
"'No person held to service or labor in one State under the laws
thereof, escaping into another, shall, in consequence of any law
or regulation therein, be discharged from such service or labor,
but shall be delivered up on claim of the party to whom such
service or labor may be due.'
"It is scarcely questioned that this provision was intended by
those who made it for the reclaiming of what we call fugitive
slaves; and the intention of the lawgiver is the law.
"All members of Congress swear their support to the whole
Constitution--to this provision as well as any other. To the
proposition, then, that slaves whose cases come within the terms
of this clause 'shall be delivered up,' their oaths are
unanimous. Now, if they would make the effort in good temper,
could they not, with nearly equal unanimity, frame and pass a law
by means of which to keep good that unanimous oath?
"There is some difference of opinion whether this clause should
be enforced by National or by State authority; but surely that
difference is not a very material one. If the slave is to be
surrendered, it can be of but little consequence to him or to
others by which authority it is done; and should any one, in any
case, be content that this oath shall go unkept on a merely
unsubstantial controversy as to how it shall be kept?"
So the issues were joined in war. The South aggressively, offensively
sought the extension and perpetuation of slavery. The North passively,
defensively stood ready to protect her free territory, but not to
interfere with slavery. And there was no day during the first two
years of the war when the North would not have cheerfully granted the
slave institution an indefinite lease of _legal_ existence upon the
condition that the war should cease.
FOOTNOTES:
[72] National Intelligencer, Tuesday, May 7, 1861.
[73] National Intelligencer, Tuesday, April, 2, 1861.
[74] Barrett, pp. 177-180.
CHAPTER XV.
"A WHITE MAN'S WAR."
THE FIRST CALL FOR TROOPS.--RENDITION OF FUGITIVE SLAVES BY THE
ARMY.--COL. TYLER'S ADDRESS TO THE PEOPLE OF VIRGINIA.--GENERAL
ISAAC R. SHERWOOD'S ACCOUNT OF AN ATTEMPT TO SECURE A FUGITIVE
SLAVE IN HIS CHARGE.--COL. STEEDMAN REFUSES TO HAVE HIS CAMP
SEARCHED FOR FUGITIVE SLAVES, BY ORDER FROM GEN. FRY.--LETTER
FROM GEN. BUELL IN DEFENCE OF THE REBELS IN THE SOUTH.--ORDERS
ISSUED BY GENERALS HOOKER, WILLIAMS, AND OTHERS, IN REGARD TO
HARBORING FUGITIVE SLAVES IN UNION CAMPS.--OBSERVATION CONCERNING
SLAVERY FROM THE "ARMY OF THE POTOMAC."--GEN. BUTLER'S LETTER TO
GEN. WINFIELD SCOTT.--IT IS ANSWERED BY THE SECRETARY OF
WAR.--HORACE GREELEY'S LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT.--PRESIDENT
LINCOLN'S REPLY.--GEN. JOHN C. FREMONT, COMMANDER OF THE UNION
ARMY IN MISSOURI, ISSUES A PROCLAMATION EMANCIPATING SLAVES IN
HIS DISTRICT.--IT IS DISAPPROVED BY THE PRESIDENT.--EMANCIPATION
PROCLAMATION BY GEN. HUNTER.--IT IS RESCINDED BY THE
PRESIDENT.--SLAVERY AND UNION JOINED IN A DESPERATE STRUGGLE.
When the war clouds broke over the country and hostilities began, the
North counted the Negro on the outside of the issue. The Federal
Government planted itself upon the policy of the "defence of the free
States,"--pursued a defensive rather than an offensive policy. And,
whenever the Negro was mentioned, the leaders of the political parties
and the Union army declared that it was "_a white mans war_."
The first call for three months' troops indicated that the authorities
at Washington felt confident that the "trouble" would not last long.
The call was issued on the 15th of April, 1861, and provided for the
raising of 75,000 troops. It was charged by the President that certain
States had been guilty of forming "combinations too powerful to be
suppressed by the ordinary course of judicial proceedings," and then
he proceeded to state:
"The details for this object will be immediately communicated to
the State authorities through the War Department. I appeal to all
loyal citizens to favor, facilitate, and aid this effort to
maintain the honor, the integrity, and the existence of our
National Union, and the perpetuity of popular government, and to
redress wrongs already long enough endured. I deem it proper to
say that the first service assigned to the forces hereby called
forth, will probably be to repossess the forts, places, and
property which have been seized from the Union; and in every
event the utmost care will be observed, consistently with the
objects aforesaid, to avoid any devastation, any destruction of,
or interference with, property, or any disturbance of peaceful
citizens of any part of the country; and I hereby command the
persons composing the combinations aforesaid, to disperse and
retire peaceably to their respective abodes within twenty days
from this date."[75]
There was scarcely a city in the North, from New York to San
Francisco, whose Colored residents did not speedily offer their
services to the States to aid in suppressing the Rebellion. But
everywhere as promptly were their services declined. The Colored
people of the Northern States were patriotic and enthusiastic; but
their interest was declared insolence. And being often rebuked for
their loyalty, they subsided into silence to bide a change of public
sentiment.
The almost unanimous voice of the press and pulpit was against a
recognition of the Negro as the cause of the war. Like a man in the
last stages of consumption who insists that he has only a bad cold, so
the entire North urged that slavery was not the cause of the war: it
was a little local misunderstanding. But the death of the gallant Col.
Elmer E. Elsworth palsied the tongues of mere talkers; and in the
tragic silence that followed, great, brave, and true men began to
think.
Not a pulpit in all the land had spoken a word for the slave. The
clergy stood dumb before the dreadful issue. But one man was found,
like David of old, who, gathering his smooth pebble of fact from the
brook of God's eternal truth, boldly met the boastful and erroneous
public sentiment of the hour. That man was the Rev. Justin D. Fulton,
a Baptist minister of Albany, New York. He was chosen to preach the
funeral sermon of Col. Elsworth, and performed that duty on Sunday,
May 26, 1861. Speaking of slavery, the reverend gentleman said:
"Shall this magazine of danger be permitted to remain? _We must
answer this question. If we say no, it is no!_ Slavery is a curse
to the North. It impoverishes the South, and demoralizes both. It
is the parent of treason, the seedling of tyranny, and the
fountain-source of all the ills that have infected our life as a
people, being the central cause of all our conflicts of the past
and the war of to-day. What reason have we for permitting it to
remain? God does not want it, for His truth gives freedom. The
South does not need it, for it is the chain fastened to her limb
that fetters her progress. Morality, patriotism, and humanity
alike protest against it.
"The South fights for slavery, for the despotism which it
represents, for the ignoring the rights of labor, and for
reducing to slavery or to serfdom all whose hands are hardened by
toil.
"Why not make the issue at once, which shall inspire every man
that shoulders his musket with a noble purpose? Our soldiers need
to be reminded that this government was consecrated to freedom by
those who first built here the altars of worship, and planted on
the shore of the Western Continent the tree of liberty, whose
fruit to-day fills the garners of national hope.... I would not
forget that I am a messenger of the Prince of Peace. My motives
for throwing out these suggestions are three-fold: 1. Because I
believe God wants us to be actuated by motives not one whit less
philanthropic than the giving of freedom to four million of
people. 2. I confess to a sympathy for and faith in the slave,
and cherish the belief that if freed, the war would become
comparatively bloodless, and that as a people we should enter on
the discharge of higher duties and a more enlarged prosperity. 3.
The war would hasten to a close, and the end secured would then
form a brilliant dawn to a career of prosperity unsurpassed in
the annals of mankind."[76]
Brave, prophetic words! But a thousand vituperative editors sprang at
Mr. Fulton's utterances, and as snapping curs, growled at and shook
every sentence. He stood his ground. He took no step backward. When
notice was kindly sent him that a committee would wait on him to treat
him to a coat of tar and feathers, against the entreaties of anxious
friends, he sent word that he would give them a warm reception. When
the best citizens of Albany said the draft could not be enforced
without bloody resistance, the Rev. Mr. Fulton exclaimed: "If the
floodgates of blood are to be opened, we will not shoot down the poor
and ignorant, but the swaggering and insolent men whose hearts are not
in this war!"
The "Atlas and Argus," in an editorial on _Ill-Timed Pulpit
Abolitionism_, denounced Rev. Mr. Fulton in bitterest terms; while the
"Evening Standard" and "Journal" both declared that the views of the
preacher were as a fire-brand thrown into the magazine of public
sentiment.
Everywhere throughout the North the Negro was counted as on the
outside. Everywhere it was merely "a war for the Union," which was
half free and half slave.
When the Union army got into the field at the South it was confronted
by a difficult question. What should be done with the Negroes who
sought the Union lines for protection from their masters? The
sentiment of the press, Congress, and the people of the North
generally, was against interference with the slave, either by the
civil or military authorities. And during the first years of the war
the army became a band of slave-catchers. Slave-holders and sheriffs
from the Southern States were permitted to hunt fugitive slaves under
the Union flag and within the lines of Federal camps. On the 22d of
June, 1861, the following paragraph appeared in the "Baltimore
American":
"Two free negroes, belonging to Frederick, Md., who concealed
themselves in the cars which conveyed the Rhode Island regiment
to Washington from this city, were returned that morning by
command of Colonel Burnside, who _supposed them to be slaves_.
The negroes were accompanied by a sergeant of the regiment, who
lodged them in jail."
On the 4th of July, 1861, Col. Tyler, of the 7th Ohio regiment,
delivered an address to the people of Virginia; a portion of which is
sufficient to show the feeling that prevailed among army officers on
the slavery question:
"To you, fellow-citizens of West Virginia--many of whom I have so
long and favorably known,--I come to aid and protect. [The
grammar is defective.]
"I have no selfish ambition to gratify, no personal motives to
actuate. I am here to protect you in person and property--to aid
you in the execution of the law, in the maintenance of peace and
order, in the defence of the Constitution and the Union, and in
the extermination of our common foe. As our enemies have belied
our mission, and represented us as a band of Abolitionists, I
desire to assure you that the relation of master and servant as
recognized in your State shall be respected. Your authority over
that species of property shall not in the least be interfered
with. To this end I assure you that those under my command have
peremptory orders to take up and hold any negroes found running
about the camp without passes from their masters."
When a few copies had been struck off, a lieutenant in Captain G. W.
Shurtleff's company handed him one. He waited upon the colonel, and
told him that it was not true that the troops had been ordered to
arrest fugitive slaves. The colonel threatened to place Captain
Shurtleff in arrest, when he exclaimed: "I'll never be a
slave-catcher, so help me God!" There were few men in the army at this
time who sympathized with such a noble declaration, and, therefore,
Captain Shurtleff found himself in a very small minority.
The following account of an attempt to secure a fugitive slave from
General Isaac R. Sherwood has its historical value. General Sherwood
was as noble a _man_ as he was a brave and intelligent soldier. He
obeyed the still small voice in his soul and won a victory for
humanity:
"In the February and March of 1863, I was a major in command of
111th O. V. I regiment. I had a servant, as indicated by army
regulations, in charge of my private horse. He was from
Frankfort, Ky., the property of a Baptist clergyman. When the
troops passed through Frankfort, in the fall of 1862, he left his
master, and followed the army. He came to me at Bowling Green,
and I hired him to take care of my horse. He was a lad about
fifteen years old, named _Alfred Jackson_.
"At this time, Brig.-Gen. Boyle, or Boyd (I think Boyle), was in
command of the District of Kentucky, and had issued his general
order, that fugitive slaves should be delivered up. Brig.-Gen. H.
M. Judah was in command of Post of Bowling Green, also of our
brigade, there stationed.
"The owner of Alfred Jackson found out his whereabouts, and sent
a U. S. marshal to Bowling Green to get him. Said marshal came to
my headquarters under a pretence to see my very fine
saddle-horse, but really to identify Alfred Jackson. The horse
was brought out by Alfred Jackson. The marshal went to Brig.-Gen.
Judah's headquarters and got a written order addressed to me,
describing the lad and ordering me to deliver the boy. This order
was delivered to me by Col. Sterling, of Gen. Judah's staff, in
person. I refused to obey it. I sent word to Gen. Judah that he
could have my sword, but while I commanded that regiment no
fugitive slave should ever be delivered to his master. The
officer made my compliments to Gen. Judah as aforesaid, and I was
placed under arrest for disobedience to orders, and my sword
taken from me.
"In a few days the command was ordered to move to Glasgow, Ky.,
and Gen. Judah, not desiring to trust the regiment in command of
a captain, I was temporarily restored to command, pending the
meeting of a court-martial to try my case. When the command moved
I took Alfred Jackson along. After we reached Glasgow, Ky., Gen.
Judah sent for me, and said if I would then deliver up Alfred
Jackson he would restore me to command. The United States marshal
was present. This I again refused to do.
"The same day, I sent an ambulance out of the lines, with Alfred
Jackson tucked under the seat, in charge of a man going North,
and I gave him money to get to Hillsdale, Michigan, where he
went, and where he resided and grew up to be a good man and a
citizen. I called the attention of Hon. James M. Ashley (then
Member of Congress) to the matter, and under instructions from
Secretary Stanton, Gen. Boyle's order was revoked, and I never
delivered a fugitive, nor was I ever tried."
In Mississippi, in 1862, Col. James B. Steedman (afterward
major-general) refused to honor an order of Gen. Fry, delivered by the
man who wanted the slave in Steedman's camp. Col. Steedman read the
order and told the bearer that he was a rebel; that he could not
search _his_ camp; and that he would give him just ten minutes to get
out of the camp, or he would riddle him with bullets. When Gen. Fry
asked for an explanation of his refusal to allow his camp to be
searched, Col. Steedman said he would never consent to have his camp
searched by a _rebel_; that he would use every bayonet in his regiment
to protect the Negro slave who had come to him for protection; and
that he was sustained by the Articles of War, which had been amended
about that time.
Again, in the late summer of 1863, at Tuscumbia, Tennessee, Gen. Fry
rode into Col. Steedman's camp to secure the return of the slaves of
an old lady whom he had known before the war. Col. Steedman said he
did not know that any slaves were in his camp; and that if they were
there they should not be taken except they were willing to go. Gen.
Fry was a Christian gentleman of a high Southern type, and combined
with his loyalty to the Union an abiding faith in "the sacredness of
slave property." Whether he ever recovered from the malady, history
saith not.
The great majority of regular army officers were in sympathy with the
idea of protecting slave property. Gen. T. W. Sherman, occupying the
defences of Port Royal, in October, 1861, issued the following
proclamation to the people of South Carolina:
"In obedience to the orders of the President of these United
States of America, I have landed on your shores with a small
force of National troops. The dictates of a duty which, under
the Constitution, I owe to a great sovereign State, and to a
proud and hospitable people, among whom I have passed some of the
pleasantest days of my life, prompt me to proclaim that we have
come among you with no feelings of personal animosity; no desire
to harm your citizens, destroy your property, or interfere with
any of your lawful rights, or your social and local institutions,
beyond what the causes herein briefly alluded to may render
unavoidable."[77]
This proclamation sounds as if the general were a firm believer in
State sovereignty; and that he was possessed with a feeling that he
had landed in some strange land, among a people of different
civilization and peculiar institutions.
On the 13th of November, 1861, Major-Gen. John A. Dix, upon taking
possession of the counties of Accomac and Northampton, Va., issued the
following proclamation:
"The military forces of the United States are about to enter your
counties as a part of the Union. They will go among you as
friends, and with the earnest hope that they may not, by your own
acts, be compelled to become your enemies. They will invade no
right of person or property. On the contrary, your laws, your
institutions, your usages, will be scrupulously respected. There
need be no fear that the quietude of any fireside will be
disturbed, unless the disturbance is caused by yourselves.
"Special directions have been given not to interfere with the
condition of any person held to domestic servitude; and, in order
that there may be no ground for mistake or pretext for
misrepresentation, commanders of regiments or corps have been
instructed not to permit such persons to come within their
lines."[78]
Gen. Halleck, while in command of the Union forces in Missouri, issued
his "Order No. 3." as follows:
"It has been represented that important information, respecting
the number and condition of our forces, is conveyed to the enemy
by means of fugitive slaves who are admitted within our lines. In
order to remedy this evil, it is directed that no such person be
hereafter permitted to enter the lines of any camp, or of any
forces on the march, and that any now within such lines be
immediately excluded therefrom."
On the 23d of February, 1862, in "Order No. 13," he referred to the
slave question as follows:
"It does not belong to the military to decide upon the relation
of master and slave. Such questions must be settled by the civil
courts. No fugitive slaves will, therefore, be admitted within
our lines or camps, except when specially ordered by the general
commanding."
On the 18th of February, 1862, Major-Gen. A. E. Burnside issued a
proclamation in which he said to the people:
"The Government asks only that its authority may be recognized;
and we repeat, in no manner or way does it desire to interfere
with your laws, constitutionally established, your institutions
of any kind whatever, your property of any sort, or your usages
in any respect."
The following letter from Gen. Buell shows how deeply attached he was
to the "constitutional guaranties" accorded to the rebels of the
South:
"HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, }
"NASHVILLE, March 6, 1862. }
"_Dear Sir_: I have the honor to receive your communication of
the 1st instant, on the subject of fugitive slaves in the camps
of the army.
"It has come to my knowledge that slaves sometimes make their way
improperly into our lines; and in some instances they may be
enticed there; but I think the number has been magnified by
report. Several applications have been made to me by persons
whose servants have been found in our camps; and in every
instance that I know of the master has recovered his servant and
taken him away.
"I need hardly remind you that there will always be found some
lawless and mischievous person in every army; but I assure you
that the mass of this army is law-abiding, and that it is neither
its disposition nor its policy to violate law or the rights of
individuals in any particular. With great respect, your obedient
servant,
"D. C. BUELL,
"_Brig.-Gen. Commanding Department._
"Hon. J. R. UNDERWOOD, _Chairman Military Committee_,
"Frankfort, Ky."
So "in every instance" the master had recovered his slave when found
in Gen. Buell's camp!
On the 26th of March, 1862, Gen. Joseph Hooker, commanding the "Upper
Potomac," issued the following order:
"_To Brigade and Regimental Commanders of this Division_:
"Messrs. Nally, Gray, Dunnington, Dent, Adams, Speake, Price,
Posey, and Cobey, citizens of Maryland, have negroes supposed to
be with some of the regiments of this division. The
brigadier-general commanding directs that they be permitted to
visit all the camps of his command, in search of their property;
and if found, that they be allowed to take possession of the
same, without any interference whatever. Should any obstacle be
thrown in their way by any officer or soldier in the division, he
will be at once reported by the regimental commander to these
headquarters."
In the spring of 1862, Gen. Thos. Williams, in the Department of the
Gulf, issued the following order[79]:
"In consequence of the demoralizing and disorganizing tendencies
to the troops of harboring runaway negroes, it is hereby ordered
that the respective commanders of the camps and garrisons of the
several regiments, 2d brigade, turn all such fugitives in their
camps or garrisons out beyond the limits of their respective
guards and sentinels.
"By order of
"Brig.-Gen. T. WILLIAMS."[80]
In a letter dated "Headquarters Army of the Potomac, July 7, 1862,"
Major-Gen. Geo. B. McClellan made the following observations
concerning slavery:
"This Rebellion has assumed the character of a war; as such it
should be regarded; and it should be conducted upon the highest
principles known to Christian civilization. It should not be a
war looking to the subjugation of the people of any State, in any
event. It should not be at all a war upon populations, but
against armed forces and political organizations. Neither
confiscation of property, political executions of persons,
territorial organization of States, nor forcible abolition of
slavery should be contemplated for a moment."
But the drift of the sentiment of the army was in the direction of
compromise with the slavery question. Nearly every statesman at
Washington--in the White House and in the Congress--and nearly every
officer in the army regarded the Negro question as purely political
and not military. That it was a problem hard of solution no one could
doubt. Hundreds of loyal Negroes, upon the orders of general
officers, were turned away from the Union lines, while those who had
gotten on the inside were driven forth to the cruel vengeance of rebel
masters. Who could solve the problem? Major-Gen. Benjamin F. Butler
banished the politician, and became the loyal, patriotic _soldier_! In
the month of May, 1861, during the time Gen. Butler commanded the
Union forces at Fortress Monroe, three slaves made good their escape
into his lines. They stated that they were owned by Col. Mallory, of
the Confederate forces in the front; that he was about to send them to
the North Carolina seaboard to work on rebel fortifications; and that
the fortifications were intended to bar that coast against the Union
arms. Having heard this statement, Gen. Butler, viewing the matter
from a purely military stand-point, exclaimed: "These men are
_contraband_ of war; set them at work." Here was a solution of the
entire problem; here was a blow delivered at the backbone of the
Rebellion. He claimed no right to act as a politician, but acting as a
loyal-hearted, clear-headed _soldier_, he coined a word and hurled a
shaft at the enemy that struck him in a part as vulnerable as the heel
of Achilles. In his letter to the Lieut.-Gen. of the Army, Winfield
Scott, 27th of May, 1861, he said:
"Since I wrote my last, the question in regard to slave property
is becoming one of very serious magnitude. The inhabitants of
Virginia are using their negroes in the batteries, and are
preparing to send their women and children South. The escapes
from them are very numerous, and a squad has come in this
morning, and my pickets are bringing in their women and children.
Of course these can not be dealt with upon the theory on which I
designed to treat the services of able-bodied men and women who
might come within my lines, and of which I gave you a detailed
account in my last dispatch.
"I am in the utmost doubt what to do with this species of
property. Up to this time I have had come within my lines men and
women, with their children,--entire families,--each family
belonging to the same owner. I have therefore determined to
employ--as I can do very profitably--the able-bodied persons in
the party, issuing proper food for the support of all; charging
against their services the expense of care and sustenance of the
non-laborers; keeping a strict and accurate account, as well of
the services as of the expenditures; having the worth of the
services and the cost of the expenditures determined by a board
of survey hereafter to be detailed. I know of no other manner in
which to dispose of this subject and the questions connected
therewith. As a matter of property, to the insurgents it will be
of very great moment--the number that I now have amounting, as I
am informed, to what in good times would be of the value of
$60,000.
"Twelve of these negroes, I am informed, have escaped from the
erection of the batteries on Sewell's Point, which fired upon my
expedition as it passed by out of range. As a means of offense,
therefore, in the enemy's hands, these negroes, when able-bodied,
are of great importance. Without them the batteries could not
have been erected; at least, for many weeks. As a military
question it would seem to be a measure of necessity, and deprives
their masters of their services.
"How can this be done? As a political question, and a question of
humanity, can I receive the services of a father and a mother and
not take the children? Of the humanitarian aspect, I have no
doubt; of the political one, I have no right to judge. I
therefore submit all this to your better judgment, and, as these
questions have a political aspect, I have ventured--and I trust I
am not wrong in so doing--to duplicate the parts of my dispatch
relating to this subject, and forward them to the Secretary of
War.
"Your obedient servant,
"BENJ. F. BUTLER.
"Lt.-General SCOTT."[81]
The letter of Gen. Butler was laid before the Secretary of War, who
answered it as follows:
"SIR: Your action in respect to the negroes who came within your
lines, from the service of the rebels, is approved. The
Department is sensible of the embarrassments which must surround
officers conducting military operations in a State, by the laws
of which slavery is sanctioned. The Government can not recognize
the rejection by any State of its Federal obligations, resting
upon itself. Among these Federal obligations, however, no one can
be more important than that of suppressing and dispersing any
combination of the former for the purpose of overthrowing its
whole constitutional authority. While, therefore, you will permit
no interference, by persons under your command, with the
relations of persons held to service under the laws of any State,
you will, on the other hand, so long as any State within which
your military operations are conducted remains under the control
of such armed combinations, refrain from surrendering to alleged
masters any persons who come within your lines. You will employ
such persons in the services to which they will be best adapted;
keeping an account of the labor by them performed, of the value
of it, and the expenses of their maintenance. The question of
their final disposition will be reserved for future
determination.
"SIMON CAMERON, _Secretary of War_.
"To Maj.-Gen. BUTLER.
In an account of the life and services of Capt. Grier Talmadge, the
"Times" correspondent says:
"To the deceased, who was conservative in his views and actions,
belongs the credit of first enunciating the 'contraband' idea as
subsequently applied in the practical treatment of the slaves of
rebels, Early in the spring of 1861, Flag-Officer Pendergrast, in
command of the frigate 'Cumberland,' then the vessel blockading
the Roads, restored to their owners certain slaves that had
escaped from Norfolk. Shortly after, the Flag-Officer, Gen.
Butler, Capt. Talmadge, and the writer chanced to meet in the
ramparts of the fortress, when Capt. T. took occasion, warmly,
but respectfully, to dissent from the policy of the act, and
proceeded to advance some arguments in support of his views.
Turning to Gen. Butler, who had just assumed command of this
department, he said: 'General, it is a question you will have to
decide, and that, too, very soon; for in less than twenty-four
hours deserting slaves will commence swarming to your lines. The
rebels are employing their slaves in thousands in constructing
batteries all around us. And, in my judgment, in view of this
fact, not only slaves who take refuge within our lines are
contrabands, but I hold it as much our duty to seize and capture
those employed, or intended to be employed, in constructing
batteries, as it is to destroy the arsenals or any other
war-making element of the rebels, or to capture and destroy the
batteries themselves.' Within two days after this conversation,
Gen. Butler has the question practically presented to him, as
predicted, and he solved it by applying the views advanced by the
deceased."[82]
The conservative policy of Congress, the cringing attitude of the
Government at Washington, the reverses on the Potomac, the disaster of
Bull Run, the apologetic tone of the Northern press, the expulsion of
slaves from the Union lines, and the conduct of "Copperheads" in the
North--who crawled upon their stomachs, snapping and biting at the
heels of Union men and Union measures,--bred a spirit of unrest and
mob violence. It was not enough that the service of free Negroes was
declined; they were now hunted out and persecuted by mobs and other
agents of the disloyal element at the North. Like a man sick unto
death the Government insisted that it only had a slight cold, and that
it would be better soon. The President was no better informed as to
the nature of the war than other conservative Republicans. On the 19th
of August, 1862, Horace Greeley addressed an open letter to the
President, known as "The Prayer of Twenty Millions," of which the
following are specimen passages:
"On the face of this wide earth, Mr. President, there is not one
disinterested, determined, intelligent champion of the Union
cause who does not feel that all attempts to put down the
Rebellion, and at the same time uphold its inciting cause, are
preposterous and futile--that the Rebellion, if crushed out
to-morrow, would be renewed within a year if slavery were left in
full vigor--that army officers, who remain to this day devoted to
slavery, can at best be but half-way loyal to the Union--and that
every hour of deference to slavery is an hour of added and
deepened peril to the Union. I appeal to the testimony of your
Embassadors in Europe. It is freely at your service, not mine.
Ask them to tell you candidly whether the seeming subserviency of
your policy to the slave-holding, slavery-upholding interest, is
not the perplexity, the despair, of statesmen of all parties; and
be admonished by the general answer!
"I close, as I began, with the statement that what an immense
majority of the loyal millions of your countrymen require of you
is a frank, declared, unqualified, ungrudging execution of the
laws of the land, more especially of the Confiscation Act. That
Act gives freedom to the slaves of rebels coming within our
lines, or whom those lines may at any time inclose,--we ask you
to render it due obedience by publicly requiring all your
subordinates to recognize and obey it. The rebels are everywhere
using the late anti-negro riots in the North--as they have long
used your officers' treatment of negroes in the South--to
convince the slaves that they have nothing to hope from a Union
success--that we mean in that case to sell them into a bitter
bondage to defray the cost of the war. Let them impress this as a
truth on the great mass of their ignorant and credulous bondmen,
and the Union will never be restored--never. We can not conquer
ten millions of people united in solid phalanx against us,
powerfully aided by Northern sympathizers and European allies. We
must have scouts, guides, spies, cooks, teamsters, diggers, and
choppers, from the blacks of the South--whether we allow them to
fight for us or not--or we shall be baffled and repelled. As one
of the millions who would gladly have avoided this struggle at
any sacrifice but that of principle and honor, but who now feel
that the triumph of the Union is indispensable not only to the
existence of our country, but to the well-being of mankind, I
entreat you to render a hearty and unequivocal obedience to the
law of the land.
"Yours,
"HORACE GREELEY."[83]
It was an open letter. Mr. Greeley had evidently lost sight of his
economic theories as applied to slavery in the abstract, and now, as a
practical philosopher, caught hold of the question by the handle. Mr.
Lincoln replied within a few days, but was still joined to his
abstract theories of constitutional law. He loved the Union, and all
he should do for the slave should be done to help the Union, not the
slave. He was not desirous of saving or destroying slavery. But
certainly he had spoken more wisely than he knew when he had asserted,
a few years before, that "a nation half free and half slave, could not
long exist." That was an indestructible truth. Had he adhered to that
doctrine the way would have been easier. In every thing he consulted
the Constitution. His letter is interesting reading.
"EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,}
"August 22, 1862.}
"Hon. HORACE GREELEY:
"_Dear Sir_: I have just read yours of the 19th instant,
addressed to myself through the New York Tribune.
"If there be in it any statements or assumptions of fact which I
may know to be erroneous, I do not now and here controvert them.
"If there be any inferences which I may believe to be falsely
drawn, I do not now and here argue against them.
"If there be perceptible in it an impatient and dictatorial tone,
I waive it in deference to an old friend whose heart I have
always supposed to be right.
"As to the policy 'I seem to be pursuing,' as you say, I have not
meant to leave any one in doubt. I would save the Union. I would
save it in the shortest way under the Constitution.
"The sooner the national authority can be restored, the nearer
the Union will be the Union as it was.
"If there be those who would not save the Union unless they could
at the same time save slavery, I do not agree with them.
"If there be those who would not save the Union unless they could
at the same time destroy slavery, I do not agree with them.
"_My paramount object is to save the Union, and not either to
save or destroy slavery._
"If I could save the Union without freeing any slave, I would do
it; if I could save it by freeing all the slaves, I would do it;
and if I could do it by freeing some and leaving others alone, I
would also do that.
"What I do about slavery and the Colored race, I do because I
believe it helps to save this Union; and what I forbear, I
forbear because I do not believe it would help to save the
Union.
"I shall do less whenever I shall believe what I am doing hurts
the cause; and I shall do more whenever I believe doing more will
help the cause.
"I shall try to correct errors when shown to be errors; and I
shall adopt new views so fast as they shall appear to be true
views.
"I have here stated my purpose according to my views of official
duty; and I intend no modification of my oft-expressed personal
wish that all men everywhere could be free.
"Yours,
"A. LINCOLN."[84]
But there were few men among the general officers of the army who
either reached the conclusion by their own judgment, or were aided by
the action of General Butler, that it was their duty to confiscate
_all the property_ of the enemy. Acting upon the plainest principle of
military law, Major-General John C. Fremont, commanding the Department
of the Missouri, or the Union forces in that State, issued the
following proclamation:
"HEADQUARTERS OF THE WESTERN DEP'T,}
"ST. LOUIS, August 31st. }
"Circumstances, in my judgment, of sufficient urgency, render it
necessary that the Commanding General of this Department should
assume the administrative power of the State. Its disorganized
condition, the helplessness of the civil authority, the total
insecurity of life, and the devastation of property by bands of
murderers and marauders, who infest nearly every county in the
State, and avail themselves of the public misfortunes and the
vicinity of a hostile force to gratify private and neighborhood
vengeance, and who find an enemy wherever they find plunder,
finally demand the severest measures to repress the daily
increasing crimes and outrages which are driving off the
inhabitants and ruining the State. In this condition, the public
safety and the success of our arms require unity of purpose,
without let or hindrance to the prompt administration of affairs.
"In order, therefore, to suppress disorders, to maintain, as far
as now practicable, the public peace, and to give security and
protection to the persons and property of loyal citizens, I do
hereby extend and declare established martial law throughout the
Stale of Missouri. The lines of the army of occupation in this
State are, for the present, declared to extend from Leavenworth,
by way of the posts of Jefferson City, Rolla, and Ironton, to
Cape Girardeau, on the Mississippi River.
All persons who shall be taken with arms in their hands, within
these lines, shall be tried by Court Martial, and, if found
guilty, will be shot. The property, real and personal, of all
persons in the State of Missouri who shall take up arms against
the United States, or shall be directly proven to have taken
active part with their enemies in the field, is declared to be
confiscated to the public use; and their slaves, if any they
have, are hereby declared free men.
"All persons who shall be proven to have destroyed, after the
publication of this order, railroad tracks, bridges, or
telegraphs, shall suffer the extreme penalty of the law.
"All persons engaged in treasonable correspondence, in giving or
procuring aid to the enemies of the United States, in disturbing
the public tranquillity by creating and circulating false reports
or incendiary documents, are in their own interest warned that
they are exposing themselves.
"All persons who have been led away from their allegiance are
required to return to their homes forthwith; any such absence,
without sufficient cause, will be held to be presumptive evidence
against them.
"The object of this declaration is to place in the hands of the
military authorities the power to give instantaneous effect to
existing laws, and to supply such deficiencies as the conditions
of war demand. But it is not intended to suspend the ordinary
tribunals of the country, where the law will be administered by
the civil officers in the usual manner and with their customary
authority, while the same can be peaceably exercised.
"The Commanding General will labor vigilantly for the public
welfare, and, in his efforts for their safety, hopes to obtain
not only the acquiescence, but the active support, of the people
of the country.
"J. C. FREMONT, _Major-Gen. Com_."[85]
This magnificent order thrilled the loyal hearts of the North with
joy; but the President, still halting and hesitating, requested a
modification of the order so far as it related to the liberation of
slaves. This Gen. Fremont declined to do unless ordered to do so by
his superior. Accordingly the President wrote him as follows:
"WASHINGTON, D. C., Sept. 11, 1861.
"Major-Gen. JOHN C. FREMONT:
"_Sir_:--Yours of the 8th, in answer to mine of the 2d inst., is
just received. Assured that you, upon the ground, could better
judge of the necessities of your position than I could at this
distance, on seeing your proclamation of August 30th, I
perceived no general objection to it; the particular clause,
however, in relation to the confiscation of property and the
liberation of slaves, appeared to me to be objectionable in its
non-conformity to the Act of Congress, passed the 6th of last
August, upon the same subjects; and hence I wrote you, expressing
my wish that that clause should be modified accordingly. Your
answer, just received, expresses the preference on your part that
I should make an open order for the modification, which I very
cheerfully do. It is, therefore, ordered that the said clause of
said proclamation be so modified, held, and construed, as to
conform with, and not to transcend, the provisions on the same
subject contained in the Act of Congress entitled 'An Act to
Confiscate Property Used for Insurrectionary Purposes,' approved
August 6, 1861; and that the said act be published at length with
this order.
"Your obedient servant,
"A. LINCOLN."[86]
Gen. Fremont's removal followed speedily. He was in advance of the
slow coach at Washington, and was sent where he could do no harm to
the enemy of the country, by emancipating Negroes. It seems as if
there were nothing else left for Gen. Fremont to do but to free the
slaves in his military district. They were the bone and sinew of
Confederate resistance. It was to weaken the enemy that the general
struck down this peculiar species of property, upon which the enemy of
the country relied so entirely.
Major-Gen. David Hunter assumed command at Hilton Head, South
Carolina, on the 31st of March, 1862. On the 9th of May he issued the
following "General Order:"
"HEADQUARTERS DEP'T OF THE SOUTH,
"HILTON HEAD, S. C., May 9, 1862.
"_General Order_, No. 11.
"The three States of Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina,
comprising the Military Department of the South, having
deliberately declared themselves no longer under the United
States of America, and, having taken up arms against the United
States, it becomes a military necessity to declare them under
martial law.
"This was accordingly done on the 25th day of April, 1862.
Slavery and martial law in a free country are altogether
incompatible. The persons in these States--Georgia, Florida, and
South Carolina--heretofore held as slaves, are therefore declared
forever free."[87]
But the President, in ten days after its publication, rescinded the
order of General Hunter, in the following Proclamation:
"_And whereas_, The same [Hunter's proclamation] is producing
some excitement and misunderstanding, therefore, I, Abraham
Lincoln, President of the United States, proclaim and declare
that the Government of the United States had no knowledge or
belief of an intention on the part of Gen. Hunter to issue such a
proclamation, nor has it yet any authentic information that the
document is genuine: and, further, that neither Gen. Hunter nor
any other commander or person have been authorized by the
Government of the United States to make proclamation declaring
the slaves of any State free; and that the supposed proclamation
now in question, whether genuine or false, is altogether void, so
far as respects such declaration. I further make known that,
whether it be competent for me, as Commander-in-Chief of the Army
and Navy, to declare the slaves of any State or States free; and
whether at any time, or in any case, it shall have become a
necessity indispensable to the maintenance of the Government to
exercise such supposed power, are questions which, under my
responsibility, I reserve to myself, and which I cannot feel
justified in leaving to the decision of commanders in the field.
"Those are totally different questions from those of police
regulations in armies or in camps.
"On the sixth day of March last, by a special Message, I
recommended to Congress the adoption of a joint resolution, to be
substantially as follows:
"'_Resolved_, That the United States ought to coöperate with any
State which may adopt gradual abolishment of slavery, giving to
such State pecuniary aid, to be used by such State in its
discretion, to compensate for the inconveniences, public and
private, produced by such change of system.'
"The resolution, in the language above quoted, was adopted by
large majorities in both branches of Congress, and now stands an
authentic, definite, and solemn proposal of the nation to the
States and people most interested in the subject-matter. To the
people of these States now I mostly appeal. I do not argue--I
beseech you to make the arguments for yourselves. You cannot, if
you would, be blind to the signs of the times.
"I beg of you a calm and enlarged consideration of them, ranging,
if it may be, far above partisan and personal politics.
"This proposal makes common cause for a common object, casting no
reproaches upon any. It acts not the Pharisee. The change it
contemplates would come gently as the dews of Heaven, not rending
or wrecking any thing. Will you not embrace it? So much good has
not been done by one effort in all past time, as, in the
Providence of God, it is now your high privilege to do. May the
vast future not have to lament that you have neglected it!
"In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the
seal of the United States to be hereunto affixed.
"Done at the city of Washington this 19th day of May, in the year
of our Lord 1862, and of the independence of the United States
the eighty-sixth.
"(Signed) ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
"By the President:
"W. H. SEWARD, _Secretary of State._"
The conservative policy of the President greatly discouraged the
friends of the Union, who felt that a vigorous prosecution of the war
was the only hope of the nation. Slavery and the Union had joined in a
terrible struggle for the supremacy. Both could not exist. Our
treasury was empty; our bonds depreciated; our credit poor; our
industries languishing; and the channels of commerce were choked.
European governments were growing impatient at the dilatory policy of
our nation; and every day we were losing sympathy and friends. Our
armies were being repulsed and routed; and Columbia's war eagles were
wearily flapping their pinions in the blood-dampened dust of a
nerveless nation. But the Negro was still on the outside,--it was "a
white man's war."
FOOTNOTES:
[75] Rebellion Recs., vol. i. Doc., p. 63.
[76] Albany Atlas and Argus, May 27, 1861.
[77] Greeley, vol. ii. p. 240.
[78] Rebellion Records, vol. iii. Doc. p. 376.
[79] I have quite a large number of such orders, but the above will
suffice.
[80] Greeley, vol. ii. p. 246.
[81] Greeley, vol. ii. p. 238.
[82] New York Times.
[83] Greeley, vol. ii. pp. 249, 250.
[84] Greeley, vol. ii. p. 250.
[85] Greeley, vol. i. p. 585.
[86] Greeley, vol. ii. pp. 239, 240.
[87] Greeley, vol. ii. p. 246.
CHAPTER XVI.
THE NEGRO ON FATIGUE DUTY.
NEGROES EMPLOYED AS TEAMSTERS AND IN THE QUARTERMASTER'S
DEPARTMENT.--GENERAL MERCER'S ORDER TO THE SLAVE-HOLDERS ISSUED
FROM SAVANNAH.--HE RECEIVES ORDERS FROM THE SECRETARY OF WAR TO
IMPRESS A NUMBER OF NEGROES TO BUILD FORTIFICATIONS.--THE NEGRO
PROVES HIMSELF INDUSTRIOUS AND EARNS PROMOTION.
The light began to break through the dark cloud of prejudice in the
minds of the friends of the Union. If a Negro were useful in building
rebel fortifications, why not in casting up defences for the Union
army? Succeeding Gen. Butler in command at Fortress Monroe, on the
14th of October, 1861, Major-Gen. Wool issued an order, directing that
"all colored persons called contrabands," employed by officers or
others within his command, must be furnished with subsistence by their
employers, and paid, if males, not less than four dollars per month,
and that "all able-bodied colored persons, not employed as aforesaid,"
will be immediately put to work in the Engineer's or the
Quartermaster's Department. On the 1st of November, Gen. Wool directed
that the compensation of "contrabands" working for the government
should be five to ten dollars per month, with soldier's rations. These
Negroes rendered valuable service in the sphere they were called upon
to fill.
In the Western army, Gen. James B. Steedman was the first man to
suggest the idea of employing Negroes as teamsters. He saw that every
Negro who drove a team of mules gave to the army one more white
soldier with a musket in his hands; and so with the sympathy and
approval of the gallant Gen. Geo. H. Thomas, Gen. Steedman put eighty
Negroes into uniforms, and turned them over to an experienced white
"wagon-master." The Negroes made excellent teamsters, and the plan was
adopted quite generally.
In September, 1862, an order from Washington directed the employment
of fifty thousand Negro laborers in the Quartermaster's Department,
under Generals Hunter and Saxton! This showed that the authorities at
Washington had begun to get their eyes open on this question. "And
while speaking of the negroes," wrote a "Times" correspondent, in
1862, from Hilton Head, "let me present a few statistics obtained from
an official source, respecting the success which has crowned the
experiment of employing them as free paid laborers upon the
plantations. The population of the Division (including Port Royal, St.
Helena and Ladies' islands, with the smaller ones thereto adjacent,
but excluding Hilton Head and its surroundings) is as follows:
"Effective 3,817
"Non-effective 3,110
-----
"Total 6,927
"The number of acres under cultivation on the same islands, is:
"Of Corn 6,444
"Of Cotton 3,384
"Of Potatoes 1,407
"A little calculation will show that the negroes have raised enough
corn and potatoes to support themselves, besides a crop of cotton (now
ripe) somewhat smaller than in former years, but still of very
considerable value to the Government."[88]
Gen. Mercer issued the following order at Savannah, Georgia, which
shows that the rebels did not despise the fatigue services of Negroes:
"C. S. ENGINEER'S OFFICE, }
"SAVANNAH, GA., Aug. 1, 1863.}
"The Brigadier-General Commanding desires to inform the
slave-holders of Georgia that he has received authority from the
Secretary of War to impress a number of negroes sufficient to
construct such additional fortifications as are necessary for the
defence of Savannah.
"He desires, if possible, to avoid the necessity of impressment,
and therefore urges the owners of slave property to volunteer the
services of their negroes. He believes that, while the planters
of South Carolina are sending their slaves by thousands to aid
the defence of Charleston, the slave-holders of Georgia will not
be backward in contributing in the same patriotic manner to the
defence of their own seaport, which has so far resisted
successfully all the attacks of the enemy at Fort McAllister and
other points.
"Remember, citizens of Georgia, that on the successful defence of
Georgia depends the security of the interior of your State, where
so much of value both to yourselves and to the Confederacy at
large is concentrated. It is best to meet the enemy at the
threshold, and to hurl back the first wave of invasion. Once the
breach is made, all the horrors of war must desolate your now
peaceful and quiet homes. Let no man deceive himself. If Savannah
falls the fault will be yours, and your own neglect will have
brought the sword to your hearth-stones.
"The Brigadier-General Commanding, therefore, calls on all the
slave-holders of Eastern, Southern, and Southwestern Georgia, but
especially those in the neighborhood of Savannah, to send him
immediately one fifth of their able-bodied male slaves, for whom
transportation will be furnished and wages paid at the rate of
twenty-five dollars per month, the Government to be responsible
for the value of such Negroes as may be killed by the enemy, or
may in any manner fall into his hands. By order of
"Brig.-Gen. MERCER, _Commanding_.
"JOHN MCCRADY,
"_Captain and Chief Engineer, State of Georgia_."[89]
Negroes built most of the fortifications and earth-works for Gen.
Grant in front of Vicksburg. The works in and about Nashville were
cast up by the strong arm and willing hand of the loyal Blacks. Dutch
Gap was dug by Negroes, and miles of earthworks, fortifications, and
corduroy-roads were made by Negroes. They did fatigue duty in every
department of the Union army. Wherever a Negro appeared with a shovel
in his hand, a white soldier took his gun and returned to the ranks.
There were 200,000 Negroes in the camps and employ of the Union
armies, as servants, teamsters, cooks, and laborers. What a mighty
host! Suppose the sentiment that early met the Negro on the picket
lines and turned him back to the enemy had continued, 50,000 white
soldiers would have been required in the Engineer's and
Quartermaster's Department; while 25,000 white men would have been
required for various other purposes, outside of the ranks of the army.
A narrow prejudice among some of the white troops, upon whose pedigree
it would not be pleasant to dwell, met the Negro teamster, with a blue
coat and buttons with eagles on them, with a growl. They disliked to
see the Negro wearing a Union uniform;--it looked too much like
equality.
But in his lowly station as a hewer of wood and a drawer of water, the
Negro proved himself industrious, trustworthy, efficient, and
cheerful. He earned promotion, and in due time secured it.
FOOTNOTES:
[88] Times, Sept. 4, 1862.
[89] Rebellion Recs., vol. vii. Doc. p. 479.
CHAPTER XVII.
THE EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATIONS.
CONGRESS PASSES AN ACT TO CONFISCATE PROPERTY USED FOR
INSURRECTIONARY PURPOSES.--A FRUITLESS APPEAL TO THE PRESIDENT TO
ISSUE AN EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION.--HE THINKS THE TIME NOT YET
COME FOR SUCH AN ACTION, BUT WITHIN A FEW WEEKS CHANGES HIS
OPINION AND ISSUES AN EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION.--THE REBELS SHOW
NO DISPOSITION TO ACCEPT THE MILD TERMS OF THE PROCLAMATION.--MR.
DAVIS GIVES ATTENTION TO THE PROCLAMATION IN HIS THIRD ANNUAL
MESSAGE.--SECOND EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION ISSUED BY PRESIDENT
LINCOLN JANUARY 1, 1863.--THE PROCLAMATION IMPARTS NEW HOPE TO
THE NEGRO.
The position taken by General Butler on the question of receiving into
the Federal lines the slaves of persons who were in rebellion against
the National Government, and who were liable to be used in service
against the government by their owners, had its due influence in
Washington. But all the general officers did not share in the views of
General Butler. As many as twenty Union generals still had it in their
minds that it was the duty of the army "to catch run-away slaves"; and
they afforded rebels every facility to search their camps. They
arrested fugitive Negroes and held them subject to the order of their
masters. Congress was not long in seeing the suicidal tendency of such
a policy, and on the 6th of August, 1861, passed "An Act to Confiscate
Property Used for Insurrectionary Purposes." Notwithstanding this act,
General McClellan and other officers still clung to the obsolete
doctrine of "the sacredness of slave property." His conduct finally
called forth the following letter from the Secretary of State:
"CONTRABANDS IN DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.
"DEPARTMENT OF STATE, }
"WASHINGTON CITY, December 4, 1861. }
"_To Major-General George B. McClellan, Washington_:
"GENERAL: I am directed by the President to call your attention
to the following subject:
"Persons claimed to be held to service or labor under the laws of
the State of Virginia, and actually employed in hostile service
against the Government of the United States, frequently escape
from the lines of the enemy's forces and are received within the
lines of the Army of the Potomac. This Department understands
that such persons, afterward coming into the city of Washington,
are liable to be arrested by the city police, upon presumption,
arising from color, that they are fugitives from service or
labor.
"By the fourth section of the act of Congress, approved August 6,
1861, entitled 'An Act to Confiscate Property Used for
Insurrectionary Purposes,' such hostile employment is made a full
and sufficient answer to any further claim to service or labor.
Persons thus employed and escaping are received into the military
protection of the United States, and their arrest as fugitives
from service or labor should be immediately followed by the
military arrest of the parties making the seizure.
"Copies of this communication will be sent to the Mayor of the
City of Washington and to the Marshal of the District of
Columbia, that any collision between the civil and military
authorities may be avoided.
"I am, General, your very obedient,
"WM. H. SEWARD."
It was now 1862. The dark war clouds were growing thicker. The Union
army had won but few victories; our troops had to fight a tropical
climate, the forces of nature, and an arrogant, jubilant, and
victorious enemy. Autumn had come but nothing had been accomplished.
The friends of the Union who favored a speedy and vigorous prosecution
of the war, besieged the President with letters, memorials, and
addresses to "_do something_." But intrenched behind his
"constitutional views" of how the war should be managed he heard all,
but would pot yield. On the 13th of September, 1862, a deputation of
gentlemen, representing the various Protestant denominations of
Chicago, called upon the President and urged him to adopt a vigorous
policy of emancipation as the only way to save the Union; but he
denied the request. He said:
"The subject is difficult, and good men do not agree. For
instance: the other day, four gentlemen of standing and
intelligence from New York called as a delegation on business
connected with the war; but before leaving two of them earnestly
besought me to proclaim general Emancipation; upon which the
other two at once attacked them. You know also that the last
session of Congress had a decided majority of anti-slavery men,
yet they could not unite on this policy. And the same is true of
the religious people. Why, the Rebel soldiers are praying with a
great deal more earnestness, I fear, than our own troops, and
expecting God to favor their side: for one of our soldiers, who
had been taken prisoner, told Senator Wilson a few days since
that he met nothing so discouraging as the evident sincerity of
those he was among in their prayers. But we will talk over the
merits of the case.
"What good would a proclamation of Emancipation from me do,
especially as we are now situated? I do not want to issue a
document that the whole world will see must necessarily be
inoperative, like the Pope's bull against the comet. Would my
word free the slaves, when I cannot even enforce the Constitution
in the Rebel States? Is there a single court, or magistrate, or
individual, that would be influenced by it there? And what reason
is there to think it would have any greater effect upon the
slaves than the late law of Congress, which I approved, and which
offers protection and freedom to the slaves of rebel masters who
come within our lines? Yet I cannot learn that that law has
caused a single slave to come over to us. And, suppose they could
be induced by a proclamation of freedom from me to throw
themselves upon us, what should we do with them? How can we feed
and care for such a multitude? Gen. Butler wrote me a few days
since that he was issuing more rations to the slaves who have
rushed to him than to all the White troops under his command.
They eat, and that is all; though it is true Gen. Butler is
feeding the Whites also by the thousand; for it nearly amounts to
a famine there. If, now, the pressure of the war should call off
our forces from New Orleans to defend some other point, what is
to prevent the masters from reducing the Blacks to Slavery again;
for I am told that whenever the rebels take any Black prisoners,
free or slave, they immediately auction them off! They did so
with those they took from a boat that was aground in the
Tennessee river a few days ago. And then I am very ungenerously
attacked for it! For instance, when, after the late battles at
and near Bull Run, an expedition went out from Washington, under
a flag of truce, to bury the dead and bring in the wounded, and
the Rebels seized the Blacks who went along to help, and sent
them into Slavery, Horace Greeley said in his paper that the
Government would probably do nothing about it. What _could_ I do?
"Now, then, tell me, if you please, what possible result of good
would follow the issuing of such a proclamation as you desire?
Understand: I raise no objection against it on legal or
constitutional grounds; for, as Commander-in-Chief of the army
and navy in time of war, I suppose I have a right to take any
measure which may best subdue the enemy; nor do I urge objections
of a moral nature, in view of possible consequences of
insurrection and massacre at the South. I view this matter as a
practical war measure, to be decided on according to the
advantages or disadvantages it may offer to the suppression of
the Rebellion."
Not discouraged, the deputation urged in answer to his conservative
views, that a policy of emancipation would strengthen the cause of the
Union in Europe, and place the government upon high humane grounds,
where it could boldly and confidently appeal to Almighty God in an
honest attempt to save His poor children from the degrading curse of
American slavery. But the President replied:
"I admit that Slavery is at the root of the Rebellion, or at
least its _sine qua non_. The ambition of politicians may have
instigated them to act; they would have been impotent without
Slavery as their instrument. I will also concede that
Emancipation would help us in Europe, and convince them that we
are incited by something more than ambition. I grant, further,
that it would help somewhat at the North, though not so much, I
fear, as you and those you represent imagine. Still, some
additional strength would be added in that way to the war; and
then, unquestionably, it would weaken the Rebels by drawing off
their laborers, which is of great importance; but I am not so
sure we could do much with the Blacks. If we were to arm them, I
fear that in a few weeks the arms would be in the hands of the
Rebels; and, indeed, thus far, we have not had arms enough to
equip our White troops. I will mention another thing, though it
meet only your scorn and contempt. There are fifty thousand
bayonets in the Union army from the Border Slave States. It would
be a serious matter if, in consequence of a proclamation such as
you desire, they should go over to the Rebels. I do not think
they all would--not so many, indeed, as a year ago, or as six
months ago--not so many to-day as yesterday. Every day increases
their Union feeling. They are also getting their pride enlisted,
and want to beat the Rebels. Let me say one thing more: I think
you should admit that we already have an important principle to
rally and unite the people, in the fact that constitutional
government is at stake. This is a fundamental idea, going down
about as deep as anything."[90]
But there were millions of prayers ascending to the God of Battles
daily that the President might have the courage and disposition to
pursue a course required by the lamentable condition of the Union. And
just nine days from the time he thought a proclamation not warranted
and impracticable, he issued the following:
"I, ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President of the United States of America,
and Commander-in-chief of the Army and Navy thereof, do hereby
proclaim and declare that hereafter, as heretofore, the war will
be prosecuted for the object of practically restoring the
constitutional relation between the United States and each of the
States, and the people thereof, in which States that relation is
or may be suspended or disturbed.
"That it is my purpose, upon the next meeting of Congress, to
again recommend the adoption of a practical measure tendering
pecuniary aid to the free acceptance or rejection of all Slave
States, so called, the people whereof may not then be in
rebellion against the United States, and which States may then
have voluntarily adopted, or thereafter may voluntarily adopt,
immediate or gradual abolishment of Slavery within their
respective limits; and that the effort to colonize persons of
African descent, with their consent, upon this continent or
elsewhere, with the previously obtained consent of the
governments existing there, will be continued.
"That, on the first day of January, in the year of our Lord one
thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, all persons held as
slaves within any State, or designated part of the State, the
people whereof shall then be in rebellion against the United
States, shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free; and the
Executive Government of the United States, including the military
and naval authority thereof, will recognize and maintain the
freedom of such persons, and will do no act or acts to repress
such persons, or any of them, in any efforts they may make for
their actual freedom.
"That the Executive will, on the first day of January aforesaid,
by proclamation, designate the States and parts of States, if
any, in which the people thereof respectively shall then be in
rebellion against the United States; and the fact that any State,
or the people thereof, shall on that day be in good faith
represented in the Congress of the United States, by members
chosen thereto at elections wherein a majority of the qualified
voters of such State shall have participated, shall, in the
absence of strong countervailing testimony, be deemed conclusive
evidence that such State, and the people thereof, are not then in
rebellion against the United States.
"That attention is hereby called to an act of Congress entitled
'An Act to make an additional Article of War,' approved March
13th, 1862; and which act is in the words and figures following:
"'_Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of
the United States of America in Congress assembled_, That
hereafter the following shall be promulgated as an additional
article of war for the government of the Army of the United
States, and shall be obeyed and observed as such:
"'SECTION 1. All officers or persons in the military or naval
service of the United States are prohibited from employing any of
the forces under their respective commands for the purpose of
returning fugitives from service or labor who may have escaped
from any persons to whom such service or labor is claimed to be
due; and any officer who shall be found guilty of a court-martial
of violating this article shall be dismissed from the service.
"'SEC. 2. _And be it further enacted_, That this act shall take
effect from and after its passage.'
"Also, to the ninth and tenth sections of an act entitled 'An Act
to Suppress Insurrection, to Punish Treason and Rebellion, to
Seize and Confiscate Property of Rebels, and for other Purposes,'
approved July 16, 1862; and which sections are in the words and
figures following:
"'SEC. 9. _And be it further enacted_, That all slaves of persons
who shall hereafter be engaged in rebellion against the
Government of the United States, or who shall in any way give aid
or comfort thereto, escaping from such persons and taking refuge
within the lines of the army; and all slaves captured from such
persons, or deserted by them and coming under the control of the
Government of the United States; and all slaves of such persons
found _on_ [or] being within any place occupied by Rebel forces
and afterward occupied by forces of the United States, shall be
deemed captives of war, and shall be forever free of their
servitude, and not again held as slaves.
"'SEC. 10. _And be it further enacted_, That no slave escaping
into any State, Territory, or the District of Columbia, from any
other State, shall be delivered up, or in any way impeded or
hindered of his liberty, except for crime, or some offense
against the laws, unless the person claiming said fugitive shall
first make oath that the person to whom the labor or service of
such fugitive is alleged to be due is his lawful owner, and has
not borne arms against the United States in the present
Rebellion, nor in any way given aid and comfort thereto; and no
person engaged in the military or naval service of the United
States shall, under any pretense whatever, assume to decide on
the validity of the claim of any person to the service or labor
of any other person, or surrender up any such person to the
claimant, on pain of being dismissed from the service.'
"And I do hereby enjoin upon and order all persons engaged in the
military and naval service of the United States to observe, obey,
and enforce, within their respective spheres of service, the act
and sections above recited.
"And the Executive will in due time recommend that all citizens
of the United States, who shall have remained loyal thereto
throughout the Rebellion, shall (upon the restoration of the
constitutional relation between the United States and their
respective States and people, if that relation shall have been
suspended or disturbed) be compensated for all losses by acts of
the United States, including the loss of slaves.
"In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the
seal of the United States to be affixed.
"Done at the City of Washington, this twenty-second day of
September, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and
sixty-two, and of the independence of the United States the
eighty-seventh.
[L. S.] "ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
"By the President:
"WILLIAM H. SEWARD, _Secretary of State_."
But why this change in the views of the President? History, thus far,
is left to conjecture. It was hinted that our embassadors in Western
Europe had apprised the State Department at Washington that an early
recognition of the Southern Confederacy was possible, even probable.
It was also stated that he was waiting for the issue at the battle of
Antietam, which was fought on the 17th--five days before the
proclamation was issued. But neither explanation stands in the light
of the positive and explicit language of the President on the 13th of
September. However, he issued the proclamation,--the Divine Being may
have opened his eyes to see the angel that was to turn him aside from
the destruction that awaited the Union that he sought to save with
slavery preserved!
The sentiment of the people upon the wisdom of the proclamation was
expressed in the October elections. New York, New Jersey,
Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois went democratic; while the
supporters of the Administration fell off in Michigan and other
Western States. In the Congress of 1860 there were 78 Republicans and
37 Democrats; in 1862 there were 57 Administration representatives,
and 67 in the Opposition.
The army did not take kindly to the proclamation. It was charged that
"the war for the Union was changed into a war for the Negro." Some
officers resigned, while many others said that if they _thought_ they
were fighting to free the "niggers" they would resign. This sentiment
was contagious. It found its way into the rank and file of the troops,
and did no little harm. The following telegram shows that the rebels
were angered not a little at the President:
"CHARLESTON, S. C., Oct. 13, 1862.
"HON. WM. P. MILES, Richmond, Va.:
"Has the bill for the execution of Abolition prisoners, after
January next, been passed? Do it; and England will be stirred
into action. It is high time to proclaim the black flag after
that period. Let the execution be with the garrote.
"(Signed) G. T. BEAUREGARD."
But the proclamation was a harmless measure. _First_, it declared that
the object of the war was to restore "the constitutional relation
between the United States and each of the States." After nearly two
years of disastrous war Mr. Lincoln declares the object of the war.
Certainly no loyal man had ever entertained any other idea than the
one expressed in the proclamation. It was not a war on the part of the
United States to destroy her children, nor to disturb her own
constitutional, comprehensive unity. It must have been understood,
then, from the commencement, that the war begun by the seceding States
was waged on the part of the United States to preserve the _Union of
the States_, and restore them to their "constitutional relation."
_Second_, the proclamation implored the slave States to accept
(certainly in the spirit of compromise) a proposition from the United
States to emancipate their slaves for a _pecuniary consideration_,
and, by their gracious consent, assist in _colonizing_ loyal Negroes
in this country or in Africa!
_Third_, the measure proposed to free slaves of persons and States in
rebellion against the lawful authority of the United States Government
on the first day of January, 1863. Nothing more difficult could have
been undertaken than to free _only_ the slaves of persons and States
in _actual_ rebellion against the Government of the United States.
Persons in _actual_ rebellion would be _most_ likely to have immediate
oversight of this species of their property; and the owners of slaves
in the States in _actual_ rebellion against the United States
Government would doubtless be as thoroughly prepared to take care of
slave property as the muskets in their rebellious hands.
_Fourth_, this emancipation proclamation (?) proposed to pay out of
the United States Treasury,--for all slaves of loyal masters lost in a
rebellion begun by slave-holders and carried on by slave-holders!
Under the condition of affairs no emancipation proclamation was
necessary. Treason against the United States is "levying war against
them," or "adhering to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort."
The rebel States were guilty of treason; and from the moment Sumter
was fired upon, every slave in the Confederate States was _ipso facto_
free!
But it was an occasion for rejoicing. The President had taken a step
in the right direction, and, thank God! he never retraced it.
A severe winter had set in. The rebels had shown the kind-hearted
President no disposition to accept the mild terms of his proclamation.
On the contrary, it was received with gnashing of teeth and bitter
imprecations. On the 12th of January, 1863, the titular President of
the Confederate States, in his third Annual Message, gave attention to
the proclamation of the President of the United States. Mr. Davis
said:
"It has established a state of things which can lead to but one
of three possible consequences--the extermination of the slaves,
the exile of the whole white population of the Confederacy, or
absolute and total separation of these States from the United
States. This proclamation is also an authentic statement by the
Government of the United States of its inability to subjugate the
South by force of arms, and, as such, must be accepted by neutral
nations, which can no longer find any justification in
withholding our just claims to formal recognition. It is also, in
effect, an intimation to the people of the North that they must
prepare to submit to a separation now become inevitable; for that
people are too acute not to understand that a restitution of the
Union has been rendered forever impossible by the adoption of a
measure which, from its very nature, neither admits of retraction
nor can coexist with union.
* * * * *
"We may well leave it to the instincts of that common humanity
which a beneficent Creator has implanted in the breasts of our
fellow-men of all countries to pass judgment on a measure by
which several millions of human beings of an inferior
race--peaceful and contented laborers in their sphere--are doomed
to extermination, while at the same time they are encouraged to a
general assassination of their masters by the insidious
recommendation to abstain from violence unless in necessary
self-defense. Our own detestation of those who have attempted the
most execrable measures recorded in the history of guilty man is
tempered by profound contempt for the impotent rage which it
discloses. So far as regards the action of this Government on
such criminals as may attempt its execution, I confine myself to
informing you that I shall--unless in your wisdom you deem some
other course more expedient--deliver to the several State
authorities all commissioned officers of the United States that
may hereafter be captured by our forces in any of the States
embraced in the proclamation, that they may be dealt with in
accordance with the laws of those States providing for the
punishment of criminals engaged in exciting servile insurrection.
The enlisted soldiers I shall continue to treat as unwilling
instruments in the commission of these crimes, and shall direct
their discharge and return to their homes on the proper and usual
parole."
And although the President and his supporters had not reaped the
blessings their hopes had sown, they were, nevertheless, not without
hope. For when the sober second thought of the nation took the place
of prejudice and undue excitement, the proclamation had more friends.
And so, in keeping with his promise, the President issued the
following proclamation on the first of January, 1863.
"_Whereas_, on the 22d day of September, in the year of our Lord
1862, a proclamation was issued by the President of the United
States, containing, among other things, the following, to wit:
"'That on the 1st day of January, in the year of our Lord 1863,
all persons held as slaves within any State or designated part of
a State, the people whereof shall then be in rebellion against
the United States, shall be then, thenceforward, and forever
free; and the Executive Government of the United States,
including the military and naval authority thereof, will
recognize and maintain the freedom of such persons, and will do
no act or acts to repress such persons, or any of them, in any
efforts they may make for their actual freedom.
"'That the Executive will, on the first day of January aforesaid,
by proclamation, designate the States and parts of States, if
any, in which the people thereof respectively shall then be in
rebellion against the United States; and the fact that any State,
or the people thereof, shall on that day be in good faith
represented in the Congress of the United States, by members,
chosen thereto at elections wherein a majority of the qualified
voters of such State shall have participated, shall, in the
absence of strong countervailing testimony, be deemed conclusive
evidence that such State, and the people thereof, are not then in
rebellion against the United States.'
"Now, therefore, I, ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President of the United
States, by virtue of the power in me vested as Commander-in-Chief
of the Army and Navy of the United States in time of actual
armed rebellion against the authority and Government of the
United States, and as a fit and necessary war measure for
suppressing said rebellion, do, on this first day of January, in
the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three,
and in accordance with my purpose so to do, publicly proclaimed
for the full period of one hundred days from the day first above
mentioned, order and designate as the States and parts of States
wherein the people thereof respectively are this day in rebellion
against the United States, the following, to wit:
"Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana (except the parishes of St. Bernard,
Plaquemine, Jefferson, St. John, St. Charles, St. James,
Ascension, Assumption, Terre Bonne, Lafourche, St. Mary, St.
Martin, and Orleans, including the city of New Orleans),
Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North
Carolina, and Virginia (except the forty-eight counties
designated as West Virginia, and also the counties of Berkeley,
Accomac, Northampton, Elizabeth City, York, Princess Anne, and
Norfolk, including the cities of Norfolk and Portsmouth), and
which excepted parts are, for the present, left precisely as if
this proclamation were not issued.
"And, by virtue of the power and for the purpose aforesaid, I do
order and declare that all persons held as slaves within said
designated States and parts of States, are and henceforward shall
be free; and that the Executive Government of the United States,
including the military and naval authorities thereof, will
recognize and maintain the freedom of said persons.
"And I hereby enjoin upon the people so declared to be free, to
abstain from all violence, unless in necessary self-defense; and
I recommend to them that, in all cases when allowed, they labor
faithfully for reasonable wages.
"And I further declare and make known that such persons, of
suitable condition, will be received into the armed service of
the United States to garrison forts, positions, stations, and
other places, and to man vessels of all sorts in said service.
"And upon this act, sincerely believed to be an act of justice,
warranted by the Constitution upon military necessity, I invoke
the considerate judgment of mankind, and the gracious favor of
Almighty God.
"In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my name and caused the
seal of the United States to be affixed.
"Done at the City of Washington, this 1st day of January, in the
year of our Lord 1863, and of the independence of the United
States the 87th.
[L. S.]
"By the President: ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
"WILLIAM H. SEWARD, _Secretary of State_."
Even this proclamation--not a measure of humanity--to save the Union,
not the slave--left slaves in many counties and States at the South.
It was a war measure, pure and simple. It was a blow aimed at the most
vulnerable part of the Confederacy. It was destroying its
corner-stone, and the ponderous fabric was doomed to a speedy and
complete destruction. It discovered that the strength of this Sampson
of rebellion lay in its vast slave population. To the slave the
proclamation came as the song of the rejoicing angels to the shepherds
upon the plains of Bethlehem. It was like music at night, mellowed by
the distance, that rouses slumbering hopes, gives wings to fancy, and
peoples the brain with blissful thoughts. The notes of freedom came
careering to them across the red, billowy waves of battle and thrilled
their souls with ecstatic peace. Old men who, like Samuel the prophet,
believing the ark of God in the hands of the Philistines, and were
ready to give up the ghost, felt that it was just the time to begin to
live. Husbands were transported with the thought of gathering to their
bosoms the wife that had been sold to the "nigger traders"; mothers
swooned under the tender touch of the thought of holding in loving
embrace the children who pined for their care; and young men and
maidens could only "think thanksgiving and weep gladness."
The slave-holder saw in this proclamation the handwriting upon the
walls of the institution of slavery. The brightness and revelry of his
banqueting halls were to be succeeded by gloom and sorrow. His riches,
consisting in human beings, were to disappear under the magic touch of
the instrument of freedom. The chattel was to be transformed into a
person, the person into a soldier, the soldier into a citizen--and
thus the Negro slave, like the crawling caterpillar, was to leave his
grovelling situation, and in new form, wing himself to the sublime
heights of free American citizenship!
The Negroes had a marvellous facility of communicating news to each
other. The proclamation, in spite of the precautions of the rebel
authorities, took to itself wings. It came to the plantation of weary
slaves as the glorious light of a new-born day. It flooded the hovels
of slaves with its golden light and rich promise of "_forever free_."
Like St. Paul the poor slaves could exclaim:
"In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in
watchings, in fastings; by pureness, by knowledge, by
long-suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love
unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the
armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, by
honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers,
and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and,
behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; as sorrowful, yet
alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having
nothing, and yet possessing all things."
And the significant name of Abraham--"father of the faithful"--was
pronounced by the Negroes with blessings, and mingled in their songs
of praise.
FOOTNOTES:
[90] Greeley, vol. ii. pp. 251, 252.
CHAPTER XVIII.
EMPLOYMENT OF NEGROES AS SOLDIERS.
THE QUESTION OF THE EMPLOYMENT OF NEGROES.--THE REBELS TAKE THE
FIRST STEP TOWARD THE MILITARY EMPLOYMENT OF NEGROES.--GRAND
REVIEW OF THE REBEL TROOPS AT NEW ORLEANS.--GENERAL HUNTER ARMS
THE FIRST REGIMENT OF LOYAL NEGROES AT THE SOUTH.--OFFICIAL
CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN THE SECRETARY OF WAR AND GENERAL HUNTER
RESPECTING THE ENLISTMENT OF THE BLACK REGIMENT.--THE ENLISTMENT
OF FIVE NEGRO REGIMENTS AUTHORIZED BY THE PRESIDENT.--THE POLICY
OF GENERAL PHELPS IN REGARD TO THE EMPLOYMENT OF NEGROES AS
SOLDIERS IN LOUISIANA.--A SECOND CALL FOR TROOPS BY THE
PRESIDENT.--AN ATTEMPT TO AMEND THE ARMY APPROPRIATION BILL SO AS
TO PROHIBIT THE FURTHER EMPLOYMENT OF COLORED TROOPS.--GOVERNOR
JOHN A. ANDREW, OF MASSACHUSETTS, AUTHORIZED BY SECRETARY OF WAR
TO ORGANIZE TWO REGIMENTS OF COLORED TROOPS.--GENERAL LORENZO
THOMAS IS DESPATCHED TO THE MISSISSIPPI VALLEY TO SUPERINTEND THE
ENLISTMENT OF NEGRO SOLDIERS IN THE SPRING OF 1863.--AN ORDER
ISSUED BY THE WAR DEPARTMENT IN THE FALL OF 1863 FOR THE
ENLISTMENT OF COLORED TROOPS.--THE UNION LEAGUE CLUB OF NEW YORK
CITY.--RECRUITING OF COLORED TROOPS IN PENNSYLVANIA.--GEORGE L.
STEARNS ASSIGNED CHARGE OF THE RECRUITING OF COLORED TROOPS IN
THE DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND.--FREE MILITARY SCHOOL
ESTABLISHED AT PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA.--ENDORSEMENT OF THE
SCHOOL BY SECRETARY STANTON.--THE ORGANIZATION OF THE
SCHOOL.--OFFICIAL TABLE GIVING NUMBER OF COLORED TROOPS IN THE
ARMY.--THE CHARACTER OF NEGRO TROOPS.--MR. GREELEY'S EDITORIAL ON
"NEGRO TROOPS."--LETTER FROM JUDGE ADVOCATE HOLT TO THE SECRETARY
OF WAR ON THE "ENLISTMENT OF SLAVES."--THE NEGRO LEGALLY AND
CONSTITUTIONALLY A SOLDIER.--HISTORY RECORDS HIS DEEDS OF
PATRIOTISM.
At no time during the first two years of the war was the President or
the Congress willing to entertain the idea of employing Negroes as
soldiers. It has been shown that the admission of loyal Negroes into
the Union lines, and into the service of the Engineer's and
Quartermaster's Department, had been resisted with great stubbornness
by the men in the "chief places." There were, however, a few men, both
in and out of the army, who secretly believed that the Negro was
needed in the army, and that he possessed all the elements necessary
to make an excellent soldier. Public sentiment was so strong against
the employment of Negroes in the armed service that few men had the
courage of conviction; few had the temerity to express their views
publicly. In the summer of 1860,--before the election of Abraham
Lincoln,--General J. Watts De Peyster, of New York, wrote an article
for a Hudson paper, in which he advocated the arming of Negroes as
soldiers, should the Southern States declare war against the
Government of the United States. The article was reproduced in many
other papers, pronounced a fire-brand, and General De Peyster severely
denounced for his advice. But he stood his ground, and when the war
did come he gave to his country's service three gallant sons; and from
the first to the last was an efficient and enthusiastic supporter of
the war for the Union.
The rebels took the first step in the direction of the military
employment of Negroes as soldiers. Two weeks after the firing upon
Sumter took place, the following note appeared in the "Charleston
Mercury":
Several companies of the Third and Fourth Regiments of Georgia
passed through Augusta for the expected scene of
warfare--Virginia. Sixteen well-drilled companies of volunteers
and one negro company, from Nashville, Tennessee, offered their
services to the Confederate States."[91]
In the "Memphis Avalanche" and "Memphis Appeal" of the 9th, 10th, and
11th of May, 1861, appeared the following notice:
"ATTENTION, VOLUNTEERS: Resolved by the Committee of Safety, that
C. Deloach, D. R. Cook, and William B. Greenlaw be authorized to
organize a volunteer company composed of our patriotic free men
of color, of the city of Memphis, for the service of our common
defence. All who have not enrolled their names will call at the
office of W. B. Greenlaw & Co.
"F. TITUS, _President_.
"F. W. FORSYTHE, _Secretary_."
On the 9th of February, 1862, the rebel troops had a grand review, and
the "Picayune," of New Orleans, contained the following paragraph:
"We must also pay a deserved compliment to the companies of free
colored men, all very well drilled, and comfortably uniformed.
Most of these companies, quite unaided by the administration,
have supplied themselves with arms without regard to cost or
trouble. One of these companies, commanded by the well-known
veteran, Captain Jordan, was presented, a little before the
parade, with a fine war-flag of the new style. This interesting
ceremony took place at Mr. Cushing's store, on Camp, near Common
Street. The presentation was made by Mr. Bigney, and Jordan made,
on this occasion, one of his most felicitous speeches."
And on the 4th of February, 1862, the "Baltimore Traveller" contained
the following paragraph:
"ARMING OF NEGROES AT RICHMOND.--Contrabands who have recently
come within the Federal lines at Williamsport, report that all
the able-bodied colored men in that vicinity are being taken to
Richmond, formed into regiments, and armed for the defence of
that city."
The following telegram was sent out:
"NEW ORLEANS, Nov. 23, 1861.
"Over twenty-eight thousand troops were reviewed to-day by
Governor Moore, Major-General Lovell, and Brig.-General Ruggles.
The line was over seven miles long. One regiment comprised
fourteen hundred free colored men."
These are sufficient to show that from the earliest dawn of the war
the rebel authorities did not frown upon the action of local
authorities in placing arms into the hands of free Negroes.
The President of the United States was still opposing any attempt on
the part of the supporters of the war to constrain him to approve of
the introduction of Negroes into the army. But the Secretary of War,
the Hon. Simon Cameron, had sent an order to Brig.-Gen. T. W. Sherman,
directing him to accept the services of all loyal persons who desired
to aid in the suppression of the Rebellion in and about Port Royal.
When Gen. David Hunter relieved Gen. Sherman, the latter turned over
to him the instructions of the Secretary of War. There was no mention
of color, nor was any class of persons mentioned save "loyal persons."
Gen. Hunter was a gentleman of broad, liberal, and humane views, and
seeing an opportunity open to employ Negroes as soldiers, in the
spring of 1862 directed the organization of a regiment of blacks. He
secured the best white officers for the regiment, and it soon obtained
a fine condition of discipline. The news of a Union Negro regiment in
South Carolina completely surprised the people at Washington. On the
9th of June, 1862, Mr. Wickliffe, of Kentucky, introduced in the
National House of Representatives a resolution of inquiry, calling
upon Gen. Hunter to explain to Congress his unprecedented conduct in
arming Negroes to fight the battles of the Union. Mr. Stanton was now
at the head of the War Department, and the following correspondence
took place:
"GENERAL HUNTER'S NEGRO REGIMENT.
"OFFICIAL CORRESPONDENCE.
"WAR DEPARTMENT, June 14, 1862.
"_Hon. G. A. Grow, Speaker of the House of Representatives_:
"SIR: A resolution of the House of Representatives has been
received, which passed the ninth instant, to the following
effect:
"'_Resolved_, That the Secretary of War be directed to inform
this House if Gen. Hunter, of the Department of South Carolina,
has organized a regiment of South Carolina volunteers for the
defence of the Union, composed of black men (fugitive slaves),
and appointed a Colonel and officers to command them.
"'2d. Was he authorized by the Department to organize and muster
into the army of the United States, as soldiers, the fugitive or
captive slaves?
"'3d. Has he been furnished with clothing, uniforms, etc., for
such force?
"'4th. Has he been furnished, by order of the Department of War,
with arms to be placed in the hands of the slaves?
"'5th. To report any orders given said Hunter, and correspondence
between him and the Department.'"
"In answer to the foregoing resolution, I have the honor to
inform the House;
"1st. That this Department has no official information whether
Gen. Hunter, of the Department of South Carolina, has or has not
organized a regiment of South Carolina volunteers for the defence
of the Union, composed of black men, fugitive slaves, and
appointed the Colonel and other officers to command them. In
order to ascertain whether he has done so or not, a copy of the
House resolution has been transmitted to Gen. Hunter, with
instructions to make immediate report thereon.
"2d. Gen. Hunter was not authorized by the Department to organize
and muster into the army of the United States the fugitive or
captive slaves.
"3d. Gen. Hunter, upon his requisition as Commander of the South,
has been furnished with clothing and arms for the force under his
command, without instructions as to how they should be used.
"4th. He has not been furnished by order of the Department of War
with arms to be placed within the hands of 'those slaves.'
"5th. In respect to so much of said resolution as directs the
Secretary 'to report to the House my orders given said Hunter,
and correspondence between him and the Department,' the President
instructs me to answer that the report, at this time, of the
orders given to and correspondence between Gen. Hunter and this
Department would, in his opinion, be incompatible with the public
welfare.
"Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
"EDWIN M. STANTON,
"_Secretary of War_."
"WAR DEPARTMENT, }
"WASHINGTON, July 2, 1862. }
"SIR: On reference to the answer of this Department of the
fourteenth ultimo to the resolution of the House of
Representatives of the ninth of last month, calling for
information respecting the organization by Gen. Hunter, of the
Department of South Carolina, of a regiment of volunteers for the
defence of the Union, composed of black men, fugitive slaves,
etc., it will be seen that the resolution had been referred to
that officer with instructions to make an immediate report
thereon. I have now the honor to transmit herewith the copy of a
communication just received from Gen. Hunter, furnishing
information as to his action touching the various matters
indicated in the resolution.
"I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient
servant,
"EDWIN M. STANTON,
"_Secretary of War_.
"Hon. G. A. GROW,
"_Speaker of the House of Representatives_."
"HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH, }
"PORT ROYAL, S. C., June 23, 1862. }
"Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, _Secretary of War_, Washington.
"SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a
communication from the Adjutant-General of the army, dated June
thirteenth, 1862, requesting me to furnish you with the
information necessary to answer certain resolutions introduced in
the House of Representatives, June ninth, 1862, on motion of the
Hon. Mr. Wickliffe, of Kentucky, their substance being to
inquire:
"First. Whether I had organized or was organizing a regiment of
'fugitive slaves' in this department?
"Second. Whether any authority had been given to me from the War
Department for such organization? and
"Third. Whether I had been furnished, by order of the War
Department, with clothing, uniforms, arms, equipments, etc., for
such a force?
"Only having received the letter covering these inquiries at a
late hour on Saturday night, I urge forward my answer in time for
the steamer sailing to-day (Monday)--this haste preventing me
from entering as minutely as I could wish upon many points of
detail, such as the paramount importance of the subject calls
for. But, in view of the near termination of the present session
of Congress, and the widespread interest which must have been
awakened by Mr. Wickliffe's resolutions, I prefer sending even
this imperfect answer to waiting the period necessary for the
collection of fuller and more comprehensive data.
"To the first question, therefore, I reply that no regiment of
'fugitive slaves' has been or is being organized in this
department. There is, however, a fine regiment of persons whose
late masters are 'fugitive rebels,'--men who everywhere fly
before the appearance of the national flag, leaving their
servants behind them to shift as best they can for themselves. So
far, indeed, are the loyal persons composing this regiment from
seeking to avoid the presence of their late owners, that they are
now, one and all, working with remarkable industry to place
themselves in a position to go in full and effective pursuit of
their fugacious and traitorous proprietors.
"To the second question I have the honor to answer that the
instructions given to Brig.-Gen. T. W. Sherman, by the Hon. Simon
Cameron, late Secretary of War, and turned over to me by
succession for my guidance, do distinctly authorize me to employ
all loyal persons offering their services in defence of the Union
and for the suppression of this rebellion in any manner I might
see fit, or that the circumstances might call for. There is no
restriction as to the character or color of the persons to be
employed, or the nature of the employment, whether civil or
military, in which their services should be used. I conclude,
therefore, that I have been authorized to enlist 'fugitive
slaves' as soldiers, could any such be found in this department.
No such characters, however, have yet appeared within view of our
most advanced pickets, the loyal slaves everywhere remaining on
their plantations to welcome us, aid us, and supply us with food,
labor, and information. It is the masters who have in every
instance been the 'fugitives,' running away from loyal slaves as
well as loyal soldiers, and whom we have only partially been able
to see--chiefly their heads over ramparts, or, rifle in hand,
dodging behind trees--in the extreme distance. In the absence of
any 'fugitive-master law,' the deserted slaves would be wholly
without remedy, had not the crime of treason given them the right
to pursue, capture, and bring back those persons of whose
protection they have been thus suddenly bereft.
"To the third interrogatory it is my painful duty to reply that I
never have received any specific authority for issues of
clothing, uniforms, arms, equipments, and so forth, to the troops
in question--my general instructions from Mr. Cameron to employ
them in any manner I might find necessary, and the military
exigencies of the department and the country being my only, but,
in my judgment, sufficient justification. Neither have I had any
specific authority for supplying these persons with shovels,
spades, and pickaxes, when employing them as laborers, nor with
boats and oars when using them as lightermen; but these are not
points included in Mr. Wickliffe's resolution. To me it seemed
that liberty to employ men in any particular capacity implied
with it liberty also to supply them with the necessary tools; and
acting upon this faith I have clothed, equipped, and armed the
only loyal regiment yet raised in South Carolina.
"I must say, in vindication of my own conduct, that had it not
been for the many other diversified and imperative claims on my
time, a much more satisfactory result might have been hoped for;
and that in place of only one, as at present, at least five or
six well-drilled, brave, and thoroughly acclimated regiments
should by this time have been added to the loyal forces of the
Union.
"The experiment of arming the blacks, so far as I have made it,
has been a complete and even marvellous success. They are sober,
docile, attentive, and enthusiastic, displaying great natural
capacities for acquiring the duties of the soldier. They are
eager beyond all things to take the field and be led into action;
and it is the unanimous opinion of the officers who have had
charge of them, that in the peculiarities of this climate and
country they will prove invaluable auxiliaries, fully equal to
the similar regiments so long and successfully used by the
British authorities in the West-India Islands.
"In conclusion, I would say it is my hope--there appearing no
possibility of other reënforcements, owing to the exigencies of
the campaign in the Peninsula--to have organized by the end of
next fall, and to be able to present to the Government, from
forty-eight to fifty thousand of these hardy and devoted
soldiers.
"Trusting that this letter may form part of your answer to Mr.
Wickliffe's resolutions, I have the honor to be, most
respectfully, your very obedient servant,
"D. HUNTER,
"_Major-General Commanding_."
Mr. Wickliffe seemed to feel that he had received an exhaustive reply
to his resolution of inquiry, but his colleague, Mr. Dunlap, offered
the following resolution on the 3d of July, 1862, which was never
acted upon:
"_Resolved_, That the sentiments contained in the paper read to
this body yesterday, approving the arming of slaves, emanating
from Major-General David Hunter, clothed in discourteous
language, are an indignity to the American Congress, an insult to
the American people and our brave soldiers in arms; for which
sentiments, so uttered, he justly merits our condemnation and
censure."
There was quite a flutter among the politicians in the rear, and many
army officers felt that the United States uniform had been disgraced
by being put upon "fugitive slaves."
Within a few weeks after the affair in Congress alluded to above, two
United States Senators,[92] charmed with the bold idea of General
Hunter, called upon the President to urge him to accept the services
of two Negro regiments. The "New York Herald" of the 5th of August,
1862, gave an account of the interview under the caption of
"_Important Decision of the President_."
"The efforts of those who love the negro more than the Union to
induce the President to swerve from his established policy are
unavailing. He will neither be persuaded by promises nor
intimidated by threats. To-day he was called upon by two United
States Senators and rather peremptorily requested to accept the
services of two negro regiments. They were flatly and
unequivocally rejected. The President did not appreciate the
necessity of employing the negroes to fight the battles of the
country and take the positions which the white men of the nation,
the voters, and sons of patriotic sires, should be proud to
occupy; there were employments in which the negroes of rebel
masters might well be engaged, but he was not willing to place
them upon an equality with our volunteers, who had left home and
family and lucrative occupations to defend the Union and the
Constitution, while there were volunteers or militia enough in
the loyal States to maintain the Government without resort to
this expedient. If the loyal people were not satisfied with the
policy he had adopted, he was willing to leave the administration
to other hands. One of the Senators was impudent enough to tell
the President he wished to God he would resign."[93]
But there the regiment was,--one thousand loyal and competent
soldiers; and there was no way out but for the government to father
the regiment, and, therefore, on the 25th of August, 1862, the
Secretary of War sent General Rufus Saxton the following order:
"3. In view of the small force under your command, and the
inability of the Government at the present time to increase it,
in order to guard the plantations and settlements occupied by the
United States from invasion, and protect the inhabitants thereof
from captivity and murder by the enemy, you are also authorized
to arm, uniform, equip, and receive into the service of the
United States, such number of Volunteers of African descent as
you may deem expedient, not exceeding five thousand; and may
detail officers to instruct them in military drill, discipline,
and duty, and to command them; the persons so received into
service, and their officers, to be entitled to and receive the
same pay and rations as are allowed by law to Volunteers in the
service.
"4. You will occupy, if possible, all the islands and plantations
heretofore occupied by the Government, and secure and harvest the
crops, and cultivate and improve the plantations.
"5. The population of African descent, that cultivate the land
and perform the labor of the Rebels, constitute a large share of
their military strength, and enable the White masters to fill the
Rebel armies, and wage a cruel and murderous war against the
people of the Northern States. By reducing the laboring strength
of the Rebels, their military power will be reduced. You are,
therefore, authorized, by every means in your power, to withdraw
from the enemy their laboring force and population, and to spare
no effort, consistent with civilized warfare, to weaken, harass,
and annoy them, and to establish the authority of the Government
of the United States within your Department."
But public sentiment was growing with every passing day. The very
presence of the Negro regiment at Port Royal converted the most
pronounced enemies of Negro troops into friends and admirers. The
newspaper correspondents filled their letters to the papers North with
most extravagant praise of the Negro soldier; and the President was
driven from his position of "_no negro soldiers_."
The correspondent of the "Times," in a letter dated September 4, 1862,
wrote:
"There is little doubt that the next mail from the North will
bring an order from the War Department recalling Major-Gen.
Hunter to a field of greater activity. The Government had not
lent him a hearty support in carrying out his policy of arming
the blacks, by which alone he could make himself useful in this
department to the National cause; and, therefore, more than two
months since he applied to be relieved, rather than sit supinely
with folded hands when his military abilities might be found of
service elsewhere. Now, however, I have reason to believe that
Gen. Hunter's views upon the question of forming negro regiments,
have been unreservedly adopted by the President, and the whole
question has assumed such a different phase that Gen. Hunter
almost regrets that he is to leave the department. The last mail
brought the authorization of the President to _enlist_ five negro
regiments, each of a thousand negroes, to be armed and uniformed
for the service of the United States, and also authorizes the
enrollment of an additional 50,000 to be employed in the
Quartermaster's Department nominally as laborers, but as they are
to be organized into companies and uniformed, and a portion of
their time is to be spent in drilling, it is easy to understand
that the possibility of their being used as soldiers is not lost
sight of. The exact time of commencing the work of enlisting the
colored recruits, I am not able to state, but that it will be
shortly, to my mind, there is not a shadow of doubt. The only way
in which the men can be obtained is by the establishment of posts
at various places upon the coast, where the negroes, assured of
protection, will flock to us by thousands. Past experience and
present information both go to prove this fact, and to establish
these posts more men will be required; therefore we may soon
expect that the Government will be deriving positive advantages
from this department which, heretofore, has been only negative of
service, as the field of experiments and the testing of ideas.
Gen. Saxton will go to Washington by the first steamer, for
consultation with the President on the subject."
Just what one thing changed the President so suddenly upon the
question of the employment of Negroes as soldiers was not known.
In Louisiana the Negroes were anxious to enlist in the service of the
Union, and with this object in view thousands of them sought the
Federal camps. Brig.-Gen. J. W. Phelps, commanding the forces at
Carrolton, La., found his camps daily crowded with fugitives from
slavery. What to do with them became a question of great moment. Gen.
Phelps became convinced that it was impossible to subdue a great
rebellion if slavery were to have the protection of Federal bayonets.
He gave the Negroes who came to his camp protection; and for this was
reported to his superior officer, Gen. Butler. In a report to the
latter officer's Adjutant-General, on June 16, 1862, he said:
"The enfranchisement of the people of Europe has been, and is
still, going on, through the instrumentality of military service;
and by this means our slaves might be raised in the scale of
civilization and prepared for freedom. Fifty regiments might be
raised among them at once, which could be employed in this
climate to preserve order, and thus prevent the necessity of
retrenching our liberties, as we should do by a large army
exclusively of Whites. For it is evident that a considerable army
of Whites would give stringency to our Government; while an army
partly of Blacks would naturally operate in favor of freedom and
against those influences which at present most endanger our
liberties. At the end of five years, they could be sent to
Africa, and their places filled with new enlistments."
Receiving no specific response to this overture, Gen. Phelps made a
requisition of arms, clothing, etc., for "three regiments of Africans,
which I propose to raise for the defense of this point"; adding:
"The location is swampy and unhealthy; and our men are dying at
the rate of two or three a day.
"The Southern loyalists are willing, as I understand, to furnish
their share of the tax for the support of the war; but they
should also furnish their quota of men; which they have not thus
far done. An opportunity now offers of supplying the deficiency;
and it is not safe to neglect opportunities in war. I think that,
with the proper facilities, I could raise the three regiments
proposed in a short time. Without holding out any inducements, or
offering any reward, I have now upward of 300 Africans organized
into five companies, who are all willing and ready to show their
devotion to our cause in any way that it may be put to the test.
They are willing to submit to any thing rather than to slavery.
"Society, in the South, seems to be on the point of dissolution;
and the best way of preventing the African from becoming
instrumental in a general state of anarchy, is to enlist him in
the cause of the Republic. If we reject his services, any petty
military chieftain, by offering him freedom, can have them for
the purpose of robbery and plunder. It is for the interests of
the South, as well as of the North, that the African should be
permitted to offer his block for the temple of freedom.
Sentiments unworthy of the man of the present day--worthy only of
another Cain--could alone prevent such an offer from being
accepted.
"I would recommend that the cadet graduates of the present year
should be sent to South Carolina and this point, to organize and
discipline our African levies; and that the more promising
non-commissioned officers and privates of the army be appointed
as company officers to command them. Prompt and energetic efforts
in this direction would probably accomplish more toward a speedy
termination of the war, and an early restoration of peace and
unity, than any other course which could be adopted."[94]
Gen. Butler advised Gen. Phelps to employ "contrabands" for mere
fatigue duty, and charged him not to use them as soldiers. On the 31st
of July, 1862, Gen. Phelps rejoined by informing Gen. Butler: "I am
not willing to become the mere slave-driver you propose, having no
qualifications that way," and immediately tendered his resignation.
Nothing could stay the mighty stream of fugitives that poured into the
Union lines by day and by night. Nothing could cool the ardor of the
loyal Negroes who so earnestly desired to share the perils and honors
of the Federal army. There was but one course left and that was to
call the Negroes to arms as Gen. Jackson had done nearly a half
century before. Gen. Butler repented his action toward the gallant and
intelligent Phelps, and on the 24th of August, 1862, appealed to the
free Colored men of New Orleans to take up arms in defence of the
Union. As in the War of 1812, they responded to the call with
enthusiasm; and in just two weeks one thousand Negroes were organized
into a regiment. All the men and line officers were Colored; the
staff-officers were white. Another regiment was raised and officered
like the first--only two white men in it; while the third regiment was
officered without regard to nationality. Two Colored batteries were
raised, but all the officers were white because there were no Negroes
found who understood that arm of the service.
The summer was gone, and Gen. McClellan, instead of "taking Richmond,"
had closed his campaign on the Peninsula most ingloriously. The
President was compelled to make another call for troops--60,000.
Conscription was unavoidable in many places, and prejudice against the
military employment of Negroes began to decrease in proportion to the
increase of the chances of white men to be drafted. On the 16th of
July, 1862, Gen. Henry Wilson, United States Senator from
Massachusetts, and Chairman of the Committee on Military Affairs,
introduced a bill in the Senate amending the act of 1795, prescribing
the manner of the calling forth of the militia to suppress
insurrections, etc. Several amendments were offered, much debate was
had, and finally it passed, amended, empowering the President to
accept "persons of African descent, for the purpose of constructing
entrenchments or performing camp service, or _any_ war service for
which they may be found competent." It was agreed, grudgingly, to free
the slaves of rebels _only_ who should faithfully serve the
country,--but _not_ their wives and children! The vote was 28 yeas to
9 nays. It went to the House, where it was managed by Mr. Stevens, of
Pennsylvania, and upon a call of the previous question was passed. On
the next day, July 17th, it received the signature of the President,
and became the law of the land.
On the 28th of January the Army Appropriation bill was under
consideration in the United States Senate. Garrett Davis, of Kentucky,
had opposed, by the most frantic and desperate efforts, every attempt
to use Negroes in any capacity to aid in the suppression of the
Rebellion. Accordingly he offered the following amendment to the
Appropriation bill:
"Provided, That no part of the sums appropriated by this act
shall be disbursed for the pay, subsistence, or any other
supplies, of any negro, free or slave, in the armed military
service of the United States."
It received 8 votes, with 28 against it. Those who sustained the
amendment were all Democrats:
Messrs. Carlyle, G. Davis, Kennedy, Latham, Nesmith, Powell, Turpie,
and Wall.
The fight against the employment of Negroes as soldiers was renewed.
On every occasion the opposition was led by a Kentucky representative!
On the 21st of December, 1863, during the pendency of the Deficiency
bill in the House, Mr. Harding, of Kentucky, desired to amend it by
inserting the following:
"_Provided_, That no part of the moneys aforesaid shall be
applied to the raising, arming, equipping, or paying of negro
soldiers."
It was rejected: yeas, 41; nays, 105. The yeas were:
Messrs. Ancona, Bliss, James S. Brown, Coffroth, Cox, Dawson,
Dennison, Eden, Edgerton, Eldridge, Finck, Grider, Hall, Harding,
Harrington, Benjamin G. Harris, Charles M. Harris, Philip Johnson,
William Johnson, King, Knapp, Law, Long, Marcy, McKinney, William H.
Miller, James R. Morris, Morrison, Noble, John O'Neill, Pendleton,
Samuel J. Randall, Rogers, Ross, Scott, Stiles, Strouse, Stuart,
Chilton A. White, Joseph W. White, Yeaman.
On the 26th of January, 1863, the Secretary of War authorized Gov.
John A. Andrew, of Massachusetts, to raise two regiments of Negro
troops to serve three years. The order allowed the governor to raise
"volunteer companies of artillery for duty in the forts of
Massachusetts and elsewhere, and such companies of infantry for the
volunteer military service as he may find convenient, and may include
persons of African descent, organized into separate corps."
The Governor of Massachusetts immediately delegated authority to John
W. M. Appleton to superintend the recruiting of the 54th
Massachusetts, the first regiment of free Colored men raised at the
North. The regiment was filled by the 13th of May, and ready to march
to the front. It had been arranged that the regiment should pass
through New York City on its way to the scene of the war in South
Carolina, but the Chief of Police of New York suggested that the
regiment would be subject to insult if it came. The regiment was sent
forth with the blessings of Massachusetts and the prayers of its
patriotic people. It went by water to South Carolina.
While Massachusetts was engaged in recruiting Negro soldiers, Gen.
Lorenzo Thomas, Adjutant-General of the United States Army, was
despatched from Washington to the Mississippi Valley, where he
inaugurated a system of recruiting service for Negroes. In a speech to
the officers and men in the organization of white troops, he said, on
the 8th of April, 1863, at Lake Providence, La.:
"You know full well--for you have been over this country--that
the Rebels have sent into the field all their available fighting
men--every man capable of bearing arms; and you know they have
kept at home all their slaves for the raising of subsistence for
their armies in the field. In this way they can bring to bear
against us all the strength of their so-called Confederate
States; while we at the North can only send a portion of our
fighting force, being compelled to leave behind another portion
to cultivate our fields and supply the wants of an immense army.
The Administration has determined to take from the Rebels this
source of supply--to take their negroes and compel them to send
back a portion of their whites to cultivate their deserted
plantations--and very poor persons they would be to fill the
place of the dark-hued laborer. They must do this, or their
armies will starve. * * *
"All of you will some day be on picket duty; and I charge you
all, if any of this unfortunate race come within your lines, that
you do not turn them away, but receive them kindly and
cordially. They are to be encouraged to come to us; they are to
be received with open arms; they are to be fed and clothed; they
are to be armed."
On the 1st of May, 1863, Gen. Banks, in an order directing the
recruiting of the "Corps d'Afrique," said:
"The prejudices or opinions of men are in no wise involved"; and
"it is not established upon any dogma of equality, or other
theory, but as a practical and sensible matter of business. The
Government makes use of mules, horses, uneducated and educated
White men, in the defense of its institutions. Why should not the
negro contribute whatever is in his power for the cause in which
he is as deeply interested as other men? We may properly demand
from him whatever service he can render," etc., etc.
In the autumn of 1863, Adjutant-General Thomas issued the following
order respecting the military employment of Negroes as soldiers:
"ENLISTMENT OF COLORED TROOPS.
"GENERAL ORDERS, No. 329.
"WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE, }
"WASHINGTON, D. C., October 13, 1863. }
"WHEREAS, The exigencies of the war require that colored troops
be enlisted in the States of Maryland, Missouri, and Tennessee,
it is
"ORDERED BY THE PRESIDENT, That the Chief of the Bureau for the
Organization of Colored Troops shall establish recruiting
stations at convenient places within said States, and give public
notice thereof, and be governed by the following regulations:
"First. None but able-bodied persons shall be enlisted.
"Second. The State and county in which the enlistments are made
shall be credited with the recruits enlisted.
"Third. All persons enlisted into the military service shall
forever thereafter be FREE.
"Fourth. Free persons, and slaves with the written consent of
their owners, and slaves belonging to those who have been engaged
in or given aid or comfort to the rebellion, may now be
enlisted--the owners who have not been engaged in or given aid to
the rebellion being entitled to compensation as hereinafter
provided.
"Fifth. If within thirty days from the date of opening
enlistments, notice thereof and of the recruiting stations being
published, a sufficient number of the description of persons
aforesaid to meet the exigencies of the service should not be
enlisted, then enlistments may be made of slaves without
requiring consent of their owners, but they may receive
compensation as herein provided for owners offering their slaves
for enlistment.
"Sixth. Any citizen of said States, who shall offer his or her
slave for enlistment into the military service, shall, if such
slave be accepted, receive from the recruiting officer a
certificate thereof, and become entitled to compensation for the
service of said slave, not exceeding the sum of three hundred
dollars, upon filing a valid deed of manumission and of release,
and making satisfactory proof of title. And the recruiting
officer shall furnish to any claimant of descriptive list of any
person enlisted and claimed under oath to be his or her slave,
and allow any one claiming under oath that his or her slave has
been enlisted without his or her consent, the privilege of
inspecting the enlisted man for the purpose of identification.
"Seventh. A board of three persons shall be appointed by the
President, to whom the rolls and recruiting lists shall be
furnished for public information, and, on demand exhibited, to
any person claiming that his or her slave has been enlisted
against his or her will.
"Eighth. If a person shall within ten days after the filing of
said rolls, make a claim for the service of any person so
enlisted, the board shall proceed to examine the proof of title,
and, if valid, shall award just compensation, not exceeding three
hundred dollars for each slave enlisted belonging to the
claimant, and upon the claimant filing a valid deed of
manumission and release of service, the board shall give the
claimant a certificate of the sum awarded, which on presentation
shall be paid by the chief of the Bureau.
"Ninth. All enlistments of colored troops in the State of
Maryland, otherwise than in accordance with these regulations,
are forbidden.
"Tenth. No person who is or has been engaged in the rebellion
against the Government of the United States, or who in any way
has or shall give aid or comfort to the enemies of the
Government, shall be permitted to present any claim or receive
any compensation for the labor or service of any slave, and all
claimants shall file with their claim an oath of allegiance to
the United States. By order of the President.
"E. D. TOWNSEND,
"_Assistant Adjutant-General_."
This order was extended, on October 26th, to Delaware, at the personal
request of Governor Cannon.
On the 12th of November, 1863, the Union League Club of New York City
appointed a committee for the purpose of recruiting Colored troops.
Col. George Bliss was made chairman and entered upon the work with
energy and alacrity. On the 23d of November the committee addressed a
letter to Horatio Seymour, Governor of New York, stating that as he
had no authority to grant them permission to enlist a Negro regiment;
and as the National Government was unwilling to grant such authority
without the sympathy and assent of the State government, they would
feel greatly obliged should his excellency grant the committee his
official concurrence. Gov. Seymour assured the committee of his
official inability to grant authority for the raising of Colored
troops,--just what the committee had written him,--and referred them
to the National Government, on the 27th of November. The committee
applied to the authorities at Washington, and on the 5th of December,
1863, the Secretary of War granted them authority to raise the 20th
Regiment of United States Colored Troops. Having secured the authority
of the Government to begin their work, the committee wrote Gov.
Seymour: "We express the hope that, so far as in your power, you will
give to the movement your aid and countenance." The governor never
found the time to answer the request of the committee!
The work was pushed forward with zeal and enthusiasm. The Colored men
rallied to the call, and within two weeks from the time the committee
called for Colored volunteers 1,000 men responded. By the 27th of
January, 1864, a second regiment was full; and thus in forty-five days
the Union League Club Committee on the Recruiting of Colored Regiments
had raised 2,000 soldiers!
Out of 9,000 men of color, eligible by age--18 to 45 years--to go into
the service, 2,300 enlisted in less than sixty days. There was no
bounty held out to them as an incentive to enlist; no protection
promised to their families, nor to them should they fall into the
hands of the enemy. But they were patriots! They were willing to
endure any thing rather than the evils that would surely attend the
triumph of the Confederacy. They went to the front under auspicious
circumstances.
The 20th Regiment, under the command of Col. Bartram, landed at
Thirty-Sixth Street, was headed by the police and the patriotic
members of the Union League Club, and had a triumphal march through
the city.
"The scene of yesterday," says a New York paper, "was one which
marks an era of progress in the political and social history of
New York. A thousand men with black skins and clad and equipped
with the uniforms and arms of the United States Government,
marched from their camp through the most aristocratic and busy
streets, received a grand ovation at the hands of the wealthiest
and most respectable ladies and gentlemen of New York, and then
moved down Broadway to the steamer which bears them to their
destination--all amid the enthusiastic cheers, the encouraging
plaudits, the waving handkerchiefs, the showering bouquets and
other approving manifestations of a hundred thousand of the most
loyal of our people.
"In the month of July last the homes of these people were burned
and pillaged by an infuriated political mob; they and their
families were hunted down and murdered in the public streets of
this city; and the force and majesty of the law were powerless to
protect them. Seven brief months have passed, and a thousand of
these despised and persecuted men march through the city in the
garb of United States soldiers, in vindication of their own
manhood, and with the approval of a countless multitude--in
effect saving from inevitable and distasteful conscription the
same number of those who hunted their persons and destroyed their
homes during those days of humiliation and disgrace. This is
noble vengeance--a vengeance taught by Him who commanded, 'Love
them that hate you; do good to them that persecute you.'"
The recruiting of Colored troops in Pennsylvania was carried on,
perhaps, with more vigor, intelligence, and enthusiasm than in any of
the other free States. A committee for the recruiting of men of color
for the United States army was appointed at Philadelphia, with Thomas
Webster as Chairman, Cadwalader Biddle, as Secretary, and S. A.
Mercer, as Treasurer. This committee raised $33,388.00 for the
recruiting of Colored regiments. The 54th and 55th Massachusetts
regiments had cost about $60,000, but this committee agreed to raise
three regiments at a cost of $10,000 per regiment.
The committee founded a camp, and named it "Camp William Penn," at
Shelton Hill, near Philadelphia. On the 26th of June, 1863, the first
squad of eighty men went into camp. On the 3d of February, 1864, the
committee made the following statement, in reference to the raising of
regiments:
"On the 24th July, 1863, the First (3d United States) regiment
was full.
"On the 13th September, 1863, the Second (6th United States)
regiment was full.
"On the 4th December, 1863, the Third (8th United States)
regiment was full.
"On the 6th January, 1864, the Fourth (22d United States)
regiment was full.
"On the 3d February, 1864, the Fifth (25th United States)
regiment was full.
"August 13th, 1863, the Third United States regiment left Camp
William Penn, and was in front of Fort Wagner when it
surrendered.
"October 14th, 1863, the Sixth United States regiment left for
Yorktown.
"January 16th, 1864, the Eighth United States regiment left for
Hilton Head.
"The 22d and 25th regiments are now at Camp William Penn, waiting
orders from the Government."
The duty of recruiting "Colored troops" in the Department of the
Cumberland was committed by Secretary Stanton to an able, honest, and
patriotic man, Mr. George L. Stearns, of Massachusetts. Mr. Stearns
had devoted his energies, wealth, and time to the cause of the slave
during the holy anti-slavery agitation. He was a wealthy merchant of
Boston; dwelt, with a noble wife and beautiful children, at Medford.
He had been, from the commencement of the agitation, an ultra
Abolitionist. He regarded slavery as a gigantic system of complicated
evils, at war with all the known laws of civilized society; inimical
to the fundamental principles of political economy; destructive to
republican institutions; hateful in the sight of God, and ever
abhorrent to all honest men. He hated slavery. He hated truckling,
obsequious, cringing hypocrites. He put his feelings into vigorous
English, and keyed his deeds and actions to the sublime notes of
charity that filled his heart and adorned a long and eminently useful
life. He gave shelter to the majestic and heroic John Brown. His door
was--like the heavenly gates--ajar to every fugitive from slavery, and
his fiery earnestness kindled the flagging zeal of many a conservative
friend of God's poor.
Such a man was chosen to put muskets into the hands of the Negroes in
the Department of the Cumberland. His rank was that of major, with the
powers of an assistant adjutant-general. He took up his headquarters
at Nashville, Tennessee. He carried into the discharge of the duties
of his important office large executive ability, excellent judgment,
and rare fidelity. He organized the best regiments that served in the
Western army. When he had placed the work in excellent condition he
committed it to the care of Capt. R. D. Mussey, who afterward was
made the Colonel of the 100th U. S. Colored Troops.
The intense and unrelenting prejudice against the Negroes, and their
ignorance of military tactics, made it necessary for the Government to
provide suitable white commissioned officers. The prospect was
pleasing to many young white men in the ranks; and ambition went far
to irradicate prejudice against Negro soldiers. Nearly every white
private and non-commissioned officer was expecting the lightning to
strike him; _every_ one expected to be promoted to be a commissioned
officer, and, therefore, had no prejudice against the men they hoped
to command as their _superior_ officers. To prepare the large number
of applicants for commissions in Colored regiments a "Free Military
School" was established at No. 1210 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Pa.
Secretary Stanton gave the school the following official endorsement
in the spring of 1864.
"WAR DEPARTMENT, }
"WASHINGTON CITY, March 21, 1864. }
"THOMAS WEBSTER, ESQ., _Chairman_,
"1210 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia.
"SIR: The project of establishing a free Military School for the
education of candidates for the position of commissioned officers
in the Colored Troops, received the cordial approval of this
Department. Sufficient success has already attended the workings
of the institution to afford the promise of much usefulness
hereafter in sending into the service a class of instructed and
efficient officers.
"Very respectfully,
"Your obedient servant,
"EDWIN M. STANTON,
"_Secretary of War_."
In reply to a letter from Thomas Webster, Esq., Chairman, etc., of the
Recruiting Committee, General Casey sent the following letter:
"WASHINGTON, D. C., March 7, 1864.
"DEAR SIR: Yours of the 4th instant is received, and I have
directed the Secretary of the Board to attend to your request.
"It gives me great pleasure to learn that your School is
prospering, and I am also pleased to inform you that the Board of
which I am President has not as yet rejected one of your
candidates. I am gratified to see that the necessity of
procuring competent officers for the armies of the Republic is
beginning to be better appreciated by the public.
"I trust I shall never have occasion to regret my agency in
suggesting the formation of your School, and I am sure the
country owes your Committee much for the energy and judgment with
which it has carried it out. The liberality which opens its doors
to the young men of all the States is noble, and does honor to
those citizens of Philadelphia from whom its support is
principally derived.
"Truly yours,
"SILAS CASEY,
"_Major-General_.
"TO THOMAS WEBSTER, ESQ., _Chairman_,
"1210 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia."
In reference to applicants the following letter was written by the
Adjutant-General:
"GENERAL ORDERS, }
"No. 125." }
"WAR DEPARTMENT,"
"ADJUTANT-GEN.'S OFFICE,
"WASHINGTON, March 29, 1864.
"Furloughs, not to exceed thirty days in each case, to the
non-commissioned officers and privates of the army who may desire
to enter the Free Military School at Philadelphia, may be granted
by the Commanders of Armies and Departments, when the character,
conduct, and capacity of the applicants are such as to warrant
their immediate and superior commanders in recommending them for
commissioned appointments in the regiments of colored troops.
"By order of the Secretary of War.
"E. D. TOWNSEND,
"_Assistant Adjutant-General_."
The organization of the school was as follows:
_Chief Preceptor._
JOHN H. TAGGART
(Late Colonel 12th Regiment Pennsylvania Reserve Corps),
_Professor of Infantry Tactics and Army Regulations_.
_Assistant Professors._
_MILITARY STAFF._
ALBERT L. MAGILTON
(Graduate of West Point Military Academy, and late Colonel 4th
Regiment Pennsylvania Reserve Corps),
_Professor of Infantry Tactics and Army Regulations._
LEVI FETTERS
(Late Captain 175th Pennsylvania Regiment),
_Professor of Infantry Tactics and Army Regulations._
STUDENT DANL. W. HERR
(Late 1st Lieutenant Co. E., 122d Pennsylvania Regiment),
_Post Adjutant._
STUDENT J. HALE SYPHER, OF PENNSYLVANIA,
_Field Adjutant._
STUDENT LOUIS M. TAFT. M.D.
(Graduate of University of Penn.),
_Surgeon._
_ACADEMIC STAFF._
JOHN P. BIRCH, A.M.,
A. E. ROGERSON, A.M.,
_Professors of Mathematics, Geography, and History_
Wm. L. WILSON,
_Librarian and Phonographic Clerk._
STUDENT CHARLES BENTRICK, SR.,
_Postmaster._
JAMES BUCHANAN (COLORED),
_Messenger._
Within less than six months 1,051 applicants had been examined; 560
passed, and 491 were rejected.
Four regular classes were formed, and in addition to daily recitations
the students were required to drill twice every day. The school
performed excellent work; and furnished for the service many brave and
efficient officers.
By December, 1863, 100,000 Colored Troops were in the service. About
50,000 were armed by that time and in the field.
Everywhere they were winning golden laurels by their aptitude in
drill, their patient performance of the duties of the camp, and by
their matchless courage in the deadly field. The young white officers
who so cheerfully bore the odium of commanding Colored Troops, and who
so heroically faced the dangers of capture and cruel death, had no
superiors in the army. They had the supreme satisfaction of commanding
brave men to whom they soon found themselves deeply attached. It was a
school in which the noblest and purest patriot might feel himself
honored and inspired to the performance of deathless deeds of valor.
The following tables indicate the manner in which the work was done.
_Analysis of Examination of Applicants for Command of Colored Troops,
before the Board at Washington, of which Major-General Silas Casey is
President, from the organization of the Board to March 29th, 1864,
inclusive._
Number accepted and for
what rank recommended.
---------------------------
Colonels.
| Lieutenant-Colonels.
| | Majors.
Rank. | | | Captains.
| | | | 1st Lieutenants.
| | | | | 2d Lieutenants.
Number | | | | | | Number
examined. | | | | | | rejected.
Colonels 4 - - 2 - - - 2
Lieutenant-Colonels 3 - 2 - - 1 - -
Majors 9 2 3 1 2 - - 1
Captains 68 3 7 8 20 5 3 22
1st Lieutenants 52 3 - 4 10 8 7 20
2d Lieutenants 24 - - - 9 2 3 10
Sergeants 505 - 1 - 62 75 133 234
Corporals 230 - - - 23 46 64 97
Privates 449 - - - 26 57 124 242
Civilians 429 1 6 15 48 49 94 216
--------------------------------------
1,773 9 19 30 200 243 428 844
Students of the
Philadelphia Free
Military School 94 2 4 6 28 25 25 4
--------------------------------------
1,867 11 23 36 228 268 453 848
_Analysis of the Examination to 31st March, 1864, of the Students of
the Philadelphia Free Military School, before the Board of Examiners
at Washington, for Applicants for Command of Colored Troops,
Major-General Silas Casey, President._
Number accepted and for
what rank recommended.
---------------------------
Colonels.
| Lieut-Colonels.
| | Majors.
Rank. | | | Captains.
| | | | 1st Lieutenants.
| | | | | 2d Lieutenants.
Number | | | | | | Number
examined. | | | | | | rejected.
Sergeants 14 - 1 - 3 3 6 1
Corporals 8 - - - 2 4 2 -
Privates 33 1 - 1 9 11 10 1
Civilians[95] 39 1 3 5 14 6 8 2
----------------------------------------
94 2 4 6 28 24 26 4
The following official table gives the entire number of Colored Troops
in the army from beginning to end.
STATES AND TERRITORIES.
Colored Troops furnished
1861-'65.
Connecticut 1,764
Maine 104
Massachusetts 3,966
New Hampshire 125
Rhode Island 1,837
Vermont 120
------
Total of New England States 7,916
New Jersey 1,185
New York 4,125
Pennsylvania 8,612
------
Total of Middle States 13,922
STATES AND TERRITORIES.--(_Continued._)
Colored Troops furnished
1861-'65.
Colorado Ter. 95
Dakota Ter. -
Illinois 1,811
Indiana 1,537
Iowa 440
Kansas 2,080
Michigan 1,387
Minnesota 104
Nebraska Ter. -
New Mexico Ter. -
Ohio 5,092
Wisconsin 165
------
Total, Western States and Territories 12,711
California -
Nevada -
Oregon -
Washington Ter. -
Delaware 954
Dist. Columbia 3,269
Kentucky 23,703
Maryland 8,718
Missouri 8,344
West Virginia 196
------
Total, Border States 45,184
Alabama 4,969
Arkansas 5,526
Florida 1,044
Georgia -
Louisiana 3,486
Mississippi 17,869
North Carolina 5,035
South Carolina 5,462
Tennessee 20,133
Texas 47
Virginia -
------
Total, Southern States 63,571
STATES AND TERRITORIES.--(_Continued._)
Colored Troops furnished
1861-'65.
Indian Nation -
Colored Troops[96] -
-------
Grand Total 173,079
At Large 733
Not accounted for 5,083
Officers 7,122
-------
Total 186,017
Notwithstanding the complete demonstration of fact that Negroes were
required as United States soldiers, there were many opposers of the
movement. Some of the best men and leading journals were very
conservative on this question. An elaborate and cautious editorial in
the "New York Times" of February 16, 1863, fairly exhibits the
nervousness of the North on the subject of the military employment of
the Negro.
"USE OF NEGROES AS SOLDIERS.
"One branch of Congress has rejected a bill authorizing the
enlistment of negro soldiers. Mr. Sumner declares his intention
to persist in forcing the passage of such a law by offering it as
an amendment to some other bill. Meantime the President, by laws
already enacted, has full authority over the subject, and we can
see no good object to be attained by forcing it into the
discussions of Congress and adding it to the causes of dissension
already existing in the country at large.
"A law of last Congress authorized the President to use the
negroes as laborers or _otherwise_, as they can be made most
useful in the work of quelling the rebellion. Under this
authority, it is understood that he has decided to use them in
certain cases as soldiers. Some of them are already employed in
garrisoning Southern forts, on the Mississippi River, which
whites cannot safely occupy on account of the climate. Governor
Sprague has authority to raise negro regiments in Rhode Island,
and has proclaimed his intention to lead them when raised in
person, and Gov. Andrew has received similar authority for the
State of Massachusetts. We see, therefore, not the slightest
necessity for any further legislation on this subject, and hope
Mr. Sumner will consent that Congress may give its attention,
during the short remainder of its session, to topics of pressing
practical importance.
"Whether negroes shall or shall not be employed as soldiers,
seems to us purely a question of expediency, and to be solved
satisfactorily only by experiment. As to our _right_ so to employ
them, it seems absurd to question it for a moment. The most
bigoted and inveterate stickler for the absolute divinity of
slavery in the Southern States would scarcely insist that, as a
matter of right, either constitutional or moral, we could not
employ negroes as soldiers in the army. Whether they are, or are
not, by nature, by law, or by usage, the equals of the white man,
makes not the slightest difference in this respect. Even those at
the North who are so terribly shocked at the prospect of their
being thus employed, confine their objections to grounds of
expediency. They urge:
"1st. That the negroes will not fight. This, if true, is
exclusive against their being used as soldiers. But we see no way
of testing the question except by trying the experiment. It will
take but a very short time and but very few battles to determine
whether they have courage, steadiness, subjection to military
discipline and the other qualities essential to good soldiership
or not. If they have, this objection will fall, if not then
beyond all question they will cease to be employed.
"2d. It is said that the whites will not fight with them--that
the prejudice against them is so strong that our own citizens
will not enlist, or will quit the service, if compelled to fight
by their side,--and that we shall thus lose two white soldiers
for one black one that we gain. If this is true, they ought not
to be employed. The object of using them is to strengthen our
military force; and if the project does not accomplish this, it
is a failure. The question, moreover, is one of fact, not of
theory. It matters nothing to say that it _ought_ not to have
this effect--that the prejudice is absurd and should not be
consulted. The point is, not what men _ought_ to do, but what
they will _do_. We have to deal with human nature, with
prejudice, with passion, with habits of thought and feeling, as
well as with reason and sober judgment and the moral sense.
Possibly the Government may have made a mistake in its estimate
of the effect of this measure on the public mind. The use of
negroes as soldiers may have a worse effect on the army and on
the people than they have supposed.
"But this is a matter of opinion upon which men have differed.
Very prominent and influential persons, Governors of States,
Senators, popular Editors and others have predicted the best
results from such a measure, while others have anticipated the
worst. The President has resolved to try the experiment. If it
works well, the country will be the gainer. If not, we have no
doubt it will be abandoned. If the effect of using negroes as
soldiers upon the army and the country, proves to be depressing
and demoralizing, so as to weaken rather than strengthen our
military operations, they will cease to be employed. The
President is a practical man, not at all disposed to sacrifice
practical results to abstract theories.
"3d. It is said we shall get no negroes--or not enough to prove
of any service. In the free States very few will volunteer, and
in the Slave States we can get but few, because the Rebels will
push them Southward as fast as we advance upon them. This may be
so. We confess we share, with many others, the opinion that it
will.
"But we may as well wait patiently the short time required to
settle the point. When we hear more definitely from Gov.
Sprague's black battalions and Gov. Andrew's negro brigades, we
shall know more accurately what to think of the measure as one
for the Free States; and when we hear further of the success of
Gen. Banks and Gen. Saxton in enlisting them at the South, we can
form a better judgment of the movement there. If we get very few
or even none, the worst that can be said will be that the project
is a failure; and the demonstration that it is so will have
dissipated another of the many delusions which dreamy people have
cherished about this war.
"4th. The use of negroes will exasperate the South; and some of
our Peace Democrats make that an objection to the measure. We
presume it will; but so will any other scheme we may adopt which
is warlike and effective in its character and results. If that
consideration is to govern us, we must follow Mr. Vallandingham's
advice and stop the war entirely, or as Mr. McMasters puts it in
his Newark speech, go 'for an immediate and _unconditional_
peace.' We are not quite ready for _that_ yet.
"The very best thing that can be done under existing
circumstances, in our judgment, is to possess our Souls in
patience while _the experiment_ is being tried. The problem will
probably speedily solve itself--much more speedily than heated
discussion or harsh criminations can solve it."
It didn't require a great deal of time for the Black troops to make a
good impression; and while the Congress, the press, and the people
were being exercised over the probable out-come, the first regiment of
ex-slaves ever equipped for the service was working a revolution in
public sentiment. On the last day of January, 1863, the "New York
Tribune" printed the following editorial on the subject:
"A disloyal minority in the House is factiously resisting the
passage of the Steven's bill, authorizing the President to raise
and equip 150,000 soldiers of African descent. Meanwhile, in the
Department of the South a full regiment of blacks has been
enlisted under Gen. Saxton; is already uniformed and armed, and
has been actively drilling for the last seven weeks. A letter
which we printed on Wednesday from our Special Correspondent, who
is usually well qualified to judge of its military proficiency,
says of this regiment that no honest-minded, unprejudiced
observer could come to any other conclusion than that it had
attained a remarkable proficiency in the short period during
which it had been drilled. We have in addition from an officer of
the regiment, who is thoroughly informed as to its condition, a
very interesting statement of its remarkable progress, and some
valuable suggestions on the employment of negro troops in
general.
"'This regiment--the 1st South Carolina Volunteers, Colonel
Thomas Wentworth Higginson--marched on the 17th for the first
time through the streets of Beaufort. It was the remark of many
bitterly pro-slavery officers that they looked "splendidly." They
marched through by platoons, and returned by the flank; the
streets were filled with soldiers and citizens, but every man
looked straight before him and carried himself steadily. How many
white regiments do the same? One black soldier said: "We didn't
see a thing in Beaufort; ebery man hold his head straight up to
de front, ebery step was worth a half dollar."
"'Many agreed with what is my deliberate opinion,' writes this
officer, 'that no regiment in this department can, even now,
surpass this one. In marching in regimental line I have not seen
it equalled. In the different modes of passing from line into
column, and from column into line, in changing front,
countermarching, forming divisions, and forming square, whether
by the common methods, or by Casey's methods, it does itself the
greatest credit. Nor have I yet discovered the slightest ground
of inferiority to white troops.
"'So far is it from being true that the blacks as material
soldiers are inferior to white, that they are in some respects
manifestly superior; especially in aptness for drill, because of
their imitativeness and love of music; docility in discipline,
when their confidence is once acquired; and enthusiasm for the
cause. _They_ at least know what they are fighting for. They have
also a _pride_ as soldiers, which is not often found in our white
regiments, where every private is only too apt to think himself
specially qualified to supersede his officers. They are above all
things faithful and trustworthy on duty from the start. In the
best white regiments it has been found impossible to trust
newly-enlisted troops with the countersign--they invariably
betray it to their comrades. There has been but one such instance
in this black regiment, and that was in the case of a mere boy,
whose want of fidelity excited the greatest indignation among his
comrades.
"'Drunkenness, the bane of our army, does not _exist_ among the
black troops. There has not been _one_ instance in the regiment.
Enough. The only difficulty which threatened to become at all
serious was that of absence without leave and overstaying passes,
but this was checked by a few decided measures and has ceased
entirely.
"'When this regiment was first organized, some months ago, it had
to encounter bitter hostility from the white troops at Port
Royal, and there was great exultation when General Hunter found
himself obliged to disband it. Since its reorganization this
feeling seems to have almost disappeared. There is no complaint
by the privates of insult or ill-treatment, formerly
disgracefully common from their white comrades.
"'It has been supposed that these black troops would prove fitter
for garrison duty than active service in the field. No impression
could be more mistaken. Their fidelity as sentinels adapts them
especially, no doubt, to garrison duty; but their natural place
is in the advance. There is an inherent dash and fire about them
which white troops of more sluggish Northern blood do not
emulate, and their hearty enthusiasm shows itself in all ways.
Such qualities are betrayed even in drill, as anybody may know
who has witnessed the dull, mechanical way in which ordinary
troops make a bayonet charge on the parade ground, and contrasts
it with the spirit of those negro troops in the same movement.
They are to be used, moreover, in a country which they know
perfectly. Merely from their knowledge of wood-craft and
water-craft, it would be a sheer waste of material to keep them
in garrison. It is scarcely the knowledge which is at once
indispensable and impossible to be acquired by our troops. See
these men and it is easier to understand the material of which
the famous Chasseurs d'Afrique are composed.'
"General Saxton, in a letter published yesterday, said: 'In no
regiment have I ever seen duty performed with so much
cheerfulness and alacrity. * * * In the organization of this
regiment I have labored under difficulties which might have
discouraged one who had less faith in the wisdom of the measure;
but I am glad to report that the experiment is a complete
success. My belief is that when we get a footing on the mainland
regiments may be raised which will do more than any now in the
service to put an end to this rebellion.'
"We are learning slowly, very slowly, in this war to use the
means of success which lie ready to our hands. We have learnt at
last that the negro is essential to our success, but we are still
hesitating whether to allow him to do all he can or only a part.
"It will not take many such proofs as this black regiment now
offers to convince us of the full value of our new allies. But we
ought to go beyond that selfishness which regards only our own
necessities and remember that the negro has a right to fight for
his freedom, and that he will be all the more fit to enjoy his
new destiny by helping to achieve it."
On the 28th of March, 1863, Mr. Greeley sent forth the following able
and sensible editorial on the Negro as a soldier:
"NEGRO TROOPS.
"Facts are beginning to dispel prejudices. Enemies of the negro
race, who have persistently denied the capacity and doubted the
courage of the Blacks, are unanswerably confuted by the good
conduct and gallant deeds of the men whom they persecute and
slander. From many quarters come evidence of the swiftly
approaching success which is to crown what is still by some
persons deemed to be the experiment of arming whom the
Proclamation of Freedom liberates.
"The 1st and 2d South Carolina Volunteers, under Colonels
Higginson and Montgomery, have ascended the St. John's River in
Florida as far as Jacksonville, and have re-occupied that
important town which was once before taken and afterward
abandoned by the Union forces. Many of the negroes composing
these regiments had been slaves in this very place. Their memory
of old wrongs, of the privations, outrages and tortures of
Slavery, must here, if anywhere, have been fresh and vivid, and
the passions which opportunity for just revenges stimulates even
in white breasts, ought to have been roused more than in all
other places on the spot where they had suffered.
"If, then, Jacksonville were to-day in ashes, and the ghastly
spirit visions of '_The World_' materialized into terrible
realities, the negro haters would have no, cause to be
disappointed. '_The World_' hailed the alleged repulse and
massacre of the negroes and white officers--a report which it
invented outright, in sheer malignity, in order to forestall
public opinion by creating a belief in the failure of the
expedition--would have changed into agonized shrieks over the
outrages on its Southern brethren. The experiment of subjecting
negroes to military rules and accustoming them to those amenities
of civilized warfare which the rebels so uniformly practice would
again have been declared to be a hopeless failure; and for the
hundredth time the Proclamation and the radicals who advised it
would have been pilloried for public execration.
"Since, however, the contrary of all this is true, it may be
presumed by a confiding public which does not read it that '_The
World_' has honestly acknowledged the injustice of its slanders.
It is unpleasant to disabuse a confiding public on any subject,
but we who are sometimes obliged to look at that paper as a
professional duty, regret to say that we have not discovered a
single evidence of its repentance. The facts are, however, that
Colonel Higginson's men landed quietly at Jacksonville, marched
through its streets in perfect order, committed no outrages or
excesses of any kind, and by the testimony of all witnesses
conducted themselves with a military decorum and perfect
discipline which is far from common among white regiments in
similar circumstances. They have gone before this time still
further into the interior, and will doubtless do good service in
a direction where their presence has been least expected by the
Rebels. In the only instance in which the white chivalry ventured
to make a stand against them, the whites were defeated and driven
off the field by the Blacks.
"The truth is that the fitness of negroes to be soldiers has long
since, in this country and elsewhere, been amply demonstrated,
and the success of Col. Higginson's Black Troops is no matter of
surprise to any person tolerably well informed about the history
of the race. If it were in any sense an experiment, the only
thing to be tested was the obstinacy of our Saxon prejudice which
denied the possibility of success, and did what it could to
prevent it. But even Saxon prejudice must shortly yield to the
logic of facts."
In the face of the fact that the United States Government had employed
Negroes as soldiers to fight the battles of the Union, there were men
of intelligence who held that it was all wrong in fact, in policy, and
in point of law. And this opinion attained such proportions that the
Secretary of War felt called upon to request the opinion of Judge
Advocate Holt. It is given here.
ENLISTMENT OF SLAVES.
In a letter to Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War, dated Aug. 20,
1863, Judge Advocate Holt said: "The right of the Government to
employ for the suppression of the rebellion persons of African
Descent held to service or labor under the local law, rests
firmly on two grounds:
"First, as property. Both our organic law and the usages of our
institutions under it recognize fully the authority of the
Government to seize and apply to public use private property, on
making compensation therefor. What the use may be to which it is
to be applied does not enter into the question of the right to
make the seizure, which is untrammelled in its exercise, save by
the single condition mentioned.
"Secondly, as persons. While those of African Descent held to
service or labor in several of the States, occupy under the laws
of such States, the status of property; they occupy also under
the Federal Government, the status of 'persons.' They are
referred to so _nomine_ in the Constitution of the United States,
and it is not as property but as 'persons' that they are
represented on the floor of Congress, and thus form a prominent
constituent element alike in the organization and practical
administration of the Government.
"The obligation of all persons--irrespective of creed or
color--to bear arms, if physically capable of doing so, in
defence of the Government under which they live and by which
they are protected, is one that is universally acknowledged and
enforced. Corresponding to this obligation is the duty resting on
those charged with the administration of the Government, to
employ such persons in the military service whenever the public
safety may demand it. Congress realized both this obligation on
the one hand, and this duty on the other when, by the 12th
section of the Act of the 17th of July, 1862, it was enacted that
'the President be and is hereby authorized to receive into the
service of the United States for the purpose of constructing
intrenchments, or performing camp service or any other labor, or
any military or naval service for which they may be found
competent, persons of African Descent, and such persons shall be
enrolled and organized under such regulations not inconsistent
with the Constitution, and the laws, as the President may
prescribe.'
"The terms of this Act are without restriction and no distinction
is made, or was intended to be made, between persons of African
Descent held to service or labor or those not so held.
"The President is empowered to receive them all into the military
service, and assign them such duty as they may be found competent
to perform.
"The tenacious and brilliant valor displayed by troops of this
race at Port Hudson, Milliken's Bend, and Fort Wagner, has
sufficiently demonstrated to the President and to the country,
the character of service of which they are capable. In the
interpretation given to the Enrolment Act, free citizens of
African Descent are treated as citizens of the United States, in
the sense of the law, and are everywhere being drafted into the
military service.
"In reference to the other class of persons of this race--those
held to service or labor--the 12th section of the Act of July
17th is still in full force, and the President may in his
discretion receive them into the army and assign them to such
field of duty as he may deem them prepared to occupy. In view of
the loyalty of this race, and of the obstinate courage which they
have shown themselves to possess, they certainly constitute at
this crisis in our history a most powerful and reliable arm of
the public defence. Whether this arm shall now be exerted is not
a question of power or right, but purely of policy, to be
determined by the estimate which may be entertained of the
conflict in which we are engaged, and of the necessity that
presses to bring this waste of blood and treasure to a close. A
man precipitated into a struggle for his life on land or sea,
instinctively and almost necessarily puts forth every energy with
which he is endowed, and eagerly seizes upon every source of
strength within his grasp; and a nation battling for existence,
that does not do the same, may well be regarded as neither wise
nor obedient to that great law of self-preservation, from which
are derived our most urgent and solemn duties. That there exists
a prejudice against the employment of persons of African Descent
is undeniable; it is, however, rapidly giving way, and never had
any foundation in reason or loyalty. It originated with and has
been diligently nurtured by those in sympathy with the Rebellion,
and its utterance at this moment is necessarily in the interests
of treason.
"Should the President feel that the public interests require he
shall exert the power with which he is clothed by the 12th
section of the Act of the 17th of July, his action should be in
subordination to the Constitutional principle which exacts that
compensation shall be made for private property devoted to the
public uses. A just compensation to loyal claimants to the
service or labor of persons of African Descent enlisted in our
army, would accord with the uniform practice of the Government
and the genius of our institutions!
"Soldiers of this class, after having perilled their lives in the
defence of the Republic, could not be re-enslaved without a
national dishonor revolting and unendurable for all who are
themselves to be free. The compensation made, therefore, should
be such as entirely to exhaust the interest of claimants; so that
when soldiers of this class lay down their arms at the close of
the war, they may at once enter into the enjoyment of that
freedom symbolized by the flag which they have followed and
defended."
The Negro was now a soldier, legally, "constitutionally." He had
donned the uniform of an American soldier; was entrusted with the
honor and defence of his country, and had set before him liberty as
his exceeding great reward. Rejected at first he was at last urged
into the service--even _drafted_! He was charged with the solution of
a great problem--his fitness, his valor. History shall record his
deeds of patriotism, his marvellous achievements, his splendid
triumphs.
FOOTNOTES:
[91] Charleston Mercury, April 30, 1861.
[92] They were, no doubt, from Massachusetts.
[93] New York Herald, Tuesday, August 5, 1862.
[94] Greeley, vol. ii, pp. 517, 518.
[95] Many of these had previously been in the three months', nine
months', and three years' service, from which they had been honorably
discharged.
[96] This gives Colored Troops enlisted in the States in rebellion;
besides this, there were 92,576 Colored Troops (included with the
white soldiers) in the quotas of the several States.
CHAPTER XIX.
NEGROES AS SOLDIERS.
JUSTIFICATION OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT IN THE EMPLOYMENT OF
SLAVES AS SOLDIERS.--TRIALS OF THE NEGRO SOLDIER.--HE UNDERGOES
PERSECUTION FROM THE WHITE NORTHERN TROOPS, AND BARBAROUS
TREATMENT FROM THE REBELS.--EDITORIAL OF THE "NEW YORK TIMES" ON
THE NEGRO SOLDIER IN BATTLE.--REPORT OF THE "TRIBUNE" ON THE
GALLANT EXPLOITS OF THE 1ST SOUTH CAROLINA VOLUNTEERS.--NEGRO
TROOPS IN ALL THE DEPARTMENTS.--NEGRO SOLDIERS IN THE BATTLE OF
PORT HUDSON.--DEATH OF CAPTAIN ANDRE CALLIOUX.--DEATH OF
COLOR-SERGEANT ANSELMAS PLANCIANCOIS.--AN ACCOUNT OF THE BATTLE
OF PORT HUDSON.--OFFICIAL REPORT OF GEN. BANKS.--HE APPLAUDS THE
VALOR OF THE COLORED REGIMENTS AT PORT HUDSON.--GEORGE H. BOKER'S
POEM ON "THE BLACK REGIMENT."--BATTLE OF MILLIKEN'S BEND, JUNE,
1863.--DESCRIPTION OF THE BATTLE.--MEMORABLE EVENTS OF JULY,
1863.--BATTLE ON MORRIS ISLAND.--BRAVERY OF SERGEANT CARNEY.--AN
ACCOUNT OF THE 54TH MASSACHUSETTS REGIMENT BY EDWARD L. PIERCE TO
GOVERNOR ANDREW.--DEATH OF COL. SHAW.--COLORED TROOPS IN THE ARMY
OF THE POTOMAC.--BATTLE OF PETERSBURG.--TABLE SHOWING THE LOSSES
AT NASHVILLE.--ADJT.-GEN. THOMAS ON NEGRO SOLDIERS.--AN EXTRACT
FROM THE "NEW YORK TRIBUNE" IN BEHALF OF THE SOLDIERLY QUALITIES
OF THE NEGROES.--LETTER RECEIVED BY COL. DARLING FROM MR. ADEN
AND COL. FOSTER PRAISING THE EMINENT QUALIFICATIONS OF THE NEGRO
FOR MILITARY LIFE.--HISTORY RECORDS THEIR DEEDS OF VALOR IN THE
PRESERVATION OF THE UNION.
All history, ancient and modern, Pagan and Christian, justified the
conduct of the Federal Government in the employment of slaves as
soldiers. Greece had tried the experiment; and at the battle of
Marathon there were two regiments of heavy infantry composed of
slaves. The beleaguered city of Rome offered freedom to her slaves who
should volunteer as soldiers; and at the battle of Cannae a regiment
of Roman slaves made Hannibal's cohorts reel before their unequalled
courage. When Abraham heard of the loss of his stock, he armed his
slaves, pursued the enemy, and regained his possessions. Negro
officers as well as soldiers had shared the perils and glories of the
campaigns of Napoleon Bonaparte; and even the royal guard at the Court
of Imperial France had been mounted with black soldiers. In two wars
in North America Negro soldiers had followed the fortunes of military
life, and won the applause of white patriots on two continents. So
then all history furnished a precedent for the guidance of the United
States Government in the Civil War in America.
But there were several aggravating questions which had to be referred
to the future. In both wars in this country the Negro had fought a
foreign foe--an enemy representing a Christian civilization. He had a
sense of security in going to battle with the colonial fathers; for
their sacred battle-songs gave him purpose and courage. And, again,
the Negro knew that the English soldier had never disgraced the
uniform of Hampden or Wellington by practising the cruelties of
uncivilized warfare upon helpless prisoners. In the Rebellion it was
altogether different. Here was a war between the States of one Union.
Here was a war between two sections differing in civilization. Here
was a war all about the _Negro_; a war that was to declare him forever
bond, or forever free. Now, in such a war the Negro appeared in battle
against his master. For two hundred and forty-three years the Negro
had been learning the lesson of obedience and obsequious submission to
the white man. The system of slavery under which he had languished had
destroyed the family relation, the source of all virtue, self-respect,
and moral growth. The tendency of slavery was to destroy the
confidence of the slave in his ability and resources, and to
disqualify him for those relations where the noblest passion of
mankind is to be exercised in an intelligent manner--_amor patriæ_.
Negro soldiers were required by an act of Congress to fight for the
Union at a salary of $10 per month, with $3 deducted for
clothing--leaving them only $7 per month as their actual pay. White
soldiers received $13 per month and clothing.[97]
The Negro soldiers had to run the gauntlet of the persecuting hate of
white Northern troops, and, if captured, endure the most barbarous
treatment of the rebels, without a protest on the part of the
Government--for at least nearly a year. Hooted at, jeered, and stoned
in the streets of Northern cities as they marched to the front to
fight for the Union; scoffed at and abused by white troops under the
flag of a common country, there was little of a consoling or inspiring
nature in the experience of Negro soldiers.
"But none of these things" moved the Negro soldier. His qualifications
for the profession of arms were ample and admirable. To begin with,
the Negro soldier was a patriot of the highest order. No race of
people in the world are more thoroughly domestic, have such tender
attachments to home and friends as the Negro race. And when his soul
was quickened with the sublime idea of liberty for himself and
kindred--that his home and country were to be rid of the triple curse
of slavery--his enthusiasm was boundless. His enthusiasm was not mere
animal excitement. No white soldier who marched to the music of the
Union possessed a more lofty conception of the sacredness of the war
for the Union than the Negro. The intensity of his desires, the
sincerity of his prayers, and the sublimity of his faith during the
long and starless night of his bondage made the Negro a poet, after a
fashion. To him there was poetry in our flag--the red, white, and
blue. Our national odes and airs found a response in his soul, and
inspired him to the performance of heroic deeds. He was always seeing
something "sublime," "glorious," "beautiful," "grand," and "wonderful"
in war. There was poetry in the swinging, measured tread of companies
and regiments in drill or battle; and dress parade always found the
Negro soldier in the height of his glory. His love of harmonious
sounds, his musical faculty, and delight of show aided him in the
performance of the most difficult manoeuvres. His imitativeness gave
him facility in handling his musket and sabre; and his love of
domestic animals, and natural strength made him a graceful cavalryman
and an efficient artilleryman.
The lessons of obedience the Negro had learned so thoroughly as a
slave were turned to good account as a soldier. He obeyed orders to
the letter. He never used his discretion; he added nothing to, he
subtracted nothing from, his orders; he made no attempt at reading
between the lines; he did not interpret--he _obeyed_. Used to outdoor
life, with excellent hearing, wonderful eyesight, and great vigilance,
he was a model picket. Heard every sound, observed every moving thing,
and was quick to shoot, and of steady aim. He was possessed of
exceptionally good teeth, and, therefore, could bite his cartridge and
hard tack. He had been trained to long periods of labor, poor food,
and miserable quarters, and therefore, could endure extreme fatigue
and great exposure.
His docility of nature, patient endurance, and hopeful disposition
enabled him to endure long marches, severe hardships, and painful
wounds. His joyous, boisterous songs on the march and in the camp; his
victorious shout in battle, and his merry laughter in camp proclaimed
him the insoluble enigma of military life. He never was discouraged;
_melancholia_ had no abiding place in his nature.
But how did the Negro meet his master in battle? How did he stand
fire? On the 31st of July, 1863, the "New York Times," editorially
answered these questions as follows:
"Negro soldiers have now been in battle at Port Hudson and at
Milliken's Bend in Louisiana; at Helena in Arkansas, at Morris
Island in South Carolina, and at or near Fort Gibson in the
Indian Territory. In two of these instances they assaulted
fortified positions and led the assault; in two they fought on
the defensive, and in one they attacked rebel infantry. In all of
them they acted in conjunction with white troops and under
command of white officers. In some instances they acted with
distinguished bravery, and in all they acted as well as could be
expected of raw troops.
"Some of these negroes were from the cotton States, others from
New England States, and others from the slave States of the
Northwest. Those who fought at Port Hudson were from New Orleans;
those who fought at Battery Wagner were from Boston; those who
fought at Helena and Young's Point were from the river counties
of Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee. Those who fought in the
Indian Territory were from Missouri."
This is warm praise from a journal of the high, though conservative,
character of the "Times." Warmer praise and more unqualified praise of
the Negro soldier's fighting qualities could not be given. And it was
made after a careful weighing of all the facts and evidence supplied
from careful and reliable correspondents. But more specific evidence
was being furnished on every hand. The 1st South Carolina
Volunteers--the first regiment of Negroes existed during the
war,--commanded by Col. Thomas Wentworth Higginson, was the first
Black regiment of its character under the fire of the enemy. The
regiment covered itself with glory during an expedition upon the St.
John's River in Florida. The "Times" gave the following editorial
notice of the expedition at the time, based upon the official report
of the colonel and a letter from its special correspondent:
"THE NEGROES IN BATTLE.
"Colonel Higginson, of the 1st S. C. Volunteers, furnishes an
entertaining official report of the exploits of his black
regiment in Florida. He seems to think it necessary to put his
case strongly, and in rather exalted language, as well as in such
a way as to convince the public that negroes will fight. In this
expedition, his battalion was repeatedly under fire--had rebel
cavalry, infantry, and, says he, 'even artillery' arranged
against them, yet in every instance, came off with unblemished
honor and undisputed triumph. His men made the most urgent
appeals to him to be allowed to press the flying enemy. They
exhibited the most fiery energy beyond anything of which Colonel
Higginson ever read, unless it may be in the case of the French
Zouaves. He even says that 'it would have been madness to attempt
with the bravest white troops what he successfully accomplished
with black ones.' No wanton destruction was permitted, no
personal outrages desired, during the expedition. The regiment,
besides the victories which it achieved, and the large amount of
valuable property which it secured, obtained a cannon and a flag
which the Colonel very properly asks permission for the regiment
to retain. The officers and men desire to remain permanently in
Florida, and obtain supplies of lumber, iron, etc., for the
Government. The Colonel puts forth a very good suggestion, to the
effect that a 'chain of such posts would completely alter the
whole aspect of the war in the seaboard slave States, and would
accomplish what no accumulation of Northern regiments can so
easily effect.' This is the very use for negro soldiers suggested
in the Proclamation of the President. We have no doubt that the
whole State of Florida might easily be held for the Government in
this way, by a dozen negro regiments."[98]
On the 11th of February, 1863, the "Times" gave the following account
of the exploits of this gallant regiment in the following explicit
language:
"ACCOUNT OF A SUCCESSFUL EXPEDITION INTO GEORGIA AND FLORIDA WITH
A FORCE OF FOUR HUNDRED AND SIXTY-TWO OFFICERS AND MEN OF THE 1ST
SOUTH CAROLINA VOLUNTEERS.
"The bravery and good conduct of the regiment more than equalled
the high anticipations of its commander. The men were repeatedly
under fire,--were opposed by infantry, cavalry, and
artillery,--fought on board a steamer exposed to heavy musketry
fire from the banks of a narrow river,--were tried in all ways,
and came off invariably with honor and success. They brought away
property to a large amount, capturing also a cannon and a flag,
which the Colonel asks leave to keep for the regiment, and which
he and they have fairly won.
"It will not need many such reports an this--and there have been
several before it--to shake our inveterate Saxon prejudice
against the capacity and courage of negro troops. Everybody knows
that they were used in the Revolution, and in the last war with
Great Britain fought side by side with white troops, and won
equal praises from Washington and Jackson. It is shown also that
black sailors employed on our men-of-war, are valued by their
commanders, and are on equal terms with their white comrades. If
on the sea, why not on the land? No officer who has commanded
black troops has yet reported against them. They are tried in the
most unfavorable and difficult circumstances, but never fail.
When shall we learn to use the full strength of the formidable
ally who is only waiting for a summons to rally under the flag of
the Union? Colonel Higginson says: 'No officer in this regiment
now doubts that the successful prosecution of this war lies in
the unlimited employment of black troops.' The remark is true in
a military sense, and it has a still deeper political
significance.
"When General Hunter has scattered 50,000 muskets among the
negroes of the Carolinas, and General Butler has organized the
100,000 or 200,000 blacks for whom he may perhaps shortly carry
arms to New Orleans, the possibility of restoring the Union as it
was, with slavery again its dormant power, will be seen to have
finally passed away. The negro is indeed the key to success."[99]
So here, in the Department of the South, where General Hunter had
displayed such admirable military judgment, first, in emancipating the
slave, and second, in arming them; here where the white Union soldiers
and their officers had felt themselves insulted; and where the
President had disarmed the 1st regiment of ex-slaves and removed the
officer who had organized it, a few companies of Negro troops had
fought rebel infantry, cavalry, artillery, and guerillas, and put them
all to flight. They had invaded the enemy's country, made prisoners,
and captured arms and flags; and without committing a single
depredation. Prejudice gave room to praise, and the exclusive, distant
spirit of white soldiers was converted into the warm and close
admiration of comradeship. The most sanguine expectations and high
opinions of the advocates of Negro soldiers were more than realized,
while the prejudice of Negro haters was disarmed by the flinty logic
and imperishable glory of Negro soldiership.[100]
Every Department had its Negro troops by this time; and everywhere the
Negro was solving the problem of his military existence. At Port
Hudson in May, 1863, he proved himself worthy of his uniform and the
object of the most extravagant eulogies from the lips of men who were,
but a few months before the battle, opposed to Negro soldiers. Mention
has been made in another chapter of the Colored regiment raised in New
Orleans under General Butler. After remaining in camp from the 7th of
September, 1862, until May, 1863, they were quite efficient in the use
of their arms. The 1st Louisiana regiment was ordered to report to
General Dwight. The regiment was at Baton Rouge. Its commanding
officer, Colonel Stafford [white], was under arrest when the regiment
was about ready to go to the front.
The line officers assembled at his quarters to assure him that the
regiment would do its duty in the day of battle, and to tender their
regrets that he could not lead them on the field. At this moment the
color-guard marched up to receive the regimental flags. Colonel
Stafford stepped into his tent and returned with the flags. He made a
speech full of patriotism and feeling, and concluded by saying:
"_Color-guard, protect, defend, die for, but do not surrender these
flags!_" Sergeant Planciancois said: "Colonel, I will bring back these
colors to you in honor, or report to God the reason why!" Noble words
these, and brave! And no more fitting epitaph could mark the
resting-place of a hero who has laid down his life in defence of human
liberty! A king might well covet these sublime words of the dauntless
Planciancois!
PORT HUDSON.
It was a question of grave doubt among white troops as to the fighting
qualities of Negro soldiers. There were various doubts expressed by
the officers on both sides of the line. The Confederates greeted the
news that "niggers" were to meet them in battle with derision, and
treated the whole matter as a huge joke. The Federal soldiers were
filled with amazement and fear as to the issue.
It was the determination of the commanding officer at Port Hudson to
assign this Negro regiment to a post of honor and danger. The regiment
marched all night before the battle of Port Hudson, and arrived at one
Dr. Chambers's sugar house on the 27th of May, 1863. It was just 5 A.
M. when the regiment stacked arms. Orders were given to rest and
breakfast in one hour. The heat was intense and the dust thick, and so
thoroughly fatigued were the men that many sank in their tracks and
slept soundly.
Arrangements were made for a field hospital, and the drum corps
instructed where to carry the wounded. Officers' call was beaten at
5:30, when they received instructions and encouragement. "Fall in" was
sounded at 6 o'clock, and soon thereafter the regiment was on the
march. The sun was now shining in his full strength upon the field
where a great battle was to be fought. The enemy was in his
stronghold, and his forts were crowned with angry and destructive
guns. The hour to charge had come. It was 7 o'clock. There was a
feeling of anxiety among the white troops as they watched the
movements of these Blacks in blue. The latter were anxious for the
fray. At last the command came, "Forward, double-quick, march!" and on
they went over the field of death. Not a musket was heard until the
command was within four hundred yards of the enemy's works, when a
blistering fire was opened upon the left wing of the regiment.
Unfortunately Companies A, B, C, D, and E wheeled suddenly by the left
flank. Some confusion followed, but was soon over. A shell--the first
that fell on the line--killed and wounded about twelve men. The
regiment came to a right about, and fell back for a few hundred yards,
wheeled by companies, and faced the enemy again with the coolness and
military precision of an old regiment on parade. The enemy was busy at
work now. Grape, canister, shell, and musketry made the air hideous
with their noise. A masked battery commanded a bluff, and the guns
could be depressed sufficiently to sweep the entire field over which
the regiment must charge. It must be remembered that this regiment
occupied the extreme right of the charging line. The masked battery
worked upon the left wing. A three-gun battery was situated in the
centre, while a half dozen large pieces shelled the right, and
enfiladed the regiment front and rear every time it charged the
battery on the bluff. A bayou ran under the bluff, immediately in
front of the guns. It was too deep to be forded by men. These brave
Colored soldiers made six desperate charges with indifferent success,
because
"Cannon to right of them,
Cannon to left of them,
Cannon in front of them
Volleyed and thundered;
Stormed at with shot and shell."
The men behaved splendidly. As their ranks were thinned by shot and
grape, they closed up into place, and kept a good line. But no matter
what high soldierly qualities these men were endowed with, no matter
how faithfully they obeyed the oft-repeated order to "charge," it was
both a moral and physical impossibility for these men to cross the
deep bayou that flowed at their feet--already crimson with patriots'
blood--and capture the battery on the bluff. Colonel Nelson, who
commanded this black brigade, despatched an orderly to General Dwight,
informing him that it was not in the nature of things for his men to
accomplish any thing by further charges. "Tell Colonel Nelson," said
General Dwight, "I shall consider that he has accomplished nothing
unless he takes those guns." This last order of General Dwight's will
go into history as a cruel and unnecessary act. He must have known
that three regiments of infantry, torn and shattered by about fifteen
or twenty heavy guns, with an impassable bayou encircling the bluff,
could accomplish nothing by charging. But the men, what could they do?
"Theirs not to make reply,
Theirs not to reason why,
Theirs but to do and die."
DEATH OF CAPTAIN ANDRE CALLIOUX.
Again the order to charge was given, and the men, worked up to a
feeling of desperation on account of repeated failures, raised a cry
and made another charge. The ground was covered with dead and wounded.
Trees were felled by shell and solid shot; and at one time a company
was covered with the branches of a falling tree. Captain Callioux was
in command of Company E, the color company. He was first wounded in
the left arm--the limb being broken above the elbow. He ran to the
front of his company, waving his sword and crying, "Follow me." But
when within about fifty yards of the enemy he was struck by a shell
and fell dead in front of his company.
Many Greeks fell defending the pass at Thermopylæ against the Persian
army, but history has made peculiarly conspicuous Leonidas and his
four hundred Spartans. In a not distant future, when a calm and
truthful history of the battle of Port Hudson is written,
notwithstanding many men fought and died there, the heroism of the
"Black Captain," the accomplished gentleman and fearless soldier,
Andre Callioux, and his faithful followers, will make a most
fascinating picture for future generations to look upon and study.
DEATH OF COLOR-SERGEANT ANSELMAS PLANCIANCOIS.
"Colonel, I will bring back these colors to you in honor, or report to
God the reason why." It was now past 11 A.M., May 27, 1863. The men
were struggling in front of the bluff. The brave Callioux was lying
lifeless upon the field, that was now slippery with gore and crimson
with blood. The enemy was directing his shell and shot at the flags of
the First Regiment. A shell, about a six-pounder, struck the
flag-staff, cut it in two, and carried away part of the head of
Planciancois. He fell, and the flag covered him as a canopy of glory,
and drank of the crimson tide that flowed from his mutilated head.
Corporal Heath caught up the flag, but no sooner had he shouldered the
dear old banner than a musket ball went crashing through his head and
scattered his brains upon the flag, and he, still clinging to it, fell
dead upon the body of Sergeant Planciancois. Another corporal caught
up the banner and bore it through the fight with pride.
This was the last charge--the seventh; and what was left of this
gallant Black brigade came back from the hell into which they had
plunged with so much daring and forgetfulness seven times.
They did not capture the battery on the bluff it's true, but they
convinced the white soldiers on both sides that they were both willing
and able to help fight the battles of the Union. And if any person
doubts the abilities of the Negro as a soldier, let him talk with
General Banks, as we have, and hear "his golden eloquence on the black
brigade at Port Hudson."
A few days after the battle a "New York Times" correspondent sent the
following account to that journal:
"BATTLE OF PORT HUDSON.
"In an account of the Battle of Port Hudson, the 'Times'
correspondent says: 'Hearing the firing apparently more fierce
and continuous to the right than anywhere else, I hurried in that
direction, past the sugar house of Colonel Chambers, where I had
slept, and advanced to near the pontoon bridge across the Big
Sandy Bayou, which the negro regiments had erected, and where
they were fighting most desperately. I had seen these brave and
hitherto despised fellows the day before as I rode along the
lines, and I had seen General Banks acknowledge their respectful
salute as he would have done that of any white troops; but still
the question was--with too many,--"Will they fight?" The black
race was, on this eventful day, to be put to the test, and the
question to be settled--now and forever,--whether or not they are
entitled to assert their right to manhood. Nobly, indeed, have
they acquitted themselves, and proudly may every colored man
hereafter hold up his head, and point to the record of those who
fell on that bloody field.
"'General Dwight, at least, must have had the idea, not only that
they were men, but something _more than men_, from the terrific
test to which he put their valor. Before any impression had been
made upon the earthworks of the enemy, and in full face of the
batteries belching forth their 62 pounders, these devoted people
rushed forward to encounter grape, canister, shell, and musketry,
with no artillery but two small howitzers--that seemed mere
pop-guns to their adversaries--and no reserve whatever.
"'Their force consisted of the 1st. Louisiana Native Guards (with
colored field-officers) under Lieut.-Colonel Bassett, and the 3d
Louisiana Native Guards, Colonel Nelson (with white
field-officers), the whole under command of the latter officer.
"'On going into action they were 1,080 strong, and formed into
four lines, Lieut.-Colonel Bassett, 1st Louisiana, forming the
first line, and Lieut.-Colonel Henry Finnegas the second. When
ordered to charge up the works, they did so with the skill and
nerve of old veterans, (black people, be it remembered who had
never been in action before,) but the fire from the rebel guns
was so terrible upon the unprotected masses, that the first few
shots mowed them down like grass and so continued.
"'Colonel Bassett being driven back, Colonel Finnegas took his
place, and his men being similarly cut to pieces, Lieut.-Colonel
Bassett reformed and recommenced; and thus these brave people
went in, from morning until 3:30 p.m., under the most hideous
carnage that men ever had to withstand, and that very few white
ones would have had nerve to encounter, even if ordered to.
During this time, they rallied, and _were ordered to make six
distinct charges_, losing thirty-seven killed, and one hundred
and fifty-five wounded, and one hundred and sixteen missing,--the
majority, if not all, of these being, in all probability, now
lying dead on the gory field, and without the rites of sepulture;
for when, by flag of truce, our forces in other directions were
permitted to reclaim their dead, the benefit, through some
neglect, was not extended to these black regiments.
"'The deeds of heroism performed by these colored men were such
as the proudest white men might emulate. Their colors are torn to
pieces by shot, and literally bespattered by blood and brains.
The color-sergeant of the 1st. La., on being mortally wounded,
hugged the colors to his breast, when a struggle ensued between
the two color-corporals on each side of him, as to who should
have the honor of bearing the sacred standard, and during this
generous contention one was seriously wounded. One black
lieutenant actually mounted the enemy's works three or four
times, and in one charge the assaulting party came within fifty
paces of them. Indeed, if only ordinarily supported by artillery
and reserve, no one can convince us that they would not have
opened a passage through the enemy's works.
"'Capt. Callioux of the 1st. La., a man so black that he actually
prided himself upon his blackness, died the death of a hero,
leading on his men in the thickest of the fight. One poor wounded
fellow came along with his arm shattered by a shell, and jauntily
swinging it with the other, as he said to a friend of mine:
"Massa, guess I can fight no more." I was with one of the
captains, looking after the wounded going in the rear of the
hospital, when we met one limping along toward the front. On
being asked where he was going, he said: "I been shot bad in the
leg, captain, and dey want me to go to de hospital, but I guess I
can gib 'em some more yet." I could go on filling your columns
with startling facts of this kind, but I hope I have told enough
to prove that we can hereafter rely upon black arms as well as
white in crushing this internal rebellion. I long ago told you
there was an army of 250,000 men ready to leap forward in defence
of freedom at the first call. You know where to find them and
what they are worth.
"'Although repulsed in an attempt which--situated as things
were--was all but impossible, these regiments, though badly cut
up, are still on hand, and burning with a passion ten times
hotter from their fierce baptism of blood. Who knows, but that it
is a black hand which shall first plant the standard of the
Republic upon the doomed ramparts of Port Hudson?"[101]
The official report of Gen. Banks is given in full. It shows the
disposition of the troops, and applauds the valor of the Colored
regiments.
"HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE GULF, }
"BEFORE PORT HUDSON, May 30, 1863. }
"_Major-General H: W. Halleck, General-in-Chief, Washington._
"GENERAL:--Leaving Sommesport on the Atchafalaya, where my
command was at the date of my last dispatch, I landed at Bayou
Sara at two o'clock on the morning of the 21st.
"A portion of the infantry were transported in steamers, and the
balance of the infantry, artillery, cavalry, and wagon-train
moving down on the west bank of the river, and from this to Bayou
Sara.
"On the 23d a junction was effected with the advance of
Major-General Augur and Brigadier-General Sherman, our line
occupying the Bayou Sara road at a distance five miles from Port
Hudson.
"Major-General Augur had an encounter with a portion of the enemy
on the Bayou Sara road in the direction of Baton Rouge, which
resulted in the repulse of the enemy, with heavy loss.
"On the 25th the enemy was compelled to abandon his first line of
works.
"General Weitzel's brigade, which had covered our rear in the
march from Alexandria, joined us on the 26th, and on the morning
of the 27th a general assault was made upon the fortifications.
"The artillery opened fire between 5 and 6 o'clock, which was
continued with animation during the day. At 10 o'clock Weitzel's
brigade, with the division of General Grover, reduced to about
two brigades, and the division of General Emory, temporarily
reduced by detachments to about a brigade, under command of
Colonel Paine, with two regiments of colored troops, made an
assault upon the right of the enemy's works, crossing Sandy
Creek, and driving them through the woods to their
fortifications.
"The fight lasted on this line until 4 o'clock, and was very
severely contested. On the left, the infantry did not come up
until later in the day; but at 2 o'clock an assault was opened on
the centre and left of centre by the divisions under
Major-General Augur and Brigadier-General Sherman.
"The enemy was driven into his works, and our troops moved up to
the fortifications, holding the opposite sides of the parapet
with the enemy on the right. Our troops still hold their position
on the left. After dark the main body, being exposed to a flank
fire, withdrew to a belt of woods, the skirmishers remaining
close upon the fortifications.
"In the assault of the 27th, the behavior, of the officers and
men was most gallant, and left nothing to be desired. Our limited
acquaintance of the ground and the character of the works, which
were almost hidden from our observation until the moment of
approach, alone prevented the capture of the post.
"On the extreme right of our line I posted the first and third
regiments of negro troops. The First regiment of Louisiana
Engineers, composed exclusively of colored men, excepting the
officers, was also engaged in the operations of the day. The
position occupied by these troops was one of importance, and
called for the utmost steadiness and bravery in those to whom it
was confided.
"It gives me pleasure to report that they answered every
expectation. Their conduct was heroic. No troops could be more
determined or more daring. They made, during the day, three
charges upon the batteries of the enemy, suffering very heavy
losses, and holding their position at nightfall with the other
troops on the right of our line. The highest commendation is
bestowed upon them by all the officers in command on the right.
Whatever doubt may have existed before as to the efficiency of
organizations of this character, the history of this day proves
conclusively to those who were in a condition to observe the
conduct of these regiments, that the Government will find in this
class of troops effective supporters and defenders.
"The severe test to which they were subjected, and the determined
manner in which they encountered the enemy, leave upon my mind no
doubt of their ultimate success. They require only good officers,
commands of limited numbers, and careful discipline, to make them
excellent soldiers.
"Our losses from the 23d to this date, in killed, wounded, and
missing, are nearly 1,000, including, I deeply regret to say,
some of the ablest officers of the corps. I am unable yet to
report them in detail.
"I have the honor to be, with much respect
"Your obedient servant,
"N. P. BANKS,
"_Major-General Commanding_."
The effect of this battle upon the country can scarcely be described.
Glowing accounts of the charge of the Black Regiments appeared in
nearly all the leading journals of the North. The hearts of orators
and poets were stirred to elegant utterance. The friends of the Negro
were encouraged, and their number multiplied. The Colored people
themselves were jubilant. Mr. George H. Boker, of Philadelphia, the
poet friend of the Negro, wrote the following elegant verses on the
gallant charge of the 1st Louisiana:
THE BLACK REGIMENT.
MAY 27, 1863.
BY GEORGE H. BOKER.
Dark as the clouds of even,
Ranked in the western heaven,
Waiting the breath that lifts
All the dread mass, and drifts
Tempest and falling brand
Over a ruined land;--
So still and orderly,
Arm to arm, knee to knee,
Waiting the great event,
Stands the black regiment.
Down the long dusky line
Teeth gleam and eyeballs shine;
And the bright bayonet,
Bristling and firmly set,
Flashed with a purpose grand,
Long ere the sharp command
Of the fierce rolling drum
Told them their time had come,
Told them what work was sent
For the black regiment.
"Now," the flag-sergeant cried,
"Though death and hell betide,
Let the whole nation see
If we are fit to be
Free in this land; or bound
Down, like the whining hound--
Bound with red stripes of pain
In our old chains again!"
Oh! what a shout there went
From the black regiment!
"Charge!" Trump and drum awoke,
Onward the bondmen broke;
Bayonet and sabre-stroke
Vainly opposed their rush.
Through the wild battle's crush,
With but one thought aflush,
Driving their lords like chaff,
In the guns' mouths they laugh;
Or at the slippery brands
Leaping with open hands,
Down they tear man and horse,
Down in their awful course;
Trampling with bloody heel
Over the crashing steel,
All their eyes forward bent,
Rushed the black regiment.
"Freedom!" their battle-cry--
"Freedom! or leave to die!"
Ah! and they meant the word,
Not as with us 't is heard,
Not a mere party-shout:
They gave their spirits out
Trusted the end to God,
And on the gory sod
Rolled in triumphant blood.
Glad to strike one free blow,
Whether for weal or woe;
Glad to breathe one free breath,
Though on the lips of death,
Praying--alas! in vain!--
That they might fall again,
So they could once more see
That burst to liberty!
This was what "freedom" lent
To the black regiment.
Hundreds on hundreds fell;
But they are resting well;
Scourges and shackles strong
Never shall do them wrong.
Oh, to the living few,
Soldiers, be just and true!
Hail them as comrades tried;
Fight with them side by side;
Never, in field or tent,
Scorn the black regiment!
The battle of Milliken's Bend was fought on the 6th of June, 1863. The
troops at this point were under the command of Brig.-Gen. E. S.
Dennis. The force consisted of the 23d Iowa, 160 men; 9th La., 500;
11th La., 600; 1st Miss., 150; total, 1,410. Gen. Dennis's report
places the number of his troops at 1,061; but evidently a clerical
error crept into the report. Of the force engaged, 1,250 were Colored,
composing the 9th and 11th Louisiana and the 1st Mississippi. The
attacking force comprised six Confederate regiments--about 3,000
men,--under the command of Gen. Henry McCulloch. This force, coming
from the interior of Louisiana, by the way of Richmond, struck the 9th
Louisiana and two companies of Federal cavalry, and drove them within
sight of the earthworks at the Bend. It was now nightfall, and the
enemy rested, hoping and believing himself able to annihilate the
Union forces on the morrow.
During the night a steamboat passed the Bend, and Gen. Dennis availed
himself of the opportunity of sending to Admiral Porter for
assistance. The gun-boats, "Choctaw" and "Lexington" were despatched
to Milliken's Bend from Helena. As the "Choctaw" was coming in sight,
at 3 o'clock in the morning, the rebels made their first charge on the
Federal earthworks, filling the air with their vociferous cries: "No
_quarter!_" to Negroes and their officers. The Negro troops had just
been recruited, and hence knew little or nothing of the manual or use
of arms. But the desperation with which they fought has no equal in
the annals of modern wars. The enemy charged the works with desperate
fury, but were checked by a deadly fire deliberately delivered by the
troops within. The enemy fell back and charged the flanks of the Union
columns, and, by an enfilading fire, drove them back toward the river,
where they sought the protection of the gun-boats. The "Choctaw"
opened a broadside upon the exulting foe, and caused him to beat a
hasty retreat. The Negro troops were ordered to charge, and it was
reported by a "Tribune" correspondent that many of the Union troops
were killed before the gun-boats could be signalled to "_cease
firing_." The following description of the battle was given by an
eye-witness of the affair, and a gentleman of exalted character:
"My informant states that a force of about one thousand negroes
and two hundred men of the Twenty-third Iowa, belonging to the
Second brigade, Carr's division (the Twenty-third Iowa had been
up the river with prisoners, and was on its way back to this
place), was surprised in camp by a rebel force of about two
thousand men. The first intimation that the commanding officer
received was from one of the black men, who went into the
colonel's tent and said: 'Massa, the secesh are in camp.' The
colonel ordered him to have the men load their guns at once. He
instantly replied: 'We have done did dat now, massa.' Before the
colonel was ready, the men were in line, ready for action. As
before stated, the rebels drove our force toward the gun-boats,
taking colored men prisoners and murdering them. This so enraged
them that they rallied and charged the enemy more heroically and
desperately than has been recorded during the war. It was a
genuine bayonet charge, a hand-to-hand fight, that has never
occurred to any extent during this prolonged conflict. Upon both
sides men were killed with the butts of muskets. White and black
men were lying side by side, pierced by bayonets, and in some
instances transfixed to the earth. In one instance, two men, one
white and the other black, were found dead, side by side, each
having the other's bayonet through his body. If facts prove to be
what they are now represented, this engagement of Sunday morning
will be recorded as the most desperate of this war. Broken limbs,
broken heads, the mangling of bodies, all prove that it was a
contest between enraged men: on the one side from hatred to a
race; and on the other, desire for self-preservation, revenge for
past grievances and the inhuman murder of their comrades. One
brave man took his former master prisoner, and brought him into
camp with great gusto. A rebel prisoner made a particular
request, that his own negroes should not be placed over him as a
guard. Dame Fortune is capricious! His request was _not_ granted.
Their mode of warfare does not entitle them to any privileges. If
any are granted, it is from magnanimity to a fellow-foe.
"The rebels lost five cannon, two hundred men killed, four
hundred to five hundred wounded, and about two hundred prisoners.
Our loss is reported to be one hundred killed and five hundred
wounded; but few were white men."[102]
Mr. G. G. Edwards, who was in the fight, wrote, on the 13th of June:
"Tauntingly it has been said that negroes won't fight. Who say
it, and who but a dastard and a brute will dare to say it, when
the battle of Milliken's Bend finds its place among the heroic
deeds of this war? This battle has significance. It demonstrates
the fact that the freed slaves will fight."
The month of July, 1863, was memorable. Gen. Mead had driven Lee from
Gettysburg, Grant had captured Vicksburg, Banks had captured Port
Hudson, and Gillmore had begun his operations on Morris Island. On the
13th of July the New York Draft Riot broke out. The Democratic press
had advised the people that they were to be called upon to fight the
battles of the "Niggers" and "Abolitionists"; while Gov. Seymour
"_requested_" the rioters to await the return of his adjutant-general
whom he had despatched to Washington to have the President suspend the
draft. The speech was either cowardly or treasonous. It meant, when
read between the lines, it is unjust for the Government to draft you
men; I will try and get the Government to rescind its order, and until
_then_ you are respectfully requested to suspend your violent acts
against _property_. But the riot went on. When the troops under Gen.
Wool took charge of the city, thirteen rioters were killed, eighteen
wounded, and twenty-four made prisoners. The rioters rose ostensibly
to resist the draft, but there were three objects before them:
robbery, the destruction of the property of the rich sympathizers with
the Union, and the assassination of Colored persons wherever found.
They burned the Colored Orphans' Asylum, hung Colored men to lamp
posts, and destroyed the property of this class of citizens with
impunity.
During these tragic events in New York a gallant Negro regiment was
preparing to lead an assault upon the rebel Fort Wagner on Morris
Island, South Carolina. On the morning of the 16th of July, 1863, the
54th Massachusetts--first Colored regiment from the North--was
compelled to fall back upon Gen. Terry from before a strong and fresh
rebel force from Georgia. This was on James Island. The 54th was doing
picket duty, and these early visitors thought to find Terry asleep;
but instead found him awaiting their coming with all the vigilance of
an old soldier. And in addition to the compliment his troops paid the
enemy, the gunboats "Pawnee," "Huron," "Marblehead," "John Adams," and
"Mayflower" paid their warmest respects to the intruders. They soon
withdrew, having sustained a loss of 200, while Gen. Terry's loss was
only about 100. It had been arranged to concentrate the Union forces
on Morris Island, open a bombardment upon Fort Wagner, and then charge
and take it on the 18th. The troops on James Island were put in motion
to form a junction with the forces already upon Morris Island. The
march of the 54th Mass., began on the night of the 16th and continued
until the afternoon of the 18th. Through ugly marshes, over swollen
streams, and broken dykes--through darkness and rain, the regiment
made its way to Morris Island where it arrived at 6 A.M. of the 18th
of July. The bombardment of Wagner was to have opened at daylight of
this day; but a terrific storm sweeping over land and sea prevented.
It was 12:30 P.M. when the thunder of siege guns, batteries, and
gunboats announced the opening of the dance of death. A semicircle of
batteries, stretching across the island for a half mile, sent their
messages of destruction into Wagner, while the fleet of iron vessels
battered down the works of the haughty and impregnable little fort.
All the afternoon one hundred great guns thundered at the gates of
Wagner. Toward the evening the bombardment began to slacken until a
death-like stillness ensued. To close this part of the dreadful
programme Nature lifted her hoarse and threatening voice, and a severe
thunder-storm broke over the scene. Darkness was coming on. The brave
Black regiment had reached Gen. Strong's headquarters fatigued,
hungry, and damp. No time could be allowed for refreshments. Col. Shaw
and Gen. Strong addressed the regiment in eloquent, inspiring
language. Line of battle was formed in three brigades. The first was
led by Gen. Strong, consisting of the 54th Massachusetts (Colored),
Colonel Robert Gould Shaw; the 6th Connecticut, Col. Chatfield; the
48th New York, Col. Barton; the 3d New Hampshire, Col. Jackson; the
76th Pennsylvania, Col. Strawbridge; and the 9th Maine. The 54th was
the only regiment of Colored men in the brigade, and to it was
assigned the post of honor and danger in the front of the attacking
column. The shadows of night were gathering thick and fast. Gen.
Strong took his position, and the order to charge was given. On the
brave Negro regiment swept amid the shot and shell of Sumter,
Cumming's Point, and Wagner. Within a few minutes the troops had
double-quicked a half mile; and but few had suffered from the heavy
guns; but suddenly a terrific fire of small arms was opened upon the
54th. But with matchless courage the regiment dashed on over the
trenches and up the side of the fort, upon the top of which Sergt. Wm.
H. Carney planted the colors of the regiment. But the howitzers in the
bastions raked the ditch, and hand-grenades from the parapet tore the
brave men as they climbed the battle-scarred face of the fort. Here
waves the flag of a Northern Negro regiment; and here its brave,
beautiful, talented young colonel, Robert Gould Shaw, was saluted by
death and kissed by immortality! Gen. Strong received a mortal wound,
while Col. Chatfield and many other heroic officers yielded a full
measure of devotion to the cause of the Union. Three other colonels
were wounded,--Barton, Green, and Jackson. The shattered brigade
staggered back into line under the command of Major Plympton, of the
3d New Hampshire, while the noble 54th retired in care of Lieutenant
Francis L. Higginson. The second brigade, composed of the 7th New
Hampshire, Col. H. S. Putnam; 626 Ohio, Col. Steele; 67th Ohio, Col.
Vorhees; and the 100th New York, under Col. Danby, was led against the
fort, by Col. Putnam, who was killed in the assault. So this brigade
was compelled to retire. One thousand and five hundred (1,500) men
were thrown away in this fight, but one fact was clearly established,
that Negroes could and would fight as bravely as white men. The
following letter, addressed to the Military Secretary of Gov. Andrew,
of Massachusetts, narrates an instance of heroism in a Negro soldier
which deserves to go into history:
"HEADQUARTERS 54TH MASSACHUSETTS VOLS. }
"MORRIS ISLAND, S. C., Oct. 15, 1863. }
"COLONEL: I have the honor to forward you the following letter,
received a few days since from Sergeant W. H. Carney, Company C,
of this regiment. Mention has before been made of his heroic
conduct in preserving the American flag and bearing it from the
field, in the assault on Fort Wagner on the 18th of July last,
but that you may have the history complete, I send a simple
statement of the facts as I have obtained them from him, and an
officer who was an eye-witness:
"When the Sergeant arrived to within about one hundred yards of
the fort--he was with the first battalion, which was in the
advance of the storming column--he received the regimental
colors, pressed forward to the front rank, near the Colonel, who
was leading the men over the ditch. He says, as they ascended the
wall of the fort, the ranks were full, but as soon as they
reached the top, 'they melted away' before the enemy's fire
'almost instantly.' He received a severe wound in the thigh, but
fell only upon his knees. He planted the flag upon the parapet,
lay down on the outer slope, that he might get as much shelter as
possible; there he remained for over half an hour, till the 2d
brigade came up. He kept the colors flying until the second
conflict was ended. When our forces retired he followed, creeping
on one knee, still holding up the flag. It was thus that Sergeant
Carney came from the field, having held the emblem of liberty
over the walls of Fort Wagner during the sanguinary conflict of
the two brigades, and having received two very severe wounds, one
in the thigh and one in the head. Still he refused to give up his
sacred trust until he found an officer of his regiment.
"When he entered the field hospital, where his wounded comrades
were being brought in, they cheered him and the colors. Though
nearly exhausted with the loss of blood, he said: 'Boys, the old
flag never touched the ground.'
"Of him as a man and soldier, I can speak in the highest term of
praise.
"I have the honor to be, Colonel, very respectfully,
"Your most obedient servant,
"M. S. LITTLEFIELD,
"_Col. Comd'g 54th Reg't Mass. Vols._
"Col. A. G. BROWN, Jr., _Military Secretary to his Excellency
John A. Andrew, Mass._"
It was natural that Massachusetts should feel a deep interest in her
Negro regiment: for it was an experiment; and the fair name of the Old
Bay State had been committed to its keeping. Edward L. Pierce gave the
following account of the regiment to Gov. John A. Andrew:
"BEAUFORT, July 22, 1863.
"MY DEAR SIR: You will probably receive an official report of the
losses in the Fifty-fourth Massachusetts by the mail which leaves
to-morrow, but perhaps a word from me may not be unwelcome. I saw
the officers and men on James Island on the thirteenth instant,
and on Saturday last saw them at Brigadier-General Strong's tent,
as they passed on at six or half-past six in the evening to Fort
Wagner, which is some two miles beyond. I had been the guest of
General Strong, who commanded the advance since Tuesday. Colonel
Shaw had become attached to General Strong at St. Helena, where
he was under him, and the regard was mutual. When the troops left
St. Helena they were separated, the Fifty-fourth going to James
Island. While it was there, General Strong received a letter from
Colonel Shaw, in which the desire was expressed for the transfer
of the Fifty-fourth to General Strong's brigade. So when the
troops were brought away from James Island, General Strong took
this regiment into his command. It left James Island on Thursday,
July sixteenth, at nine P.M., and marched to Cole's Island, which
they reached at four o'clock on Friday morning, marching all
night, most of the way in single file over swampy and muddy
ground. There they remained during the day, with hard-tack and
coffee for their fare, and this only what was left in their
haversacks; not a regular ration. From eleven o'clock of Friday
evening until four o'clock of Saturday they were being put on the
transport, the General Hunter, in a boat which took about fifty
at a time. There they breakfasted on the same fare, and had no
other food before entering into the assault on Fort Wagner in the
evening.
"The General Hunter left Cole's Island for Folly Island at six
A.M., and the troops landed at the Pawnee Landing about half-past
nine A.M., and thence marched to the point opposite Morris
Island, reaching there about two o'clock in the afternoon. They
were transported in a steamer across the inlet, and at five P.M.
began their march for Fort Wagner. They reached Brigadier-General
Strong's quarters, about midway on the island, about six or
half-past six, where they halted for five minutes. I saw them
here, and they looked worn and weary.
"General Strong expressed a great desire to give them food and
stimulants, but it was too late, as they were to lead the charge.
They had been without tents during the pelting rains of Thursday
and Friday nights. General Strong had been impressed with the
high character of the regiment and its officers, and he wished to
assign them the post where the most severe work was to be done,
and the highest honor was to be won. I had been his guest for
some days, and knew how he regarded them. The march across Folly
and Morris Islands was over a very sandy road, and was very
wearisome. The regiment went through the centre of the island,
and not along the beach where the marching was easier. When they
had come within about one thousand six hundred yards of Fort
Wagner, they halted and formed in line of battle--the Colonel
leading the right and the Lieutenant-Colonel the left wing. They
then marched four hundred yards further on and halted again.
There was little firing from the enemy at this point, one solid
shot falling between the wings, and another falling to the right,
but no musketry.
"At this point the regiment, together with the next supporting
regiments, the Sixth Connecticut, Ninth Maine, and others,
remained half an hour. The regiment was addressed by General
Strong and Colonel Shaw. Then at half-past seven or a quarter
before eight o'clock the order for the charge was given. The
regiment advanced at quick time, changed to double-quick when at
some distance on. The intervening distance between the place
where the line was formed and the Fort was run over in a few
minutes. When within one or two hundred yards of the Fort, a
terrific fire of grape and musketry was poured upon them along
the entire line, and with deadly results. It tore the ranks to
pieces and disconcerted some. They rallied again, went through
the ditch, in which were some three feet of water, and then up
the parapet. They raised the flag on the parapet, where it
remained for a few minutes. Here they melted away before the
enemy's fire, their bodies falling down the slope and into the
ditch. Others will give a more detailed and accurate account of
what occurred during the rest of the conflict.
"Colonel Shaw reached the parapet, leading his men, and was
probably killed. Adjutant James saw him fall. Private Thomas
Burgess, of Company I, told me that he was close to Colonel Shaw;
that he waved his sword and cried out: 'Onward, boys!' and, as he
did so, fell. Burgess fell, wounded, at the same time. In a
minute or two, as he rose to crawl away, he tried to pull Colonel
Shaw along, taking hold of his feet, which were near his own
head, but there appeared to be no life in him. There is a report,
however, that Colonel Shaw is wounded and a prisoner, and that it
was so stated to the officers who bore a flag of truce from us,
but I cannot find it well authenticated. It is most likely that
this noble youth has given his life to his country and to
mankind. Brigadier-General Strong (himself a kindred spirit) said
of him to-day, in a message to his parents: 'I had but little
opportunity to be with him, but I already loved him. No man ever
went more gallantly into battle. None knew but to love him.' I
parted with Colonel Shaw between six and seven, Saturday evening,
as he rode forward to his regiment, and he gave me the private
letters and papers he had with him, to be delivered to his
father. Of the other officers, Lieutenant-Colonel Hallowell is
severely wounded in the groin; Adjutant James has a wound from a
grape-shot in his ankle, and a flesh-wound in his side from a
glancing ball or piece of shell. Captain Pope has had a
musket-ball extracted from his shoulder. Captain Appleton is
wounded in the thumb, and also has a contusion on his right
breast from a hand-grenade. Captain Willard has a wound in the
leg, and is doing well. Captain Jones was wounded in the right
shoulder. The ball went through and he is doing well. Lieutenant
Homans wounded by a ball from a smooth-bore musket entering the
left side, which has been extracted from the back. He is doing
well.
"The above-named officers are at Beaufort, all but the last
arriving there on Sunday evening, whither they were taken from
Morris Island to Pawnee Landing, in the Alice Price, and thence
to Beaufort in the Cosmopolitan, which is specially fitted up for
hospital service and is provided with skilful surgeons under the
direction of Dr. Bontecou. They are now tenderly cared for with
an adequate corps of surgeons and nurses, and provided with a
plentiful supply of ice, beef and chicken broth, and stimulants.
Lieutenant Smith was left at the hospital tent on Morris Island.
Captain Emilio and Lieutenants Grace, Appleton, Johnston, Reed,
Howard, Dexter, Jennison, and Emerson, were not wounded and are
doing duty. Lieutenants Jewett and Tucker were slightly wounded
and are doing duty also. Lieut. Pratt was wounded and came in
from the field on the following day. Captains Russell and
Simpkins are missing. The Quartermaster and Surgeon are safe and
are with the regiment.
"Dr. Stone remained on the Alice Price during Saturday night,
caring for the wounded until she left Morris Island, and then
returned to look after those who were left behind. The Assistant
Surgeon was at the camp on St. Helena Island, attending to duty
there. Lieutenant Littlefield was also in charge of the camp at
St. Helena. Lieutenant Higginson was on Folly Island with a
detail of eighty men. Captain Bridge and Lieutenant Walton are
sick and were at Beaufort or vicinity. Captain Partridge has
returned from the North, but not in time to participate in the
action.
"Of the privates and non-commissioned officers I send you a list
of one hundred and forty-four who are now in the Beaufort
hospitals. A few others died on the boats or since their arrival
here. There may be others at the Hilton Head Hospital; and others
are doubtless on Morris Island; but I have no names or statistics
relative to them. Those in Beaufort are well attended to--just as
well as the white soldiers, the attentions of the surgeons and
nurses being supplemented by those of the colored people here,
who have shown a great interest in them. The men of the regiment
are very patient, and where their condition at all permits them,
are cheerful. They express their readiness to meet the enemy
again, and they keep asking if Wagner is yet taken. Could any one
from the North see these brave fellows as they lie here, his
prejudice against them, if he had any, would all pass away. They
grieve greatly at the loss of Colonel Shaw, who seems to have
acquired a strong hold on their affections. They are attached to
their other officers, and admire General Strong, whose courage
was so conspicuous to all. I asked General Strong if he had any
testimony in relation to the regiment to be communicated to you.
These are his precise words, and I give them to you as I noted
them at the time:
"'The Fifty-fourth did well and nobly, only the fall of Colonel
Shaw prevented them from entering the Fort. They moved up as
gallantly as any troops could, and with their enthusiasm they
deserve a better fate.' The regiment could not have been under a
better officer than Colonel Shaw. He is one of the bravest and
most genuine men. His soldiers loved him like a brother, and go
where you would through the camps you would hear them speak of
him with enthusiasm and affection. His wound is severe, and there
are some apprehensions as to his being able to recover from it.
Since I found him at the hospital tent on Morris Island, about
half-past nine o'clock on Saturday, I have been all the time
attending to him or the officers of the Fifty-fourth, both on the
boats and here. Nobler spirits it has never been my fortune to
be with. General Strong, as he lay on the stretcher in the tent,
was grieving all the while for the poor fellows who lay uncared
for on the battle-field, and the officers of the Fifty-fourth
have had nothing to say of their own misfortunes, but have
mourned constantly for the hero who led them to the charge from
which he did not return. I remember well the beautiful day when
the flags were presented at Readville, and you told the regiment
that your reputation was to be identified with its fame. It was a
day of festivity and cheer. I walk now in these hospitals and see
mutilated forms with every variety of wound, and it seems all a
dream. But well has the regiment sustained the hope which you
indulged, and justified the identity of fame which you trusted to
it.
"I ought to add in relation to the fight on James Island, on July
sixteenth, in which the regiment lost fifty men, driving back the
rebels, and saving, as it is stated, three companies of the Tenth
Connecticut, that General Terry, who was in command on that
Island, said to Adjutant James:
"'Tell your Colonel that I am exceedingly pleased with the
conduct of your regiment. They have done all they could do.'
"Yours truly,
"EDWARD L. PIERCE."[103]
The Negro in the Mississippi Valley, and in the Department of the
South had won an excellent reputation as a soldier. In the spring of
1864 Colored Troops made their _début_ in the army of the Potomac. In
the battles at Wilson's Wharf, Petersburg, Deep Bottom, Chapin's Farm,
Fair Oaks, Hatcher's Run, Farmville, and many other battles, these
soldiers won for themselves lasting glory and golden opinions from the
officers and men of the white organizations. On the 24th of May, 1864,
Gen. Fitz-Hugh Lee called at Wilson's Wharf to pay his respects to two
Negro regiments under the command of Gen. Wild. But the chivalry of
the South were compelled to retire before the destructive fire of
Negro soldiers. A "Tribune" correspondent who witnessed the engagement
gave the following account the next day:
"At first the fight raged fiercely on the left. The woods were
riddled with bullets; the dead and wounded of the rebels were
taken away from this part of the field, but I am informed by one
accustomed to judge, and who went over the field to-day, that
from the pools of blood and other evidences the loss must have
been severe. Finding that the left could not be broken, Fitz-Hugh
Lee hurled his chivalry--dismounted of course--upon the right.
Steadily they came on, through obstructions, through slashing,
past abattis without wavering. Here _one_ of the advantages of
colored troops was made apparent. They obeyed orders, and bided
their time. When well tangled in the abattis the death-warrant,
'Fire,' went forth. Southern chivalry quailed before Northern
balls, though fired by negro hands. Volley after volley was
rained upon the superior by the inferior race, and the chivalry
broke and tried to run."
On the 8th of June Gen. Gillmore, at the head of 3,500 troops, crossed
the Appomattox, and moved on Petersburg by turnpike from the north.
Gen. Kautz, with about 1,500 cavalry, was to charge the city from the
south, or southwest; and two gun-boats and a battery were to bombard
Fort Clinton, defending the approach up the river. Gillmore was
somewhat dismayed at the formidable appearance of the enemy, and,
thinking himself authorized to use his own discretion, did not make an
attack. On the 10th of June, Gen. Kautz advanced without meeting any
serious resistance until within a mile and one half of the city, drove
in the pickets and actually entered the city! Gillmore had attracted
considerable attention on account of the display he made of his
forces; but when he declined to fight, the rebels turned upon Kautz
and drove him out of the city.
Gen. Grant had taken up his headquarters at Bermuda Hundreds, whence
he directed Gen. Butler to despatch Gen. W. F. Smith's corps against
Petersburg. The rebel general, A. P. Hill, commanding the rear of
Lee's army, was now on the south front of Richmond. Gen. Smith moved
on toward Petersburg, and at noon of the 15th of June, 1864, his
advance felt the outposts of the enemy's defence about two and one
half miles from the river. Here again the Negro soldier's fighting
qualities were to be tested in the presence of our white troops. Gen.
Hinks commanded a brigade of Negro soldiers. This brigade was to open
the battle and receive the fresh fire of the enemy. Gen. Hinks--a most
gallant soldier--took his place and gave the order to charge the rebel
lines. Here under a clear Virginia sky, in full view of the Union
white troops, the Black brigade swept across the field in magnificent
line. The rebels received them with siege gun, musket, and bayonet,
but they never wavered. In a short time they had carried a line of
rifle-pits, driven the enemy out in confusion, and captured two large
guns. It was a supreme moment; all that was needed was the order, "On
to Petersburg," and the city could have been taken by the force there
was in reserve for the Black brigade. But he who doubts is damned, and
he who dallies is a dastard. Gen. Smith hesitated. Another assault was
not ordered until near sundown, when the troops cleared another line
of rifle-pits, made three hundred prisoners, and captured sixteen
guns, sustaining a loss of only six hundred. The night was clear and
balmy; there was nothing to hinder the battle from being carried on;
but Gen. Smith halted for the night--a fatal halt. During the night
the enemy was reënforced by the flower of Lee's army, and when the
sunlight of the next morning fell upon the battle field it revealed an
almost new army,--a desperate and determined enemy. Then it seems that
Gens. Meade and Hancock did not know that Petersburg was to be
attacked. Hancock's corps had lingered in the rear of the entire army,
and did not reach the front until dusk. Why Gen. Smith delayed the
assault until evening was not known. Even Gen. Grant, in his report of
the battle, said: "Smith, for some reason that I have never been able
to satisfactorily understand, did not get ready to assault the enemy's
main lines until near sundown." But whatever the reason was, his
conduct cost many a noble life and the postponement of the end of the
war.
On the 16th of June, 1864, Gens. Burnside and Warren came up. The 18th
corps, under Gen. Smith, occupied the right of the Federal lines, with
its right touching the Appomattox River. Gens. Hancock, Burnside, and
Warren stretched away to the extreme left, which was covered by
Kautz's cavalry. After a consultation with Gen. Grant, Gen. Meade
ordered a general attack all along the lines, and at 6 P.M. on the
16th of June, the battle of Petersburg was opened again. Once more a
division of Black troops was hurled into the fires of battle, and once
more proved that the Negro was equal to all the sudden and startling
changes of war. The splendid fighting of these troops awakened the
kindliest feelings for them among the white troops, justified the
Government in employing them, stirred the North to unbounded
enthusiasm, and made the rebel army feel that the Negro was the equal
of the Confederate soldier under all circumstances. Secretary Stanton
was in a state of ecstasy over the behavior of the Colored troops at
Petersburg, an unusual thing for him. In his despatch on this battle,
he said:
"The hardest fighting was done by the black troops. The forts
they stormed were the worst of all. After the affair was over
Gen. Smith went to thank them, and tell them he was proud of
their courage and dash. He says they cannot be exceeded as
soldiers, and that hereafter he will send them in a difficult
place as readily as the best white troops."[104]
The "Tribune" correspondent wrote on the day of the battle:
"The charge upon the advanced works was made in splendid style;
and as the 'dusky warriors' stood shouting upon the parapet, Gen.
Smith decided that 'they would do,' and sent word to storm the
first redoubt. Steadily these troops moved on, led by officers
whose unostentatious bravery is worthy of emulation. With a shout
and rousing cheers they dashed at the redoubt. Grape and canister
were hurled at them by the infuriated rebels. They grinned and
pushed on, and with a yell that told the Southern chivalry their
doom, rolled irresistibly over and into the work. The guns were
speedily turned upon those of our 'misguided brethren,' who
forgot that discretion was the better part of valor. Another
redoubt was carried in the same splendid style, and the negroes
have established a reputation that they will surely maintain.
"Officers on Gen. Hancock's staff, as they rode by the redoubt,
surrounded by a moat with water in it, over which these negroes
charged, admitted that its capture was a most gallant affair. The
negroes bear their wounds quite as pluckily as the white
soldiers."
Here the Colored Troops remained, skirmishing, fighting, building
earthworks, and making ready for the next assault upon Petersburg,
which was to take place on the 30th proximo. In the actions of the
18th, 21st, 23d, 24th, 25th, and 28th of June, the Colored Troops had
shared a distinguished part. The following letter on the conduct of
the Colored Troops before Petersburg, written by an officer who
participated in all the actions around that city, is worth its space
it gold:
"IN THE FIELD, NEAR PETERSBURG, VIRGINIA, }
"June 27, 1864. }
"The problem is solved. The negro is a man, a soldier, a hero.
Knowing of your laudable interest in the colored troops, but
particularly those raised under the immediate auspices of the
Supervisory Committee, I have thought it proper that I should
let you know how they acquitted themselves in the late actions in
front of Petersburg, of which you have already received newspaper
accounts. If you remember, in my conversations upon the character
of these troops, I carefully avoided saying anything about their
fighting qualities till I could have an opportunity of trying
them.
"That opportunity came on the fifteenth instant, and since, and I
am now prepared to say that I never, since the beginning of this
war, saw troops fight better, more bravely, and with more
determination and enthusiasm. Our division, commanded by General
Hinks, took the advance on the morning of the fifteenth instant,
arrived in front of the enemy's works about nine o'clock A.M.,
formed line, charged them, and took them most handsomely. Our
regiment was the first in the enemy's works, having better ground
to charge over than some of the others, and the only gun that was
taken on this first line was taken by our men. The color-sergeant
of our regiment planted his colors on the works of the enemy, a
rod in advance of any officer or man in the regiment. The effect
of the colors being thus in advance of the line, so as to be seen
by all, was truly inspiring to our men, and to a corresponding
degree dispiriting to the enemy. We pushed on two and a half
miles further, till we came in full view of the main defences of
Petersburg. We formed line at about two o'clock P.M.,
reconnoitred and skirmished the whole afternoon, and were
constantly subject to the shells of the enemy's artillery. At
sunset we charged these strong works and carried them. Major Cook
took one with the left wing of our regiment as skirmishers, by
getting under the guns, and then preventing their gunners from
using their pieces, while he gained the rear of the redoubt,
where there was no defence but the infantry, which, classically
speaking, 'skedaddled.' We charged across what appeared to be an
almost impassable ravine, with the right wing all the time
subject to a hot fire of grape and canister, until we got so far
under the guns as to be sheltered, when the enemy took to their
rifle-pits as infantrymen. Our brave fellows went steadily
through the swamp, and up the side of a hill, at an angle of
almost fifty degrees, rendered nearly impassable by fallen
timber. Here again our color-sergeant was conspicuous in keeping
far ahead of the most advanced, hanging on to the side of the
hill, till he would turn about and wave the stars and stripes at
his advancing comrades; then steadily advancing again, under the
fire of the enemy, till he could almost have reached their
rifle-pits with his flagstaff. How he kept from being killed I do
not know, unless it can be attributed to the fact that the party
advancing up the side of the hill always has the advantage of
those who hold the crest. It was in this way that we got such
decided advantage over the enemy at South Mountain. We took, in
these two redoubts, four more guns, making, in all, five for our
regiment, two redoubts, and part of a rifle-pit as our day's
work. The Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh United States colored troops
advanced against works more to the left. The Fourth United States
colored troops took one more redoubt, and the enemy abandoned the
other. In these two we got two more guns, which made, in all,
seven. The Sixth regiment did not get up in time, unfortunately,
to have much of the sport, as it had been previously formed in
the second line. We left forty-three men wounded and eleven
killed in the ravine, over which our men charged the last time.
Our loss in the whole day's operations was one hundred-and
forty-three, including six officers, one of whom was killed. Sir,
there is no underrating the good conduct of these fellows during
these charges; with but a few exceptions, they all went in as old
soldiers, but with more enthusiasm. I am delighted that our first
action resulted in a decided victory.
"The commendations we have received from the Army of the Potomac,
including its general officers, are truly gratifying. Hancock's
corps arrived just in time to relieve us (we being out of
ammunition), before the rebels were reinforced and attempted to
retake these strong works and commanding positions, without which
they could not hold Petersburg one hour, if it were a part of
Grant's plan to advance against it on the right here.
"General Smith speaks in the highest terms of the day's work, as
you have doubtless seen, and he assured me, in person, that our
division should have the guns we took as trophies of honor. He is
also making his word good in saying that he could hereafter trust
colored troops in the most responsible positions. Colonel Ames,
of the Sixth United States colored troops, and our regiment, have
just been relieved in the front, where we served our tour of
forty-eight hours in turn with the other troops of the corps.
While out, we were subjected to some of the severest shelling I
have ever seen, Malvern Hill not excepted. The enemy got twenty
guns in position during the night, and opened on us yesterday
morning at daylight. Our men stood it, behind their works, of
course, as well as any of the white troops. Our men,
unfortunately, owing to the irregular features of ground, took no
prisoners. Sir, we can bayonet the enemy to terms on this matter
of treating colored soldiers as prisoners of war far sooner than
the authorities at Washington can bring him to it by negotiation.
This I am morally persuaded of. I know, further, that the enemy
won't fight us if he can help it. I am sure that the same number
of white troops could not have taken those works on the evening
of the fifteenth; prisoners that we took told me so. I mean
prisoners who came in after the abandonment of the fort, because
they could not get away. They excuse themselves on the ground of
pride; as one of them said to me: 'D----d if men educated as we
have been will fight with niggers, and your government ought not
to expect it.' The real fact is, the rebels will not stand
against our colored soldiers when there is any chance of their
being taken prisoners, for they are conscious of what they justly
deserve. Our men went into these works after they were taken,
yelling 'Fort Pillow!' The enemy well knows what this means, and
I will venture the assertion, that that piece of infernal
brutality enforced by them there has cost the enemy already two
men for every one they so inhumanly murdered."[105]
The 9th corps, under Burnside, containing a splendid brigade of
Colored Troops, had finally pushed its way up to one hundred and fifty
yards of the enemy's works. In the immediate front a small fort
projected out quite a distance beyond the main line of the enemy's
works. It was decided to place a mine under this fort and destroy it.
Just in the rear of the 9th corps was a ravine, which furnished a safe
and unobserved starting-point for the mine. It was pushed forward with
great speed and care. When the point was reached directly under the
fort, chambers were made to the right and left, and then packed with
powder or other combustibles. It was understood from the commencement
that the Colored Troops were to have the post of honor again, and
charge after the mine should be sprung. The inspecting officer having
made a thorough examination of the entire works reported to Gen.
Burnside that the "Black Division was the fittest for this perilous
service." But Gen. Grant was not of the same opinion. Right on the eve
of the great event he directed the three white commanders of divisions
to _draw lots_--who should _not_ go into the crater! The lot fell to
the poorest officer, for a dashing, brilliant movement, in the entire
army; Gen. Ledlie.
The mine was to be fired at 3:30 A.M., on the morning of the 30th of
July, 1864. The match was applied, but the train did not work. Lieut.
Jacob Douty and Sergt. Henry Rees, of the 48th Pennsylvania, entered
the gallery, removed the hindering cause, and at 4:45 A.M. the match
was applied and the explosion took place. The fort was lifted into the
air and came down a mass of ruins, burying 300 men. Instead of a fort
there was a yawning chasm, 150 feet long, 25 feet wide, and about 25
or 30 feet deep. At the same moment all the guns of the Union forces
opened from one end of their line to the other. It was verily a
judgment morn. Confusion reigned among the Confederates. The enemy
fled in disorder from his works. The way to Petersburg was open,
unobstructed for several hours; all the Federal troops had to do was
to go into the city at a trail arms without firing a gun. Gen. Ledlie
was not equal to the situation. He tried to mass his division in the
mouth of the crater. The 10th New Hampshire went timidly into line,
and when moved forward broke into the shape of a letter V, and
confusion indescribable followed. Gens. Potter and Wilcox tried to
support Ledlie, but the latter division had halted after they had
entered the crater, although the enemy had not recovered from the
shock. Gen. Potter, by _some_ means, got his division out of the
crater and gallantly led a charge toward the crest, but so few
followed him that he was compelled to retire. After all had been lost,
after the rebels had regained their composure, Gen. Burnside was
_suffered_ to send in his "Black Division." It charged in splendid
order to the right of the crater toward the crest, but was hurled back
into the crater by a destructive fire from batteries and muskets. But
they rallied and charged the enemy again and again until nightfall;
exhausted and reduced in numbers, they fell back into the friendly
darkness to rest. The Union loss was 4,400 killed, wounded, and
captured. Again the Negro had honored his country and covered himself
with glory. Managed differently, with the Black Division as the
charging force, Petersburg would have fallen, the war would have ended
before the autumn, and thousands of lives would have been saved. But a
great sacrifice had to be laid upon the cruel altar of race prejudice.
In the battles around Nashville about 8,000 or 10,000 Colored Troops
took part, and rendered efficient aid. Here the Colored Troops, all of
them recruited from slave States, stormed fortified positions of the
enemy with the bayonet through open fields, and behaved like veterans
under the most destructive fire. In his report of the battle of
Nashville, Major-Gen. James B. Steedman said:
"The larger portion of these losses, amounting in the aggregate
to fully twenty-five per cent. of the men under my command who
were taken into action, it will be observed, fell upon the
Colored Troops. The severe loss of this part of my troops was in
the brilliant charge on the enemy's works on Overton Hill on
Friday afternoon. I was unable to discover that _color_ made any
difference in the fighting of my troops. All, white and black,
nobly did their duty as soldiers, and evinced cheerfulness and
resolution, such as I have never seen excelled in any campaign of
the war in which I have borne a part."[106]
The following table shows the losses in this action:
-------------------+--------+--------+--------+--------+-----------------
| Killed.|Wounded.|Missing.| Total. |
|--------+--------+--------+--------+
|Officers|Officers|Officers|Officers|
| | Men | | Men| | Men| | Men |
-------------------+--+-----+---+----+---+----+--+-----+-----------------
Fourteenth U. S. | | | | | | | | |}Organized as the
Colored Infantry | | 4 | | 41| | 20| | 65 |}First Colored
Forty-fourth U. S. | | | | | | | | |}Brigade,
Colored Infantry | 1| 2 | | 27| 2| 49| 3| 78 |}Colonel T. J.
Sixteenth U. S. | | | | | | | | |}Morgan,
Colored Infantry | | 1 | | 2| | | | 3 |}commanding.
Eighteenth U. S. | | | | | | | | |}
Colored Infantry | | 1 | | 5| | 3| | 9 |}
Seventeenth U. S. | | | | | | | | |}
Colored Infantry | 7| 14 | 4| 64| | | 6| 78 |}
| | | | | | | | |
Twelfth U. S. | | | | | | | | |{Organized as the
Colored Infantry | 3| 10 | 3| 99| | | 6| 109 |{Second Colored
Thirteenth U. S. | | | | | | | | |{Brigade, Col.
Colored Infantry | 4| 51 | 4| 161| | 1| 8| 213 |{C. K. Thompson,
One Hundredth U.S. | | | | | | | | |{commanding.
Colored Infantry | | 12 | 5| 116| | | 5| 128 |{
| | | | | | | | |
Eighteenth Ohio | | | | | | | | |}Included in the
Infantry | 2| 9 | 2| 38| | 9| 4| 56 |}Provisional
Sixty-eighth | | | | | | | | |}Division,
Indiana Infantry | | 1 | | 7| | | | 8 |}A. C.,
Provisional | | | | | | | | |}Brigadier-
Division, A. C. | 1| 19 | 3| 74| | 33| 4| 126 |}General Cruft,
| | | | | | | | |}commanding.
Twentieth Indiana | | | | | | | | |
Battery | | | 2| 6| | | 2| 6 |Captain Osborn.
|--+-----+---+----+---+----+--+-----+
Aggregate |18| 124 | 23| 640| 2| 115|38| 879 |
| | | | | | | | 38 |
| | | | | | | -----|
Total | | | | | | | | 917 |
-------------------+--+-----+---+----+---+----+--+-----+-----------------
At the battle of Appomattox a division of picked Colored Troops (Gen.
Birney[107]) accomplished some most desperate and brilliant fighting,
and received the praise of the white troops who acted as their
support.
From the day the Government put arms into the hands of Negro soldiers
to the last hour of the Slave-holders' Rebellion they rendered
effective aid in suppressing the rebellion and in saving the Union.
They fought a twofold battle--conquered the prejudices and fears of
the white people of the North and the swaggering insolence and lofty
confidence of the South.
As to the efficiency of Negroes as soldiers abundant testimony awaits
the hand of the historian. The following letter speaks for itself.
ADJ.-GEN. THOMAS ON NEGRO SOLDIERS.
"WAR DEP'T, ADJ.-GENERAL'S OFFICE, }
"WASHINGTON, May 30, 1864. }
"Hon. H. WILSON:
"DEAR SIR: On several occasions when on the Mississippi River, I
contemplated writing to you respecting the colored troops and to
suggest that, as they have been fully tested as soldiers, their
pay should be raised to that of white troops, and I desire now to
give my testimony in their behalf. You are aware that I have been
engaged in the organization of freedmen for over a year, and have
necessarily been thrown in constant contact with them.
"The negro in a state of slavery is brought up by the master,
from early childhood, to strict obedience and to obey implicitly
the dictates of the white man, and they are thus led to believe
that they are an inferior race. Now, when organized into troops,
they carry this habit of obedience with them, and their officers
being entirely white men, the negroes promptly obey their orders.
"A regiment is thus rapidly brought into a state of discipline.
They are a religious people--another high quality for making good
soldiers. They are a musical people, and thus readily learn to
march and accurately perform their manoeuvres. They take pride in
being elevated as soldiers, and keep themselves, as their camp
grounds, neat and clean. This I know from special inspection, two
of my staff-officers being constantly on inspecting duty. They
have proved a most important addition to our forces, enabling
the Generals in active operations to take a large force of white
troops into the field; and now brigades of blacks are placed with
the whites. The forts erected at the important points on the
river are nearly all garrisoned by blacks--artillery regiments
raised for the purpose,--say at Paducah and Columbus, Kentucky,
Memphis, Tennessee, Vicksburg and Natchez, Mississippi and most
of the works around New Orleans.
"Experience proves that they manage heavy guns very well. Their
fighting qualities have also been fully tested a number of times,
and I am yet to hear of the first case where they did not fully
stand up to their work. I passed over the ground where the 1st
Louisiana made the gallant charge at Port Hudson, by far the
stronger part of the rebel works. The wonder is that so many have
made their escape. At Milliken's Bend where I had three
incomplete regiments,--one without arms until the day previous to
the attack,--greatly superior numbers of the rebels charged
furiously up to the very breastworks. The negroes met the enemy
on the ramparts, and both sides freely used the bayonet--a most
rare occurrence in warfare, as one of the other party gives way
before coming in contact with the steel. The rebels were defeated
With heavy loss. The bridge at Moscow, on the line of railroad
from Memphis to Corinth, was defended by one small regiment of
blacks. A cavalry attack of three times their number was made,
the blacks defeating them in three charges made by the Rebels.
"They fought them hours till our cavalry came up, when the defeat
was made complete, many of the dead being left on the field.
"A cavalry force of three hundred and fifty attacked three
hundred rebel cavalry near the Big Black with signal success, a
number of prisoners being taken and marched to Vicksburg. Forrest
attacked Paducah with 7,500 men. The garrison was between 500 and
600, nearly 400 being colored troops recently raised. What troops
could have done better? So, too, they fought well at Fort Pillow
till overpowered by greatly superior numbers.
"The above enumerated cases seem to me sufficient to demonstrate
the value of the colored troops.
"I have the honor to be, very respectfully,
"Your obedient servant,
"L. THOMAS, _Adj.-General_.
In regard to the conduct of the Colored Troops at Petersburg, a
correspondent to the "Boston Journal" gave the following account from
the lips of Gen. Smith:
"A few days ago I sat in the tent of Gen. W. F. Smith, commander
of the 18th Corps, and heard his narration of the manner in
which Gen. Hinks' division of colored troops stood the fire and
charged upon the Rebel works east of Petersburg on the 16th of
June. There were thirteen guns pouring a constant fire of shot
and shell upon those troops, enfilading the line, cutting it
lengthwise and crosswise, 'Yet they stood unmoved for _six
hours_. Not a man flinched. [These are the words of the General.]
It was as severe a test as I ever saw. But they stood it, and
when my arrangements were completed for charging the works, they
moved with the steadiness of veterans to the attack. I expected
that they would fall back, or be cut to pieces; but when I saw
them move over the field, gain the works and capture the guns, I
was astounded. They lost between 500 and 600 in doing it. There
is material in the negroes to make the best troops in the world,
if they are properly trained.'
"These are the words of one of the ablest commanders and
engineers in the service. A graduate of West Point, who, earlier
in the war, had the prejudices which were held by many other men
against the negro. He has changed his views. He is convinced, and
honorably follows his convictions, as do all men who are not
stone blind or perversely wilful."[108]
Gen. Blunt in a letter to a friend speaks of the valor of Colored
Troops at the battle of Honey Springs. He says:
"The negroes (1st colored regiment) were too much for the enemy,
and let me here say that I never saw such fighting as was done by
that negro regiment. They fought like veterans, with a coolness
and valor that is unsurpassed. They preserved their line perfect
throughout the whole engagement, and although in the hottest of
the fight, they never once faltered. Too much praise cannot be
awarded them for their gallantry. The question that negroes will
fight is settled, besides they make better soldiers in every
respect, than any troops I have ever had under my command."[109]
The following from the Washington correspondent of the "New York
Tribune" is of particular value:
"In speaking of the soldierly qualities of our colored troops, I
do not refer specially to their noble action in the perilous edge
of battle; that is settled, but to their docility and their
patience of labor and suffering in the camp and on the march.
"I have before me a private letter from a friend, now Major in
one of the Pennsylvania colored regiments, a portion of which I
think the public should find in your columns. He says in
speaking of service in his regiment: 'I am delighted with it. I
find that these colored men learn every thing that pertains to
the duties of a soldier much faster than any white soldiers I
have ever seen. The reason is apparent,--not that they are
smarter than white men, but they feel promoted; they feel as
though their whole sphere of life was advanced and enlarged. They
are willing, obedient, and cheerful; move with agility, and _are
full of music_, which is almost a _sine qua non_ to soldierly
bearing.'
"Soon after the letter of which the above is an extract was
written, the regiment was ordered to the field from which the
Major writes again: 'The more I know and see of these negro
regiments, the more I am delighted with the whole enterprise. It
is truly delightful to command a regiment officered as these are.
In all my experience I have never known a better class of
officers.... I have charge of the school of non-commissioned
officers here. I drill them once a day and have them recite from
the oral instructions given them the day before. I find them more
anxious to learn their duties and more ready to perform them when
they know them than any set of non-commissioned officers I ever
saw.... There is no discount on these fellows at all. Give me a
thousand such men as compose this regiment and I desire no
stronger battalion to lead against an enemy that is at once their
oppressors and traitors to my, and my soldiers' country.'
"This testimony is worth a chapter of speculation. The Major
alludes to one fact above, moreover, to which the public
attention has not been often directed--the excellent and able men
who are in command of our colored troops. They are generally men
of heart--men of opinions--men whose generous impulses have not
been chilled in 'the cold shade of West Point.'
"The officer from whose letter I have quoted was a volunteer in
the ranks of a Pennsylvania regiment from the day of the attack
on Sumter until August, 1862. His bravery, his devotion to the
principles of freedom, his zeal in the holy cause of his country
through all the campaigns of the calamitous McClellan, won the
regard and attention of our loyal Governor Curtin, who, with rare
good sense and discrimination, took him from the ranks and made
him first, Lieut.-Colonel, and then Colonel of a regiment in the
nine months' service. He carried himself through all in such a
manner as fully justified the Governor's confidence, and has
stepped now into a position where his patriotic zeal can
concentrate the valor of these untutored free men in defense of
our imperilled country. So long as these brave colored men are
officered by gallant, high-hearted, slave-hating men, we can
never despair of the Republic."[110]
Mr. D. Aden in a letter to Col. Darling, dated Norfolk, Va., Feb. 22,
1864, said:
"During the expedition last October to Charles City Court House,
on the Peninsula, the colored troops marched steadily through
storm and mud; and on coming up with the enemy, behaved as
bravely under fire as veterans. An officer of the 1st N. Y.
Mounted Rifles--a most bitter opponent and reviler of colored
troops--who was engaged in this affair, volunteered the statement
that they had fought bravely, and, in his own language, more
expressive than elegant, were 'bully boys'--which coming from
such a source, might be regarded as the highest praise.
"During the recent advance toward Richmond to liberate the Union
prisoners, the 4th, 5th, and 9th regiments formed part of the
expedition and behaved splendidly. They marched thirty miles in
ten hours, and an unusually small number straggled on the route."
Col. John A. Foster of the 175th New York, in January, 1864, wrote to
Col. Darling as follows:
"While before Port Hudson, during the siege of that place, I was
acting on Col. Gooding's staff, prior to the arrival of my
regiment at that place. On the assault of May 27, 1863, Col.
Gooding was ordered to proceed to the extreme right of our lines
and oversee the charge of the two regiments constituting the
negro-brigade, and I accompanied him.
"We witnessed them in line of battle, under a very heavy fire of
musketry, and siege and field pieces. There was a deep gully or
bayou before them, which they could not cross nor ford in the
presence of the enemy, and hence an assault was wholly
impracticable. Yet they made five several attempts to swim and
cross it, preparatory to an assault on the enemy's works; and in
this, too, in fair view of the enemy, and at short musket range.
Added to this, the nature of the enemy's works was such that it
allowed an enfilading fire. Success was impossible; yet they
behaved as cool as if veterans, and when ordered to retire,
marched off as if on parade. I feel satisfied that, if the
position of the bayou had been known and the assault made a
quarter of a mile to the left of where it was, the place would
have been taken by this negro brigade on that day.
"On that day I witnessed the attack made by the divisions of
Generals Grover and Paine, and can truly say I saw no steadier
fighting by those daring men than did the negroes in this their
first fight.
"On the second assault, June 14th, in the assault made by Gen.
Paine's division, our loss was very great in wounded, and, as
there was a want of ambulance men, I ordered about a hundred
negroes, who were standing idle and unharmed, to take the
stretchers and carry the wounded from the field. Under a most
severe fire of musketry, grape, and canister, they performed this
duty with unflinching courage and nonchalance. They suffered
severely in this duty both in killed and wounded; yet not a man
faltered. These men had just been recruited, and were not even
partially disciplined. But I next saw the negroes (engineers)
working in these trenches, under a heavy fire of the enemy. They
worked faithfully, and wholly regardless of exposure to the
enemy's fire."
Mr. Cadwallader in his despatch concerning the battle of
Spottsylvania, dated May 18th, says:
"It is a subject of considerable merriment in camp that a charge
of the famous Hampton Legion, the flower of Southern chivalry,
was repulsed by the Colored Troops of General Ferrero's
command."[111]
These are but a _few_ of the tributes that brave and true white men
cheerfully gave to the valor and loyalty of Colored Troops during the
war. No officer, whose privilege it was to command or observe the
conduct of these troops, has ever hesitated to give a full and
cheerful endorsement of their worth as men, their loyalty as
Americans, and their eminent qualifications for the duties and dangers
of military life. No history of the war has ever been written, no
history of the war ever can be written, without mentioning the
patience, endurance, fortitude, and heroism of the Negro soldiers who
prayed, wept, fought, bled, and died for the preservation of the Union
of the United States of America!
FOOTNOTES:
[97] This was remedied at length, after the 54th Massachusetts
Infantry had refused pay for a year, unless the regiment could be
treated as other regiments. Major Sturges, Agent for the State of
Massachusetts, made up the difference between $7 and $13 to disabled
and discharged soldiers of this regiment, until the 15th June, 1864,
when the Government came to its senses respecting this great injustice
to its gallant soldiers.
[98] Times, Feb. 10, 1863.
[99] Times, Feb. 11, 1863.
[100] For the official report of Colonel Higginson and the war
correspondent, see Rebellion Records, vol. vii. Document, pp. 176-178.
[101] New York Times, June 13, 1863.
[102] Rebellion Records, vol. vii. Doc. p. 15.
[103] Rebellion Recs., vol. vii. Doc., p. 215, 216.
[104] Herald, June 18, 1864.
[105] Rebellion Recs., vol. xi. Doc. pp. 580, 581.
[106] Rebellion Recs., vol. xi. Doc., p. 89.
[107] I remember now, as I was in the battle of Appomattox Court
House, that Gen. Birney was relieved just after the battle of
Farmville, because he refused to march his division in the rear of all
the white troops. It was doubtless Gen. Foster who led the Colored
Troops in the action at Appomattox.
[108] Tribune, July 26, 1864.
[109] Tribune, August 19, 1863.
[110] New York Tribune, Nov. 14, 1863.
[111] New York Herald, May 20, 1864.
CHAPTER XX.
CAPTURE AND TREATMENT OF NEGRO SOLDIERS.
THE MILITARY EMPLOYMENT OF NEGROES DISTASTEFUL TO THE REBEL
AUTHORITIES.--THE CONFEDERATES THE FIRST TO EMPLOY NEGROES AS
SOLDIERS.--JEFFERSON DAVIS REFERS TO THE SUBJECT IN HIS MESSAGE,
AND THE CONFEDERATE CONGRESS ORDERS ALL NEGROES CAPTURED TO BE
TURNED OVER TO THE STATE AUTHORITIES, AND RAISES THE "BLACK FLAG"
UPON WHITE OFFICERS COMMANDING NEGRO SOLDIERS.--THE NEW YORK
PRESS CALLS UPON THE GOVERNMENT TO PROTECT ITS NEGRO
SOLDIERS.--SECRETARY STANTON'S ACTION.--THE PRESIDENT'S
ORDER.--CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN GEN. PECK AND GEN. PICKETT IN
REGARD TO THE KILLING OF A COLORED MAN AFTER HE HAD SURRENDERED
AT THE BATTLE OF NEWBERN.--SOUTHERN PRESS ON THE CAPTURE AND
TREATMENT OF NEGRO SOLDIERS.--THE REBELS REFUSE TO EXCHANGE NEGRO
SOLDIERS CAPTURED ON MORRIS AND JAMES ISLANDS ON ACCOUNT OF THE
ORDER OF THE CONFEDERATE CONGRESS WHICH REQUIRED THEM TO BE
TURNED OVER TO THE AUTHORITIES OF THE SEVERAL STATES.--JEFFERSON
DAVIS ISSUES A PROCLAMATION OUTLAWING GEN. B. F. BUTLER,--HE IS
TO BE HUNG WITHOUT TRIAL BY ANY CONFEDERATE OFFICER WHO MAY
CAPTURE HIM.--THE BATTLE OF FORT PILLOW.--THE GALLANT DEFENCE BY
THE LITTLE BAND OF UNION TROOPS.--IT REFUSES TO CAPITULATE AND IS
ASSAULTED AND CAPTURED BY AN OVERWHELMING FORCE.--THE UNION
TROOPS BUTCHERED IN COLD BLOOD.--THE WOUNDED ARE CARRIED INTO
HOUSES WHICH ARE FIRED AND BURNED WITH THEIR HELPLESS
VICTIMS.--MEN ARE NAILED TO THE OUTSIDE OF BUILDINGS THROUGH
THEIR HANDS AND FEET AND BURNT ALIVE.--THE WOUNDED AND DYING ARE
BRAINED WHERE THEY LAY IN THEIR EBBING BLOOD.--THE OUTRAGES ARE
RENEWED IN THE MORNING.--DEAD AND LIVING FIND A COMMON SEPULCHRE
IN THE TRENCH.--GENERAL CHALMERS ORDERS THE KILLING OF A NEGRO
CHILD.--TESTIMONY OF THE FEW UNION SOLDIERS WHO WERE ENABLED TO
CRAWL OUT OF THE GILT EDGE, FIRE PROOF HELL AT PILLOW.--THEY GIVE
A SICKENING ACCOUNT OF THE MASSACRE BEFORE THE SENATE COMMITTEE
ON THE CONDUCT OF THE WAR.--GEN. FORREST'S FUTILE ATTEMPT TO
DESTROY THE RECORD OF HIS FOUL CRIME.--FORT PILLOW MASSACRE
WITHOUT A PARALLEL IN HISTORY.
The appearance of Negroes as soldiers in the armies of the United
States seriously offended the Southern view of "the eternal fitness of
things." No action on the part of the Federal Government was so
abhorrent to the rebel army. It called forth a bitter wail from
Jefferson Davis, on the 12th of January, 1863, and soon after the
Confederate Congress elevated its olfactory organ and handled the
subject with a pair of tongs. After a long discussion the following
was passed:
"_Resolved, by the Congress of the Confederate States of
America_, In response to the message of the President,
transmitted to Congress at the commencement of the present
session, That, in the opinion of Congress, the commissioned
officers of the enemy ought _not_ to be delivered to the
authorities of the respective States, as suggested in the said
message, but all captives taken by the Confederate forces ought
to be dealt with and disposed of by the Confederate Government.
"SEC. 2. That, in the judgment of Congress, the proclamations of
the President of the United States, dated respectively September
22, 1862, and January 1, 1863, and the other measures of the
Government of the United States and of its authorities,
commanders, and forces, designed or tending to emancipate slaves
in the Confederate States, or to abduct such slaves, or to incite
them to insurrection, or to employ negroes in war against the
Confederate States, or to overthrow the institution of African
Slavery, and bring on a servile war in these States, would, if
successful, produce atrocious consequences, and they are
inconsistent with the spirit of those usages which, in modern
warfare, prevail among civilized nations; they may, therefore, be
properly and lawfully repressed by retaliation.
"SEC. 3. That in every case wherein, during the present war, any
violation of the laws or usages of war among civilized nations
shall be, or has been, done and perpetrated by those acting under
the authority of the Government of the United States, on the
persons or property of citizens of the Confederate States, or of
those under the protection or in the land or naval service of the
Confederate States, or of any State of the Confederacy, the
President of the Confederate States is hereby authorized to cause
full and ample retaliation to be made for every such violation,
in such manner and to such extent as he may think proper.
"SEC. 4. That every white person, being a commissioned officer,
or acting as such, who, during the present war, shall command
negroes or mulattoes in arms against the Confederate States, or
who shall arm, train, organize, or prepare negroes or mulattoes
for military service against the Confederate States, or who shall
voluntarily aid negroes or mulattoes in any military enterprise,
attack, or conflict in such service, shall be deemed as inciting
servile insurrection, and shall, if captured, be put to death, or
be otherwise punished at the discretion of the court.
"SEC. 5. Every person, being a commissioned officer, or acting as
such in the service of the enemy, who shall, during the present
war, excite, attempt to excite, or cause to be excited, a servile
insurrection, or who shall incite, or cause to be incited, a
slave or rebel, shall, if captured, be put to death, or be
otherwise punished at the discretion of the court.
"SEC. 6. Every person charged with an offence punishable under
the preceding resolutions shall, during the present war, be tried
before the military court attached to the array or corps by the
troops of which he shall have been captured, or by such other
military court as the President may direct, and in such manner
and under such regulations as the President shall prescribe; and,
after conviction, the President may commute the punishment in
such manner and on such terms as he may deem proper.
"SEC. 7. All negroes and mulattoes who shall be engaged in war,
or be taken in arms against the Confederate States, or shall give
aid or comfort to the enemies of the Confederate States, shall,
when captured in the Confederate States, be delivered to the
authorities of the State or States in which they shall be
captured, to be dealt with according to the present or future
laws of such State or States."
This document stands alone among the resolves of the civilized
governments of all Christendom. White persons acting as commissioned
officers in organizations of Colored Troops were to "be put to death!"
And all Negroes and Mulattoes taken in arms against the Confederate
Government were to be turned over to the authorities:--civil, of
course--of the States in which they should be captured, to be dealt
with according to the present or future laws of such States! Now, what
were the laws of the Southern States respecting Negroes in arms
against white people? The most cruel death. And fearing some of those
States had modified their cruel slave Code, the States were granted
the right to pass _ex post facto_ laws in order to give the
cold-blooded murder of captured Negro soldiers the semblance of
law,--and by a _civil law_ too. Colored soldiers and their officers
had been butchered before this in South Carolina, Mississippi,
Louisiana, and Florida, notwithstanding the rebels were the first to
arm Negroes, as has been already shown. If the Confederates had a
right to arm Negroes and include them in their armies, why could not
the Federal Government pursue the same policy? But the Rebel
Government had determined upon a barbarous policy in dealing with
captured Negro soldiers,--and barbarous as that policy was, the rebel
soldiers exceeded its cruel provisions tenfold. Their treatment of
Negroes was perfectly fiendish.
But what was the attitude of the Federal Government? Silence, until
the butcheries of its gallant defenders had sickened the civilized
world, and until the Christian governments of Europe frowned upon the
inhuman indifference of the Government that would _force_ its slaves
to fight its battles and then allow them to be tortured to death in
the name of "_State laws_!" Even the most conservative papers of the
North began to feel that some policy ought to be adopted whereby the
lives of Colored soldiers could be protected against the inhuman
treatment bestowed upon them when captured by the rebels. In the
spring of 1863, the "Tribune," referring to this subject, said,
editorially:
"The Government has sent Adj.-General Thomas to the West with
full authority to arm and organize the negroes for service
against the Rebels. They are to be employed to protect the
navigation of the Mississippi and other rivers against
guerrillas, and as garrisons at fortified posts, and are
evidently destined for all varieties of military duty. Seven
thousand soldiers who listened to this announcement at Fort
Curtis received it with satisfaction and applause. Gen. Thomas,
heretofore known as opposed to this and all similar measures,
urged in his address that the Blacks should be treated with
kindness; declared his belief in their capacity, and informed the
officers of the army that no one would be permitted to oppose or
in any way interfere with this policy of the Government.
"It is not directly stated, but may be inferred from the
Despatch, that the negroes are not to be encouraged to enlist,
but are to be drafted. At all events, the policy of the
Government to employ Black Troops in active service is definitely
established, and it becomes--as indeed it has been for months--a
very serious question what steps are to be taken for their
protection. The Proclamation of Jefferson Davis remains
unrevoked. By it he threatened death or slavery to every negro
taken in arms, and to their white officers the same fate. What is
the response of our Government? Hitherto, silence. The number of
negroes in its service has already increased; in South Carolina
they have already been mustered into regiments by a sweeping
conscription, and now in the West apparently the same policy is
adopted and rigorously enforced.
"Does the Government mean that the men are to be exposed not
merely to the chances of battle, but to the doom which the
unanswered Proclamation of the Rebel President threatens?
"Every black soldier now marches to battle with a halter about
his neck. The simple question is: Shall we protect and insure the
ordinary treatment of a prisoner of war? Under it, every negro
yet captured has suffered death or been sent back to the hell of
slavery from which he had escaped. The bloody massacre of black
prisoners at Murfreesboro, brooked, so far as the public knows,
no retaliation at Washington. The black servants captured at
Galveston--free men and citizens of Massachusetts--were sold into
slavery and remained there. In every instance in which they have
had the opportunity, the rebels have enforced their barbarous
proclamation. How much longer are they to be suffered to do it
without remonstrance?
"Gen. Hunter--at this moment in the field,--General. Butler, and
hundreds of other white officers are included in this
Proclamation, or were previously outlawed and adjudged a felon's
death. Delay remonstrance much longer, and retaliation must
supersede it. If the Government wishes to be spared the necessity
of retaliating, it has only to _say_ that it will retaliate--to
declare by proclamation or general order that all its soldiers
who may be captured must receive from the Rebels the treatment to
which, as prisoners of war, they are, by the usages of war,
entitled. The Government can know no distinction of color under
its flag. The moment a soldier shoulders a musket he is invested
with every military right which belongs to a white soldier. He is
at least and above all things entitled to the safeguards which
surround his white comrades.
"It is not possible to suppose the Government means to withhold
them; we only urge that the wisest, safest, and humanest, as well
as the most honorable policy, is at once to announce its
purpose."[112]
The able article just quoted had a wholesome effect upon many
thoughtful men at the South, and brought the blush to the cheek of the
nation. A few of the Southern journals agreed with Mr. Greeley that
the resolves of the Confederate Congress were unjustifiable; that the
Congress had no right to say what color the Union soldiers should be;
and that such action would damage their cause in the calm and humane
judgment of all Europe. But the Confederate Congress was unmoved and
unmovable upon this subject.
Three Colored men had been captured in Stone River on the gun-boat
"Isaac Smith." They were free men; but, notwithstanding this, they
were placed in close confinement and treated like felons. Upon the
facts reaching the ear of the Government, Secretary Stanton took three
South Carolina prisoners and had them subjected to the same treatment,
and the facts telegraphed to the Rebel authorities. Commenting upon
the question of the treatment of captured Colored soldiers the
"Richmond Examiner" said:
"It is not merely the pretension of a regular Government
affecting to deal with 'Rebels,' but it is a deadly stab which
they are aiming at our institutions themselves--because they know
that, if we were insane enough to yield this point, to treat
Black men as the equals of White, and insurgent slaves as
equivalent to our brave soldiers, the very foundation of Slavery
would be fatally wounded."
Shortly after this occurrence an exchange of prisoners took place in
front of Charleston. The rebels returned only white prisoners. When
upbraided by the Union officers for not exchanging Negroes the reply
came that under the resolutions of the Confederate Congress they could
not deliver up any Negro soldiers. This fact stirred the heart of the
North, and caused the Government to act. The following order was
issued by the President:
"EXECUTIVE MANSION, }
"WASHINGTON, July 30, 1863. }
"It is the duty of every Government to give protection to its
citizens, of whatever class, color, or condition, and especially
to those who are duly organized as soldiers in the public
service. The law of nations, and the usages and customs of war,
as carried on by civilized powers, permit no distinction as to
color in the treatment of prisoners of war as public enemies. To
sell or enslave any captured person, on account of his color, and
for no offense against the laws of war, is a relapse into
barbarism, and a crime against the civilization of the age.
"The Government of the United States will give the same
protection to all its soldiers; and if the enemy shall sell or
enslave any one because of his color, the offense shall be
punished by retaliation upon the enemy's prisoners in our
possession.
"It is therefore ordered that, for every soldier of the United
States killed in violation of the laws of war, a Rebel soldier
shall be executed; and for every one enslaved by the enemy or
sold into Slavery, a Rebel soldier shall be placed at hard labor
on public works, and continued at such labor until the other
shall be released and receive the treatment due to a prisoner of
war.
"ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
"By order of the Secretary of War.
"E. D. TOWNSEND, _Assistant Adjutant-General_."
In the early spring of 1864, there was a great deal said in the
Southern journals and much action had in the rebel army respecting the
capture and treatment of Negro soldiers. The "Richmond Examiner"
contained an account of the battle of Newbern, North Carolina, in
which the writer seemed to gloat over the fact that a captured Negro
had been hung after he had surrendered. It came to the knowledge of
Gen. Peck, commanding the army of the District of North Carolina, when
the following correspondence took place:
"HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY AND DISTRICT OF }
"NORTH CAROLINA, NEWBERN, NORTH }
"CAROLINA, Feb. 11, 1864: }
"Major-General PICKETT, _Department of Virginia and North
Carolina, "Confederate Army, Petersburg_.
"GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose a slip cut from the
Richmond 'Examiner,' February eighth, 1864. It is styled 'The
Advance on Newbern,' and appears to have been extracted from the
Petersburg 'Register,' a paper published in the city where your
headquarters are located.
"Your attention is particularly invited to that paragraph which
states 'that Colonel Shaw was shot dead by a negro soldier from
the other side of the river, which he was spanning with a pontoon
bridge, and that the negro was watched, followed, taken, and
hanged after the action at Thomasville.
"'THE ADVANCE ON NEWBERN.--The Petersburg "Register" gives the
following additional facts of the advance on Newbern: Our army,
according to the report of passengers arriving from Weldon, has
fallen back to a point sixteen miles west of Newbern. The reason
assigned for this retrograde movement was that Newbern could not
be taken by us without a loss on our part which would find no
equivalent in its capture, as the place was stronger than we had
anticipated. Yet, in spite of this, we are sure that the
expedition will result in good to our cause. Our forces are in a
situation to get large supplies from a country still abundant, to
prevent raids on points westward, and keep tories in check, and
hang them when caught.
"'From a private, who was one of the guard that brought the batch
of prisoners through, we learn that Colonel Shaw was shot dead by
a negro soldier from the other side of the river, which he was
spanning with a pontoon bridge. The negro was watched, followed,
taken, and hanged after the action at Thomasville. It is stated
that when our troops entered Thomasville, a number of the enemy
took shelter in the houses and fired upon them. The Yankees were
ordered to surrender, but refused, whereupon our men set fire to
the houses, and their occupants got, bodily, a taste in this
world of the flames eternal.'
"The Government of the United States has wisely seen fit to
enlist many thousand colored citizens to aid in putting down the
rebellion, and has placed them on the same footing in all
respects as her white troops.
* * * * *
"Believing that this atrocity has been perpetrated without your
knowledge, and that you will take prompt steps to disavow this
violation of the usages of war, and to bring the offenders to
justice, I shall refrain from executing a rebel soldier until I
learn your action in the premises.
"I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
"JOHN J. PECK,
"_Major-General_."
REPLY OF GENERAL PICKETT.
"HEADQUARTERS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NORTH }
"CAROLINA, PETERSBURG, VIRGINIA, February 16, 1864. }
"Major-General JOHN J. PECK, U. S. A., _Commanding at Newbern_:
"GENERAL: Your communication of the eleventh of February is
received. I have the honor to state in reply, that the paragraph
from a newspaper inclosed therein, is not only without foundation
in fact, but so ridiculous that I should scarcely have supposed
it worthy of consideration; but I would respectfully inform you
that had I caught _any negro_, who had killed either officer,
soldier, or citizen of the Confederate States, I should have
caused him to be immediately executed.
"To your threat expressed in the following extract from your
communication, namely: 'Believing that this atrocity has been
perpetrated without your knowledge, and that you will take prompt
steps to disavow this violation of the usages of war, and to
bring the offenders to justice, I shall refrain from executing a
rebel soldier until I learn of your action in the premises,' I
have merely to say that I have in my hands and subject to my
orders, captured in the recent operations in this department,
some four hundred and fifty officers and men of the United States
army, and for every man you hang I will hang ten of the United
States army.
"I am, General, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
"J. E. PICKETT,
"_Major-General Commanding_."[113]
As already indicated, some of the Southern journals did not endorse
the extreme hardships and cruelties to which the rebels subjected the
captured Colored men. During the month of July, 1863, quite a number
of Colored soldiers had fallen into the hands of the enemy on Morris
and James islands. The rebels did not only refuse to exchange them as
prisoners of war, but treated them most cruelly.
On this very important subject, in reply to some strictures of the
Charleston "Mercury" (made under _misapprehension_), the Chief of
Staff of General Beauregard addressed to that journal the following
letter:
"HEADQUARTERS, DEPARTMENT OF S. C., GA., AND FLA., }
"CHARLESTON, S. C., August 12, 1863. }
"Colonel R. B. RHETT, Jr., _Editor of_ 'Mercury':
"In the 'Mercury' of this date you appear to have written under a
misapprehension of the facts connected with the present _status_
of the negroes captured in arms on Morris and James Islands,
which permit me to state as follows:
"The Proclamation of the President, dated December twenty-fourth,
1862, directed that all negro slaves captured in arms should be
at once delivered over to the executive authorities of the
respective States to which they belong, to be dealt with
according to the laws of said States.
"An informal application was made by the State authorities for
the negroes captured in this vicinity; but as none of them, it
appeared, had been slaves of citizens of South Carolina, they
were not turned over to the civil authority, for at the moment
there was no official information at these headquarters of the
Act of Congress by which 'all negroes and mulattoes, who shall be
engaged in war, or be taken in arms against the confederate
States, or shall give aid or comfort to the enemies of the
confederate States,' were directed to be turned over to the
authorities of 'State or States in which they shall be captured,
to be dealt with according to the present or future laws of such
State or States.'
"On the twenty-first of July, however, the Commanding General
telegraphed to the Secretary of War for instructions as to the
disposition to be made of the negroes captured on Morris and
James Islands, and on the twenty-second received a reply that
they must be turned over to the State authorities, by virtue of
the joint resolutions of Congress in question.
"Accordingly, on the twenty-ninth July, as soon as a copy of the
resolution or act was received, his Excellency Governor Bonham
was informed that the negroes captured were held subject to his
orders, to be dealt with according to the laws of South Carolina.
"On the same day (twenty-ninth July) Governor Bonham requested
that they should be retained in military custody until he could
make arrangements to dispose of them; and in that custody they
still remain, awaiting the orders of the State authorities.
"Respectfully, your obedient servant,
"THOMAS JORDAN,
"_Chief of Staff._"
The Proclamation of Jefferson Davis, referred to in the second
paragraph of Mr. Jordan's letter, had declared Gen. Butler "a felon,
an outlaw, and an enemy of mankind." It recited his hanging of
Mumford; the neglect of the Federal Government to explain or
disapprove the act; the imprisonment of non-combatants; Butler's woman
order; his sequestration of estates in Western Louisiana; and the
inciting to insurrection and arming of slaves. Mr. Davis directed any
Confederate officer who should capture Gen. Butler to hang him
immediately and without trial. Mr. Davis's proclamation is given here,
as history is bound to hold him personally responsible for the
cruelties practised upon Negro soldiers captured by the rebels from
that time till the close of the war.
"First. That all commissioned officers in the command of said
Benjamin F. Butler be declared not entitled to be considered as
soldiers engaged in honorable warfare, but as robbers and
criminals, deserving death; and that they and each of them be,
whenever captured, reserved for execution.
"Second. That the private soldiers and non-commissioned officers
in the army of said Butler be considered as only the instruments
used for the commission of crimes perpetrated by his orders, and
not as free agents; that they, therefore, be treated, when
captured as prisoners of war, with kindness and humanity, and be
sent home on the usual parole that they will in no manner aid or
serve the United States in any capacity during the continuance of
this war, unless duly exchanged.
"Third. That all negro slaves captured in arms be at once
delivered over to the executive authorities of the respective
States to which they belong, to be dealt with according to the
laws of said States.
"Fourth. That the like orders be executed in all cases with
respect to all commissioned officers of the United States, when
found serving in company with said slaves in insurrection against
the authorities of the different States of this Confederacy.
"[Signed and sealed at Richmond, Dec. 23, 1862.]
"JEFFERSON DAVIS."
The ghastly horrors of Fort Pillow stand alone in the wide field of
war cruelties. The affair demands great fortitude in the historian who
would truthfully give a narrative of such bloody, sickening detail.
On the 18th of April, 1864, Gen. N. B. Forrest, commanding a corps of
Confederate cavalry, appeared before Fort Pillow, situated about
forty miles above Memphis, Tennessee, and demanded its surrender. It
was held by Major L. F. Booth, with a garrison of 557 men, 262 of whom
were Colored soldiers of the 6th U. S. Heavy Artillery; the other
troops were white, under Major Bradford of the 13th Tennessee Cavalry.
The garrison was mounted with six guns. From before sunrise until nine
A.M. the Union troops had held an outer line of intrenchments; but
upon the death of Major Booth Major Bradford retired his force into
the fort. It was situated upon a high bluff on the Mississippi River,
flanked by two ravines with sheer declivities and partially timbered.
The gun-boat "New Era" was to have coöperated with the fort, but on
account of the extreme height of the bluff, was unable to do much. The
fighting continued until about two o'clock in the afternoon, when the
firing slackened on both sides to allow the guns to cool off. The "New
Era," nearly out of shell, backed into the river to clean her guns.
During this lull Gen. Forrest sent a flag of truce demanding the
unconditional surrender of the fort. A consultation of the Federal
officers was held, and a request made for twenty minutes to consult
the officers of the gun-boat. Gen. Forrest refused to grant this,
saying that he only demanded the surrender of the fort and not the
gun-boat. He demanded an immediate surrender, which was promptly
declined by Major Bradford. During the time these negotiations were
going on, Forrest's men were stealing horses, plundering the buildings
in front of the fort, and closing in upon the fort through the
ravines, which was unsoldierly and cowardly to say the least. Upon
receiving the refusal of Major Booth to capitulate, Forrest gave a
signal and his troops made a frantic charge upon the fort. It was
received gallantly and resisted stubbornly, but there was no use of
fighting. In ten minutes the enemy, assaulting the fort in the centre,
and striking it on the flanks, swept in. The Federal troops
surrendered; but an indiscriminate massacre followed. Men were shot
down in their tracks; pinioned to the ground with bayonet and sabre.
Some were clubbed to death while dying of wounds; others were made to
get down upon their knees, in which condition they were shot to death.
Some were burned alive, having been fastened into the buildings, while
still others were nailed against the houses, tortured, and then burned
to a crisp. A little Colored boy only eight years old was lifted to
the horse of a rebel who intended taking him along with him, when
Gen. Forrest meeting the soldier ordered him to put the child down and
shoot him. The soldier remonstrated, but the stern and cruel order was
repeated, emphasized with an oath, and backed with a threat that
endangered the soldier's life, so he put the child on the ground and
shot him dead! From three o'clock in the afternoon until the merciful
darkness came and threw the sable wings of night over the carnival of
death, the slaughter continued. The stars looked down in pity upon the
dead--ah! they were beyond the barbarous touch of the rebel
fiends--and the dying; and the angels found a spectacle worthy of
their tears. And when the morning looked down upon the battle-field,
it was not to find it peaceful in death and the human hyenas gone.
Alas! those who had survived the wounds of the day before were set
upon again and brained or shot to death.
The Committee on the Conduct and Expenditures of the War gave this
"Horrible Massacre" an investigation. They examined such of the Union
soldiers as escaped from death at Fort Pillow and were sent to the
Mound City Hospital, Illinois. The following extracts from the
testimony given before the Committee, the Hons. Ben. F. Wade and D. W.
Gooch, give something of an idea of this the most cruel and inhuman
affair in the history of the civilized world.
Manuel Nichols (Colored), private. Company B, Sixth United States
Heavy Artillery, sworn and examined.
By Mr. Gooch:
Question. Were you in the late fight at Fort Pillow?
Answer. Yes, sir.
Q. Were you wounded there?
A. Yes, sir.
Q. When?
A. I was wounded once about a half an hour before we gave up.
Q. Did they do any thing to you after you surrendered?
A. Yes, sir; they shot me in the head under my left ear, and the
morning after the fight they shot me again in the right arm. When
they came up and killed the wounded ones, I saw some four or five
coming down the hill. I said to one of our boys: "Anderson, I
expect if those fellows come here they will kill us." I was lying
on my right side, leaning on my elbow. One of the black soldiers
went into the house where the white soldiers were. I asked him if
there was any water in there, and he said yes; I wanted some, and
took a stick and tried to get to the house. I did not get to the
house. Some of them came along, and saw a little boy belonging
to Company D. One of them had his musket on his shoulder, and
shot the boy down. He said: "All you damned niggers come out of
the house; I am going to shoot you." Some of the white soldiers
said: "Boys, it is only death anyhow; if you don't go out they
will come in and carry you out." My strength seemed to come to me
as if I had never been shot, and I jumped up and ran down the
hill. I met one of them coming up the hill; he said: "Stop!" but
I kept on running. As I jumped over the hill, he shot me through
the right arm.
Q. How many did you see them kill after they had surrendered?
A. After I surrendered I did not go down the hill. A man shot me
under the ear, and I fell down and said to myself: "If he don't
shoot me any more this won't hurt me." One of their officers came
along and hallooed: "Forrest says no quarter! no quarter!" and
the next one hallooed: "Black flag! black flag!"
Q. What did they do then?
A. They kept on shooting. I could hear them down the hill.
Q. Did you see them bury any body?
A. Yes, sir; they carried me around right to the corner of the
Fort, and I saw them pitch men in there.
Q. Was there any alive?
A. I did not see them bury any body alive.
Q. How near to you was the man who shot you under the ear?
A. Right close to my head. When I was shot in the side, a man
turned me over, and took my pocket-knife and pocket-book. I had
some of these brass things that looked like cents. They said:
"Here's some money; here's some money." I said to myself: "You
got fooled that time."
Major Williams (Colored), private. Company B, Sixth United States
Heavy Artillery, sworn and examined.
By the Chairman:
Q. Where were you raised?
A. In Tennessee and North Mississippi.
Q. Where did you enlist?
A. In Memphis.
Q. Who was your captain?
A. Captain Lamburg.
Q. Were you in the fight at Fort Pillow?
A. Yes, sir.
Q. Was your captain with you?
A. No, sir; I think he was at Memphis.
Q. Who commanded your company?
A. Lieutenant Hunter and Sergeant Fox were all the officers we
had.
Q. What did you see done there?
A. We fought them right hard during the battle, and killed some
of them. After a time they sent in a flag of truce. They said
afterward that they did it to make us stop firing until their
reinforcements could come up. They said that they never could
have got in if they had not done that; that we had whipped them;
that they had never seen such a fight.
Q. Did you see the flag of truce?
A. Yes, sir.
Q. What did they do when the flag of truce was in?
A. They kept coming up nearer, so that they could charge quick. A
heap of them came up after we stopped firing.
Q. When did you surrender?
A. I did not surrender until they all ran.
Q. Were you wounded then?
A. Yes, sir; after the surrender.
Q. At what time of day was that?
A. They told me it was about half after one o'clock, I was
wounded. Immediately we retreated.
Q. Did you have any arms in your hands when they shot you?
A. No, sir; I was an artillery man, and had no arms.
Q. Did you see the man who shot you?
A. No, sir.
Q. Did you hear him say any thing?
A. No, sir; I heard nothing. He shot me, and I was bleeding
pretty free, and I thought to myself: "I will make out it was a
dead shot, and maybe I will not get another."
Q. Did you see any others shot?
A. No, sir.
Q. Was there any thing said about giving quarter?
A. Major Bradford brought in a black flag, which meant no
quarter. I heard, some of the rebel officers say: "You damned
rascals, if you had not fought us so hard, but had stopped when
we sent in a flag of truce, we would not have done any thing to
you." I heard one of the officers say: "Kill all the niggers";
another one said: "No; Forrest says take them and carry them with
him to wait upon him and cook for him, and put them in jail and
send them to their masters." Still they kept on shooting. They
shot at me after that, but did not hit me; a rebel officer shot
at me. He took aim at my side; at the crack of his pistol I fell.
He went on and said: "There's another dead nigger."
Q. Was there any one shot in the hospital that day?
A. Not that I know of. I think they all came away and made a raft
and floated across the mouth of the creek and got into a flat
bottom.
Q. Did you see any buildings burned?
A. I stayed in the woods all day Wednesday. I was there Thursday
and looked at the buildings. I saw a great deal left that they
did not have a chance to burn up. I saw a white man burned up who
was nailed up against the house.
Q. A private or an officer?
A. An officer; I think it was a lieutenant in the Tennessee
cavalry.
Q. How was he nailed?
A. Through his hands and feet right against the house.
Q. Was his body burned?
A. Yes, sir; burned all over--I looked at him good.
Q. When did you see that?
A. On the Thursday after the battle.
Q. Where was the man?
A. Right in front of the Fort.
Jacob Thompson (Colored), sworn and examined.
By Mr. Gooch:
Q. Were you a soldier at Fort Pillow?
A. No, sir; I was not a soldier; but I went up in the Fort and
fought with the rest. I was shot in the hand and the head.
Q. When were you shot?
A. After I surrendered.
Q. How many times were you shot?
A. I was shot but once; but I threw my hand up, and the shot went
through my hand and my head.
Q. Who shot you?
A. A private.
Q. What did he say?
A. He said: "God damn you, I will shoot you, old friend."
Q. Did you see anybody else shot?
A. Yes, sir; they just called them out like dogs, and shot them
down. I reckon they shot about fifty, white and black, right
there. They nailed some black sergeants to the logs, and set the
logs on fire.
Q. When did you see that?
A. When I went there in the morning I saw them; they were burning
all together.
Q. Did they kill them before they burned them?
A. No, sir; they nailed them to the logs; drove the nails right
through their hands.
Q. How many did you see in that condition?
A. Some four or five; I saw two white men burned.
Q. Was there any one else there who saw that?
A. I reckon there was; I could not tell who.
Q. When was it that you saw them?
A. I saw them in the morning after the fight; some of them were
burned almost in two. I could tell they were white men, because
they were whiter than the colored men.
Q. Did you notice how they were nailed?
A. I saw one nailed to the side of a house; he looked like he was
nailed right through his wrist. I was trying then to get to the
boat when I saw it.
Q. Did you see them kill any white men?
A. They killed some eight or nine there. I reckon they killed
more than twenty after it was all over; called them out from
under the hill, and shot them down. They would call out a white
man and shoot him down, and call out a colored man and shoot him
down; do it just as fast as they could make their guns go off.
Q. Did you see any rebel officers about there when this was going
on?
A. Yes, sir; old Forrest was one.
Q. Did you know Forrest?
A. Yes, sir; he was a little bit of a man. I had seen him before
at Jackson.
Ransom Anderson (Colored), Company B, Sixth United States Heavy
Artillery, sworn and examined.
By Mr. Gooch:
Q. Where were you raised?
A. In Mississippi.
Q. Were you a slave?
A. Yes, sir.
Q. Where did you enlist?
A. At Corinth.
Q. Were you in the fight at Fort Pillow?
A. Yes, sir.
Q. Describe what you saw done there.
A. Most all the men that were killed on our side were killed
after the fight was over. They called them out and shot them
down. Then they put some in the houses and shut them up, and
then burned the houses.
Q. Did you see them burn?
A. Yes, sir.
Q. Were any of them alive?
A. Yes, sir; they were wounded, and could not walk. They put them
in the houses, and then burned the houses down.
Q. Do you know they were in there?
A. Yes, sir; I went and looked in there.
Q. Do you know they were in there when the house was burned?
A. Yes, sir; I heard them hallooing there when the houses were
burning.
Q. Are you sure they were wounded men, and not dead men, when
they were put in there?
A. Yes, sir; they told them they were going to have the doctor
see them, and then put them in there and shut them up, and burned
them.
Q. Who set the house on fire?
A. I saw a rebel soldier take some grass and lay it by the door,
and set it on fire. The door was pine plank, and it caught easy.
Q. Was the door fastened up?
A. Yes, sir; it was barred with one of those wide bolts.
James Walls, sworn and examined.
By Mr. Gooch:
Q. To what company did you belong?
A. To Company E, Thirteenth Tennessee Cavalry.
Q. Under what officers did you serve?
A. I was under Major Bradford and Captain Potter.
Q. Were you in the fight at Fort Pillow?
A. Yes, sir.
Q. State what you saw there of the fight, and what was done after
the place was captured.
A. We fought them for some six or eight hours in the Fort, and
when they charged our men scattered and ran under the hill; some
turned back and surrendered, and were shot. After the flag of
truce came in I went down to get some water. As I was coming back
I turned sick, and laid down behind a log. The secesh charged,
and after they came over I saw one go a good ways ahead of the
others. One of our men made to him and threw down his arms. The
bullets were flying so thick there I thought I could not live
there, so I threw down my arms and surrendered. He did not shoot
me then, but as I turned around he or some other one shot me in
the back.
Q. Did they say any thing while they were shooting?
A. All I heard was: "Shoot him, shoot him!" "Yonder he goes!"
"Kill him, kill him!" That is about all I heard.
Q. How many do you suppose you saw shot after they surrendered?
A. I did not see but two or three shot around me. One of the boys
of our company, named Taylor, ran up there, and I saw him shot
and fall. Then another was shot just before me, like--shot down
after he threw down his arms.
Q. Those were white men?
A. Yes, sir. I saw them make lots of niggers stand up, and then
they shot them down like hogs. The next morning I was lying
around there waiting for the boat to come up. The secesh would be
prying around there, and would come to a nigger, and say: "You
ain't dead, are you?" They would not say any thing; and then the
secesh would get down off their horses, prick them in their
sides, and say: "Damn you, you ain't dead; get up." Then they
would make them get up on their knees, when they would shoot them
down like hogs.
* * * * *
Q. Did you see any rebel officers about while this shooting was
going on?
A. I do not know as I saw any officers about when they were
shooting the negroes. A captain came to me a few minutes after I
was shot; he was close by me when I was shot.
Q. Did he try to stop the shooting?
A. I did not hear a word of their trying to stop it. After they
were shot down, he told them not to shoot them any more. I begged
him not to let them shoot me again, and he said they would not.
One man, after he was shot down, was shot again. After I was shot
down, the man I surrendered to went around the tree I was against
and shot a man, and then came around to me again and wanted my
pocket-book. I handed it up to him, and he saw my watch-chain and
made a grasp at it, and got the watch and about half the chain.
He took an old Barlow knife I had in my pocket. It was not worth
five cents; was of no account at all, only to cut tobacco with.
Lieutenant McJ. Leming, sworn and examined.
By Mr. Gooch:
Q. Were you in the fight at Fort Pillow?
A. Yes, sir.
Q. What is your rank and position?
A. I am a First Lieutenant and Adjutant of the Thirteenth
Tennessee Cavalry. A short time previous to the fight I was
Post-Adjutant at Fort Pillow, and during most of the engagement
I was acting as Post-Adjutant. After Major Booth was killed,
Major Bradford was in command. The pickets were driven in just
before sunrise, which was the first intimation we had that the
enemy were approaching. I repaired to the Fort, and found that
Major Booth was shelling the rebels as they came up toward the
outer intrenchments. They kept up a steady fire by sharp-shooters
behind trees and logs and high knolls. The Major thought at one
time they were planting some artillery, or looking for places to
plant it. They began to draw nearer and nearer, up to the time
our men were all drawn into the Fort. Two companies of the
Thirteenth Tennessee Cavalry were ordered out as sharp-shooters,
but were finally ordered in. We were pressed on all sides.
I think Major Booth fell not later than nine o'clock. His
Adjutant, who was then acting Post-Adjutant, fell near the same
time. Major Bradford then took the command, and I acted as
Post-Adjutant. Previous to this, Major Booth had ordered some
buildings in front of the Fort to be destroyed, as the enemy's
sharp-shooters were endeavoring to get possession of them. There
were four rows of buildings, but only the row nearest the fort
was destroyed; the sharp-shooters gained possession of the others
before they could be destroyed. The fight continued, one almost
unceasing fire all the time, until about three o'clock. They
threw some shells, but they did not do much damage with their
shells.
I think it was about three o'clock that a flag of truce
approached. I went out, accompanied by Captain Young, the
Provost-Marshal of the post. There was another officer, I think,
but I do not recollect now particularly who it was, and some four
mounted men. The rebels announced that they had a communication
from General Forrest. One of their officers there, I think, from
his dress, was a colonel. I received the communication, and they
said they would wait for an answer. As near as I remember, the
communication was as follows:
"HEADQUARTERS CONFEDERATE CAVALRY, }
"NEAR FORT PILLOW, April 12, 1864. }
"As your gallant defence of the Fort has entitled you to the
treatment of brave men [or something to that effect], I now
demand an unconditional surrender of your force, at the same
time assuring you that they will be treated as prisoners of
war. I have received a fresh supply of ammunition, and can
easily take your position.
"N. B. FORREST.
"MAJOR L. F. BOOTH,
"_Commanding United States Forces_."
I took this message back to the Fort. Major Bradford replied that
he desired an hour for consultation and consideration with his
officers and the officers of the gun-boat. I took out this
communication to them, and they carried it back to General
Forrest. In a few minutes another flag of truce appeared, and I
went out to meet it. Some one said, when they handed the
communication to me: "That gives you twenty minutes to surrender;
I am General Forrest." I took it back. The substance of it was:
"Twenty minutes will be given you to take your men outside of the
Fort. If in that time they are not out, I will immediately
proceed to assault your works," or something of that kind. To
this Major Bradford replied: "I will not surrender." I took it
out in a sealed envelope, and gave it to him. The general opened
it and read it. Nothing was said; we simply saluted, and they
went their way, and I returned back into the Fort.
Almost instantly the firing began again. We mistrusted, while
this flag of truce was going on, that they were taking horses out
at a camp we had. It was mentioned to them, the last time that
this and other movements excited our suspicion, that they were
moving their troops. They said that they had noticed it
themselves, and had it stopped; that it was unintentional on
their part, and that it should not be repeated.
It was not long after the last flag of truce had retired, that
they made their grand charge. We kept them back for several
minutes. What was called ---- brigade or battalion attacked the
centre of the Fort where several companies of colored troops were
stationed. They finally gave way, and, before we could fill up
the breach, the enemy got inside the Fort, and then they came in
on the other two sides, and had complete possession of the Fort.
In the mean time nearly all the officers had been killed,
especially of the colored troops, and there was no one hardly to
guide the men. They fought bravely indeed until that time. I do
not think the men who broke had a commissioned officer over them.
They fought with the most determined bravery, until the enemy
gained possession of the Fort. They kept shooting all the time.
The negroes ran down the hill toward the river, but the rebels
kept shooting them as they were running; shot some again after
they had fallen; robbed and plundered them. After every thing was
all gone, after we had given up the Fort entirely, the guns
thrown away and the firing on our part stopped, they still kept
up their murderous fire, more especially on the colored troops, I
thought, although the white troops suffered a great deal. I know
the colored troops had a great deal the worst of it. I saw
several shot after they were wounded; as they were crawling
around, the secesh would step out and blow their brains out.
About this time they shot me. It must have been four or half-past
four o'clock. I saw there was no chance at all, and threw down my
sabre. A man took deliberate aim at me, but a short distance from
me, certainly not more than fifteen paces, and shot me.
Q. With a musket or pistol?
A. I think it was a carbine; it may have been a musket, but my
impression is, that it was a carbine. Soon after I was shot I was
robbed. A secesh soldier came along, and wanted to know if I had
any greenbacks. I gave him my pocket-book. I had about a hundred
dollars, I think, more or less, and a gold watch and gold chain.
They took every thing in the way of valuables that I had. I saw
them robbing others. That seemed to be the general way they
served the wounded, so far as regards those who fell in my
vicinity. Some of the colored troops jumped into the river, but
were shot as fast as they were seen. One poor fellow was shot as
he reached the bank of the river. They ran down and hauled him
out. He got on his hands and knees, and was crawling along, when
a secesh soldier put his revolver to his head, and blew his
brains out. It was about the same thing all along, until dark
that night.
I was very weak, but I finally found a rebel who belonged to a
society that I am a member of (the Masons), and he got two of our
colored soldiers to assist me up the hill, and he brought me some
water. At that time it was about dusk. He carried me up just to
the edge of the Fort, and laid me down. There seemed to be quite
a number of dead collected there. They were throwing them into
the outside trench, and I heard them talking about burying them
there. I heard one of them say: "There is a man who is not quite
dead yet." They buried a number there; I do not know how many.
I was carried that night to a sort of little shanty that the
rebels had occupied during the day with their sharp-shooters. I
received no medical attention that night at all. The next morning
early I heard the report of cannon down the river. It was the
gun-boat 28 coming up from Memphis; she was shelling the rebels
along the shore as she came up. The rebels immediately ordered
the burning of all the buildings, and ordered the two buildings
where the wounded were to be fired. Some one called to the
officer who gave the order, and said there were wounded in them.
The building I was in began to catch fire. I prevailed upon one
of our soldiers who had not been hurt much to draw me out, and I
think others got the rest out. They drew us down a little way, in
a sort of gully, and we lay there in the hot sun without water or
any thing.
About this time a squad of rebels came around, it would seem for
the purpose of murdering what negroes they could find. They began
to shoot the wounded negroes all around there, interspersed with
the whites. I was lying a little way from a wounded negro, when a
secesh soldier came up to him, and said: "What in hell are you
doing here?" The colored soldier said he wanted to get on the
gun-boat. The secesh soldier said: "You want to fight us again,
do you? Damn you, I'll teach you," and drew up his gun and shot
him dead. Another negro was standing up erect a little way from
me--he did not seem to be hurt much. The rebel loaded his gun
again immediately. The negro begged of him not to shoot him, but
he drew up his gun and took deliberate aim at his head. The gun
snapped, but he fixed it again, and then killed him. I saw this.
I heard them shooting all around there--I suppose killing them.
By the Chairman:
Q. Do you know of any rebel officers going on board our gun-boat
after she came up?
A. I don't know about the gun-boat, but I saw some of them on
board the "Platte Valley," after I had been carried on her. They
came on board, and I think went into drink with some of our
officers. I think one of the rebel officers was General Chalmers.
Q. Do you know what officers of ours drank with them?
A. I do not.
Q. You know that they did go on board the "Platte Valley" and
drink with some of our officers?
A. I did not see them drinking at the time, but I have no doubt
they did; that was my impression from all I saw, and I thought
our officers might have been in better business.
Q. Were our officers treating these rebel officers with
attention?
A. They seemed to be; I did not see much of it, as they passed
along by me.
Q. Do you know whether or not the conduct of the privates, in
murdering our soldiers after they had surrendered, seemed to have
the approval of their officers?
A. I did not see much of their officers, especially during the
worst of those outrages; they seemed to be back.
Q. Did you observe any effort on the part of their officers to
suppress the murders?
A. No, sir; I did not see any where I was first carried; just
about dusk, all at once several shots were fired just outside.
The cry was: "They are shooting the darkey soldiers." I heard an
officer ride up and say: "Stop that firing; arrest that man." I
suppose it was a rebel officer, but I do not know. It was
reported to me, at the time, that several darkeys were shot then.
An officer who stood by me, a prisoner, said that they had been
shooting them, but that the general had had it stopped.
Q. Do you know of any of our men in the hospital being murdered?
A. I do not.
Q. Do you know any thing of the fate of your Quartermaster,
Lieutenant Akerstrom?
A. He was one of the officers who went with me to meet the flag
of truce the last time. I do not know what became of him; that
was about the last I saw of him. I heard that he was nailed to a
board and burned, and I have very good reason for believing that
was the case, although I did not see it. The First Lieutenant of
Company D of my regiment says that he has an affidavit to that
effect of a man who saw it.
Francis A. Alexander, sworn and examined.
By the Chairman:
Q. To what company and regiment do you belong?
A. Company C, Thirteenth Tennessee Cavalry.
Q. Were you at Fort Pillow at the fight there?
A. Yes, sir.
Q. Who commanded your regiment?
A. Major Bradford commanded the regiment, and Lieutenant Logan
commanded our company.
Q. By what troops was the Fort attacked?
A. Forrest was in command. I saw him.
Q. Did you know Forrest?
A. I saw him there, and they all said it was Forrest. Their own
men said so.
Q. By what troops was the charge made?
A. They are Alabamians and Texans.
Q. Did you see any thing of a flag of truce?
A. Yes, sir.
Q. State what was done while the flag of truce was in.
A. When the flag of truce came up our officers went out and held
a consultation, and it went back. They came in again with a flag
of truce; and while they were consulting the second time, their
troops were coming up a gap or hollow, where we could have cut
them to pieces. They tried it before, but could not do it. I saw
them come up there while the flag of truce was in the second
time.
Q. That gave them an advantage?
A. Yes, sir.
Q. Were you wounded there?
A. Not in the Fort. I was wounded after I left the Fort and was
going down the hill.
Q. Was that before or after the Fort was taken?
A. It was afterward.
Q. Did you have any arms in your hand at the time they shot you?
A. No, sir; I threw my gun away, and started down the hill, and
got about twenty yards, when I was shot through the calf of the
leg.
Q. Did they shoot you more than once?
A. No, sir; they shot at me, but did not hit me more than once.
Q. Did they say why they shot you after you had surrendered?
A. They said afterward they intended to kill us all for being
there with their niggers.
Q. Were any rebel officers there at the time this shooting was
going on?
A. Yes, sir.
Q. Did they try to stop it?
A. One or two of them did.
Q. What did the rest of them do?
A. They kept shouting and hallooing at the men to give no
quarter. I heard that cry very frequent.
Q. Was it the officers that said that?
A. I think it was. I think it was them, the way they were going
on. When our boys were taken prisoners, if anybody came up who
knew them, they shot them down. As soon as ever they recognized
them, wherever it was, they shot them.
Q. After they had taken them prisoners?
A. Yes, sir.
Q. Did you know any thing about their shooting men in the
hospitals?
A. I know of their shooting negroes in there. I don't know about
white men.
Q. Wounded negro men?
A. Yes, sir.
Q. Who did that?
A. Some of their troops. I don't know which of them. The next
morning I saw several black people shot that were wounded, and
some that were not wounded. One was going down the hill before
me, and the officer made him come back up the hill; and after I
got in the boat I heard them shooting them.
Q. You say you saw them shoot negroes in the hospital the next
morning?
A. Yes, sir; wounded negroes who could not get along; one with
his leg broke. They came there the next day and shot him.
John F. Ray, sworn and examined.
By Mr. Gooch:
Q. To what company and regiment do you belong?
A. Company B, Thirteenth Tennessee Cavalry.
Q. Were you at Fort Pillow, when it was attacked?
A. Yes, sir.
Q. At what time were you wounded?
A. I was wounded about two o'clock, after the rebels got in the
breastworks.
Q. Was it before or after you had surrendered?
A. It was after I threw down my gun, as they all started to run.
Q. Will you state what you saw there?
A. After I surrendered they shot down a great many white fellows
right close to me--ten or twelve, I suppose--and a great many
negroes, too.
Q. How long did they keep shooting our men after they
surrendered?
A. I heard guns away after dark shooting all that evening,
somewhere; they kept up a regular fire for a long time, and then
I heard the guns once in a while.
Q. Did you see any one shot the next day?
A. I did not; I was in a house, and could not get up at all.
Q. Do you know what became of the Quartermaster of your regiment,
Lieutenant Akerstrom?
A. He was shot by the side of me.
Q. Was he killed?
A. I thought so at the time; he fell on his face. He was shot in
the forehead, and I thought he was killed. I heard afterward he
was not.
Q. Did you notice any thing that took place while the flag of
truce was in?
A. I saw the rebels slipping up and getting in the ditch along
our breastworks.
Q. How near did they come up?
A. They were right at us; right across from the breastworks. I
asked them what they were slipping up there for. They made answer
that they knew their business.
Q. Are you sure this was done while the flag of truce was in?
A. Yes, sir. There was no firing; we could see all around; we
could see them moving up all around in large force.
Q. Was any thing said about it except what you said to the
rebels?
A. I heard all our boys talking about it. I heard some of our
officers remark, as they saw it coming, that the white flag was a
bad thing; that they were slipping on us. I believe it was
Lieutenant Akerstrom that I heard say it was against the rules of
war for them to come up in that way.
Q. To whom did he say that?
A. To those fellows coming up; they had officers with them.
Q. Was Lieutenant Akerstrom shot before or after he had
surrendered?
A. About two minutes after the flag of truce went back, during
the action.
Q. Do you think of any thing else to state? If so, go on and
state it.
A. I saw a rebel lieutenant take a little negro[114] boy up on
the horse behind him; and then I heard General Chalmers--I think
it must have been--tell him to "Take that negro down and shoot
him," or "Take him and shoot him," and he passed him down and
shot him.
Q. How large was the boy?
A. He was not more than eight years old. I heard the lieutenant
tell the other that the negro was not in the service; that he was
nothing but a child; that he was pressed and brought in there.
The other one said; "Damn the difference; take him down and shoot
him, or I will shoot him." I think it must have been General
Chalmers. He was a smallish man; he had on a long gray coat, with
a star on his coat.[115]
The country and the world stood aghast. The first account of this
human butchery was too much for credence: after a while the truth
began to dawn upon the country; and at last the people admitted that
in a Christian land like America a deed so foul--blacker than hell
itself!--had actually been perpetrated. The patience of the North and
the Union army gave way to bitterest imprecations; the exultation and
applause of the South and Confederate army were succeeded by serious
thoughts and sad reflections. But it is the duty of impartial history
to record that this bloody, sickening affair was not endorsed by all
the rebels.
In a letter dated Okalona, Mississippi, June. 14, 1864, to the
"Atlanta Appeal," a rebel gives this endorsement of Forrest's conduct
at Fort Pillow:
"You have heard that our soldiers buried negroes alive at Fort
Pillow. This is true. At the first fire after Forrest's men
scaled the walls, many of the negroes threw down their arms and
fell as if they were dead. They perished in the pretence, and
could only be restored at the point of the bayonet. To
resuscitate some of them, more terrified than the rest, they were
rolled into the trenches made as receptacles for the fallen.
Vitality was not restored till breathing was obstructed, and then
the resurrection began. On these facts is based the pretext for
the crimes committed by Sturgis, Grierson, and their followers.
You must remember, too, that in the extremity of their terror, or
for other reasons, the Yankees and negroes in Fort Pillow
neglected to haul down their flag. In truth, relying upon their
gun-boats, the officers expected to annihilate our forces after
we had entered the fortifications. They did not intend to
surrender.
"A terrible retribution, in any event, has befallen the ignorant,
deluded Africans."
Gen. Forrest was a cold-blooded murderer; a fiend in human form. But
as the grave has opened long since to receive him; and as the cause he
represented has perished from the earth, it is enough to let the
record stand without comment, and God grant without malice! It is the
duty of history to record that there is to be found no apologist for
cruelties that rebels inflicted upon brave but helpless Black soldiers
during the war for the extirpation of slavery. The Confederate conduct
at Pillow must remain a foul stain upon the name of the men who fought
to perpetuate human slavery in North America, but failed.
FOOTNOTES:
[112] New York Tribune, April 14, 1863.
[113] Rebellion Recs., vol. viii. Doc. pp. 418, 419.
[114] Gen. Chalmers has denied, with vehemence, that he ever did any
cruel act at Fort Pillow, but the record is against him. Soldiers
under brave, intelligent, and humane officers could never be guilty of
such cruel and unchristian conduct as these rebels at Pillow. Gen.
Chalmers is responsible. As an illustration of the gentle and
forgiving spirit of the Negro, it should be recorded here that many
supported the candidacy of Gen. Chalmers for Congress, and voted for
him at the recent election in Mississippi.
[115] See Report of Committee on Conduct of War.
Part 8.
_THE FIRST DECADE OF FREEDOM._
CHAPTER XXI.
RECONSTRUCTION[116]--MISCONSTRUCTION.
1865-1875.
THE WAR OVER, PEACE RESTORED, AND THE NATION CLEANSED OF A
PLAGUE.--SLAVERY GIVES PLACE TO A LONG TRAIN OF
EVENTS.--UNSETTLED CONDITION OF AFFAIRS AT THE SOUTH.--THE
ABSENCE OF LEGAL CIVIL GOVERNMENT NECESSITATES THE ESTABLISHMENT
OF PROVISIONAL MILITARY GOVERNMENT.--AN ACT ESTABLISHING A BUREAU
FOR REFUGEES AND ABANDONED LANDS.--CONGRESSIONAL METHODS FOR THE
RECONSTRUCTION OF THE SOUTH.--GEN. U. S. GRANT CARRIES THESE
STATES IN 1868 AND 1872.--BOTH BRANCHES OF THE LEGISLATURES IN
ALL THE SOUTHERN STATES CONTAIN NEGRO MEMBERS.--THE ERRORS OF
RECONSTRUCTION CHARGEABLE TO BOTH SECTIONS OF THE COUNTRY.
Appomattox had taken her place in history; and the echo of the triumph
of Federal arms was heard in the palaces of Europe. The United States
Government had survived the shock of the embattled arms of a gigantic
Rebellion; had melted the manacles of four million slaves in the fires
of civil war; had made four million bondmen freemen; had wiped slavery
from the map of North America; had demonstrated the truth that the
Constitution is the supreme law of the land; and that the United
States is a NATION, not a league.
The brazen-mouthed, shotted cannon were voiceless; a million muskets
and swords hung upon the dusty walls of silent arsenals; and war
ceased from the proud altitudes of the mountains of Virginia to where
the majestic Atlantic washes the shores of the Carolinas. A million
soldiers in blue melted quietly into the modest garb of citizens. The
myriad hum of busy shuttles, clanking machinery, and whirling wheels
proclaimed the day of peace. Families and communities were restored
and bound together by the indissoluble, golden ties of domestic
charities. The war was over; peace had been restored; and the nation
was cleansed of a plague.
But what was to be done with the millions of Negroes at the South? The
war had made them free. That was all. They could leave the plantation.
They had the right of locomotion; were property no longer. But what a
spectacle! Here were four million human beings without clothing,
shelter, homes, and, alas! most of them without names. The galling
harness of slavery had been cut off of their weary bodies, and like a
worn-out beast of burden they stood in their tracks scarcely able to
go anywhere. Like men coming from long confinement in a dark dungeon,
the first rays of freedom blinded their expectant eyes. They were
almost delirious with joy. The hopes and fears, the joys and sorrows,
the pain and waiting, the prayers and tears of the cruel years of
slavery gave place to a long train of events that swept them out into
the rapid current of a life totally different from the checkered
career whence they had just emerged. It required time, patience, and
extraordinary wisdom on the part of the Government to solve the
problem of this people's existence--of this "Nation born in a day."
Their joy was too full, their peace too profound, and their
thanksgiving too sincere to attract their attention at once to the
vulgar affairs of daily life. One fervent, beautiful psalm of praise
rose from every Negro hut in the South, and swelled in majestic
sweetness until the nation became one mighty temple canopied by the
stars and stripes, and the Constitution as the common altar before
whose undimmed lights a ransomed race humbly bowed.
The emancipated Negroes had no ability, certainly no disposition, to
reason concerning the changes and disasters which had overtaken their
former masters. The white people of the South were divided into three
classes. _First_, those who felt that defeat was intolerable, and a
residence in this country incongenial. They sought the service of the
Imperial cause in war-begrimed Mexico; they went to Cuba, Australia,
Egypt, and to Europe. _Second_, those who returned to their homes
after the "affair at Appomattox," and sitting down under the
portentous clouds of defeat, refused to take any part in the
rehabilitation of their States. _Third_, those who accepted the
situation and stood ready to aid in the work of reconstruction.
In the unsettled condition of affairs at the close of hostilities, as
there was no legal State governments at the South, necessity and
prudence suggested the temporary policy of dividing the South into
military districts. A provisional military government in the conquered
States was to pursue a pacific, protective, helpful policy. The people
of both races were to be fed and clothed. Schools were to be
established; agriculture and industry encouraged. Courts were to be
established of competent jurisdiction to hear and decide cases among
the people. Such a government while military in name was patriarchal
in spirit. As early as the spring of 1865, before the war was over, an
act was passed by Congress providing for the destitute of the South.
"AN ACT TO ESTABLISH A BUREAU FOR THE RELIEF OF FREEDMEN AND
REFUGEES.
"_Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled_, That there is
hereby established in the War Department, to continue during the
present war of rebellion, and for one year thereafter, a Bureau
of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned Lands, to which shall be
committed, as hereinafter provided, the supervision and
management of all abandoned lands, and the control of all
subjects relating to refugees and freedmen from rebel States, or
from any district of country within the territory embraced in the
operations of the army, under such rules and regulations as may
be prescribed by the head of the bureau and approved by the
President. The said bureau shall be under the management and
control of a commissioner, to be appointed by the President, by
and with the advice and consent of the Senate, whose compensation
shall be three thousand dollars per annum, and such number of
clerks as may be assigned to him by the Secretary of War, not
exceeding one chief clerk, two of the fourth class, two of the
third class, three of the second class, and five of the first
class. And the commissioner and all persons appointed under this
act shall, before entering upon their duties, take the oath of
office prescribed in an act entitled, 'An act to prescribe an
oath of office, and for other purposes,' approved July 2, 1862.
And the commissioners and the chief clerk shall, before entering
upon their duties, give bonds to the Treasurer of the United
States, the former in the sum of fifty thousand dollars, and the
latter in the sum of ten thousand dollars, conditioned for the
faithful discharge of their duties respectively, with securities
to be approved as sufficient by the attorney general, which bonds
shall be filed in the office of the First Comptroller of the
Treasury, to be by him put in suit for the benefit of any injured
party, upon any breach of the conditions thereof.
"SEC. 2. _And be it further enacted_, That the Secretary of War
may direct such issues of provisions, clothing, and fuel as he
may deem needful for the immediate and temporary shelter and
supply of destitute and suffering refugees and freedmen, and
their wives and children, under such rules and regulations as he
may direct.
"SEC. 3. _And be it further enacted_, That the President may, by
and with the advice and consent of the Senate, appoint an
assistant commissioner for each of the States declared to be in
insurrection, not exceeding ten in number, who shall, under the
direction of the commissioner, aid in the execution of the
provisions of this act, and he shall give a bond to the Treasurer
of the United States in the sum of twenty thousand dollars, in
the form and manner prescribed in the first section of this act.
Each of said assistant commissioners shall receive an annual
salary of two thousand and five hundred dollars, in full
compensation for all his services. And any military officer may
be detailed and assigned to duty under this act without increase
of pay or allowances. The commissioner shall, before the
commencement of each regular session of Congress, make full
report of his proceedings, with exhibits of the state of his
accounts, to the President, who shall communicate the same to
Congress, and shall also make special reports whenever required
to do so by the President, or either house of Congress. And the
assistant commissioners shall make quarterly reports of their
proceedings to the commissioner, and also such other special
reports as from time to time may be required.
"SEC. 4. _And be it further enacted_, That the commissioner,
under the direction of the President, shall have authority to set
apart for the use of loyal refugees and freedmen such tracts of
land, within the insurrectionary States, as shall have been
abandoned, or to which the United States shall have acquired
title by confiscation, or sale, or otherwise. And to every male
citizen, whether refugee or freedman, as aforesaid, there shall
be assigned not more than forty acres of such land, and the
person to whom it is so assigned shall be protected in the use
and enjoyment of the land for the term of three years, at an
annual rent not exceeding six per centum upon the value of said
land as it was appraised by the State authorities in the year
1860, for the purpose of taxation, and in case no such appraisal
can be found, then the rental shall be based upon the estimated
value of the land in said year, to be ascertained in such manner
as the commissioner may, by regulation, prescribe. At the end of
said term, or at any time during said term, the occupants of any
parcels so assigned may purchase the land and receive such title
thereto as the United States can convey, upon paying therefor
the value of the land, as ascertained and fixed for the purpose
of determining the annual rent as aforesaid.
"SEC. 5. _And be it further enacted_, That all acts and parts of
acts inconsistent with the provisions of this act are hereby
repealed.
"ROBERT C. SCHENCK, HENRY WILSON,
"GEORGE S. BOUTWELL, JAMES HARLAN,
"JAMES S. ROLLINS, W. T. WILLEY,
"_Managers on part of House._ _Managers on part of Senate._"
To have subjected the late rebellious States to military rule for a
stated term of years, say a decade or a generation, would have given
force to the hasty statement of rebels and their sympathizers in the
courts of Europe. It was charged that the United States Government
fought to subjugate the Confederate States. The United States did not
"begin it," and did not intend, at any time, to lay the mailed hand of
military power against the throat of the rights of loyal citizens or
loyal States. The _sine qua non_ of reconstruction was _loyalty to the
Federal Government_. But while this idea was next to the heart of the
Government, the sudden and horrible taking off of Abraham Lincoln
discovered many master-builders, who built not well or wisely. The
early education of Andrew Johnson was not in line with the work of
reconstruction. His sympathies were with the South in spite of his
position and circumstances. The friends of his early political life
were more potent than the friends of a sound, sensible, and loyal
policy upon which to build the shattered governments of the South. And
by indicating and advocating a policy at variance with the logical
events of the war, he was guilty of a political crime, and did the
entire nation an irreparable injury.
Congress seemed to be unequal to the task of perfecting a proper plan
for reconstructing the Southern States. To couple general amnesty to
the rebels with suffrage to the Negroes was a most fatal policy. It
has been shown that there was but one class of white men in the South
friendly to reconstruction,--numerically, small; and mentally, weak.
But it was thought best to do this. To a triple element Congress
committed the work of reconstruction. The "_Scalawag_," the
"_Carpet-bagger_," and the _Negro_. Who were this trio? The scalawag
was the native white man who made up the middle class of the South;
the planter above, the Negro below. And between this upper and nether
millstone he was destined to be ground to powder, under the old
regime. A "nigger-driver," without schools, social position, or money,
he was "the poor white trash" of the South. He was loyal during the
war, because in the triumph of the Confederacy, with slavery as its
corner-stone, he saw no hope for his condition. Those of them who
fought under the rebel flag were unwilling conscripts. They had no
qualifications for governing--except that they were _loyal_; and this
was of no more use to them in this great work, than _piety_ in the
pulpit when the preacher cannot repeat the Lord's prayer without
biting his tongue. The carpet-baggers ran all the way from "good to
middling." Some went South with fair ability and good morals, where
they lost the latter article and never found it; while many more went
South to get all they could and keep all they got. The Negro could
boast of numerical strength only. The scalawag managed the Negro, the
latter did the voting, while the carpet-bagger held the offices. And
when there were "more stalls than horses" the Negroes and scalawags
occasionally got an office.
The rebels were still in a swoon.
The States were reconstructed, after a manner, and the governments
went forward.
In 1868 Gen. U. S. Grant carried these States. It was like the handle
on a jug, all on one side. The rebels took no part; but after a while
a gigantic Ku Klux conspiracy was discovered. This organization sought
to obstruct the courts, harass the Negroes, and cripple local
governments. It spread terror through the South and made a political
graveyard of startling dimensions. The writ of _habeas corpus_ was
suspended; arrests made, trials and convictions secured, and the
penitentiary at Albany, New York, crowded with the enemies of law and
order. A subsidence followed, and the scalawag-carpetbag-Negro
governments began a fresh existence.
In 1872 Gen. Grant carried the Southern States again, meeting with but
little resistance. In Louisiana, Mississippi, and South Carolina there
were Negro lieutenant-governors. The Negroes were learning rapidly the
lesson of rotation in office, and demanded recognition. Alabama,
Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and South Carolina, were
represented, in part, by Negroes in the National House of
Representatives, and Mississippi in the Senate as well. Both branches
of the Legislatures of all the Southern States contained Negro
members; while many of the most important and lucrative offices in
the States were held by Negroes.
The wine cup, the gaming-table, and the parlors of strange women
charmed many of these men to the neglect of important public duties.
The bonded indebtedness of these States began to increase, the State
paper to depreciate, the burden of taxation to grow intolerable, bad
laws to find their way into the statute-books, interest in education
and industry to decline, the farm Negroes to grow idle and gravitate
to the infectious skirts of large cities, and the whole South went
from bad to worse.
The hand of revenge reached for the shot-gun, and before its deadly
presence white leaders were intimidated, driven out, or destroyed.
Before 1875 came, the white element in the Republican party at the
South was reduced to a mere shadow of its former self. Thus abandoned,
the Negro needed the presence of the United States army while he
voted, held office, and drew his salary. But even the army lacked the
power to inject life into the collapsed governments at the South.
The mistake of reconstruction was twofold: on the part of the Federal
Government, in committing the destinies of the Southern States to
hands so feeble; and on the part of the South, in that its best men,
instead of taking a lively interest in rebuilding the governments they
had torn down, allowed them to be constructed with untempered mortar.
Neither the South nor the Government could say: "Thou canst not say I
did it: shake not thy gory locks at me." Both were culpable, and both
have suffered the pangs of remorse.
FOOTNOTES:
[116] I am preparing a History of the Reconstruction of the Late
Confederate States, 1865-1880. Hence I shall not enter into a thorough
treatment of the subject in this work. It will follow this work, and
comprise two volumes.
CHAPTER XXII.
THE RESULTS OF EMANCIPATION.
THE APPARENT IDLENESS OF THE NEGRO SPORADIC RATHER THAN
GENERIC.--HE QUIETLY SETTLES DOWN TO WORK.--THE GOVERNMENT MAKES
AMPLE PROVISIONS FOR HIS EDUCATIONAL AND SOCIAL IMPROVEMENT.--THE
MARVELLOUS PROGRESS MADE BY THE PEOPLE OF THE SOUTH IN
EDUCATION.--EARLIEST SCHOOL FOR FREEDMEN AT FORTRESS MONROE IN
1861.--THE RICHMOND INSTITUTE FOR COLORED YOUTH.--THE UNLIMITED
DESIRE OF THE NEGROES TO OBTAIN AN EDUCATION.--GENERAL ORDER
ORGANIZING A "BUREAU OF REFUGEES, FREEDMEN, AND ABANDONED
LANDS."--GEN. O. O. HOWARD APPOINTED COMMISSIONER OF THE
BUREAU.--REPORT OF ALL THE RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURES OF THE
FREEDMEN'S BUREAU FROM 1865-1867.--AN ACT INCORPORATING THE
FREEDMAN'S BANK AND TRUST COMPANY.--THE BUSINESS OF THE COMPANY
AS SHOWN FROM 1866-1871.--FINANCIAL STATEMENT BY THE TRUSTEES FOR
1872.--FAILURE OF THE BANK.--THE SOCIAL AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
OF THE COLORED PEOPLE IN THE SOUTH.--THE NEGRO RARELY RECEIVES
JUSTICE IN SOUTHERN COURTS.--TREATMENT OF NEGROES AS CONVICTS IN
SOUTHERN PRISONS.--INCREASE OF THE COLORED PEOPLE FROM
1790-1880.--NEGROES SUSCEPTIBLE OF THE HIGHEST CIVILIZATION.
Surely some good did come out of Nazareth. The poor, deluded,
misguided, confiding Negro finished his long holiday at last, and
turning from the dream of "forty acres and a mule," settled down to
the stubborn realities of his new life of duties, responsibilities,
and privileges. His idleness was sporadic, not generic,--it was simply
reaction. He had worked faithfully, incessantly for two centuries and
a half; had enriched the South with the sweat of his brow; and in two
wars had baptized the soil with his patriotic blood. And when the year
of jubilee came he enjoyed himself right royally.
This disposition to frolic on the part of the Negro gave rise to grave
concern among his friends, and was promptly accepted as conclusive
proof of his unfitness for the duties of a freeman by his enemies. But
he soon dispelled the fears of his friends and disarmed the prejudices
of his foes.
As already shown there was no provision made for the education of the
Negro before the war; every thing had been done to keep him in
ignorance. To emancipate 4,000,000 of slaves and absorb them into the
political life of the government without detriment to both was indeed
a formidable undertaking. Republics gain their strength and
perpetuity from the self-governing force in the people; and in order
to be self-governing a people must be educated. Moreover, all good
laws that are cheerfully obeyed are but the emphatic expression of
public sentiment. Where the great majority of the people are kept in
ignorance the tendency is toward the production of two other classes,
aristocrats and political "Herders." The former seek to get as far
from "the common herd" as possible, while the latter bid off the
rights of the poor and ignorant to the highest bidder.
It was quite appropriate for the Government to make speedy provision
for plying the mass of ignorant Negroes with school influences. And
the liberality of the provision was equalled by the eagerness of the
Negroes to learn. Nor should history fail to record that the
establishment of schools for freedmen by the Government was the
noblest, most sensible act it could have done. What the Negroes have
accomplished through these schools is the marvel of the age.
On the 20th of May, 1865, Major-Gen. O. O. Howard was appointed
Commissioner of the Freedmen's Bureau. He gave great attention to the
subject of education; and after planting schools for the freedmen
throughout a great portion of the South, in 1870--five years after the
work was begun--he made a report. It was full of interest. In five
years there were 4,239 schools established, 9,307 teachers employed,
and 247,333 pupils instructed. In 1868 the average attendance was
89,396; but in 1870 it was 91,398, or 79-3/4 per cent. of the total
number enrolled. The emancipated people sustained 1,324 schools
themselves, and owned 592 school buildings. The Freedmen's Bureau
furnished 654 buildings for school purposes. The wonderful progress
they made from year to year, in scholarship, may be fairly judged by
the following, corresponding with the half year in 1869:
JULY, 1869. JULY, 1870.
Advanced readers 43,746 43,540
Geography 36,992 39,321
Arithmetic 51,172 52,417
Writing 53,606 58,034
Higher branches 7,627 9,690
There were 74 high and normal schools, with 8,147 students; and 61
industrial schools, with 1,750 students in attendance. In doing this
great work--for buildings, repairs, teachers, etc.,--$1,002,896.07
was expended. Of this sum the _freedmen raised_ $200,000.00! This was
conclusive proof that emancipation was no mistake. Slavery was a
twofold cross of woe to the land. It did not only degrade the slave,
but it blunted the sensibilities, and, by its terrible weight, carried
down under the slimy rocks of society some of the best white people in
the South. Like a cankerous malady its venom has touched almost every
side of American life.
The white race is in a constant and almost overpowering relation to
the other races upon this continent. It is the duty of this great
totality of intellectual life and force, to supply adequate facilities
for the education of the less intelligent and less fortunate. Of every
ten thousand (10,000) inhabitants there are:
WHITE. COLORED. CHINESE. INDIANS.
In the States 8,711 1,269 15 5
In the Territories 8,711 1,017 158 114
In the whole Union 8,711 1,266 16 7
When we turn our attention to the Southern States, we shall find that
the white people are in excess of the Colored as follows:
MAJORITY.
Alabama 45,874
Arkansas 239,946
Delaware 79,427
Florida 4,368
Georgia 93,774
Kentucky 876,442
Maryland 430,106
Missouri 1,485,075
North Carolina 286,820
Tennessee 613,788
Texas 311,225
Virginia 199,248
West Virginia 406,043
while the Colored people are in excess in only three States, having
over the whites the following majorities:
MAJORITY.
Louisiana 2,145
South Carolina 126,147
Mississippi 61,305
This leaves the whites in these sixteen States in a majority of
4,882,539, over the Colored people. There are more than two whites to
every Colored in the entire population in these States.
Group the States and territories into three geographical classes, and
designate them as Northern, Pacific, and Southern. The first may
comprise all the "free States," where slavery never existed; put in
the second the three Pacific States and all the territories, except
the District of Columbia; and in the third gather all the "slave
States" and the District. Now then, in the Northern class, out of
every 14 persons who can neither read nor write, 13 are white. In the
Pacific class, out of every 23 who can neither read nor write, 20 are
white. In the Southern class, out of every 42 who can neither read nor
write, 15 are white. Thus it can be seen that the white illiterates of
the United States outnumber those of all the other races together. It
might be profitable to the gentlemen who, upon every convenient
occasion, rail about "the deplorable ignorance of the blacks," to look
up this question a little![117]
The Colored people have made wonderful progress in educational matters
since the war. Take a few States for examples of what they are doing.
In Georgia, in 1860, there were 458,540 slaves. In 1870 there were 87
private schools, 79 teachers with 3,021 pupils. Of other schools, more
public in character, there were 221, with an attendance of 11,443
pupils. In 1876 the Colored school population of this State was
48,643, with 879 schools; and with 55,268 pupils in public and private
schools in 1877.
In South Carolina, in 1874, there were 63,415 Colored children
attending the public schools; in 1876 there were 70,802, or an
increase of 7,387.
In Virginia, in 1870, there were 39,000 Colored pupils in the schools,
which were few in number. In 1874 there were 54,941 pupils; in 1876
there were 62,178, or again of 7,237. In 1874 there were 539 teachers;
in 1876 there were 636, or an increase of 97. In 1874 there were 1,064
schools for Colored youth; in 1876 there were 1,181, or an increase of
117.
In the District of Columbia, in 1871, there were 4,986 Colored
children in 69 schools, with 71 teachers. In 1876, of Colored schools
in the District, 62 were primary, 13 grammar, and 1 high, with an
enrolment of 5,454.
The following statistics exhibit the wonderful progress the Colored
people of the South have made during the brief period of their freedom
in the department of education. These tables come as near showing the
extent, the miraculous magnitude of the work, as is possible.
COMPARATIVE STATISTICS OF EDUCATION AT THE SOUTH.
_Table showing comparative population and enrolment of the White and
Colored races in the public schools of the recent slave States, with
total annual expenditure for the same in 1879._
White. Colored.
States. ------------------------ -----------------------
[A] [B] [C] [A] [B] [C] [D][a]
Alabama 214,098 106,950 50 162,551 67,635 42 $377,033
Arkansas [b]174,253 [b]39,063 22 [b]62,348 [b]13,980 22 205,449
Delaware 31,849 23,830 75 3,800 2,842 75 223,638
Florida [c]40,606 [bc]18,169 45 [c]42,001[bc]18,795 45 [c]134,880
Georgia [c]236,319 147,192 62[c]197,125 79,435 40 465,748
Kentucky [d]476,870 [e]208,500 48 [d]62,973 [e]19,107 30[e]1,130,000
Louisiana [c]141,130 44,052 31[c]133,276 34,476 26 529,065
Maryland [f]213,669 138,029 65 [f]63,591 27,457 43 1,551,558
Mississippi 156,434 105,957 68 205,936 111,796 54 641,548
Missouri 663,135 428,992 65 39,018 20,790 53 3,069,464
North Carolina 271,348 153,534 57 154,841 85,215 55 337,541
South Carolina [e]83,813 58,368 70[e]144,315 64,095 44 319,320
Tennessee 388,355 208,858 54 126,288 55,829 44 710,652
Texas [b]160,482 [c]111,048 69 [b]47,842 [c]35,896 75 837,913
Virginia 280,849 72,306 26 202,852 35,768 18 570,389
West Virginia 198,844 132,751 67 7,279 3,775 52 709,071
District of
Columbia[c] 26,426 16,085 61 [c]12,374 9,045 73 368,343
------------------------------------------------------------
Total 3,758,480 2,013,684 1,668,410 685,942 12,181,602
Transcriber's Note: The following column heading text appeared
directly above the respective columns. The text is shown here
to minimize the table width.
[A] School population.
[B] Enrolment.
[C] Percentage of school population enrolled.
[D] Total expenditure for both races.
[a] In Delaware and Kentucky the school tax collected from Colored
citizens is the only State appropriation for the support of Colored
schools; in Maryland there is a biennial appropriation by the
Legislature; in the District of Columbia one third of the school
moneys is set apart for Colored public schools; and in the other
States mentioned above the school moneys are divided in proportion to
the school population without regard to race.
[b] Estimated by the Bureau.
[c] In 1878.
[d] For whites the school age is 6-20; for Colored, 6-16.
[e] In 1877.
[f] Census of 1870.
_Statistics of institutions for the instruction of the Colored race
for 1879._
Name and class of institution. Location.
Students.
Instructors. |
Religious | |
denomination. | |
NORMAL SCHOOLS. | | |
| | |
Rust Normal Institute Huntsville, Ala. Meth. 3 235
State Normal School for Colored
Students Huntsville, Ala. . 2 51
Lincoln Normal University Marion, Ala. . [a]5 [a]225
Emerson Institute Mobile, Ala. Cong. 6 240
Alabama Baptist Normal and
Theological School Selma, Ala. Bapt. 6 250
Normal department of
Talladega College Talladega, Ala. Cong. 6 95
State Normal School for Colored
Students Pine Bluff, Ark. . 4 72
Normal department of Atlanta
University Atlanta, Ga. Cong. [a]176
Haven Normal School Waynesboro', Ga. Meth. 125
Normal department of Berea College Berea, Ky. Cong. [b] [b]
Normal department of New Orleans
University New Orleans, La. Meth. . .
Normal department of Straight
University New Orleans, La. Cong. [b] 91
Peabody Normal School New Orleans, La. . [a]2 [a]35
Baltimore Normal School
for Colored Pupils Baltimore, Md. . 4 190
Centenary Biblical Institute Baltimore, Md. M. E. [a]5 [a]75
Natchez Seminary Natchez, Miss. Bapt. 4 46
Tougaloo University and
Normal School Tougaloo, Miss. Cong. 6 96
Lincoln Institute Jefferson, Mo. . 6 139
State Normal School for Colored
Students Fayetteville, N. C. . 3 93
Bennett Seminary Greensboro'. N. C. Meth. 3 125
Lumberton Normal School Lumberton, N. C. . 2 51
St. Augustine's Normal School Raleigh, N. C. P. E. 4 81
Shaw University Raleigh, N. C. Bapt. 5 192
Institute for Colored Youth Philadelphia, Pa. Friends. . 300
Avery Normal Institute Charleston, S. C. Cong. 8 322
Normal department of Brainerd
Institute Chester, S. C. Presb. 3 50
Claflin University,
normal department Orangeburg, S. C. M. E. 3 167
Fairfield Normal Institute Winnsboro', S. C. Presb. 390
The Warner Institute Jonesborough, Tenn. . [c]4 [c]149
Knoxville College Knoxville, Tenn. Presb. 13 240
Freedman's Normal Institute Maryville, Tenn. Friends. [a]4 [a]229
Le Moyne Normal Institute Memphis, Tenn. Cong. [a]200
Central Tennessee College, normal [a]7
department Nashville, Tenn. M. E. 3 114
Nashville Normal and Theological
Institute Nashville, Tenn. Bapt. 6 231
Normal department of
Fisk University Nashville, Tenn. Cong. 5 215
Tillotson Collegiate and Normal
Institute Austin, Tex. . 3 158
State Normal School of Texas for
Colored Students Prairie View, Tex. . 3 49
Hampton Normal and Agricultural
Institute[d] Hampton, Va. Cong. [e]28 [e]320
St. Stephen's Normal School Petersburg, Va. P. E. 8 240
Miner Normal School Washington, D. C. . 5 19
Normal department of
Howard University Washington, D. C. Non-sect. 2 95
Normal department of
Wayland Seminary Washington, D. C. Bapt. [f] [f]
---- -----
Total 181 6,171
INSTITUTIONS FOR SECONDARY INSTRUCTION.
Trinity School Athens, Ala. Cong. 2 162
Dadeville Seminary Dadeville, Ala. M. E. . .
Lowery's Industrial Academy Hunstville, Ala. . . .
Swayne School Montgomery, Ala. Cong. 6 470
Burrell School Selma, Ala. Cong. 5 448
Talladega College Talladega, Ala. Cong. 12 212
Walden Seminar Little Rock, Ark. M. E. . .
Cookman Institute Jacksonville, Fla. M. E. [a]5 [a]140
Clark University Atlanta, Ga. M. E. 5 167
Storrs School Atlanta, Ga. Cong. 5 528
[a] In 1878.
[b] Included in university and college reports.
[c] For two years.
[d] In addition to the aid given by the American Missionary
Association, this institute is aided from the income of Virginia's
agricultural college land fund.
[e] For all departments.
[f] Reported under schools of theology.
_Statistics of institutions for the instruction of the Colored race
for 1879.--_Continued.
Name and class of institution. Location.
Students.
Instructors. |
Religious | |
denomination. | |
| | |
INSTITUTIONS FOR SECONDARY INSTRUCTION. | | |
--Continued. | | |
| | |
Howard Normal Institute Cuthbert, Ga. Cong. 3 66
La Grange Seminary La Grange, Ga. M. E. 4 140
Lewis High School Macon, Ga. Cong. 2 110
Beach Institute Savannah, Ga. Cong. 6 338
St. Augustine's School Savannah, Ga. P. E. . .
Day School for Colored Children New Orleans, La. R. C. . 80
St. Augustine's School New Orleans, La. R. C. 3 60
St. Mary's School for
Colored Girls New Orleans, La. R. C. . 60
St. Francis's Academy Baltimore, Md. R. C. . 50
Meridian Academy Meridian, Md. M. E. . .
Natchez Seminary Natchez, Miss. Bapt. 4 45
Scotia Seminary Concord, N. C. Cong. 8 152
St. Augustine's School New Berne, N. C. P. E. . .
Estey Seminary Raleigh, N. C. Bapt. . .
Washington School Raleigh, N. C. Cong. 3 149
St. Barnabas School Wilmington, N. C. P. E. [a]100
Williston Academy and
Normal School Wilmington, N. C. Cong. [a]6 [a]126
Albany Enterprise Academy Albany, Ohio Non-sect. 4 64
Polytechnic and Industrial
Institute Bluffton, S. C. Non-sect. 8 265
High School for Colored Pupils Charleston, S. C. P. E. . .
Wallingford Academy Charleston, S. C. Presb. 6 261
Brainerd Institute Chester, S. C. Presb. 5 300
Benedict Institute Columbia, S. C. Bapt. 4 142
Brewer Normal School Greenwood, S. C. Cong. [a]1 [a]58
West Tennessee Preparatory School Mason, Tenn. Meth. 2 76
Canfield School Memphis, Tenn. P. E. . .
West Texas Conference Seminary Austin, Tex. M. E. . .
Wiley University Marshall, Tex. M. E. [a]3 [a]123
Thyne Institute Chase City, Va. U. Presb. 3 213
Richmond Institute Richmond, Va. Bapt. 3 92
St. Philip's Church School Richmond, Va. P. E. 2 100
St. Mary's School Washington, D. C. P. E. . .
--- -----
Total 120 5,297
UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES
Atlanta University Atlanta, Ga. Cong. [ab]13 [a]71
Berea College Berea. Ky. Cong. [b]12 [b]180
Leland University New Orleans, La. Bapt. [a]6 [ac]91
New Orleans University New Orleans, La. M. E. 5 92
Straight University New Orleans, La. Cong. [b]11 [d]260
Shaw University Holly Springs,Miss. M. E. 6 273
Alcorn University Rodney, Miss. Non-sect. 10 180
Biddle University Charlotte, N.C. Presb. 9 151
Wilberforce University Wilberforce, Ohio M. E. 15 [b]150
Lincoln University Lincoln
University, Pa. Presb. [a]9 [a]74
Claflin University and College
of Agriculture Orangeburg. S. C. M. E. 10 165
Central Tennessee College Nashville, Tenn. M. E. 13 139
Fisk University Nashville, Tenn. Cong. 13 74
Agricultural and Mechanical
College Hempstead, Tex. . . .
Hampton Normal and Agricultural
Institute Hampton, Va. Cong. [e] [e]
Howard University[f] Washington, D. C. Non-sect. 5 [f]33
--- -----
Total 137 1,933
[a] In 1878.
[b] For all departments.
[c] These are preparatory.
[d] Normal students are here reckoned as preparatory.
[e] Reported with normal schools.
[f] This institution is open to both races, and the figures given are
known to include some whites.
_Statistics of institutions for the instruction of the
Colored race for 1879.--_Continued.
Name and class of institution. Location.
Students.
Instructors. |
Religious | |
denomination. | |
| | |
SCHOOLS OF THEOLOGY. | | |
| | |
Alabama Baptist Normal and
Theological School Selma, Ala. Bapt. 1 .
Theological department of
Talladega College Talladega, Ala. Cong. 2 14
Institute for the Education
of Colored Ministers Tuscaloosa, Ala. Presb.
Atlanta Baptist Seminary Atlanta, Ga. Bapt. 3 113
Theological department of Leland
University New Orleans, La. Bapt. [a]2 [a]55
Thomson biblical Institute (New
Orleans University) New Orleans, La. M. E. [a]1 [a]16
Theological department of
Straight University New Orleans, La. Cong. 1 21
Centenary Bible Institute Baltimore, Md. Meth. [a]6 [a]20
Theological department of Shaw
University Holly Springs,Miss. Meth. [a]2 [a]17
Natchez Seminary Natchez, Miss. Bapt. 2 31
Theological department of Biddle
University Charlotte. N. C. Presb. 4 8
Bennett Seminary Greensboro', N. C. Meth. 2 6
Theological department of Shaw
Univers'y Raleigh, N. C. Bapt. 2 59
Theological Seminary of
Wilberforce University Wilberforce, Ohio M. E. 7 16
Theological department of Lincoln Lincoln
University University, Pa. Presb. [a]7 [a]22
Baker Theological Institute
(Claflin University) Orangeburg, S. C. Meth. 2 28
Nashville Normal and Theological
Institute Nashville, Tenn. Bapt. 6 50
Theological course in
Fisk University Nashville, Tenn. Cong. [a]2 [a]12
Theological department of Central
Tennessee College Nashville, Tenn. M. E. 4 45
Richmond Institute Richmond, Va. Bapt. 10 86
Theological department of Howard
University Washington, D. C. Non-sect. 4 50
Wayland Seminary Washington, D. C. Bapt. [b]9 [b]84
---- -----
Total 79 762
SCHOOLS OF LAW.
Law department of Straight
University New Orleans, La. [a]4 [a]28
Law department of Shaw
University Holly Springs. Miss. [a]1 [a]6
Law department of Howard
University Washington, D. C. 3 8
---- ----
Total 8 42
SCHOOLS OF MEDICINE.
Medical department of
New Orleans University New Orleans. La [a]5 [a]8
Medical department of Shaw
University Holly Springs, Miss. [a]1 [a]4
Meharry medical department of
Central Tennessee College Nashville, Tenn. 9 22
Medical department of
Howard Univers'y Washington, D. C. 8 65
---- ----
Total 23 99
SCHOOLS FOR THE DEAF AND DUMB AND
THE BLIND.
Institution for the Colored Blind
and Deaf-Mutes Baltimore, Md. 1 30
North Carolina Institution for
the Deaf and Dumb and the
Blind (Colored department) Raleigh, N. C. [ab]15 [a]60
----- -----
Total 16 120
[a] In 1878.
[b] For all departments.
_Summary of statistics of institutions for the instruction of the
Colored race for 1879._
Institutions for
secondary
States. Public schools. Normal schools. instruction.
----------------- -------------- --------------
[A] [B] [C] [D] [E] [C] [D] [E]
Alabama 162,551 67,635 6 28 1,096 6 25 1,292
Arkansas 62,348 13,986 1 4 72 1 . .
Delaware 3,800 2,842 . . . . . .
Florida 42,001 18,795 . . . 1 5 140
Georgia 197,125 79,435 2 . 301 7 25 1,349
Kentucky 62,973 19,107 1 . . . . .
Louisiana 133,276 34,476 3 2 126 3 3 200
Maryland 63,591 27,457 2 9 265 1 . 50
Mississippi 205,936 111,796 2 10 142 2 4 45
Missouri 39,018 20,700 1 6 139 . . .
North Carolina 154,841 85,215 5 17 542 6 17 527
Ohio . . . . . 1 4 64
Pennsylvania . . 1 . 300 . . .
South Carolina 144,315 64,095 4 14 929 6 24 1,026
Tennessee 126,288 55,829 7 42 1,378 2 2 76
Texas 47,842 35,896 2 6 207 2 3 123
Virginia 202,852 35,768 2 36 560 3 8 405
West Virginia 7,279 3,775 . . . . . .
District of Columbia 12,374 9,045 3 7 114 1 . .
--------- ------- -- --- ----- -- --- -----
Total 1,668,410 685,942 42 181 6,171 42 120 5,297
Transcriber's Note: The following column heading text appeared
directly above the respective columns. The text is shown here
only to minimize the table width.
[A] School population.
[B] Enrolment.
[C] Schools.
[D] Teachers.
[E] Pupils.
_Summary of statistics of institutions for the instruction of the
Colored race for 1879._--Continued.
Universities and Schools of
colleges. theology. Schools of law.
------------------- ------------------ ----------------
Pupils. Pupils. Pupils.
States Teachers. | Teachers. | Teachers. |
Schools. | | Schools. | | Schools. | |
| | | | | | | | |
Alabama . . . 3 3 14 . . .
Georgia 1 13 71 1 3 113 . . .
Kentucky 1 12 180 . . . . . .
Louisiana 3 22 443 3 4 92 1 4 28
Maryland . . . 1 6 29 . . .
Mississippi 2 16 453 2 4 48 1 1 6
North Carolina 1 9 151 3 8 73 . . .
Ohio 1 15 150 1 7 16 . . .
Pennsylvania 1 9 74 1 7 22 . . .
South Carolina 1 10 165 1 2 28 . . .
Tennessee 2 26 213 3 12 107 . . .
Texas 1 . . . . . . . .
Virginia 1 . . 1 10 86 . . .
District of Columbia 1 5 33 2 13 134 1 3 8
-- --- ----- -- -- --- - - --
Total 16 137 1,933 22 79 762 3 8 42
_Summary of statistics of institutions for the instruction of the
Colored race for 1879._--Continued.
Schools for the
deaf and dumb and
Schools of medicine. the blind.
-------------------- ------------------
Pupils. Pupils.
States Teachers. | Teachers. |
Schools. | | Schools. | |
| | | | | |
Louisiana 1 5 8 . . .
Maryland . . . 1 1 30
Mississippi 1 1 4 . . .
North Carolina . . . 1 15 90
Tennessee 1 9 22 . . .
District of Columbia 1 8 65 . . .
- -- -- - -- ---
Total 4 23 99 2 16 120
_Table showing the number of schools for the Colored race and
enrolment in them by institutions without reference to States._
Class of institutions. Schools. Enrolment.
--------- ----------
Public schools [a]14,341 [a]585,942
Normal schools 42 6,171
Institutions for secondary instruction 42 5,297
Universities and colleges 16 1,933
Schools of theology 22 762
Schools of law 3 42
Schools of medicine 4 99
Schools for the deaf and dumb and the blind 2 120
------ -------
Total 14,472 700,366
[a] To these should be added 417 schools, having an enrolment of
20,487 in reporting free States, making total number of Colored public
schools 14,758, and total enrolment in them 706,429; this makes the
total number of schools, as far as reported, 14,889, and total number
of the Colored race under instruction in them 720,853. The Colored
public schools of those States in which no separate reports are made,
however, are not included; and the Colored pupils in white schools
cannot be enumerated.
Virginia has done more intelligent and effective educational work than
any other State in the South. The Hon. W. H. Ruffner has no equal in
America as a superintendent of public instruction. He is the Horace
Mann of the South.
It appears from the reports of the Freedmen's Bureau that the earliest
school for freedmen was opened by the American Missionary Association
at Fortress Monroe, September, 1861; and before the close of the war,
Hampton and Norfolk were leading points where educational operations
were conducted; but after the cessation of hostilities, teachers were
sent from Northern States, and schools for freedmen were opened in
all parts of the State.
The Colored normal school at Richmond, and the one at Hampton, were
commenced in 1867 and 1868. Captain C. S. Schaeffer, Bureau officer at
Christiansburg, commenced his remarkable efforts about the same time
in Montgomery County.
School superintendents for each State were appointed by the Freedmen's
Bureau, July 12, 1865, and a general superintendent, or "Inspector of
Schools," was appointed in September, 1865. These superintendents were
instructed "to work as much as possible in conjunction with State
officers, who may have had school matters in charge, and to take
cognizance of all that was being done to educate refugees and
freedmen." In 1866 an act of Congress was passed enlarging the powers
of the Bureau, and partially consolidating all the societies and
agencies engaged in educational work among the freedmen. In this bill
$521,000 were appropriated for carrying on the work, to which was to
be added forfeitures of property owned by the Confederate Government.
Up to January 1, 1868, over a million of dollars was expended for
school purposes among the freedmen. In Virginia 12,450 pupils are
reported for 1867. Mr. Manly, the Virginia superintendent, reports the
following statistics for the year 1867-8: Schools, 230; teachers, 290;
pupils enrolled, 14,300; in average attendance, 10,320; the cost as
follows:
From Charity $78,766
From the Freedmen 10,789
From the Bureau 42,844
--------
Total Cost $132,399
The amount raised from freedmen was in the form of small tuition fees
of from ten to fifty cents a month--a system approved by Mr. Manly.
In the final report to the Freedmen's Bureau, made July 1, 1870, the
Virginia statistics are: Schools, 344; teachers, 412; pupils, 18,234;
the average attendance, 78 per cent. This year the freedmen paid
$12,286.50 for tuition. Mr. C. S. Schaeffer and Mr. Samuel H. Jones,
who remained in Virginia as teachers--the former still at
Christiansburg, and the latter, until very lately, at Danville--both
acted as assistants to Mr. Manly. A considerable number of
school-houses were built in Virginia by the Bureau, including the
splendid normal and high school building in Richmond, erected and
equipped at a cost of $25,000, and afterward turned over to the city.
After the conclusion of his superintendency, Mr. Manly continued for
several years to do valuable service as principal of this school.
"The Freedmen's Bureau ceased its educational operations in the
summer of 1870, and in the autumn of that year our State public
schools were opened. So that, counting from the beginning of the
mission school at Hampton in 1861, there has been an unbroken
succession of schools for freedmen in one region for nineteen
years; and at a number of leading points in the State--such as
Norfolk, Richmond, Petersburg, Danville, Charlottesville,
Christiansburg, etc.--an unbroken line of schools for fourteen
years and upwards. These efforts, however, of the Federal
Government toward educating the rising generation of Colored
people, could not have been designed as any thing more than an
experiment, intended first to test and then to stimulate the
appetite of those people for learning. And in this view they were
entirely successful in both particulars; for the children flocked
to the schools, attended well, made good progress in knowledge,
and paid a surprising amount of money for tuition.
"But, considered as a serious attempt to educate the children of
the freedmen, the movement was wholly inadequate, even when
contrasted with the operations of our imperfect State system. The
largest number enrolled in the schools supported by the combined
efforts of the Bureau, the charitable societies, and the tuition
fees, was 18,234, in 1870. The next year we had in our public
schools considerably over double this number, and an annual
increase ever since, always excepting those two dark years
(_tenebricosus and tenebricosissimus_), 1878 and 1879."[118]
"Two institutions for the education of the Colored race, founded
before the beginning of our school, system, are still in
successful operation, but remain independent of our school
system. One of them has some connection with the State by reason
of the receipt of one-third of the proceeds of the Congressional
land-grant for education. I refer to the well-known Hampton
Normal and Agricultural Institute, and the Richmond Colored
Institute. Nothing need be said in reference to the Hampton
School, except that its numbers and usefulness are constantly
increasing under the continued superintendence of the indomitable
Gen. Armstrong. Its reports, which are published every year as
State documents in connection with the Report of this department,
are so accessible to all, that I will only repeat here the
testimony often given, that in my opinion this is the most
valuable of all the schools opened on this Continent for Colored
people. Its most direct benefit is in furnishing to our State
schools a much-needed annual contribution of teachers; and
teachers so good and acceptable that the demand for them is
always much greater than the supply.
"The Richmond Institute has more of a theological intent, but it
also sends out many good teachers. As a school it has prospered
steadily under the excellent management of the Rev. C. H. Corey,
D.D.; and it will soon be accommodated in a large new and
handsome building. Both these institutions receive their support
chiefly from the North."[119]
It will be seen that the tables we give refer only to the work done in
educating the Negro in the Southern States. Much has been done in the
Northern States, but in quite a different manner. The work of
education for the Negro at the South had to begin at the bottom. There
were no schools at all for this people; and hence the work began with
the alphabet. And there could be no classification of the scholars.
All the way from six to sixty the pupils ranged in age; and even some
who had given slavery a century of their existence--mothers and
fathers in Israel--crowded the schools established for their race.
Some ministers of the Gospel after a half century of preaching entered
school to learn how to spell out the names of the twelve Apostles. Old
women who had lived out their threescore years and ten prayed that
they might live to spell out the Lord's prayer, while the modest
request of many departing patriarchs was that they might recognize the
Lord's name in print. The sacrifices they made for themselves and
children challenged the admiration of even their former owners.
The unlettered Negroes of the South carried into the school-room an
inborn love of music, an excellent memory, and a good taste for the
elegant--almost grandiloquent--in speech, gorgeous in imagery, and
energetic in narration; their apostrophe and simile were wonderful.
Geography and history furnished great attractions, and they developed
ability to master them. In mathematics they did not do so well, on
account of the lack of training to think consecutively and
methodically. It is a mistake to believe this a mental infirmity of
the race; for a very large number of the students in college at the
present time do as well in mathematics, geometry, trigonometry,
mensuration, and conic sections as the white students of the same
age; and some of them excel in mathematics.
The majority of the Colored students in the Southern schools qualify
themselves to teach and preach; while the remainder go to law and
medicine. Few educated Colored men ever return to agricultural life.
There are two reasons for this: First, reaction. There is an erroneous
idea among some of these young men that labor is dishonorable; that an
educated man should never work with his hands. Second, some of them
believe that a profession gives a man consequence. Such silly ideas
should be abandoned--they must be abandoned! There is a great demand
for educated farmers and laborers. It requires an intelligent man to
conduct a farm successfully, to sell the products of his labor, and to
buy the necessaries of life. No profession can furnish a man with
brains, or provide him a garment of respectability. Every man must
furnish brains and tact to make his calling and election sure in this
world, as well as by faith in the world to come. Unfortunately there
has been but little opportunity for Colored men or boys to get
employment at the trades: but prejudice is gradually giving way to
reason and common-sense; and the day is not distant when the Negro
will have a free field in this country, and will then be responsible
for what he is not that is good. The need of the hour is a varied
employment for the Negro race on this continent. There is more need of
educated mechanics, civil engineers, surveyors, printers, artificers,
inventors, architects, builders, merchants, and bankers than there is
demand for lawyers, physicians, or clergymen. Waiters, barbers,
porters, boot-blacks, hack-drivers, grooms, and private valets find
but little time for the expansion of their intellects. These places
are not dishonorable; but what we say is, _there is room at the top_!
An industrial school, something like Cooper Institute, situated
between New York and Philadelphia, where Colored boys and girls could
learn the trades that race prejudice denies them now, would be the
grandest institution of modern times. It matters not how many million
dollars are given toward the education of the Negro; so long as he is
deprived of the privilege of learning and plying the trades and
mechanic arts his education will injure rather than help him.[120] We
would rather see a Negro boy build an engine than take the highest
prize in Yale or Harvard.
It is quite difficult to get at a clear idea of what has been done in
the Northern States toward the education of the Colored people. In
nearly all the States on the borders of the Ohio and Mississippi
rivers "Colored schools" still exist; and in many instances are kept
alive through the spirit of the self-seeking of a few Colored persons
who draw salaries in lieu of their continuance. They should be
abolished, and will be, as surely as heat follows light and the rising
of the sun. In the New England, Middle, and extreme Western States,
with the exception of Kansas, separate schools do not exist. The doors
of all colleges, founded and conducted by the white people in the
North, are open to the Colored people who desire to avail themselves
of an academic education. At the present time there are one hundred
and sixty-nine Colored students in seventy white colleges in the
Northern States; and the presidents say they are doing well.
_The Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned Lands_ was
established in the spring of 1865 to meet the state of affairs
incident upon the closing scenes of the great civil war. The Act
creating the Bureau was approved and became a law on the 3d of March,
1865. The Bureau was to be under the management of the War Department,
and its officers were liable for the property placed in their hands
under the revised regulations of the army. In May, 1865, the following
order was issued from the War Department appointing Major-Gen. O. O.
Howard Commissioner of the Bureau:
"[GENERAL ORDERS NO. 91.]
"WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE, }
"WASHINGTON, May 12, 1865. }
"Order Organizing Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned
"Lands.
"I. By the direction of the President, Major General O. O. Howard
is assigned to duty in the War Department as Commissioner of the
Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned Lands, under the act
of Congress entitled 'An act to establish a bureau for the relief
of freedmen and refugees,' to perform the duties and exercise all
the rights, authority, and jurisdiction vested by the act of
Congress in such Commissioner. General Howard will enter at once
upon the duties of Commissioner specified in said act.
"II. The Quartermaster General will, without delay, assign and
furnish suitable quarters and apartments for the said bureau.
"III. The Adjutant General will assign to the said bureau the
number of competent clerks authorized by the act of Congress.
"By order of the President of the United States:
"E. D. Townsend,
"_Assistant Adjutant General_."
Gen. Howard entered upon the discharge of the vast, varied, and
complicated duties of his office with his characteristic zeal,
intelligence, and high Christian integrity. Hospitals were founded for
the care of the sick, infirm, blind, deaf, and dumb. Rations were
issued, clothing distributed, and lands apportioned to the needy and
worthy.
From May 30, 1865, to November 20, 1865, inclusive, this Bureau
furnished transportation for 1,946 freedmen, and issued to this class
of persons in ten States, 1,030,100 rations.
"Congress, when it created the bureau, made no appropriation to
defray its expenses; it has, however, received funds from
miscellaneous sources, as the following report will show:
"In several of the States, Virginia, North and South Carolina,
Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas,
Missouri, and the District of Columbia, the interests of the
freedmen were under the control of military officers assigned by
the War Department previous to the organization of this bureau.
Their accounts became naturally absorbed in the accounts of the
bureau, and the following report embraces all the receipts and
expenditures in all States now under control of the bureau since
January 1, 1865:"
RECEIPTS.
Amount on hand January 1, 1865, and received since, to October
31, 1865:
From freedmen's fund $466,028 35
From retained bounties 115,236 49
For clothing, fuel, and subsistence 7,704 21
Farms 76,709 12
From rents of buildings 56,012 42
From rents of lands 125,521 00
From Quartermaster's department 12,200 00
From conscript fund 13,498 11
From schools (tax and tuition) 34,486 58
----------
Total received 907,396 28
EXPENDITURES.
Freedmen's fund $8,009 14
Clothing, fuel, and subsistence 75,504 05
Farms 40,069 71
Household furniture 2,904 90
Rents of buildings 11,470 88
Labor (by freedmen and other employés) 237,097 62
Repairs of buildings 19,518 46
Contingent expenses 46,328 07
Rents of lands 300 00
Internal revenue 1,379 86
Conscript fund 6,515 37
Transportation 1,445 51
Schools 27,819 60
----------
Total expended 478,363 17
RECAPITULATION.
Total amount received $907,396 28
Total amount expended 478,363 17
-----------
Balance on hand October 31, 1865 429,033 11
Deduct the amount held as retained bounties 115,236 49
Balance on hand October 31, 1865, available
to meet liabilities 313,796 62[121]
It was the policy of the Government to help the freedmen on to their
feet; to give them a start in the race of self-support and manhood.
They received such assistance as was given them with thankful hearts,
and were not long in placing themselves upon a safe foundation for
their new existence. Out of a population of 350,000 in North Carolina
only 5,000 were receiving aid from the Government in the fall of 1865.
Each month witnessed a wonderful reduction of the rations issued to
the freedmen. In the month of August, 1865, Gen. C. B. Fisk had
reduced the number of freedmen receiving rations from 3,785 to 2,984,
in Kentucky. In the same month, in Mississippi, Gen. Samuel Thomas, of
the 64th U. S. C. I., had reduced the number of persons receiving
rations to 669. In his report for 1865, Gen. Thomas said:
"The freedmen working land assigned them at Davis's Bend, Camp
Hawley, near Vicksburg, De Soto Point, opposite, and at
Washington, near Natchez, are all doing well. These crops are
maturing fast; as harvest time approaches, I reduce the number of
rations issued and compel them to rely on their own resources. At
least 10,000 bales of cotton will be raised by these people, who
are conducting cotton crops on their own account. Besides this
cotton, they have gardens and corn enough to furnish bread for
their families and food for their stock till harvest time
returns. * * * A more industrious, energetic body of citizens
does not exist than can be seen at the colonies now."
Speaking of the industry of the freed people Gen. Thomas added: "I
have lately visited a large portion of the State, and find it in much
better condition than I expected. In the eastern part fine crops of
grain are growing; the negroes are at home working quietly; they have
contracted with their old masters at fair wages; all seem to accept
the change without a shock."
From June 1, 1865, to September 1, 1866, the Freedmen's Bureau issued
to the freed people of the South 8,904,451½ rations, and was able to
make the following financial showing of the Refugees' and Freedmen's
fund. From November 1, 1865, to October 1, 1866, the receipts and
expenditures were as follows:
Amount on hand November 1, 1865 $313,796 62
Received from various sources, as follows:
Freedmen's fund $367,659 93
Clothing, fuel, and subsistence 2,074 55
Farms (sales of crops) 109,709 98
Rent of buildings 48,560 87
Rent of lands 113,641 78
Conscript funds 140 95
Transportation 1,053 50
Schools (taxes) 64,145 86
-------------
Total on hand and received $1,020,784 04
EXPENDITURES.
Freedmen's fund $7,411 32
Clothing, fuel, and subsistence 13,870 93
Farms (fencing, seeds, tools, etc.) 7,210 66
Labor (by freedmen and other employés) 426,918 12
Rent of buildings (offices, etc.) 50,186 61
Repairs of buildings 1,957 47
EXPENDITURES.--(_Continued._)
Contingent expenses 74,295 77
Rent of lands (restored) 9,260 58
Quartermaster's department 11 26
Internal revenue (tax on salaries) 7,965 22
Conscript fund 1,664 01
Transportation 22,387 01
Schools 115,261 56
-----------
Total expended $738,400 52
-----------
Balance on hand October 1, 1866 $282,383 52
In September, 1866, the Bureau had on hand:
RECAPITULATION.
Balance on hand of freedmen's fund $282,383 52
Balance of District destitute fund 18,328 67
Balance of appropriation 6,856,259 30
-------------
Total $7,156,971 49
Estimated amount due subsistence
department $297,000 00
Transportation reported unpaid 26,015 94
Transportation estimated due 20,000 00
Estimated amount due medical department 100,000 00
Estimated, amount due quartermaster's
department 200,000 00
-----------
$643,015 94
-------------
Total balance for all purposes of
expenditures $6,513,955 55
-------------
But the estimate of Gen. Howard for funds to run the Bureau for the
fiscal year commencing July 1, 1867, only called for the sum of three
million eight hundred and thirty-six thousand and three hundred
dollars, as follows:
Salaries of assistant commissioners,
sub-assistants, and agents $147,500
Salaries of clerks 82,800
Stationery and printing 63,000
Quarters and fuel 200,000
Subsistence stores 1,500,000
Medical department 500,000
Transportation 800,000
School superintendents 25,000
Buildings for schools and asylums, including
construction, rental, and repairs 500,000
Telegraphing and postage 18,000
----------
$3,836,300
This showed that the freed people were rapidly becoming
self-sustaining, and that the aid rendered by the Government was used
to a good purpose.
Soon after Colored Troops were mustered into the service of the
Government a question arose as to some safe method by which these
troops might save their pay against the days of peace and personal
effort. The noble and wise Gen. Saxton answered the question and met
the need of the hour by establishing a Military Savings Bank at
Beaufort, South Carolina. Soldiers under his command were thus enabled
to husband their funds. Gen. Butler followed in this good work, and
established a similar one at Norfolk, Virginia. These banks did an
excellent work, and so favorably impressed many of the friends of the
Negro that a plan for a Freedman's Savings Bank and Trust Company was
at once projected. Before the spring campaign of 1865 opened up, the
plan was presented to Congress; a bill introduced creating such a
bank, was passed and signed by President Lincoln on the 3d of March.
The following is the Act:
"AN ACT TO INCORPORATE THE FREEDMAN'S SAVINGS AND TRUST "COMPANY.
"_Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled:_ That Peter
Cooper, William C. Bryant, A. A. Low, S. B. Chittenden, Charles
H. Marshall, William A. Booth, Gerrit Smith, William A. Hall,
William Allen, John Jay, Abraham Baldwin, A. S. Barnes, Hiram
Barney, Seth B. Hunt, Samuel Holmes, Charles Collins, R. R.
Graves, Walter S. Griffith, A. H. Wallis, D. S. Gregory, J. W.
Alvord, George Whipple, A. S. Hatch, Walter T. Hatch, E. A.
Lambert, W. G. Lambert, Roe Lockwood, R. H. Manning, R. W. Ropes,
Albert Woodruff, and Thomas Denny, of New York; John M. Forbes,
William Claflin, S. G. Howe, George L. Stearns, Edward Atkinson,
A. A. Lawrence, and John M. S. Williams, of Massachusetts;
Edward Harris and Thomas Davis, of Rhode Island; Stephen Colwell,
J. Wheaton Smith, Francis E. Cope, Thomas Webster, B. S. Hunt,
and Henry Samuel, of Pennsylvania; Edward Harwood, Adam Poe, Levi
Coffin, J. M. Walden, of Ohio, and their successors, are
constituted a body corporate in the City of Washington, in the
District of Columbia, by the name of the FREEDMAN'S SAVINGS AND
TRUST COMPANY, and by that name may sue and be sued in any court
of the United States.
"SEC. 2. _And be it further enacted_, That the persons named in
the first section of this act shall be the first Trustees of the
Corporation, and all vacancies by death, resignation, or
otherwise, in the office of Trustee shall be filled by the Board,
by ballot, without unnecessary delay, and at least ten votes
shall be necessary for the election of any Trustee. The Trustees
shall hold a regular meeting, at least once in each month, to
receive reports of their officers on the affairs of the
Corporation, and to transact such business as may be necessary;
and any Trustee omitting to attend the regular meetings of the
Board for six months in succession, may thereupon be considered
as having vacated his place, and a successor may be elected to
fill the same.
"SEC. 3. _And be it further enacted_, That the business of the
Corporation shall be managed and directed by the Board of
Trustees, who shall elect from their number a President and two
Vice-Presidents, and may appoint such other officers as they may
see fit; nine of the Trustees, of whom the President or one of
the Vice-Presidents shall be one, shall form a quorum for the
transaction of business at any regular or adjourned meeting of
the Board of Trustees; and the affirmative vote of at least seven
members of the Board shall be requisite in making any order for,
or authorizing the investment of, any moneys, or the sale or
transfer of any stock or securities belonging to the Corporation,
or the appointment of any officer receiving any salary therefrom.
"SEC. 4. _And be it further enacted_, That the Board of Trustees
of the Corporation shall have power, from time to time, to make
and establish such By-Laws and regulations as they shall judge
proper with regard to the elections of officers and their
respective functions, and generally for the management of the
affairs of the Corporation, provided such By-Laws and regulations
are not repugnant to this act, or to the Constitution or laws of
the United States.
"SEC. 5. _And be it further enacted_, That the general business
and object of the Corporation hereby created shall be, to receive
on deposit such sums of money as may, from time to time, be
offered therefor, by or on behalf of persons heretofore held in
slavery in the United States, or their descendants, and investing
the same in the stocks, bonds, Treasury notes, or other
securities of the United States.
"SEC. 6. _And be it further enacted_, That it shall be the duty
of the Trustees of the Corporation to invest, as soon as
practicable, in the securities named in the next preceding
section, all sums received by them beyond an available fund, not
exceeding one third of the total amount of deposits with the
Corporation, at the discretion of the Trustees, which available
funds may be kept by the Trustees, to meet current payments of
the Corporation, and may by them be left on deposit, at interest
or otherwise, or in such available form as the Trustees may
direct.
"SEC. 7. _And be it further enacted_, That the Corporation may,
under such regulations as the Board of Trustees shall, from time
to time, prescribe, receive any deposit hereby authorized to be
received, upon such trusts and for such purposes, not contrary to
the laws of the United States, as may be indicated in writing by
the depositor, such writing to be subscribed by the depositor and
acknowledged or proved before any officer in the civil or
military service of the United States, the certificate of which
acknowledgment or proof shall be endorsed on the writing; and the
writing, so acknowledged or proved, shall accompany such deposit
and be filed among the papers of the Corporation, and be
carefully preserved therein, and may be read in evidence in any
court or before any judicial officer of the United States,
without further proof; and the certificate of acknowledgment or
proof shall be _prima facie_ evidence only of the due execution
of such writing.
"SEC. 8. _And be it further enacted_, That all sums received on
deposit shall be repaid to such depositor when required, at such
time, with such interest, not exceeding seven per centum per
annum, and under such regulations as the Board of Trustees shall,
from time to time, prescribe, which regulations shall be posted
up in some conspicuous place in the room where the business of
the Corporation shall be transacted, but shall not be altered so
as to affect any deposit previously made.
"SEC. 9. _And be it further enacted_, That all trusts upon which,
and all purposes for which any deposit shall be made, and which
shall be indicated in the writing to accompany such deposit,
shall be faithfully performed by the Corporation, unless the
performing of the same is rendered impossible.
"SEC. 10. _And be it further enacted_, That when any depositor
shall die, the funds remaining on deposit with the Corporation to
his credit, and all accumulations thereof, shall belong and be
paid to the personal representatives of such depositor, in case
he shall have left a last will and testament, and in default of a
last will and testament, or of any person qualifying under a last
will and testament, competent to act as executor, the Corporation
shall be entitled, in respect to the funds so remaining on
deposit to the credit of any such depositor, to administration
thereon in preference to all other persons, and letters or
administration shall be granted to the Corporation accordingly in
the manner prescribed by law in respect to granting of letters of
administration, with the will annexed, and in cases of intestacy.
"SEC. 11. _And be it further enacted_, That in the case of the
death of any depositor, whose deposit shall not be held upon any
trust created pursuant to the provisions hereinbefore contained,
or where it may prove impossible to execute such trust, it shall
be the duty of the Corporation to make diligent efforts to
ascertain and discover whether such deceased depositor has left a
husband, wife, or children, surviving, and the Corporation shall
keep a record of the efforts so made, and of the results thereof;
and in case no person lawfully entitled thereto shall be
discovered, or shall appear, or claim the funds remaining to the
credit of such depositor before the expiration of two years from
the death of such depositor, it shall be lawful for the
Corporation to hold and invest such funds as a separate trust
fund, to be applied, with the accumulations thereof, to the
education and improvement of persons heretofore held in slavery,
or their descendants, being inhabitants of the United States, in
such manner and through such agencies as the Board of Trustees
shall deem best calculated to effect that object; _Provided_,
That if any depositor be not heard from within five years from
the date of his last deposit, the Trustees shall advertise the
same in some paper of general circulation in the State where the
principal office of the Company is established, and also in the
State where the depositor was last heard from; and if, within two
years thereafter, such depositor shall not appear, nor a husband,
wife, or child of such depositor, to claim his deposits, they
shall be used by the Board of Trustees as hereinbefore provided
for in this section.
"SEC. 12. _And be it further enacted_, That no President,
Vice-President, Trustee, officer, or servant of the Corporation
shall, directly or indirectly, borrow the funds of the
Corporation or its deposits, or in any manner use the same, or
any part thereof, except to pay necessary expenses, under the
direction of the Board of Trustees. All certificates or other
evidences of deposit made by the proper officers shall be as
binding on the Corporation as if they were made under their
common seal. It shall be the duty of the Trustees to regulate the
rate of interest allowed to the depositors, so that they shall
receive, as nearly as may be, a rateable proportion of all the
profits of the Corporation, after deducting all necessary
expenses; _Provided, however_, That the Trustees may allow to
depositors to the amount of five hundred dollars or upward one
per centum less than the amount allowed others; _And provided,
also_, Whenever it shall appear that, after the payment of the
usual interest to depositors, there is in the possession of the
Corporation an excess of profits over the liabilities amounting
to ten per centum upon the deposits, such excess shall be
invested for the security of the depositors in the Corporation;
and thereafter, at each annual examination of the affairs of the
Corporation, any surplus over and above such ten per centum
shall, in addition to the usual interest, be divided rateably
among the depositors, in such manner as the Board of Trustees
shall direct.
"SEC. 13. _And be it further enacted_, That whenever any deposits
shall be made by any minor, the Trustees of the Corporation may,
at their discretion, pay to such depositor such sum as may be due
to him, although no guardian shall have been appointed for such
minor, or the guardian of such minor shall not have authorized
the drawing of the same; and the check, receipt, or acquittance
of such minor shall be as valid as if the same were executed by a
guardian of such minor, or the minor were of full age, if such
deposit was made personally by such minor. And whenever any
deposits shall have been made by married women, the Trustees may
repay the same on their own receipts.
"SEC. 14. _And be it further enacted_, That the Trustees shall
not directly or indirectly receive any payment or emolument for
their services as such, except the President and Vice-President.
"SEC. 15. _And be it further enacted_, That the President,
Vice-President, and subordinate officers and agents of the
Corporation, shall respectively give such security for their
fidelity and good conduct as the Board of Trustees may, from time
to time, require, and the Board shall fix the salaries of such
officers and agents.
"SEC. 16. _And be it further enacted_, That the books of the
Corporation shall, at all times during the hours of business, be
open for inspection and examination to such persons as Congress
shall designate or appoint.
"Approved March 3, 1865."
Eleven of these banks were established in 1865, nine in 1866, three in
1868, one in 1869, and the remainder in 1870, after the charter had
been amended as follows:
"AN ACT TO AMEND AN ACT ENTITLED 'AN ACT TO INCORPORATE THE
FREEDMAN'S SAVINGS AND TRUST COMPANY,' APPROVED MARCH THIRD,
EIGHTEEN HUNDRED AND SIXTY-FIVE.
"_Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United Stales of America, in Congress assembled_, That the fifth
section of the Act entitled 'An Act to Incorporate the Freedman's
Savings and Trust Company,' approved March third, eighteen
hundred and sixty-five, be, and the same is hereby, amended by
adding thereto at the end thereof the words following: 'and to
the extent of one half in bonds or notes, secured by mortgage on
real estate in double the value of the loan; and the corporation
is also authorized hereby to hold and improve the real estate now
owned by it in the city of Washington, to wit: the west half of
lot number three; all of lots four, five, six, seven, and the
south half of lot number eight, in square number two hundred and
twenty-one, as laid out and recorded in the original plats or
plan of said city: _Provided_, That said corporation shall not
use the principal of any deposits made with it for the purpose of
such improvement.'
"SEC. 2. _And be it further enacted_, That Congress shall have
the right to alter or repeal this amendment at any time.
"Approved May 6, 1870."
The company was organized on the 16th of May, 1865, and the trustees
made their first report on the 8th of June, 1865. Deposits up to this
date were $700, besides $7,956.38 transferred from the Military
Savings Bank at Norfolk, Virginia, on the 3d of June. On the 1st of
August the first branch office was opened at Washington, D. C., and on
the 1st of September it had a balance due its depositors of $843.84.
Other branches were opened during the year at Louisville, Richmond,
Nashville, Wilmington, Huntsville, Memphis, Mobile, and Vicksburg.
December 14, 1865, the Military Bank at Beaufort, organized October
16, 1865, was, by order of General Saxton, transferred to this
company, with its balance of $170,000. At the end of the first year,
March 1, 1866, fourteen branch offices had been opened, and the
balance due depositors was $199,283.42.
The total deposits made by freedmen in them, from their establishment
up to July 1, 1870, was $16,960,336, of which over $2,000,000 still
remained on deposit. The total amount of deposits in the Richmond
branch up to that date was $318,913, and the balance undrawn $84,537.
The average amount deposited by the various depositors was nearly
$284. So far as the facts were obtained, it appeared that about
seventy per cent. of the money drawn from these banks was invested in
real estate and in business.
By the financial statement of the banking company, for August, 1871,
it appears that in the thirty-four banks then in operation the
deposits made during that month, which was considered "dull," amounted
to $882,806.67, and that the total amount to the credit of the
depositors was $3,058,232.81. In the Richmond branch, the deposits
for that month were $17,790.60, and the total amount due depositors
was $123,733.75; all of which was to the credit of Colored people,
except $6,929.19. A branch shortly before had been established in
Lynchburg, which showed a balance due depositors of $7,382.83.
The following table shows the business of the company for the years
1866-1871:
_Table Showing the Relative Business of the Company for Each Fiscal
Year._
For year ending Total amount of Total amount of Balance due
March 1. deposits. drafts. depositors.
--------------- --------------- --------------- -------------
1866 $305,167 00 $105,883 58 $199,283 42
1867 1,624,853 33 1,258,515 00 366,338 33
1868 3,582,378 36 2,944,079 36 638,299 00
1869 7,257,798 63 6,184,333 32 1,073,465 31
1870 12,605,781 95 10,948,775 20 1,657,006 75
1871 19,952,647 36 17,497,111 25 2,455,836 11
For year ending Deposits each Drafts each Gain each
March 1. year. year. year.
--------------- ------------- ------------- ------------
1866 $305,167 00 $105,883 58 $199,283 42
1867 1,319,686 33 1,152,631 42 167,054 91
1868 1,957,525 03 1,685,564 36 271,960 67
1869 3,675,420 27 3,240,253 96 435,166 31
1870 5,347,983 32 4,764,441 88 583,341 44
1871 7,347,165 41 6,548,336 05 798,829 36
The total amount of deposits received from the organization
of the company to October 1, 1871--six years
from the opening of the first branch--was $25,977,435 48
Total drafts during the same period were 22,850,926 47
--------------
Leaving due depositors October 1, 1871 3,126,509 01
The _total assets_ of company on same day
amounted to 3,157,206 17
--------------
The interest paid during this time amounted to 180,565 35
In 1872 the trustees made the following interesting statement:
THE FREEDMAN'S SAVINGS AND TRUST COMPANY.
FINANCIAL STATEMENT FOR THE MONTH OF AUGUST, 1872.
Deposits for Drafts for Total amount Total amount Balance due
BRANCHES. the month. the month. of Deposits. of Drafts. Depositors.
----------------------- ------------ ---------- ------------- ------------- -----------
Atlanta, Georgia $9,419 68 $11,242 30 $245,200 27 $223,020 17 $22,180 10
Augusta, Georgia 10,771 99 9,217 94 367,653 16 284,406 14 83,247 02
Baltimore, Maryland 29,755 52 18,644 57 1,278,042 32 996,371 98 281,670 34
Beaufort, South Carolina 189,600 74 184,924 40 2,993,873 30 2,944,441 88 49,431 42
Charleston, South Carolina 67,668 83 84,464 53 3,100,641 65 2,795,176 24 305,465 41
Columbus, Mississippi 2,426 15 4,364 34 132,036 46 121,776 67 10,259 79
Columbia, Tennessee 2,552 55 2,086 05 34,088 97 15,738 76 18,350 21
Huntsville, Alabama 7,343 50 10,127 61 416,617 72 364,382 51 52,235 21
Jacksonville, Florida 67,292 09 57,307 54 3,312,424 55 3,234,445 72 77,978 83
Lexington, Kentucky 14,383 85 11,221 13 238,680 22 188,308 76 50,371 46
Little Rock, Arkansas 7,871 27 9,506 37 172,392 10 154,914 42 17,477 68
Louisville, Kentucky 18,311 01 17,535 74 1,057,587 71 914,504 61 143,083 10
Lynchburg, Virginia 3,104 48 1,242 56 36,880 98 18,354 87 18,526 11
Macon, Georgia 6,808 98 7,061 52 197,050 01 156,308 75 40,741 26
Memphis, Tennessee 20,045 40 27,197 06 970,096 09 840,218 91 129,877 18
Mobile, Alabama 11,136 05 18,645 62 1,039,097 05 933,424 30 105,672 75
Montgomery, Alabama 8,522 90 8,679 60 238,106 08 213,861 71 24,244 37
Natchez, Mississippi 25,548 53 15,005 17 649,256 70 612,985 74 36,270 96
Nashville, Tennessee 15,731 46 17,098 58 739,691 88 625,166 40 114,525 48
New Berne, North Carolina 38,113 83 37,775 73 1,057,688 32 1,001,645 74 56,042 58
New Orleans, Louisiana 193,145 48 207,878 53 2,393,584 08 2,171,056 95 222,527 13
New York, New York 133,209 58 74,461 61 1,673,249 36 1,227,449 57 445,799 79
Norfolk, Virginia 16,771 88 17,757 38 1,048,762 05 916,047 59 132,714 46
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 11,451 12 9,887 49 357,924 89 278,641 10 79,283 79
Raleigh, North Carolina 5,663 28 4,660 18 231,685 82 202,032 44 29,653 38
Richmond, Virginia 64,112 51 53,900 72 1,082,152 71 912,933 45 169,219 26
Savannah, Georgia 30,951 23 27,066 33 1,031,173 38 893,321 30 137,852 02
Shreveport, Louisiana 20,688 72 21,105 59 299,428 39 264,707 78 34,720 61
St. Louis, Missouri 26,323 93 20,599 02 615,876 74 526,490 86 89,385 88
Tallahassee, Florida 4,589 45 4,526 75 361,614 57 329,618 33 31,996 24
Vicksburg, Mississippi 61,691 73 60,068 28 2,962,235 58 2,823,700 87 138,534 71
Washington, Dist. Colum'a 323,555 79 296,321 26 7,438,918 17 6,406,092 39 1,032,825 78
Wilmington, N'th Carolina 10,714 10 12,632 65 457,360 75 407,512 51 49,848 24
Alexandria, Virginia 1,929 91 685 80 14,091 77 1,626 35 12,465 42
$1,461,207 52 $1,364,899 95 $38,245,163 80 $34,000,685 77 $4,244,478 03
Total amount of deposits for the month $1,461,207 56
Total amount of drafts for the month 1,364,899 95
-------------
Gain for the month 96,307 61
=============
Total amount of deposits $38,245,163 80
Total amount of drafts 34,000,685,77
--------------
Total amount due depositors $4,244,478 03
==============
This first experiment of the new citizen in saving his funds was
working admirably. Each report was more cheering than the preceding
one. The deposits were generally made by day laborers, house servants,
farmers, mechanics, and washerwomen. Two facts were established, viz.:
that the Negroes of the South were working; and that they were saving
their earnings. Northern as well as Southern whites were agreeably
surprised.
But bad management doomed the institution to irreparable ruin. The
charter was violated in the establishment of branch banks; "persons
who were never held in bondage and their descendants" were allowed to
deposit funds in the bank; money was loaned upon valueless securities
and meaningless collaterals, and in the fall of 1873, having been kept
open for a long time on money borrowed on collateral securities
belonging to its customers, the bank failed!
During the brief period of its existence about $57,000,000 had been
deposited. The liabilities of the institution at the time of the
failure, as corrected to date, were $3,037,483, of which $73,774.34
were special deposits and preferred claims. The number of open
accounts at the time of the failure were 62,000. The _nominal_ assets
at the time of the failure were $2,693,093.20. And in the almost
interminable list of over-drafts amounting to $55,567.63, there
appeared but one solitary surety!
On the 20th of June, 1874, Congress passed an act permitting the very
men who had destroyed the bank to nominate three Commissioners, who,
upon the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury, should wind up the
affairs of this insolvent institution. Section 7 of the Act reads as
follows:
"SEC. 7. That whenever it shall be deemed advisable by the
trustees of said corporation to close up its entire business,
then they shall select three competent men, not connected with
the previous management of the institution and approved by the
Secretary of the Treasury, to be known and styled commissioners,
whose duty it shall be to take charge of all the property and
effects of said Freedman's Savings and Trust Company, close up
the principal and subordinate branches, collect from the branches
all the deposits they have on hand, and proceed to collect all
sums due said company, and dispose of all the property owned by
said company, as speedily as the interests of the corporation
require, and to distribute the proceeds among the creditors pro
rata, according to their respective amounts; they shall make a
pro rata dividend whenever they have funds enough to pay twenty
per centum of the claims of depositors. Said commissioners,
before they proceed to act, shall execute a joint bond to the
United States, with good sureties, in the penal sum of one
hundred thousand dollars, conditioned for the faithful discharge
of their duties as commissioners aforesaid, and shall take an
oath to faithfully and honestly perform their duties as such,
which bonds shall be executed in presence of the Secretary of the
Treasury, be approved by him, and by him safely kept; and
whenever said trustees shall file with the Secretary of the
Treasury a certified copy of the order appointing said
commissioners, and they shall have executed the bonds and taken
the oath aforesaid, then said commissioners shall be invested
with the legal title to all of said property of said company, for
the purposes of this act, and shall have full power and authority
to sell the same, and make deeds of conveyance to any and all of
the real estate sold by them to the purchasers. Said
commissioners may employ such agents as are necessary to assist
them in closing up said company, and pay them a reasonable
compensation for their services out of the funds of said company;
and the said commissioners shall retain out of said funds a
reasonable compensation for their trouble, to be fixed by the
Secretary of the Treasury and the Comptroller of the Currency,
and not exceeding three thousand dollars each per annum. Said
commissioners shall deposit all sums collected by them in the
Treasury of the United States until they make a pro rata
distribution of the same."
There are several legal questions that history would like to ask. 1.
Did not the trustees of the Freedman's Savings Bank and Trust Company
violate their charter in establishing branch banks? 2. Were not the
trustees personally liable for receiving deposits from persons who
were neither "heretofore held in slavery" nor the descendants of such
persons? 3. Were not persons "heretofore held in slavery" and "their
descendants" preferred creditors? 4. Had Congress the authority to go
outside of the Federal bankruptcy laws and create such special
machinery for the settlement of a collapsed bank? This matter may come
before Congress in a new shape some time in the future.
The three commissioners, at a salary of $3,000 per annum, were charged
with the settlement of the affairs of the bank. They were Jno. A. J.
Creswell, Robert Purvis, and R. H. T. Leipold. Mr. Creswell was
retained by the United States before the Alabama Claims Commission at
a salary of $10,000 per annum; while Mr. Leipold was a lawyer with
considerable practice. But neither one of these gentlemen ever entered
a court on behalf of the company. In a little more than five years
they used up out of the assets of the company, $40,000 for their
salaries; paid for salaries to agents, $64,000, and $31,000 for
attorneys' fees, aggregating $135,000--nearly one half of the amount
distributed among depositors for the same length of time.
The more the commissioners examined, the greater the liabilities of
the company grew. On the 1st of October, 1875, a dividend of 20 per
cent. was declared; on the 1st of February, 1878, a dividend of 10 per
cent. was declared; on the 21st of August, 1880, they declared another
dividend of 10 per cent.; and on the 14th of April, 1881, a circular
was sent out as a crumb of comfort to the anxious, defrauded, and
outraged depositors. It is not enough for history to pronounce the
failure of this bank an irreparable calamity to the Colored people of
the South; it should be branded as a _crime_! There was no more
necessity for the failure of this bank than for the failure of the
United States Treasury. Its management was criminal; and Congress
should yet seek out and punish the guilty; and the depositors should
be indemnified out of the United States Treasury. Justice and equity
demand it.
The failure of the Freedman's Bank worked great mischief among the
Colored people in the South. But hardy, persistent, earnest, and
hopeful, they turned again to the work of making and saving money.
They have been more prudent than their circumstances, in some
instances, would seem to warrant. In Georgia the Colored people have
made wonderful progress in business matters.
Amount of
Money and Household
No. of Solvent and
Acres of Value of City or Town Debts of Kitchen
Polls. Land. Land. Property. all Kinds. Furniture.
------- ------- ---------- ------------ ---------- ----------
88,522 541,199 $1,348,758 $1,094,435 $73,253 $448,713
Value of all
other Property
Horses, Plantation not before Aggregate Total Amount
Mules, Hogs, and Enumerated Value of of Tax Assessed
Sheep, Mechanical except Whole on Polls
and Cattle. Tools. Annual Crops, Property. and Property.
Provisions, etc.
----------- ---------- ---------------- ---------- ---------------
$1,704,230 $143,258 $369,751 $5,182,398 $106,660.39
Increase in number of acres since return of 1878 39,309
Increase in wealth since return of 1878 $57,523
In Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, North and South Carolina, and in
Maryland, Colored men have possessed themselves of excellent farms
and moderate fortunes. In Baltimore a company of Colored men own a
ship dock, and transact a large business. Some of the largest orange
plantations in Florida are owned by Colored men. On most of the
plantations, and in many of the large towns and cities Colored
mechanics are quite numerous. The Montgomeries who own the plantation,
once the property of Jefferson Davis, extending for miles along the
Mississippi, are probably the best business men in the South. In
Louisiana, P. P. Deslonde, A. Dubuclet, Hon. T. T. Allain, and State
Senator Young are men who, although taking a lively interest in
politics, have accumulated property and saved it.
There is nothing vicious in the character of the Southern Negro. He is
gentle, affectionate, and faithful. If it has appeared, through false
figures, that he is a criminal, there is room for satisfactory
explanation. In 1870, out of a population, of persons of color, in all
the States and Territories, of 4,880,009, there were only 9,400 who
were receiving aid on the 1st of June, 1870; and only 8,056 in all the
prisons of America. Nine tenths of these were South, and could neither
read nor write.
During the Rebellion, when every white male from fifteen to seventy
was out fighting to sustain the Confederacy--when the Southern
Government was robbing the cradle and the grave for soldiers--the
wives and children of the Confederates were committed to the care and
keeping of their slaves. And what is the verdict of history? That
these women were outraged and their children brained? No! But that
during all those years of painful anxiety, of hope and fear, of fiery
trial and severe privation, those faithful Negroes toiled, not only to
support the wives and children of the men who were fighting to make
slavery national and perpetual, but fed the entire rebel army, and
never laid the weight of a finger upon the head of any of the women or
children entrusted to their care! To this virtue of fidelity to their
worst enemies they added still another, loyalty to the Union flag and
escaping Union soldiers. All night long they would direct the lonely,
famishing, fainting, and almost delirious Union soldier in a safe way,
and then when the night and morning met they would point their pilgrim
friends to the North Star, hide them and feed them during the day, and
then return to the plantation to care for the loved ones of the men
who starved Union soldiers and hunted them down with bloodhounds! This
is the brightest gem that history can place upon the brow of the
Negro; and in conferring it there is no one found to object.
Since the war the crime among Colored people is to be accounted for
upon two grounds, viz.: ignorance, and a combination of circumstances
over which they had no control. It was one thing for the Negro to
understand the cruel laws of slavery, but when he found himself a
freeman he was not able to know what was an infraction of the law.
They did not know what in law constituted a _tort_, or a civil action
from a sled. The violent passions pampered in slavery, the destruction
of the home, the promiscuous mingling of the sexes, a conscience
enfeebled by disuse, made them easy transgressors. The Negro is not a
criminal generically; he is an accidental criminal. The judiciary and
juries of the South are responsible for the alarming prison statistics
which stand against the Negro. It takes generations for men to
overcome their prejudices. With a white judge and a white jury a Negro
is guilty the moment he makes his appearance in court. It is seldom
that a Negro can get judgment against a white person under the most
favorable circumstances. The Negroes who appear in courts are of the
poorer and more ignorant class. They have no funds with which to
employ counsel, and have but few intelligent lawyers to come to their
rescue. In cases of theft, especially of poultry, pigs, sheep, fruit,
etc., it is next to impossible to convince a white judge or jury that
the defendant is not guilty. They reason that because the half-fed,
overworked slave appropriated articles of food, as a freeman the Negro
was not changed. They ascribed a general habit, growing out of trying
circumstances, to the Negro as a slave that he soon learned to regard
as morally wrong when a freeman.
But the most effective agency in filling Southern prisons with Negroes
has been, and is, the chain-gang system--the farming out of convict
labor. Just as great railway, oil, and telegraph companies in the
North have been capable of controlling legislation, so the
corporations at the South which take the prisoners of the State off of
the hands of the Government, and then speculate upon the labor of the
prisoners, are able to control both court and jury. It has been the
practice, and is now, in some of the Southern States, to pronounce
long sentences upon able-bodied young Colored men, whose offences, in
a Northern court, could not be visited with more than a few months'
confinement and a trifling fine. The object in giving Negro men a long
term of years, is to make sure the tenure of the soulless
corporations upon the convicts whose unhappy lot it is to fall into
their iron grasp. In some of the Southern States a strong and healthy
Negro convict brings thirty-seven cents a day to the State, while he
earns a dollar for the corporations above his expenses. The convicts
are cruelly treated--especially in Georgia and Kentucky;--their food
is poor, their quarters miserable, and their morals next to the brute
creation. In many of these camps men and women are compelled to sleep
in the same bunks together, with chains upon their limbs, in a
promiscuous manner too sickening and disgusting to mention. When a
prisoner escapes he is hunted down by fiery dogs and cruel guards; and
often the poor prisoner is torn to pieces by the dogs or beaten to
death by the guards. No system of slavery was ever equal in its cruel
and dehumanizing details to this convict system, which, taking
advantage of race prejudice on the one hand and race ignorance on the
other, with cupidity and avarice as its chief characteristics, has
done more to curse the South than all things else since the war.
It was predicted by persons hostile to the rights and citizenship of
the Negro, that a condition of freedom would not be in harmony with
his character; that it would destroy him, and that he would destroy
the country and party which tried to make him agree to a state of
independent life; that having been used to the "kind treatment"(?) of
his master he would find himself unequal to the responsibilities of
freedom; and that his migratory disposition would lead him into a
climate too cold for him, where he would be welcomed to an
inhospitable grave.
It is true that a great many Negroes died during the first years of
their new life. The joy of emancipation and the excitement that
disturbed business swept the Negroes into the large cities. Like the
shepherds who left their flocks on the plains and went into Bethlehem
to see the promised redemption, these people sought the centres of
excitement. The large cities were overrun with them. The demand for
unskilled labor was not great. From mere spectators they became
idlers, helpless and offensive to industrious society. Ignorant of
sanitary laws, imprudent in their daily living, changing from the pure
air and plain diet of farm life to the poisonous atmosphere and rich,
fateful food of the city, many fell victims to the sudden change from
bondage to freedom, from darkness to light, and from the fleshpots,
garlic, and onions of their Egyptian bondage to the milk and honey of
the Canaan of their deliverance.
But this was in accordance with an immutable law of nature. Every year
a large number of birds perish in an attempt to change their home;
every spring-time many flowers die at their birth. The law of the
survival of the fittest is impartial and inexorable. The Creator said
centuries ago "the soul that sinneth shall surely die," and the law
has remained until the present time. Those who sinned ignorantly or
knowingly died the death; but those who obeyed the laws of health, of
man, and of God, lived to be useful members of society.
But this was the exception to the rule. The Negro race in America is
not dying out. The charge is false. The wish was father to the
thought, while no doubt many honest people have been misled by false
figures. Nearly all white communities at the South had more than
enough of physicians; and science and culture were summoned to the aid
of the white mother in the hour of childbirth. The record of births
was preserved with pride and official accuracy; and thus there was a
record upon which to calculate the increase. But, on the contary,
among the Negroes there were no physicians and no record of births.
The venerable system of midwifery prevailed. In burying their dead,
however, this people were compelled to obtain a burial permit from the
Board of Health. Thus the statistics were all on one side--all deaths
and no births. Looking at these statistics it did seem that the race
was dying out. But the Government steps in and takes the census every
decade, and, thereby, the world is enabled, upon reliable figures, to
estimate the increase or decrease of the Colored race. The subjoined
table exhibits the increase of the Colored people for nine decades.
Colored gain
Year. Colored. per cent.
----- --------- ------------
1st census. 1790 757,208
2d " 1800 1,002,037 32.3 1st decade.
3d " 1810 1,377,808 37.5 2d "
4th " 1820 1,771,656 28.6 3d "
5th " 1830 2,328,642 31.5 4th "
6th " 1840 2,873,648 23.4 5th "
7th " 1850 3,638,808 26.6 6th "
8th " 1860 4,441,830 22.1 7th "
9th " 1870 4,880,009 9.9[122] 8th "
10th " 1880 6,580,793 34.8 9th "
So here is a remarkable fact, that from 757,208 in 1790 the Negro race
has grown to be 6,580,793 in 1880! The theory that the race was dying
out under the influences of civilization at a greater ratio than under
the annihilating influences of slavery was at war with common-sense
and the efficient laws of Christian society. Emancipation has taken
the mother from field-work to house-work. The slave hut has been
supplanted by a pleasant house; the mud floor is done away with; and
now, with carpets on the floor, pictures on the wall, a better quality
of food properly prepared, the influence of books and papers, and the
blessings of a preached Gospel, the Negro mother is more prolific, and
the mortality of her children reduced to a minimum. The Negro is not
dying out. On the contrary he has shown the greatest recuperative
powers, and against the white population of the United States as it
stands to-day--if it were not fed by European immigrants,--within the
next hundred years the Negroes would outnumber the whites 12,000,000!
Or at an increase of 33-1/3 per cent. the Negro population in 1980
would be 117,000,000! providing the ratio of increase continues the
same between the races.
And in addition to the fact that the Negro, like the Irishman, is
prolific, is able to reproduce his species, it should be recorded that
the Negro intellect is growing and expanding at a wonderful rate. The
children of ten and twelve years of age are more apt to-day than those
of the same age ten years ago. And the children of the next generation
will have no superiors in any of the schools of the country.
FOOTNOTES:
[117] For an account of this problem, see the Appendix to this volume.
[118] See the annual reports of the Superintendent of Public
Instruction for Virginia. There were more than 18,234 Colored children
in the schools of this State in 1870.
[119] Annual Report of the Hon. W. H. Ruffner, for 1874.
[120] For an account of the John F. Slater Bequest of $1,000.000 for
the education of the freedmen, see the Appendix to this volume.
[121] See report of the Commissioner.
[122] There is no disguising the fact that the ninth census was
incorrect. No doubt it was the worst we have ever had.
CHAPTER XXIII.
REPRESENTATIVE COLORED MEN.
THIRTEENTH AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION.--THE LEGAL DESTRUCTION
OF SLAVERY AND A CONSTITUTIONAL PROHIBITION.--FIFTEENTH AMENDMENT
GRANTING MANHOOD SUFFRAGE TO THE AMERICAN NEGRO.--PRESIDENT
GRANT'S SPECIAL MESSAGE UPON THE SUBJECT.--UNIVERSAL REJOICING
AMONG THE COLORED PEOPLE.--THE NEGRO IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE
AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.--THE NEGRO IN THE DIPLOMATIC
SERVICE OF THE COUNTRY.--FREDERICK DOUGLASS.--HIS BIRTH,
ENSLAVEMENT, ESCAPE TO THE NORTH, AND LIFE AS A FREEMAN.--BECOMES
AN ANTI-SLAVERY ORATOR.--GOES TO GREAT BRITAIN.--RETURNS TO
AMERICA.--ESTABLISHES THE "NORTH STAR."--HIS ELOQUENCE,
INFLUENCE, AND BRILLIANT CAREER.--RICHARD THEODORE GREENER.--HIS
EARLY LIFE, EDUCATION, AND SUCCESSFUL LITERARY CAREER.--JOHN P.
GREEN.--HIS EARLY STRUGGLES TO OBTAIN AN EDUCATION.--A SUCCESSFUL
ORATOR, LAWYER, AND USEFUL LEGISLATOR.--OTHER REPRESENTATIVE
COLORED MEN.--REPRESENTATIVE COLORED WOMEN.
The Government could not escape the logic of the position it took when
it made the Negro a soldier, and invoked his aid in putting down the
slave-holders' Rebellion. As a soldier he stood in line of promotion:
the Government destroyed the Confederacy when it placed muskets in the
hands of the slaves; and at the close of the war had to legally render
slavery forever impossible in the United States. The bloody deduction
of the great struggle had to be made a living, legal verity in the
Constitution, and hence the Thirteenth Amendment.
"ARTICLE XIII.
"SECTION 1. Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as
a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly
convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place
subject to their jurisdiction.
"SECTION 2. Congress shall have power to enforce this article by
appropriate legislation."
This was the consummation of the ordinance of 1787, carried to its
last analysis, applied in its broadest sense. It drove the last nail
in the coffin of slavery, and blighted the fondest hope of the friends
of secession.
But there was need for another amendment to the Constitution
conferring upon the Colored people manhood suffrage. On the 27th of
February, 1869, the Congress passed a resolution recommending the
Fifteenth Amendment for ratification by the Legislatures of the
several States. On the 30th of March, 1870, President U. S. Grant sent
a special message to Congress, calling the attention of that body to
the proclamation of the Secretary of State in reference to the
ratification of the Amendment by twenty-nine of the States.
SPECIAL MESSAGE OF PRESIDENT GRANT ON RATIFICATION OF THE
FIFTEENTH AMENDMENT:
"_To the Senate and House of Representatives:_
"It is unusual to notify the two houses of Congress, by message,
of the promulgation, by proclamation of the Secretary of State,
of the ratification of a constitutional amendment. In view,
however, of the vast importance of the XVth Amendment to the
Constitution, this day declared a part of that revered
instrument, I deem a departure from the usual custom justifiable.
A measure which makes at once four millions of people voters, who
were heretofore declared by the highest tribunal in the land not
citizens of the United States, nor eligible to become so, (with
the assertion that, 'at the time of the Declaration of
Independence, the opinion was fixed and universal in the
civilized portion of the white race, regarded as an axiom in
morals as well as in politics, that black men had no rights which
the white man was bound to respect,') is indeed a measure of
grander importance than any other one act of the kind from the
foundation of our free government to the present day.
"Institutions like ours, in which all power is derived directly
from the people, must depend mainly upon their intelligence,
patriotism, and industry. I call the attention, therefore, of the
newly-enfranchised race to the importance of their striving in
every honorable manner to make themselves worthy of their new
privilege. To the race more favored heretofore by our laws I
would say, withhold no legal privilege of advancement to the new
citizen. The framers of our Constitution firmly believed that a
republican government could not endure without intelligence and
education generally diffused among the people. The 'Father of his
Country,' in his farewell address, uses this language: 'Promote,
then, as a matter of primary importance, institutions for the
general diffusion of knowledge. In proportion as the structure of
the government gives force to public opinion, it is essential
that public opinion should be enlightened.' In his first annual
message to Congress the same views are forcibly presented, and
are again urged in his eighth message.
"I repeat that the adaption of the XVth Amendment to the
Constitution completes the greatest civil change and constitutes
the most important event that has occurred since the nation came
into life. The change will be beneficial in proportion to the
heed that is given to the urgent recommendations of Washington.
If these recommendations were important then, with a population
of but a few millions, how much more important now, with a
population of forty millions, and increasing in a rapid ratio.
"I would therefore call upon Congress to take all the means
within their constitutional powers to promote and encourage
popular education throughout the country; and upon the people
everywhere to see to it that all who possess and exercise
political rights shall have the opportunity to acquire the
knowledge which will make their share in the government a
blessing and not a danger. By such means only can the benefits
contemplated by this amendment to the Constitution be secured.
"U. S. GRANT.
"EXECUTIVE MANSION, March 30, 1870."
CERTIFICATE OF MR. SECRETARY FISH RESPECTING THE RATIFICATION OF
THE XVTH AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION, MARCH 30, 1870.
"HAMILTON FISH, SECRETARY OF STATE OF THE UNITED STATES.
"_To all to whom these presents may come, greeting_:
"Know ye that the Congress of the United States, on or about the
27th day of February, in the year 1869, passed a resolution in
the words and figures following, to wit:
"A RESOLUTION proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the
United States.
"_Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled, (two-thirds of
both houses concurring.)_ That the following article be proposed
to the legislatures of the several States as an amendment to the
Constitution of the United States, which, when ratified by
three-fourths of said legislatures, shall be valid as part of the
Constitution, namely:
"ARTICLE XV.
"SECTION 1. The right of citizens of the United States to vote
shall not be denied or abridged by the United States, or by any
State, on account of race, color, or previous condition of
servitude.
"SEC. 2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by
appropriate legislation.
"And, further, that it appears, from official documents on file
in this department, that the amendment to the Constitution of the
United States, proposed as aforesaid, has been ratified by the
legislatures of the States of North Carolina, West Virginia,
Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Maine, Louisiana, Michigan, South
Carolina, Pennsylvania, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois,
Indiana, New York, New Hampshire, Nevada, Vermont, Virginia,
Alabama, Missouri, Mississippi, Ohio, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota,
Rhode Island, Nebraska, and Texas; in all, twenty-nine States.
"And, further, that the States whose legislatures have so
ratified the said proposed amendment constitute three-fourths of
the whole number of States in the United States.
"And, further, that it appears, from an official document on file
in this department, that the legislature of the State of New York
has since passed resolutions claiming to withdraw the said
ratification of the said amendment which had been made by the
legislature of that State, and of which official notice had been
filed in this department.
"And, further, that it appears, from an official document on file
in this department, that the legislature of Georgia has by
resolution ratified the said proposed amendment.
"Now, therefore, be it known that I, Hamilton Fish, Secretary of
State of the United States, by virtue and in pursuance of the 2d
section of the act of Congress, approved the 20th day of April,
1818, entitled "An act to provide for the publication of the laws
of the United States, and for other purposes," do hereby certify,
that the amendment aforesaid has become valid, to all intents and
purposes, as part of the Constitution of the United States.
"In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the
seal of the Department of State to be affixed.
"Done at the city of Washington, this 30th day of March, in the
year of our Lord, 1870, and of the independence of the United
States, the ninety-fourth.
[SEAL.]
"HAMILTON FISH."
The Emancipation Proclamation itself did not call forth such genuine
and wide-spread rejoicing as the message of President Grant. The event
was celebrated by the Colored people in all the larger cities North
and South. Processions, orations, music and dancing proclaimed the
unbounded joy of the new citizen. In Philadelphia Frederick Douglass,
Bishop Jabez P. Campbell, I. C. Wears, and others delivered eloquent
addresses to enthusiastic audiences. Mr. Douglass deeply wounded the
religious feelings of his race by declaring; "I shall not dwell in
any hackneyed cant by thanking God for this deliverance which has
been wrought out through our common humanity." A hundred pulpits, a
hundred trenchant pens sprang at the declaration with fiery
indignation; and it was some years before the bold orator was able to
make himself tolerable to his people. There was little of the spirit
of tolerance among the Colored people at the time, and upon such an
occasion the remark was regarded as imprudent, to say the least.
A new era was opened up before the Colored people. They were now for
the first time in possession of their full political rights. On the
25th of February, 1870, Hiram R. Revels took his seat as United States
Senator from Mississippi. On the 9th of January, 1861, Mississippi
passed her ordinance of secession, and Jefferson Davis resigned his
seat as United States Senator. Within a brief decade a civil war had
raged for four and a half years; and after the seceding Mississippi
had passed through the refining fires of battle and had been purged of
slavery, she sent to succeed the arch traitor a _Negro_,[123] a
representative of the race that Mr. Davis intended to be the
corner-stone of his new government!![124] It was God's work, and
marvellous in the eyes of the world. But this was not all. Just one
year from the day and hour Senator Revels took his seat in the United
States Senate, on the 24th of February, 1871, Jefferson F. Long, a
_Negro_, was sworn in as a member of the House of Representatives from
Georgia, the State of Alexander H. Stephens, the Vice-President of the
Confederate States!! And then, as if to add glory to glory, the
American Government despatched E. D. Bassett, a Colored man from
Pennsylvania, as Minister Resident and Consul-General to Hayti! And
with almost the same stroke of his pen, President Grant sent J. Milton
Turner, a Colored man from Missouri, as Resident Minister and
Consul-General to Liberia! Mr. Bassett came from Philadelphia where
the Declaration of Independence was written and proclaimed, and where
the noble Dr. Franklin had stood against the slavery compromises of
the Constitution! Philadelphia, then, the birthplace of American
Independence, had the honor of furnishing the first Negro who was to
illustrate the lofty sentiment of the equality of _all_ men before the
law. And the republic that Mr. Bassett went to had won diplomatic
relations with all the civilized powers of the earth through the
matchless valor and splendid statesmanship of Toussaint L'Ouverture.
This was a black republic that had a history and a name among the
peoples of the world.
Mr. Turner went from Missouri, the first State to violate the
ordinance of 1787, and to establish slavery "northwest of the Ohio"
River. He went to a republic on the West Coast of Africa that had been
built by the industry, intelligence, and piety of Negroes who had
flown from the accursed influences of American slavery. The
slave-ships had disappeared from the coast, and commercial fleets,
from all lands came to trade with the citizens of a free republic
whose ministers were welcomed in every court of Europe, and whose
official acts were clothed with the authority and majesty of "_the
Republic of Liberia_!"
In this same period Frederick Douglass was made a Presidential Elector
for the State of New York; and thus helped cast the vote of that great
commonwealth for U. S. Grant as President, in 1872. In the chief city
of this State the first Federal Congress met, and on the first day of
its first session spent the entire time in discussing the slavery
question. Through the streets of this same city Mr. Douglass had to
skulk and hide from slave-catchers on his way from the hell of
slavery, to the land of freedom. In this city, a few years later, he
was hounded by a pro-slavery mob,--but at last he represented the
popular will of its noblest citizens when they had chosen him to act
for them in the Electoral College.
Born a slave, some time during the present century, on the eastern
shore, Maryland, in the county of Talbot, and in the district of
Tuckahoe, Frederick Douglass was destined by nature and God to be a
giant in the great moral agitation for the extinction of slavery and
the redemption of his race. He came of two extremes--representative
Negro and representative Saxon. Tall, large-boned, colossal frame,
compact head, broad, expressive face adorned with small brown,
mischievous eyes, nose slightly Grecian, chin square set, and thin
lips, Frederick Douglass would attract attention upon the streets of
any city in Europe or America. His life as a slave was studded with
painful experiences. Early separation from his mother, neglect, and
then cruel treatment gave to the holy cause of freedom one of its
ablest champions, and to slavery one of its most invincible opponents.
Transferred from Talbot County to Baltimore, Maryland, where he spent
seven years, Mr. Douglass began to extend the horizon of his
intellectual vision, and to come face to face with the hideous monster
of slavery in the moments of reflection upon his condition in contrast
with that of a fairer race about him. Inadvertently his mistress began
to teach him characters of letters; but she was stopped by the advice
of her husband, because it was thought inimical to the interest of the
master to teach his slave. But having lighted the taper of knowledge
in the mind of the slave boy, it was forever beyond human power to put
it out. The incidents and surroundings of young Douglass peopled his
brain with ideas, gave wings to his thoughts and order to his
reasoning. The word of reproof, the angry look, and the precautions to
prevent him from acquiring knowledge rankled in his young heart and
covered his moral sky with thick clouds of despair. He reasoned
himself right out of slavery, and ran away and went North.
David Ruggles, a Colored gentleman of intelligence, took charge of Mr.
Douglass in New York, and sent him to New Bedford, Massachusetts.
Having married in New York a free Colored woman from Baltimore named
"Anna," he was ready now to enter upon the duties of the new life as a
freeman. He found in one Nathan Johnson, an intelligent and
industrious Colored man of New Bedford, a warm friend, who advanced
him a sum of money to redeem baggage held for fare, and gave him the
name which he has since rendered illustrious.
The intellectual growth of Mr. Douglass from this on was almost
phenomenal. He devoured knowledge with avidity, and retained and
utilized all he got. He used information as good business men use
money. He made every idea bear interest; and now setting the music of
his soul to the words he acquired, he soon earned a reputation as a
gifted conversationalist and an impressive orator.
In the summer of 1841 an anti-slavery convention was held at
Nantucket, Massachusetts, under the direction of William Lloyd
Garrison. Mr. Douglass had attended several meetings in New Bedford,
where he had listened to a defence of his race and a denunciation of
its oppressors. And when he heard of the forthcoming convention at
Nantucket he resolved to take a little respite from the hard work he
was performing in a brass foundry, and attend. Previous to this he had
felt the warm heart of Mr. Garrison beating for the slave through the
columns of the "Liberator"; had received a copy each week for a long
time, had mastered its matchless arguments against slavery, and was,
therefore, possessed with an idea of the anti-slavery cause. At
Nantucket he was sought out of the vast audience and requested by
William C. Coffin, of New Bedford, where he had heard the fervid
eloquence of the young man as an exhorter in the Colored Methodist
Church, to make a speech. The hesitancy and diffidence of Mr. Douglass
were overcome by the importunate invitation to speak. He spoke: and
from that hour a new sphere opened to him; from that hour he began to
exert an influence against slavery which for a generation was second
only to that of Mr. Garrison. He was engaged as an agent of the
Anti-Slavery Society led by Mr. Garrison. He was taken in charge by
George Foster, and in his company made a lecturing tour of the eastern
tier of counties in the old Bay State. The meetings were announced a
few days ahead of the lecturer. He was advertised as a "fugitive
slave," as "a chattel," as "a thing" that could talk and give an
interesting account of the cruelties of slavery. As a narrator he had
few equals among the most polished white gentlemen of all New England.
His white friends were charmed by the lucidity and succinctness of his
account of his life as a slave, and always insisted upon his
narrative. But he was more than a narrator, more than a story-teller;
he was an orator, and in dealing with the problem of slavery proved
himself to be a thinker. The old story of his bondage became stale to
him. His friends' advice to keep on telling the same story could no
longer be complied with; and dashing out of the beaten path of
narration he began a career as an orator that has had no parallel on
this continent. He found no adequate satisfaction in relating the
experiences of a slave; his soul burned with a holy indignation
against the institution of slavery. Having increased his vocabulary of
words and his information concerning the purposes and plans of the
Anti-Slavery Society, he was prepared to make an assault upon slavery.
Instead of being the pupil of the anti-slavery friends who had
furnished him a great opportunity, his close reasoning, blighting
irony, merciless invective, and matchless eloquence made him the peer
of any anti-slavery orator of his times. His appearance on the
anti-slavery platform was sudden. He appeared as a new star of
magnificent magnitude and surpassing beauty. All eyes were turned
toward the "fugitive slave orator." His eloquence so astounded the
people that few would believe he had ever felt the cruel touch of the
lash. Moreover, he had withheld from the public, the State and place
of his nativity and the circumstances of his escape. He had done this
purposely for prudential reasons. In those days there was no
protection that protected a fugitive slave against the slave-catcher
assisted by the United States courts. To reveal his master's name and
recount the exciting circumstances under which he had made his escape
from bondage, Mr. Douglass felt was but to invite the slave-hounds to
Massachusetts and endanger his liberty. But there were many good
friends hard by who were ready to pay the market value of Mr. Douglass
if a price were placed upon his flesh and blood. They urged him,
therefore, to write out an account of his life as a slave,--to be
specific; and to boldly mention names of places and persons. In 1845 a
pamphlet written by Mr. Douglass, embodying the experiences of a
"fugitive slave," was published by the Anti-Slavery Society. It
breathed a fiery zeal into the apathy of the North, and drew the fire
of the Southern press and people. For safety his friends sent him
abroad. During the voyage, in accepting an invitation to deliver a
lecture on slavery, he gave offence to some pro-slavery men who
desired very much to feed his body to the inhabitants of the deep. But
a resolute captain and a few friends were able to reduce the wrath of
the Southerners to a minimum. The occurrence on shipboard duly found
its way into the public journals of London; and the Southern gentlemen
in an attempt to justify their conduct in a card drew upon themselves
the wrath of the United Kingdom of Great Britain, and gave Mr.
Douglass an advertisement such as he could never have secured
otherwise.
Mr. Douglass spent nearly two years in Europe lecturing and writing in
the cause of anti-slavery. He made a profound impression and helped
the anti-slavery cause amazingly.
During his absence he wrote an occasional letter to the editor of the
"Liberator," and the first is, for composition, vigorous English,
symbols of thought, similes, and irony, superior to any letter he ever
wrote before or since. It bore date of January 1, 1846.
"MY DEAR FRIEND GARRISON: Up to this time I have given no direct
expression of the views, feelings, and opinions which I have
formed, respecting the character and condition of the people of
this land. I have refrained thus, purposely. I wish to speak
advisedly, and in order to do this, I have waited till, I trust,
experience has brought my opinions to an intelligent maturity. I
have been thus careful, not because I think what I say will have
much effect in shaping the opinions of the world, but because
whatever of influence I may possess, whether little or much, I
wish it to go in the right direction, and according to truth. I
hardly need say that, in speaking of Ireland, I shall be
influenced by no prejudices in favor of America. I think my
circumstances all forbid that. I have no end to serve, no creed
to uphold, no government to defend; and as to nation, I belong to
none. I have no protection at home, or resting-place abroad. The
land of my birth welcomes me to her shores only as a slave, and
spurns with contempt the idea of treating me differently; so that
I am an outcast from the society of my childhood, and an outlaw
in the land of my birth. 'I am a stranger with thee, and a
sojourner, as all my fathers were.' That men should be patriotic,
is to me perfectly natural; and as a philosophical fact, I am
able to give it an _intellectual_ recognition. But no further can
I go. If ever I had any patriotism, or any capacity for the
feeling, it was whipped out of me long since, by the lash of the
American soul-drivers.
"In thinking of America, I sometimes find myself admiring her
bright blue sky, her grand old woods, her fertile fields, her
beautiful rivers, her mighty lakes, and star-crowned mountains.
But my rapture is soon checked, my joy is soon turned to
mourning. When I remember that all is cursed with the infernal
spirit of slave-holding, robbery, and wrong; when I remember that
with the waters of her noblest rivers, the tears of my brethren
are borne to the ocean, disregarded and forgotten, and that her
most fertile fields drink daily of the warm blood of my outraged
sisters, I am filled with unutterable loathing, and led to
reproach myself that any thing could fall from my lips in praise
of such a land. America will not allow her children to love her.
She seems bent on compelling those who would be her warmest
friends, to be her worst enemies. May God give her repentance,
before it is too late, is the ardent prayer of my heart. I will
continue to pray, labor, and wait, believing that she cannot
always be insensible to the dictates of justice, or deaf to the
voice of humanity.
"My opportunities for learning the character and condition of the
people of this land have been very great. I have travelled almost
from the Hill of Howth to the Giant's Causeway, and from the
Giant's Causeway to Cape Clear. During these travels, I have met
with much in the character and condition of the people to
approve, and much to condemn; much that has thrilled me with
pleasure, and very much that has filled me with pain. I will not,
in this letter, attempt to give any description of those scenes
which have given me pain. This I will do hereafter. I have
enough, and more than your subscribers will be disposed to read
at one time, of the bright side of the picture. I can truly say,
I have spent some of the happiest moments of my life since
landing in this country. I seem to have undergone a
transformation. I live a new life. The warm and generous
cooperation extended to me by the friends of my despised race;
the prompt and liberal manner with which the press has rendered
me its aid; the glorious enthusiasm with which thousands have
flocked to hear the cruel wrongs of my down-trodden and
long-enslaved fellow-countrymen portrayed; the deep sympathy for
the slave, and the strong abhorrence of the slave-holder,
everywhere evinced; the cordiality with which members and
ministers of various religious bodies, and of various shades of
religious opinion, have embraced me, and lent me their aid; the
kind hospitality constantly proffered me by persons of the
highest rank in society; the spirit of freedom that seems to
animate all with whom I come in contact, and the entire absence
of every thing that looked like prejudice against me, on account
of the color of my skin--contrasted so strongly with my long and
bitter experience in the United States, that I look with wonder
and amazement on the transition. In the southern part of the
United States, I was a slave, thought of and spoken of as
property; in the language of the LAW, '_held, taken, reputed, and
adjudged to be a chattel in the hands of my owners and
possessors, and their executors, administrators, and assigns, to
all intents, constructions, and purposes whatsoever_.' (Brev.
Digest, 224.) In the northern states, a fugitive slave, liable to
be hunted at any moment like a felon, and to be hurled into the
terrible jaws of slavery-doomed by an inveterate prejudice
against color to insult and outrage on every hand, (Massachussetts
out of the question)--denied the privileges and courtesies common
to others in the use of the most humble means of conveyance--shut
out from the cabins of steamboats--refused admission to
respectable hotels--caricatured, scorned, scoffed, mocked, and
maltreated with impunity by any one, (no matter how black his
heart,) so he has a white skin. But now behold the change! Eleven
days and a half gone, and I have crossed three thousand miles of
the perilous deep. Instead of a democratic government, I am under
a monarchical government. Instead of the bright, blue sky of
America, I am covered with the soft, grey fog of the Emerald
Isle. I breathe, and lo! the chattel becomes a man. I gaze around
in vain for one who will question my equal humanity, claim me as
his slave, or offer me an insult. I employ a cab--I am seated
beside white people--I reach the hotel--I enter the same door--I
am shown into the same parlor--I dine at the same table--and no
one is offended.
No delicate nose grows deformed in my presence. I find no
difficulty here in obtaining admission into any place of worship,
instruction, or amusement, on equal terms with people as white as
any I ever saw in the United States. I meet nothing to remind me
of my complexion. I find myself regarded and treated at every
turn with the kindness and deference paid to white people. When I
go to church, I am met by no upturned nose and scornful lip to
tell me, '_We don't allow niggers in here!_'
"I remember, about two years ago, there was in Boston, near the
south-west corner of Boston Common, a menagerie. I had long
desired to see such a collection as I understood was being
exhibited there. Never having had an opportunity while a slave, I
resolved to seize this, my first, since my escape. I went, and as
I approached the entrance to gain admission, I was met and told
by the door-keeper, in a harsh and contemptuous tone, '_We don't
allow niggers in here!_' I also remember attending a revival
meeting in the Rev. Henry Jackson's meeting-house, at New
Bedford, and going up the broad aisle to find a seat, I was met
by a good deacon, who told me, in a pious tone, '_We don't allow
niggers in here!_' Soon after my arrival in New Bedford, from the
South, I had a strong desire to attend the Lyceum, but was told,
'_They don't allow niggers in here!_' While passing from New York
to Boston, on the steamer 'Massachusetts,' on the night of the
9th of December, 1843, when chilled almost through with the cold,
I went into the cabin to get a little warm. I was soon touched
upon the shoulder, and told, '_We don't allow niggers in here!_'
On arriving in Boston, from an anti-slavery tour, hungry and
tired, I went into an eating-house, near my friend, Mr.
Campbell's, to get some refreshments. I was met by a lad in a
white apron, '_We don't allow niggers in here!_' A week or two
before leaving the United States, I had a meeting appointed at
Weymouth, the home of that glorious band of true abolitionists,
the Weston family, and others. On attempting to take a seat in
the omnibus to that place, I was told by the driver (and I never
shall forget his fiendish hate), '_I don't allow niggers in
here!_' Thank heaven for the respite I now enjoy! I had been in
Dublin but a few days, when a gentleman of great respectability
kindly offered to conduct me through all the public buildings of
that beautiful city; and a little afterward, I found myself
dining with the lord mayor of Dublin. What a pity there was not
some American democratic Christian at the door of his splendid
mansion, to bark out at my approach, '_They don't allow niggers
in here!_' The truth is, the people here know nothing of the
republican negro hate prevalent in our glorious land. They
measure and esteem men according to their moral and intellectual
worth, and not according to the color of their skin. Whatever may
be said of the aristocracies here, there is none based on the
color of a man's skin.
This species of aristocracy belongs preeminently to 'the land of
the free, and the home of the brave.' I have never found it
abroad, in any but Americans. It sticks to them wherever they go.
They find it almost as hard to get rid of, as to get rid of their
skins.
"The second day after my arrival at Liverpool, in company with my
friend, Buffum, and several other friends, I went to Eaton Hall,
the residence of the Marquis of Westminster, one of the most
splendid buildings in England. On approaching the door, I found
several of our American passengers, who came out with us in the
'Cambria,' waiting for admission, as but one party was allowed in
the house at a time. We all had to wait till the company within
came out. And of all the faces, expressive of chagrin, those of
the Americans were preëminent. They looked as sour as vinegar,
and as bitter as gall, when they found I was to be admitted on
equal terms with themselves. When the door was opened, I walked
in, on an equal footing with my white fellow-citizens, and from
all I could see, I had as much attention paid me by the servants
that showed us through the house, as any with a paler skin. As I
walked through the building, the statuary did not fall down, the
pictures did not leap from their places, the doors did not refuse
to open, and the servants did not say, '_We don't allow niggers
in here_.'
"A happy new year to you, and all the friends of freedom."
During the time of his visit in Europe a few friends, under the
inspiration of one Mrs. Henry Richardson, raised money, purchased Mr.
Douglass, and placed his freedom papers in his hands. The documents
are of quaint historic value.
"The following is a copy of these curious papers, both of my
transfer from Thomas to Hugh Auld, and from Hugh to myself:
"Know all men by these Presents, That I, Thomas Auld, of Talbot
county, and state of Maryland, for and in consideration of the
sum of one hundred dollars, current money, to me paid by Hugh
Auld, of the city of Baltimore, in the said state, at and before
the sealing and delivery of these presents, the receipt whereof,
I, the said Thomas Auld, do hereby acknowledge, have granted,
bargained, and sold, and by these presents do grant, bargain, and
sell unto the said Hugh Auld, his executors, administrators, and
assigns, ONE NEGRO MAN, by the name of FREDERICK BAILY, or
DOUGLASS, as he calls himself--he is now about twenty-eight years
of age--to have and to hold the said negro man for life. And I,
the said Thomas Auld, for myself, my heirs, executors, and
administrators, all and singular, the said FREDERICK BAILY,
_alias_ DOUGLASS, unto the said Hugh Auld, his executors,
administrators, and assigns, against me, the said Thomas Auld, my
executors, and administrators, and against all and every other
person or persons whatsoever, shall and will warrant and forever
defend by these presents. In witness whereof, I set my hand and
seal, this thirteenth day of November, eighteen hundred and
forty-six.
THOMAS AULD.
"Signed, sealed, and delivered in presence of Wrightson Jones.
"JOHN C. LEAS."
"The authenticity of this bill of sale is attested by N.
Harrington, a justice of the peace of the state of Maryland, and
for the county of Talbot, dated same day as above.
* * * * *
"To all whom it may concern: Be it known, that I, Hugh Auld, of
the city of Baltimore, in Baltimore county, in the state of
Maryland, for divers good causes and considerations, me thereunto
moving, have released from slavery, liberated, manumitted, and
set free, and by these presents do hereby release from slavery,
liberate, manumit, and set free, MY NEGRO MAN, named FREDERICK
BAILY, otherwise called DOUGLASS, being of the age of
twenty-eight years, or thereabouts, and able to work and gain a
sufficient livelihood and maintenance; and him the said negro
man, named FREDERICK BAILY, otherwise called FREDERICK DOUGLASS,
I do declare to be henceforth free, manumitted, and discharged
from all manner of servitude to me, my executors, and
administrators forever.
"In witness whereof, I, the said Hugh Auld, have hereunto set my
hand and seal, the fifth of December, in the year one thousand
eight hundred and forty-six.
HUGH AULD.
"Sealed and delivered in presence of T. Hanson Belt.
"JAMES N. S. T. WRIGHT."
Mr. Douglass had returned to America, but the truths he proclaimed in
England, Ireland, and Scotland echoed adown their mountains, and
reverberated among their hills. The Church of Scotland and the press
of England were distressed with the problem of slavery. The public
conscience had been touched, and there was "no rest for the wicked."
Mr. Douglass had received his name--Douglass--from Nathan Johnson, of
New Bedford, Massachusetts, because he had just been reading about the
virtuous Douglass in the works of Sir Walter Scott. How wonderful
then, in the light of a few years, that a fugitive slave from America,
bearing one of the most powerful names in Scotland should lean against
the pillars of the _Free Church of Scotland_, and meet and vanquish
its brightest and ablest teachers (the friends of slavery,
unfortunately), Doctors Cunningham and Candlish!
It will be remembered that Mr. Garrison had built his school upon the
fundamental idea that slavery was constitutional; and that in order to
secure the overthrow of the institution he was compelled to do his
work outside of the Constitution; and to effect the good desired, the
Union should be dissolved. With these views Mr. Douglass had coincided
at first, and into the ranks of this party he had entered. But upon
his return from England he changed his residence and views about the
same time, and established his home and a newspaper in Rochester, New
York State. Mr. Douglass gave his reasons for leaving the Garrisonian
party as follows:
"About four years ago, upon a reconsideration of the whole
subject, I became convinced that there was no necessity for
dissolving the 'union between the northern and southern states';
that to seek this dissolution was no part of my duty as an
abolitionist; that to abstain from voting, was to refuse to
exercise a legitimate and powerful means for abolishing slavery;
and that the constitution of the United States not only contained
no guarantees in favor of slavery, but, on the contrary, it is,
in its letter and spirit, an anti-slavery instrument, demanding
the abolition of slavery as a condition of its own existence, as
the supreme law of the land."[125]
It was charged by some persons that for financial reasons Mr. Douglass
changed his views and residence; that the Garrisonians were poor; but
that Gerrit Smith was rich; and that he assisted Mr. Douglass in
establishing the "North Star," a weekly paper. But Mr. Douglass was a
man of boldness of thought and independence of character; and whatever
the motives were which led him away from his early friends he at least
deserved credit for possessing the courage necessary to such a change.
But Mr. Douglass was not the only anti-slavery man who imagined that
the Constitution was an anti-slavery instrument. This was the error of
Charles Sumner. Slavery was as legal as the right of the Government to
coin money. As has been shown already, it was recognized and protected
by law when the British sceptre ruled the colonies; it was recognized
by all the courts during the Confederacy; it was acknowledged as a
legal fact by the Treaty of Paris of 1782, and of Ghent in 1814: the
gentlemen who framed the Constitution fixed the basis of
representation in Congress upon three fifths of the slaves; and gave
the owners of slaves a fugitive slave law, at the birth of the
nation, by which to hunt their slaves in all the States and
Territories of North America. But Mr. Douglass lived long enough to
see that he was wrong and Mr. Garrison right; that the dissolution of
the Union was the only way to free his race. In his way he did his
part as faithfully and as honestly as any of his brethren in either
one of the anti-slavery parties.
Having established a reputation as an orator in England and America;
and having lifted over the tangled path of his fugitive brethren the
unerring, friendly "North Star," he now turned his attention to
debating. It was a matter of regret that two such powerful and
accomplished orators as Frederick Douglass and Samuel Ringgold Ward
should have taken up so much precious time in splitting hairs on the
constitutionality or unconstitutionality of slavery. Perhaps it did
good. It certainly did the men good. It was an education to them, and
exciting to their audiences. Mr. Douglass's forte was in oratory; in
exposing the hideousness of slavery and the wrongs of his race. Mr.
Ward--a _protégé_ of Gerrit Smith's--was scholarly, thoughtful,
logical, and eloquent. Mr. Douglass was generally worsted in debate,
but always triumphant in oratory. A careful study of Mr. Douglass's
speeches from the time he began his career as a public speaker down to
the present time reveals wonderful progress in their grammatical and
synthetical structure. He grew all the time. On the 12th of May, 1846,
he delivered a speech at Finsbury Chapel, Moorfields, England, from
which the following is extracted:
"All the slaveholder asks of me is silence. He does not ask me to
go abroad and preach _in favor_ of slavery; he does not ask any
one to do that. He would not say that slavery is a good thing,
but the best under the circumstances. The slaveholders want total
darkness on the subject. They want the hatchway shut down, that
the monster may crawl in his den of darkness, crushing human
hopes and happiness, destroying the bondman at will, and having
no one to reprove or rebuke him. Slavery shrinks from the light;
it hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest its deeds
should be reproved. To tear off the mask from this abominable
system, to expose it to the light of heaven, aye, to the heat of
the sun, that it may burn and wither it out of existence, is my
object in coining to this country. I want the slaveholder
surrounded, as by a wall of anti-slavery fire, so that he may see
the condemnation of himself and his system glaring down in
letters of light. I want him to feel that he has no sympathy in
England, Scotland, or Ireland; that he has none in Canada, none
in Mexico, none among the poor wild Indians; that the voice of
the civilized, aye, and savage world is against him. I would have
condemnation blaze down upon him in every direction, till,
stunned and overwhelmed with shame and confusion, he is compelled
to let go the grasp he holds upon the persons of his victims, and
restore them to their long-lost rights."
This was in 1846. On the 5th of July, 1852, at Rochester, New York,
he, perhaps, made the most effective speech of his life. The poet
Sheridan has written: "Eloquence consists in the man, the subject, and
the occasion." None of these conditions were wanting. There was the
man, the incomparable Douglass; the wrongs of slavery was his subject;
and the occasion was the 4th of July.
"FELLOW-CITIZENS:--Pardon me, and allow me to ask, why am I
called upon to speak here to-day? What have I, or those I
represent, to do with your national independence? Are the great
principles of political freedom and of natural justice embodied
in that Declaration of Independence, extended to us? and am I,
therefore, called upon to bring our humble offering to the
national altar, and to confess the benefits, and express devout
gratitude for the blessings resulting from your independence to
us?
"Would to God, both for your sakes and ours, that an affirmative
answer could be truthfully returned to these questions! Then
would my task be light, and my burden easy and delightful. For
who is there so cold, that a nation's sympathy could not warm
him? Who so obdurate and dead to the claims of gratitude, that
would not thankfully acknowledge such priceless benefits? Who so
stolid and selfish, that would not give his voice to swell the
hallelujahs of a nation's jubilee, when the chains of servitude
had been torn from his limbs? I am not that man. In a case like
that, the dumb might eloquently speak, and the 'lame man leap as
an hart.'
"But, such is not the state of the case. I say it with a sad
sense of the disparity between us. I am not included within the
pale of this glorious anniversary! Your high independence only
reveals the immeasurable distance between us. The blessings in
which you this day rejoice, are not enjoyed in common. The rich
inheritance of justice, liberty, prosperity, and independence,
bequeathed by your fathers, is shared by you, not by me. The
sunlight that brought life and healing to you, has brought
stripes and death to me. This Fourth of July is _yours_, not
_mine_. _You_ may rejoice, _I_ must mourn. To drag a man in
fetters into the grand illuminated temple of liberty, and call
upon him to join you in joyous anthems, were inhuman mockery and
sacrilegious irony. Do you mean, citizens, to mock me, by asking
me to speak to-day? If so, there is a parallel to your conduct.
And let me warn you that it is dangerous to copy the example of a
nation whose crimes, towering up to heaven, were thrown down by
the breath of the Almighty, burying that nation in irrecoverable
ruin! I can to-day take up the plaintive lament of a peeled and
woe-smitten people.
"'By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, when
we remembered Zion. We hanged our harps upon the willows in the
midst thereof. For there they that carried us away captive
required of us a song; and they that wasted us required of us
mirth, saying, Sing us one of the songs of Zion. How shall we
sing the Lord's song in a strange land? If I forget thee, O
Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning. If I do not
remember thee, let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth.'
"Fellow-citizens, above your national, tumultuous joy, I hear the
mournful wail of millions, whose chains, heavy and grievous
yesterday, are to-day rendered more intolerable by the jubilant
shouts that reach them. If I do forget, if I do not faithfully
remember those bleeding children of sorrow this day, 'may my
right hand forget her cunning, and may my tongue cleave to the
roof of my mouth!' To forget them, to pass lightly over their
wrongs, and to chime in with the popular theme, would be treason
most scandalous and shocking, and would make me a reproach before
God and the world. My subject, then, fellow-citizens, is AMERICAN
SLAVERY. I shall see this day and its popular characteristics
from the slave's point of view. Standing there, identified with
the American bondman, making his wrongs mine, I do not hesitate
to declare, with all my soul, that the character and conduct of
this nation never looked blacker to me than on this Fourth of
July. Whether we turn to the declarations of the past, or to the
professions of the present, the conduct of the nation seems
equally hideous and revolting. America is false to the past,
false to the present, and solemnly binds herself to be false to
the future. Standing with God and the crushed and bleeding slave
on this occasion, I will, in the name of humanity which is
outraged, in the name of liberty which is fettered, in the name
of the Constitution and the Bible, which are disregarded and
trampled upon, dare to call in question and to denounce, with all
the emphasis I can command, every thing that serves to perpetuate
slavery--the great sin and shame of America! 'I will not
equivocate; I will not excuse'; I will use the severest language
I can command; and yet not one word shall escape me that any man,
whose judgment is not blinded by prejudice, or who is not at
heart a slaveholder, shall not confess to be right and just."
His speech in England was labored, heavy, and some portions of it
ambitious. But here are measured sentences, graceful transitions,
truth made forcible, and the oratory refined. Thus he went on from
good to better, until the managers of leading lecture-courses of the
land felt that the season would not be a success without Frederick
Douglass. He began to venture into deeper water; to expound problems
not exactly in line with the only theme that he was complete master
of. His attempts at wit usually missed fire. He could not be funny. He
was in earnest from the first moment the light broke into his mind in
Baltimore. He was rarely eloquent except when denouncing slavery. He
was not at his best in abstract thought: too much logic dampened his
enthusiasm; and an attempt at elaborate preparation weakened his
discourse. He was majestic when speaking of the insults he had
received or the wrongs his race were suffering. Martin Luther said
during the religious struggle in Germany for freedom of thought:
"Sorrow has pressed many sweet songs out of me." It was the sorrows of
the child-heart of Douglass the chattel, and the sorrows of the great
man-heart of Douglass the human being, that gave the world such
remarkable eloquence. There were but two chords in his soul that could
yield a rich sound, viz.: sorrow and indignation. Sorrow for the
helpless slave, and indignation against the heartless master, made him
grand, majestic, and eloquent beyond comparison.
Although he was going constantly he saved his means, and raised a
family of two girls--one dying in her teens, an affliction he took
deeply to heart--and three boys. When the war was on at high tide, and
Colored soldiers required, he gave all he had, three stalwart boys,
while he made it very uncomfortable for the Copperheads at home. At
the close of the war he moved to Washington and became deeply
interested in the practical work of reconstruction. He was appointed
one of the Commissioners to visit San Domingo, when General Grant
recommended its annexation to the United States; was a trustee of
Howard University and of the Freedman's Savings Bank and Trust
Company. Unfortunately he accepted the presidency of the latter
institution after nearly all the thieves had got through with it, and
was its official head when the crash and ruin came.
Mr. Douglass's home[126] life has been pure and elevated. He has done
well by his boys; and has aided many young men to places of usefulness
and profit. He strangely and violently opposed the exodus of his race
from the South, and thereby incurred the opposition of the Northern
press and the anathemas of the Colored people. It was not just the
thing, men said--white and black,--for a man who had been a slave in
the South, and had come North to find a market for his labor, to
oppose his brethren in their flight from economic slavery and the
shot-gun policy of the South. His efforts to state and justify his
position before the Colored people of New York were received with an
impatient air and tolerated even for the time with ill grace. Before
the Social Science Congress at Saratoga, New York, he met Richard T.
Greener, a young Colored man, in a discussion of this subject. But Mr.
Greener, a son of Harvard College, with a keen and merciless logic,
cut right through the sophistries of Mr. Douglass; and although the
latter gentleman threw bouquets at the audience, and indulged in the
most exquisite word-painting, he was compelled to leave the field a
vanquished disputant.
President Hayes appointed Mr. Douglass United States Marshall for the
District of Columbia, an office which he held until President Garfield
made him Recorder of Deeds for the same district. He has accumulated a
comfortable little fortune, has published three books, edited two
newspapers, passed through a checkered and busy life; and to-day, full
of honors and years, he stands confessedly as the first man of his
race in North America. Not that he is the greatest in every sense; but
considering "the depths from whence he came," the work he has
accomplished, the character untarnished,--his memory and character,
like the granite shaft, will have an enduring and undying place in the
gratitude of humanity throughout the world.
Among the representative young men of color in the United States--and
now, happily in the process of time, their name is legion--Richard
Theodore Greener has undisputed standing. He was born in Pennsylvania
in 1844, but spent most of his life in Massachusetts. His father and
grandfather were men of unusual intelligence, social energy, and
public spirit. Richard T. early manifested an eagerness to learn and a
capacity to retain and utilize. He enjoyed better surroundings in
childhood than the average Colored child a generation ago; and always
accustomed to hear the English correctly spoken, he had in himself
all the required conditions to acquire a thorough education. Having
obtained a start in the common schools, he turned to Oberlin College,
Lorain County, Ohio,--at that time an institution toward which the
Colored people of the country were very partial, and whose
anti-slavery professors they loved with wonderful tenderness. For some
of these professors, in the _Oberlin-Wellington Rescue Case_, had
preferred imprisonment in preference to obedience to the unholy
fugitive-slave law. The years of 1862-3 were spent at Oberlin, and Mr.
Greener showed himself an excellent student. His ambition was to excel
in every thing. Not exactly satisfied with the course of studies at
Oberlin, he went to Phillips Academy, Andover, Massachusetts. This
institution was a feeder for Harvard, and using uniform text-books he
was placed in line and harmony with the course of studies to be
pursued at Cambridge. He entered Harvard College in the autumn of
1865, and graduated with high honors in 1870.[127] He was the first of
his race to enter this famous university, and while there did himself
credit, and honored the race from which he sprang. All his
performances were creditable. He won a second prize for reading aloud
in his freshman year; in his sophomore year he won the first prize for
the Boylston Declamation, notwithstanding members of the junior and
senior classes contested. During his junior year he did not contest,
preferring to tutor two of the competitors who were successful. In his
senior year he won the two highest prizes, viz: the First Bowdoin for
a Dissertation on "The Tenures of Land in Ireland," and the "Boylston
Prize for Oratory."
The entrance, achievements, and graduation of Mr. Greener received the
thoughtful and grateful attention of the press of Europe and America;
while what he did was a stimulating example to the young men of his
race in the United States.
At the time of his graduation there was a great demand for and a
wide-spread need of educated Colored men as teachers. The Institute
for Colored Youth, in Philadelphia, had been but recently deprived of
its principal, Prof. E. D. Bassett, who had been sent as Resident
Minister and Consul-General to the Republic of Hayti. Mr. Greener was
called to take the chair vacated by Mr. Bassett. He was principal of
this institution from Sept., 1870, to Dec., 1872. From Philadelphia he
was called to fill a similar position in Sumner High School, at
Washington, D. C. He did not remain long in Washington. His fame as an
educator had grown until he was celebrated as a teacher throughout the
country. He was offered and accepted the Chair of Metaphysics and
Logic in the University of South Carolina, situate at Columbia. He
remained here until 1877, when the Hampton Government found no virtue
in a Negro as a teacher in an institution of the fame and standing of
this university. In 1877 he was made Dean of the Law Department of
Howard University, Washington, D. C., and held the position until
1880. He graduated from the Law School of the University of South
Carolina, and has practised in Washington since his residence there.
In addition to his work as teacher, lawyer, and orator, Prof. Greener
was associate editor of the _New National Era_ at Washington, D. C.,
and his editorial _Young Men to the Front_, gave him a reputation as a
progressive and aggressive leader which he has sustained ever since
with marked ability.
As a political speaker he began while in college, in 1868, and has
continued down to the present time. He is a pleasant speaker, and
acceptable and efficient in a campaign. As an orator and writer he
excels. His early style was burdened, like that of the late Charles
Sumner, with a too-abundant classical illustration and quotation; but
during the last five years his illustrations are drawn largely from
the English classics and history. His ablest effort at oratory was his
oration on _Charles Sumner, the Idealist, Statesman, and Scholar_. It
was by all odds the finest effort of its kind delivered in this
country. It was eminently fitting that a representative of the race
toward whose elevation Mr. Sumner contributed his splendid talents,
and a graduate from the same College that honored Sumner, and from the
State that gave him birth and opportunity, should give the true
analysis of his noble life and spotless character.
In the "National Quarterly Review" for July, 1880, Prof. Greener
replied to an article from the pen of Mr. James Parton on _Antipathy
to the Negro_, published in the "North American Review." Prof.
Greener's theme was _The Intellectual Position of the Negro_. The
following paragraphs give a fair idea of the style of Mr. Greener:
"The writer himself appears not to feel such an antipathy to us
that it must need find expression; for his liberality is well
known to those who have read his writings for the past fifteen
years. Nor is there any apparent ground for its appearance
because of any new or startling exhibitions of _antipathia_
against us noticeable at the present time. No argument was needed
to prove that there has been an unreasonable and unreasoning
prejudice against negroes as a class, a long-existing antipathy,
seemingly, ineradicable, sometimes dying out it would appear, and
then bursting forth afresh from no apparent cause. If Mr. Parton
means to assert that such prejudice is ineradicable, or is
increasing, or is even rapidly passing away, then is his venture
insufficient, because it fails to support either of these views.
It does not even attempt to show that the supposed antipathy is
general, for the author expressly, and, we think, very properly,
relegates its exercise to those whom he calls the most
ignorant--the 'meanest' of mankind.
"If his intention was to attack a senseless antipathy, hold it up
to ridicule, show its absurdity, analyze its constituent parts,
and suggest some easy and safe way for Americans to rid
themselves of unchristian and un-American prejudices, then has he
again conspicuously failed to carry out such purpose. He asserts
the existence of antipathies, but only by inference does he
discourage their maintenance, although on other topics he is
rather outspoken whenever he cares to express his own
convictions.
"On this question Mr. Parton is, to say the least, vacillating,
because he fails to exhibit any platform upon which we may combat
those who support early prejudices and justify their continuance
from the mere fact of their existence. We never expect Mr.
Gayarré and Mr. Henry Watterson to look calmly and
dispassionately at these questions from the negro's point of
view. The one gives us the old argument of De Bow's _Review_, and
the other deals out the _ex parte_ views of the present leaders
of the South. The one line of argument has been answered over and
over again by the old anti-slavery leaders; the pungent
generalizations of the latter, the present generation of negroes
can answer whenever the opportunity is afforded them.
"But Mr. Parton was born in a cooler and calmer atmosphere, where
men are accustomed to give a reason for the faith that is in
them, and hence it is necessary, in opening any discussion such
as he had provoked, that he should assign some ground of
opposition or support--Christian, Pagan, utilitarian,
constitutional, optimist, or pessimist.
"The very apparent friendliness of his intentions makes even a
legitimate conclusion from him seem mere conjecture, likely to be
successfully controverted by any subtle thinker and opponent. No
definite conclusion is, indeed, reached with regard to the first
query (Jefferson's fourteenth) with which Mr. Parton opens his
article: Whether the white and black races can live together on
this continent as equals. He lets us see at the close,
incidentally only, what his opinion is, and it inclines to the
negative. But throughout the article he is in the anomalous and
dubious position of one who opens a discussion which he cannot
end, and the logical result of whose own opinion he dares not
boldly state. The illustrations of the early opinions of Madison
and Jefferson only show how permanent a factor the negro is in
American history and polity, and how utterly futile are all
attempts at his expatriation. Following Mr. Parton's advice, the
negro has always prudently abstained from putting 'himself
against inexorable facts.' He is careful, however, to make sure
of two things,--that the alleged facts are verities and that they
are inexorable. Prejudice we acknowledge as a fact; but we know
that it is neither an ineradicable nor an inexorable one. We find
fault with Mr. Parton because he starts a trail on antipathy,
evidently purposeless, and fails to track it down either
systematically or persistently, but branches off, _desipere in
loco_, to talk loosely of 'physical antipathy,' meaning what we
usually term natural antipathy; and at last, emerging from the
'brush,' where he has been hopelessly beating about from Pliny to
Mrs. Kemble, he gains a partial 'open' once more by asserting a
truism--that it is the 'ignorance of a despised class' (the lack
of knowledge we have of them) which nourishes these 'insensate
antipathies.' Here we are at one with Mr. Parton. Those who know
us most intimately, who have associated with us in the nursery,
at school, in college, in trade, in the tenderer and confidential
relations of life, in health, in sickness, and in death, as
trusted guides, as brave soldiers, as magnanimous enemies, as
educated and respected men and women, give up all senseless
antipathies, and feel ashamed to Confess they ever cherished any
prejudice against a race whose record is as unsullied as that of
any in the land."
The following passages from a most brilliant speech at the Dinner of
the Harvard Club of New York, exhibit a pure, perspicuous, and
charming style:
"What Sir John Coleridge in his 'Life of Keble' says of the
traditions and influences of Oxford, each son of Harvard must
feel is true also of Cambridge. The traditions, the patriotic
record, and the scholarly attainments of her alumni are the pride
of the College. Her contribution to letters, to statesmanship,
and to active business life, will keep her memory perennially
green. Not one of the humblest of her children, who has felt the
touch of her pure spirit, or enjoyed the benefits of her culture,
can fail to remember what she expects of her sons wherever they
may be: to stand fast for good government, to maintain the
right, to uphold honesty and character, to be, if nothing else,
good citizens, and to perform, to the extent of their ability,
every duty assumed or imposed upon them,--democratic in their
aristocracy, catholic in their liberality, impartial in judgment,
and uncompromising in their convictions of duty. [Cheers and
applause.]
"Harvard's impartiality was not demonstrated solely by my
admission to the College. In 1770, when Crispus Attucks died a
patriot martyr on State Street, she answered the rising spirit of
independence and liberty by abolishing all distinctions founded
upon color, blood, and rank. Since that day, there has been but
one test for all. Ability, character, and merit,--these are the
sole passports to her favor. [Applause.]
"When, in my adopted State, I stood on the battered ramparts of
Wagner, and recalled the fair-haired son of Harvard who died
there with his brave black troops of Massachusetts,--
"'him who, deadly hurt, agen
Flashed on afore the charge's thunder,
Tippin' with fire the bolt of men,
Thet rived the Rebel line asunder,'--
I thanked God, with patriotic pleasure, that the first contingent
of negro troops from the North should have been led to death and
fame by an alumnus of Harvard; and I remembered, with additional
pride of race and college, that the first regiment of black
troops raised on South Carolina soil were taught to drill, to
fight, to plough, and to read by a brave, eloquent, and scholarly
descendant of the Puritans and of Harvard, Thomas Wentworth
Higginson. [Great applause and cheers.]
"Is it strange, then, brothers, that I there resolved for myself
to maintain the standard of the College, so far as I was able, in
public and in private life? I am honored by the invitation to be
present here to-night. Around me I see faces I have not looked
upon for a decade. Many are the intimacies of the College, the
society, the buskin, and the oar which they bring up, from
classmates and college friends. I miss, as all Harvard men must
miss to-night, the venerable and kindly figure of Andrew Preston
Peabody, the student's friend, the consoler of the plucked, the
encourager of the strong, Mæcenas's benign almoner, the
felicitous exponent of Harvard's Congregational Unitarianism. I
miss, too, another of high scholarship, of rare poetic taste, of
broad liberality--my personal friend, Elbridge Jefferson Cutler,
loved alike by students and his fellow-members of the Faculty for
his conscientious performance of duty and his genial nature.
"Mr. President and brothers, my time is up. I give you 'Fair
Harvard,' the exemplar, the prototype of that ideal America, of
which the greatest American poet has written,--
"'Thou, taught by Fate to know Jehovah's plan,
Thet man's devices can't unmake a man,
An' whose free latch-string never was drawed in
Against the poorest child of Adam's kin."
"[Great applause.]"
Prof. Greener rendered legal services in the case of Cadet Whittaker
at West Point, and in the trial at New York City, where, as associate
counsel with ex-Gov. Chamberlain,--an able lawyer and a magnificent
orator,--he developed ability and industry as an attorney, and earned
the gratitude of his race.
Prof. Greener entered Harvard as a member of the Baptist Church; but
the transcendentalism and rationalism of the place quite swept him
from his spiritual moorings. In a recent address before a literary
society in Washington, D. C., he is represented to have maintained
that Mohammedanism was better for the indigenous races of Africa than
Christianity. Dr. John William Draper made a similar mistake in his
"_Conflict between Religion and Science!_" The learned doctor should
have written "Conflict between the Church and Science." Religion is
not and never was at war with science. Prof. Greener should have
written, "Mohammedanism better for the Africans than Snake Worship."
This brilliant young man cannot afford to attempt to exalt
Mohammedanism above the cross of our dear Redeemer, and expect to have
leadership in the Negro race in America. Nor can he support the
detestable ideas and execrable philosophy of Senator John P. Jones,
which seek to shut out the Chinaman from free America. The Negro must
stand by the weak in a fight like this, remembering the pit from which
he was dug. But Prof. Greener is young as well as talented; and seeing
his mistake, will place himself in harmony with not only the rights of
his race, but those of humanity everywhere.
Blanche K. Bruce was born a slave on a plantation in Prince Edward
County, Virginia, March 1, 1841, and in the very month and week of the
anniversary of his birth he was sworn in as United States Senator from
Mississippi. Reared a slave there was nothing in his early life of an
unusual nature. He secured his freedom at the end of the war, and
immediately sought the opportunities and privileges that would, if
properly used, fit him for his new life as a man and a citizen. He
went to Oberlin College where, in the Preparatory Department, he
applied himself to his studies, attached himself to his classmates by
charming personal manners, and gentlemanly deportment. He realized
that there were many splendid opportunities awaiting young men of
color at the South; and that profitable positions were going begging.
Mr. Bruce made his appearance in Mississippi at an opportune moment.
The State was just undergoing a process of reconstruction. He appeared
at the capital, Jackson, with seventy-five cents in his pocket; was a
stranger to every person in the city. He mingled in the great throng,
joined in the discussions that took place by little knots of
politicians, made every man his friend to whom he talked, and when the
State Senate was organized secured the position of Sergeant-at-arms.
He attracted the attention of Gov. Alcorn, who appointed him a member
of his staff with the rank of colonel. Col. Bruce was not merely
Sergeant-at-arms of the Senate, but was a power behind that body. His
intelligence, his knowledge of the character of the legislation needed
for the people of Mississippi, and the excellent impression he made
upon the members, gave him great power in suggesting and influencing
legislation.
The sheriffs of Mississippi were not elected in those days; and the
Governor had to look a good ways to find the proper men for such
positions. His faith in Col. Bruce as a man and an officer led him to
select him to be sheriff of Bolivar County. Col. Bruce discharged the
delicate duties of his office with eminent ability, and attained a
popularity very remarkable under the circumstances.
During this time, while other politicians were dropping their money at
the gaming-table and in the wine cup, Col. Bruce was saving his funds,
and after purchasing a splendid farm at Floraville, on the Mississippi
River, he made cautious and profitable investments in property and
bonds. His executive ability was marvellous, and his successful
management of his own business and that of the people of the county
made him friends among all classes and in both political parties. He
was appointed tax-collector for his county, a position that was
calculated to tax the most accomplished financier and business man in
the State. But Col. Bruce took to the position rare abilities, and
managed his office with such matchless skill, that when the term of
Henry R. Pease expired, he was chosen United States Senator from
Mississippi on the third of February, 1875, for the constitutional
term of six years. He took his seat on the 4th of March, 1875.
He did nothing in the line of oratory while in the Senate. That was
not his forte. He was an excellent worker, a faithful committee-man,
and finally was chairman of the Committee on the Freedman's Savings
Bank, etc. Mr. Bruce was chairman of the Committee on Mississippi
Levees, where he performed good work. He presided over the Senate with
dignity several times. To the charge that he was a "silent Senator,"
it may be observed that it was infinitely better that he remained
silent, than in breaking the silence to exhibit a mental feebleness in
attempting to handle problems to which most of the Senators had given
years of patient study. His conduct was admirable; his discretion
wise; his service faithful, and his influence upon the honorable
Senate and the country at large beneficial to himself and helpful to
his race.
In the convention of the Republican party at Chicago, in 1880, he was
a candidate for Vice-President. In the spring of 1881, after the close
of his senatorial career the President nominated him to be Register of
the United States Treasury, and the nomination was confirmed without
reference, after a complimentary speech from his associate, Senator L.
Q. C. Lamar. He has appeared as a political speaker on several
occasions. As nature did not intend him for this work, his efforts
appear to be the products of hard labor, but nevertheless excellent;
his estimable and scholarly wife (_née_ Miss Wilson, of Cleveland,
Ohio) has been a great blessing to him;--a good wife and a helpful
companion. From a penniless slave he has risen to the position of
writing his name upon the currency of the country. Register Bruce is a
genial gentleman, a fast friend, and an able officer.
John Mercer Langston was born a slave in Virginia; is a graduate of
Oberlin College and Theological Institution, and as a lawyer, college
president, foreign minister, and politician, has exerted a wide
influence for the good of his race. As Secretary of the Board of
Health for the District of Columbia, and as President of the Howard
University, he displayed remarkable executive ability and sound
business judgment. He is one of the bravest of the brave in public
matters, and his influence upon young Colored men has been wide-spread
and admirable. He is now serving as Resident Minister and
Consul-General to Hayti; and ranks among the best diplomats of our
Government.
In Massachusetts, Charles L. Mitchell, George L. Ruffin, John J.
Smith, J. B. Smith, and Wm. J. Walker have been members of the
Legislature. In Illinois, a Colored man has held a position in the
Board of Commissioners for Cook County--Chicago; and one has been sent
to the Legislature. In Ohio, two Colored men have been members of the
Legislature, one from Cincinnati and the other from Cleveland. Gov.
Charles Foster was the first Executive in any of the Northern States
to appoint a Colored man to a responsible position; and in this, as in
nearly every other thing, Ohio has taken the lead. The present member
(John P. Green) of the Legislature of Ohio representing Cuyahoga
County, is a young man of excellent abilities both as a lawyer and as
an orator. John P. Green was born at New Berne, North Carolina, April
2, 1845, of free parents. His father died in 1850, and his widow was
left to small resources in raising her family. But being an excellent
seamstress she did very well for her five-year-old son, while she had
an infant in her arms.
In 1857 Mrs. Green moved to Ohio and located at Cleveland. Her son
John was now able and willing to assist his mother some; and so as an
errand-boy he hired himself out for $4 per month. He obtained about a
year and one half of instruction in the common schools, and did well.
In 1862 he became a waiter in a hotel, and spent every leisure moment
in study. He succeeded in learning something of Latin and Algebra,
without a teacher.
Mr. Green had acquired an excellent style of composition, and to
secure funds with which to complete his education, he wrote and
published a pamphlet containing _Essays on Miscellaneous Subjects_, by
a self-educated Colored youth. He sold about 1,500 copies in Ohio,
Pennsylvania, and New York, and then entered the Cleveland Central
High School. He completed a four years' classical course in two years,
two terms, and two months. He graduated at the head of a class of
twenty-three. He entered the law office of Judge Jesse P. Bishop, and
in 1870 graduated from the Cleveland Law School. He turned his face
Southward, and having settled in South Carolina, began the practice of
law, which was attended with great success. But the climate was not
agreeable to his health, and in 1872 he returned to the scenes of his
early toils and struggles. He became a practising attorney in
Cleveland, and in the spring of 1873 was elected a justice of the
peace for Cuyahoga County by a majority of 3,000 votes. He served
three terms as a justice, and in eight years of service as such
decided more than 12,000 cases. As a justice he has had no equal for
many years. In 1877 he was nominated for the Legislature, but was
defeated by sixty-two votes. In 1881 he was again before the people
for the Legislature, and was elected by a handsome majority.
Mr. Green is rather a remarkable young man; and with good health and a
fair field he is bound to make a success. He will bear comparison with
any of his associates in the Legislature; and, as a clear, impressive
speaker, has few equals in that body.
There are yet at least one hundred representative men of color worthy
of the places they hold in the respect and confidence of their race
and the country. Their number is rapidly increasing; and ere many
years there will be no lack of representative Colored men.[128]
Colored women had fewer privileges of education before the war, and
indeed since the war, than the men of their race, yet, nevertheless,
many of these women have shown themselves capable and useful.
FRANCES ELLEN HARPER
was born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1825. She was not permitted to
enjoy the blessings of early educational training, but in after-years
proved herself to be a woman of most remarkable intellectual powers.
She applied herself to study, most assiduously; and when she had
reached woman's estate was well educated.
She developed early a fondness for poetry, which she has since
cultivated; and some of her efforts are not without merit. She excels
as an essayist and lecturer. She has been heard upon many of the
leading lecture platforms of the country; and her efforts to elevate
her sisters have been crowned with most signal success.
MARY ANN SHADD CAREY,
of Delaware, but more recently of Washington, D. C., as a lecturer,
writer, and school teacher, has done and is doing a great deal for the
educational and social advancement of the Colored people.
FANNY M. JACKSON--
at present Mrs. Fanny M. Jackson Coppin--was born in the District of
Columbia, in 1837. Though left an orphan when quite a child, Mrs.
Sarah Clark, her aunt, took charge of her, and gave her a first-class
education. She prosecuted the gentlemen's course in Oberlin College,
and graduated with high honors.
Deeply impressed with the need of educated teachers for the schools of
her race, she accepted a position at once in the Institute for Colored
Youth, at Philadelphia, Pa. And here for many years she has taught
with eminent success, and exerted a pure and womanly influence upon
all the students that have come into her classes.
Without doubt she is the most thoroughly competent and successful of
the Colored women teachers of her time. And her example of race pride,
industry, enthusiasm, and nobility of character will remain the
inheritance and inspiration of the pupils of the school she helped
make the pride of the Colored people of Pennsylvania.
LOUISE DE MORTIE,
of Norfolk, Virginia, was born of free parents in that place, in 1833,
but being denied the privileges of education, turned her face toward
Massachusetts.
In 1853 she took up her residence in Boston. She immediately began to
avail herself of all the opportunities of education. A most beautiful
girl, possessed of a sweet disposition and a remarkable memory, she
won a host of friends, and took high standing as a pupil.
In 1862 she began a most remarkable career as a public reader. An
elocutionist by nature, she added the refinement of the art; and with
her handsome presence, engaging manners, and richly-toned voice, she
took high rank in her profession. Just as she was attracting public
attention by her genius, she learned of the destitution that was
wasting the Colored orphans of New Orleans. Thither she hastened in
the spirit of Christian love; and there she labored with an
intelligence and zeal which made her a heroine among her people. In
1867 she raised sufficient funds to build an asylum for the Colored
orphans of New Orleans. But just then the yellow fever overtook her in
her work of mercy, and she fell a victim to its deadly touch on the
10th of October, 1867, saying so touchingly, "I belong to God, our
Father," as she expired.
Although cut off in the morning of a useful life, she is of blessed
memory among those for whose improvement and elevation she gave the
strength of a brilliant mind and the warmth of a genuine Christian
heart.
MISS CHARLOTTE L. FORTUNE--
now the wife of the young and gifted clergyman, Rev. Frank J.
Grimke,--is a native of Pennsylvania. She comes of one of the best
Colored families of the State. She went to Salem, Massachusetts, in
1854, where she began a course of studies in the "Higginson High
School." She proved to be a student of more than usual application,
and although a member of a class of white youths, Miss Fortune was
awarded the honor of writing the Parting Hymn for the class. It was
sung at the last examination, and was warmly praised by all who heard
it.
Miss Fortune became a contributor to the columns of the "Anti-Slavery
Standard" and "Atlantic Monthly." She wrote both prose and poetry, and
did admirably in each.
EDMONIA LEWIS,
the Negro sculptress, is in herself a great prophecy of the
possibilities of her sisters in America. Of lowly birth, left an
orphan when quite young, unable to obtain a liberal education, she
nevertheless determined to be somebody and do something.
Some years ago, while yet in humble circumstances, she visited Boston.
Upon seeing a statue of Benjamin Franklin she stood transfixed before
it. It stirred the latent genius within the untutored child, and
produced an emotion she had never felt before. "I, too, can make a
stone man," she said. Almost instinctively, she turned to that great
Apostle of Human Liberty, Wm. Lloyd Garrison, and asked his advice.
The kind-hearted agitator gave her a note to Mr. Brackett, the Boston
sculptor. He received her kindly, heard her express the desire and
ambition of her heart, and then giving her a model of a human foot and
some clay, said: "Go home and make that. If there is any thing in you
it will come out." She tried, but her teacher broke up her work and
told her to try again. And so she did, and triumphed.
Since then, this ambitious Negro girl has won a position as an artist,
a studio in Rome, and a place in the admiration of the lovers of art
on two continents. She has produced many meritorious works of art, the
most noteworthy being _Hagar in the Wilderness_; a group of the
_Madonna with the Infant Christ and_ _two adoring Angels_; _Forever
Free_; _Hiawatha's Wooing_; a bust of _Longfellow, the Poet_; a bust
of _John Brown_; and a medallion portrait of _Wendell Phillips_. The
_Madonna_ was purchased by the Marquis of Bute, Disraeli's Lothair.
She has been well received in Rome, and her studio has become an
object of interest to travellers from all countries.
Of late many intelligent young Colored women have risen to take their
places in society, and as wives and mothers are doing much to elevate
the tone of the race and its homes. Great care must be given to the
education of the Colored women of America; for virtuous, intelligent,
educated, cultured, and pious wives and mothers are the hope of the
Negro race. Without them educated Colored men and the miraculous
results of emancipation will go for nothing.
FOOTNOTES:
[123] Hiram R. Revels was the successor of Mr. Jefferson Davis. He was
a Methodist preacher from Mississippi. It was our privilege to be
present in the Senate when he was sworn in and took his seat.
[124] This idea had been put forth in a speech by Alexander H.
Stephens just after he had been chosen Vice-president of the
Confederate States.
[125] My Bondage and My Freedom, p. 396.
[126] While this history is passing through the press, the sad
intelligence comes of the death, after a painful illness, of his
beloved wife. All through her life she was justly proud of her husband
and children; and she leaves a precious memory.
[127] Mr. Greener was turned back one year upon the ground of alleged
imperfection in mathematics; but it was done in support of an old
theory, long since exploded, that the Negro has no capacity for the
solution of mathematical problems. We know this to be the case. But
the charming nature and natural pluck of young Greener brought him out
at last without a blemish in any of his studies.
[128] Biography is quite a different thing from history; and the
Colored men who may imagine themselves neglected ought to remember
that this is a _History of the Negro Race_. We have mentioned these
men as representative of several classes.
CHAPTER XXIV.
THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
ITS ORIGIN, GROWTH, ORGANIZATION, AND EXCELLENT INFLUENCE.--ITS
PUBLISHING HOUSE, PERIODICALS, AND PAPERS.--ITS NUMERICAL AND
FINANCIAL STRENGTH.--ITS MISSIONARY AND EDUCATIONAL
SPIRIT.--WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY.
The African Methodist Episcopal Church of America has exerted a wider
and better influence upon the Negro race than any other organization
created and managed by Negroes. The hateful and hurtful spirit of
caste and race prejudice in the Protestant Church during and after the
American Revolution drove the Negroes out. The Rev. Richard Allen, of
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was the founder of the African Methodist
Episcopal Church. He gathered a few Christians in his private
dwelling, during the year 1816, and organized a church and named it
"_Bethel_." Its first General Conference was held in Philadelphia
during the same year with the following representation:
Rev. Richard Allen, Jacob Tapsico, Clayton Durham, James Champion, and
Thomas Webster, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Daniel Coker, Richard
Williams, Henry Harden, Stephen Hill, Edward Williamson, and Nicholas
Gailliard, of Baltimore, Maryland; Peter Spencer, of Wilmington,
Delaware; Jacob Marsh, Edward Jackson, and William Andrew, of
Attleborough, Pennsylvania; Peter Cuff, of Salem, New Jersey.
The minutes of the Conference of 1817 were lost, but in 1818 there
were seven itinerants: Baltimore Conference--Rev. Daniel Coker,
Richard Williams, and Rev. Charles Pierce; Philadelphia
Conference--Bishop Allen, Rev. William Paul Quinn, Jacob Tapsico, and
Rev. Clayton Durham.
The Church grew mightily, increasing in favor with God and man. The
zeal of its ministers was wonderful, and the spirit of missions and
consecration to the work wrought miracles for the cause. In 1826 the
strength of the Church was as follows:
Bishops 2
Annual conferences 2
Itinerant preachers 17
Stations 2
Circuits 10
Missions 5
Total number of members 7,927
Amount of salary for travelling preachers $1,054.50
Amount of incidental expenses $97.25
The grand total amount of money raised in 1826 for all purposes was
$1,151.75. In 1836 there were:
Bishops 3
Conferences 4
Travelling preachers 27
Stations 7
Circuits 18
Missions 2
Churches 86
Probable value of church property $43,000.00
Total salary of pastors $1,126.29
Amount raised for general purposes $259.59
Total amount of money raised in 1836 for all purposes, $1,385.88. The
total number of members in 1836 was 7,594. This was a decrease of 333
members, and is to be accounted for in the numerous sales of slaves in
the Baltimore Conference, as the decrease was in that conference. In
1846 there were:
Bishops 4
Annual conferences 6
Travelling preachers 40
Stations 16
Circuits and missions 25
Churches 198
Probable value of church property $90,000.00
Total amount raised to support ministers $6,267.43½
Amount raised for general purposes $963.59½
The grand total amount of money raised in 1846 for all purposes was
$7,231.03.
There were supported in the Church in 1846 three educational societies
and three missionary societies.
In 1866 there were:
Annual conferences 10
Bishops 4
Travelling preachers 185
Stations 50
Circuits 39
Missions 96
Churches 285
Probable value of church property $823,000.00
Number of Sunday-school teachers and officers, 21,000
" " volumes in libraries 17,818
" " members 50,000
The amount of money expended to assist the widows and orphans was
$5,000. The amount paid this year for the support of the pastors was
$83,593. The amount expended for Sunday-school work was $3,000.
The receipts of the Church in 1876 were as follows:
Amount of contingent money raised $2,976 85
Amount raised for the support of pastors 201,984 06
Amount raised for the support of presiding
elders 23,896 66
Amount of Dollar Money for general
educational purposes, etc. 28,009 97
Amount raised to support Sunday-schools
for the year 1876 17,415 33
Amount raised for the missionary society, 3,782 72
Amount raised in one year for building
churches 169,558 60
-----------
Total amount raised for all purposes, $447,624 19
STATISTICS OF MEMBERS.
_Ministers._
Number of bishops 6
" " travelling preachers 1,418
" " local preachers 3,168
" " exhorters 2,546
-----
Total ministerial force in 1876 7,138
Ministerial force in 1816 8
-----
Ministerial gain in 60 years 7,130
_Members and Probationers._
Number of members 172,806
" " probationers 33,525
-------
Total number of members and probationers 206,331
SUMMARY OF MEMBERS.
Total number of ministers 7,138
Total number of members and probationers 206,331
-------
Grand total membership 213,469
CHURCH PROPERTY.
Number of churches 1,833
" " parsonages 218
VALUE OF CHURCH PROPERTY.
Value of churches $3,064,911 00
" " parsonages 138,800 00
-------------
Total value of church property $3,203,711 00
ANNUAL CONFERENCES.
Number of annual conferences 25
SUNDAY-SCHOOLS.
Number of Sunday-schools 2,309
" " superintendents 2,458
" " teachers and officers 8,085
" " pupils 87,453
" " volumes in libraries 129,066
MISSIONARY SOCIETIES.
Number of parent home and foreign societies 11
" " annual conference societies 24
" " local societies 250
WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY IN 1876.
Number of students enrolled--males 375
" " " " --females 225
" " professors--males 3
" " " --females 7
The total receipts of Wilberforce University for the year was
$4,547.89.
The assets of Wilberforce University in 1876 were as follows:
Endowment notes $18,000 00
College property 39,000 00
Bequest of Chief-Justice Chase 10,000 00
Nine semi-annual and annual notes 900 00
Bills receivable 125 00
Horse, wagon, etc. 200 00
Cash in bank 1,000 00
----------
Total assets $69,225 00
The liabilities were only $2,973.42, leaving the handsome amount of
$66,251.58 of assets over the liabilities of the institution.
The General Conference of 1880 met in St. Louis, Mo., on the third day
of May. The following are some of the facts, as we glean from the
reports:
The Financial Secretary, Rev. J. C. Embry, reported that for the
fiscal year ending April 24, 1880, he had received $32,336.31 for
general purposes alone, and in the four years from April 24, 1876, to
April 24, 1880, he had received $99,999.42 for the general expenses of
the Church.
The General Business Manager, Dr. H. M. Turner, reported the receipts
in the Book Concern to be $50,133.76. This was the largest amount of
business ever reported by the Concern.
The receipts of the two departments were $150,133.18. The total amount
raised in 1826 was $1,151.75. The gain since that time has been
$148,981.43.
RECEIPTS.
Amount of contingent money $27,897 36
" " dollar money 33,400 00
" " missionary money 25,248 08
" " ladies' mite missionary money 2,296 06
" for Sunday-school purposes 115,694 40
" " pastors' support 1,282,465 16
" " pastors' travelling expenses 36,608 16
" " presiding elders' travelling exps. 7,338 20
" " presiding elders' support 106,817 20
-------------
$1,637,764 62
RECEIPTS.--(_Continued._)
Amount brought up $1,637,764 62
Amount for educational purposes 6,125 46
" " building and repairing churches 596,824 48
" " charitable and benevolent
purposes 20,937 02
-------------
Total annual collection $2,261,651 58
-------------
The amount for four years 9,046,606 24
The General Business Manager's report 51,000 00
-------------
Grand total for four years $9,097,606 24
STATISTICS OF MEMBERS.
_Travelling Preachers._
Number of bishops 9
" " general officers 4
" " travelling licentiates 434
" " travelling elders 445
" " travelling deacons 940
-----
Total number of travelling preachers 1,832
_Local Preachers._
Number of superannuated preachers 21
" " local preachers and exhorters 7,719
" " elders 42
" " deacons 146
-----
Total number of local preachers 7,928
_Members and Probationers._
Number of members 306,044
" " probationers 85,000
-------
Total number of members and probationers, 391,044
SUMMARY OF MEMBERS.
Total number of travelling preachers 1,832
" " " local preachers 7,928
" " " members and probationers 391,044
-------
Grand total membership 400,804
SUNDAY-SCHOOLS.
Number of Sunday-schools 2,345
" " teachers and officers 15,454
" " pupils 154,549
" " volumes in library 193,358
CHURCH PROPERTY.
Number of school-houses 88
" " churches 2,051
" " parsonages 395
VALUE OF CHURCH PROPERTY.
Value of school-houses $26,400 00
" " churches 2,884,251 00
" " parsonages 162,603 20
-------------
Total value of church property $3,073,254 20
PAPER.
Number of subscriptions to "Christian Recorder" 5,380
In 1818 a publishing department was added to the work of the Church.
But its efficiency was impaired on account of the great mass of its
members being in slave States or the District of Columbia, where the
laws prohibited them from attending school, and deprived them of
reading books or papers. In 1817 the Rev. Richard Allen published a
book of discipline; and shortly after this a Church hymn-book was
published also. Beyond this there was but little done in this
department until 1841, when the New York Conference passed a
resolution providing for the publication of a monthly magazine. But
the lack of funds compelled the projectors to issue it as a quarterly.
For nearly eight years this magazine exerted an excellent influence
upon the ministers and members of the Church. Its coming was looked
forward to with a strange interest. It contained the news in each of
the conferences; its editorials breathed a spirit of love and
fellowship; and thus the members were brought to a knowledge of the
character of the work being accomplished.
At length the prosperity of the magazine seemed to justify the
publication of a weekly paper. Accordingly a weekly journal, named the
"Christian Herald," made its appearance and ran its course for the
space of four years. In 1852, by order of the General Conference, the
paper was enlarged and issued as the "Christian Recorder," which has
continued to be published up to the present time. In addition to this
a "Child's Recorder" is published as a monthly. About 50,000 copies of
both are issued every month.
The managers and editors in this department have been:
From 1818 to 1826--Right-Reverened Richard Allen, First Bishop of the
A. M. E. Church, served in the capacity of Bishop and General Book
Steward.
From 1826 to 1835--Rev. Jos. M. Corr. He was the first regularly
appointed General Book Steward, and served until October, 1836, at
which time he died.
From 1835 to 1848--Rev. Geo. Hogarth.
From 1848 to 1852--Rev. Augustus R. Green.
From 1852 to 1854--Rev. M. M. Clark, Editor; Rev. W. T. Catto, General
Book Steward, and Rev. W. H. Jones, Travelling Agent.
From 1854 to 1860--Rev. J. P. Campbell (now Bishop) served in the
capacity of General Book Steward and Editor.
From 1860 to 1868--Rev. Elisha Weaver served the most of the time as
both Manager and Editor.
From 1868 to 1869--Rev. Joshua Woodlin, Manager, and Rev. B. T.
Tanner, Editor. During the year 1869 Rev. Joshua Woodlin resigned.
From 1869 to 1871--Rev. A. L. Stanford served until above date, when
he also resigned, and Dr. B. T. Tanner was left to act in the capacity
of Editor and Manager until May, 1872.
From 1872 to 1876--Rev. W. H. Hunter, Business Manager, and Rev. B. T.
Tanner reappointed Editor.
From 1876 to 1880--Rev. H. M. Turner, Business Manager, and Rev. B. T.
Tanner again reappointed Editor.
1880--Rev. Theo. Gould, Business Manager, and Rev. B. T. Tanner was
for the fourth term appointed Editor.
In addition to the work done here on the field, this Church has been
blessed with a true missionary spirit. It has pushed its work into
"the regions beyond." In 1844 _The Parent Home and Foreign Missionary
Society_ was organized by the General Conference. Its first
corresponding secretary was appointed in 1864, John M. Brown,
Washington, D.C.; 1865 to 1868, John M. Brown; 1868 to 1872, James A.
Handay, Baltimore, Maryland; 1872, Rev. W. J. Gaines, Macon, Georgia;
1873, Rev. T. G. Stewart, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; 1874 to 1876,
Rev. G. W. Brodie; 1876 to 1878, Rev. Richard H. Cain, Columbia, S.C.;
1878 to 1881, Rev. James M. Townsend, Richmond, Indiana.
The following is the last report of the present missionary secretary:
RECAPITULATION.
_Receipts._
Collected for general work (including $300 from
the W. M. M Society) $2,630 35
Collected on the field in Hayti 1,221 54
Women's Mite Society (in addition to the above
$300) 364 31
Collected for domestic missions 3,743 87
---------
Total receipts $7,960 07
_Expenditures._
Total expended on salaries, travelling expenses,
printing, etc. $7,773 10
Balance in Women's M. M. treasury 48 97
Balance in general treasury 138 00
---------
$7,960 07
Respectfully submitted,
JAMES M. TOWNSEND.
The work of education has been fostered and pushed forward by this
Church. Wilberforce University is owned and managed by the Church, and
is doing a noble work for both sexes. More than one thousand students
have received instruction in this institution, and some of the ablest
preachers in the denomination are proud of Wilberforce as their _Alma
Mater_. The following gentlemen constitute the faculty:
WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY.
* * * * *
FACULTY.
REV. B. F. LEE, B.D., _President_,
_Professor of Intellectual and Moral Philosophy and Systematic
Theology._
* * * * *
_Professor of Ecclesiastical History, Homiletics, and Pastoral
Theology._
J. P. SHORTER, A.B.,
_Professor of Mathematics and Secretary of the Faculty._
W. S. SCARBOROUGH, A.M.,
_Professor of Latin and Greek._
ROSWELL F. HOWARD, A.B., B.L.,
_Professor of Law._
HON. JOHN LITTLE,
_Professor of Law._
MRS. S. C. BIERCE,
_Principal of Normal Department, Instructor in French, and
Natural Sciences._
MRS. ALICE M. ADAMS,
_Lady Principal, Matron, and Instructor in Academic Department._
Miss GUSSIE E. CLARK,
_Teacher of Instrumental Music._
* * * * *
ASSISTANT TEACHERS.
CARRIE E. FERGUSON,
_Teacher of Penmanship._
D. M. ASHBY,
G. S. LEWIS,
_Teachers of Arithmetic._
ANNA H. JONES,
_Teacher of Reading._
* * * * *
REV. T. H. JACKSON, D.D.,
_General Agent._
In the summer of 1856 the Cincinnati Conference of the Methodist
Episcopal Church decided to establish in that place a university for
the education of Colored youth. Its Board of Trustees consisted of
twenty white and four Colored men. Mr. Alfred J. Anderson, Rev. Lewis
Woodson, Mr. Ishmael Keith, and Bishop Payne were the Colored members.
Among the former were State Senator M. D. Gatch and the late Salmon P.
Chase. It was dedicated in October, 1856, when the Rev. M. P. Gaddis
took charge. He held the position of Principal for one year, when he
was succeeded by Professor J. R. Parker, who worked faithfully and
successfully until 1859. Rev. R. T. Rust, D.D., became President upon
the retirement of Mr. Parker, and accomplished a noble work. He
raised the educational standard of the school, attracted to its
support and halls friends and pupils, and gained the confidence of
educators and laymen within the outside of his denomination.
Unfortunately, his faithful labors were most abruptly terminated by
the war of the Rebellion. The college doors were closed in 1862 for
want of funds; the main friends of the institution having cast their
lot with the Confederate States. It should be remembered that up to
this time this college was in the hands of the white Methodist Church.
The Colored Methodists bought the land and buildings on the 10th of
March, 1863, for the sum of $10,000. The land consisted of fifty-two
acres, with an abundance of timber, fine springs, and a commodious
college building with a dozen beautiful cottages. And the growth of
the institution under the management of Colored men is a credit to
their Church and race.
Bishop D. H. Payne, D.D., was elected to the presidency of the
university, which position he has filled with rare fidelity and
ability for the last thirteen years. In 1876 Rev. B. F. Lee, a former
graduate of the college, was elected to occupy the presidential chair.
It was not a position to be sought after since it had been filled for
thirteen years by the senior bishop of the Church, but Mr. Lee was the
choice of his official brethren and so was elected. President Lee is a
native of New Jersey. He is about the medium height, well knit, of
light complexion, dark hair and beard of the same color that covers a
face handsomely moulded. He is plainly a man of excellent traits of
character; he is somewhat bald and has a finely-cut head, broad and
massive. He moves quickly, and impresses one as a man who is armed
with a large amount of executive tact. His face is of a thoughtful
cast, and does not change much when he laughs. There were many
difficulties to hinder his administration when he took charge, but he
surmounted them all. Under his administration the institution has
grown financially and numerically.
The following report shows the financial condition of the college at
the present time.
RECEIPTS.
June 20, 1880.
Balance in Treasury, Avery Fund $10,000 00
" " Rust Prize Fund 100 00
" " cash 63 82
----------
Total balance $10,163 82
RECEIPTS.--(_Continued._)
Balance $10,163 82
Received from Financial Secretary 200 00
" " tuition 1,604 49
" " dormitories 525 80
" " Unitarian Association 600 00
Received from loans 100 00
Received from interest from Avery Fund 800 00
Received from interest from Rust Fund 8 00
Received from General Agent 150 00
" " contributions 232 00
" " Philadelphia Conference 52 95
Received from Illinois Conference 30 00
" " bequest of John Pfaff 602 08
Received from miscellaneous 407 64
-------- $5,312 96
----------
Total receipts $15,476 78
==========
EXPENDITURES.
To salaries $3,166 15
" building and grounds 243 25
" furnishing building 177 37
" notes paid with interest 285 86
" lectures 600 00
" fuel 116 64
" Powers' Fund interest 114 90
" incidental 296 17
" insurance 219 00
" miscellaneous 144 21
---------
Total expenditures $5,363 55
Balance in bank--Avery Fund securities $10,000 00
Balance in bank--Rust Fund securities 100 00
Balance in bank--cash 13 23
---------- $10,113 23
----------
$15,476 78
==========
STATEMENT OF CASH RECEIPTS, FROM 1865 TO 1881.
1865 to 1866 $10,677 82
1866 to 1867 6,717 88
1867 to 1868 9,000 00
1868 to 1869 5,403 83
1869 to 1870 9,498 24
1870 to 1871 28,672 22
1871 to 1872 7,270 31
1872 to 1873 4,452 30
1873 to 1874 6,129 77
1874 to 1875 4,962 50
1875 to 1876 7,805 36
1876 to 1877 13,757 66
1877 to 1878 14,429 15
1878 to 1879 4,944 37
1879 to 1880 6,942 98
1880 to 1881 5,312 96
-----------
Total $145,977 35
The following-named persons are the bishops of the Church: James A.
Shorter, Daniel A. Payne, A. W. Wayman, J. P. Campbell, John M. Brown,
T. M. D. Ward, H. M. Turner, William F. Dickerson, and R. H. Cain.
The African Methodist Episcopal Church will remain through the years
to come as the best proof of the Negro's ability to maintain himself
in an advanced state of civilization. Commencing with nothing--save an
unfaltering faith in God,--this Church has grown to magnificent
proportions. Her name has gone to the ends of the earth. In the
Ecumenical Council of the Methodists in London, 1881, its
representatives made a splendid impression; and their addresses and
papers took high rank.
This Church has taught the Negro how to govern and how to submit to
government. It has kept its membership under the influence of
wholesome discipline, and for its beneficent influence upon the morals
of the race, it deserves the praise and thanks of mankind.[129]
FOOTNOTES:
[129] We have to thank the Rev. B. W. Arnett, B.D., the Financial
Secretary, for the valuable statistics used in this chapter. He is an
intelligent, energetic, and faithful minister of the Gospel, and a
credit to his Church and race.
CHAPTER XXV.
THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
FOUNDING OF THE M. E. CHURCH OF AMERICA IN 1768.--NEGRO SERVANTS
AND SLAVES AMONG THE FIRST CONTRIBUTORS TO THE ERECTION OF THE
FIRST CHAPEL IN NEW YORK.--THE REV. HARRY HOSIER THE FIRST NEGRO
PREACHER IN THE M. E. CHURCH IN AMERICA.--HIS REMARKABLE
ELOQUENCE AS A PULPIT ORATOR.--EARLY PROHIBITION AGAINST
SLAVE-HOLDING IN THE M. E. CHURCH.--STRENGTH OF THE CHURCHES AND
SUNDAY-SCHOOLS OF THE COLORED MEMBERS IN THE M. E. CHURCH.--THE
REV. MARSHALL W. TAYLOR, D.D.--HIS ANCESTORS.--HIS EARLY LIFE AND
STRUGGLES FOR AN EDUCATION.--HE TEACHES SCHOOL IN KENTUCKY.--HIS
EXPERIENCES AS A TEACHER.--IS ORDAINED TO THE GOSPEL MINISTRY AND
BECOMES A PREACHER AND MISSIONARY TEACHER.--HIS SETTLEMENT AS
PASTOR IN INDIANA AND OHIO.--IS GIVEN THE TITLE OF DOCTOR OF
DIVINITY BY THE TENNESSEE COLLEGE.--HIS INFLUENCE AS A LEADER,
AND HIS STANDING AS A PREACHER.
Phillip Embury, Barbara Heck, and Capt. Thomas Webb were the germ from
which, in the good providence of God, has sprung the Methodist
Episcopal Church in the United States of America. The first chapel was
erected upon leased ground on John Street, New York City, in 1768. The
ground was purchased in 1770. Subscriptions were asked and received
from all classes of people for the building, from the mayor of the
city down to African female servants known only by their Christian
names. Here the Colored people became first identified with American
Methodism. From this stock have sprung all who have been subsequently
connected with it. Meetings were held, prior to the erection of John
Street Church, in the private residence of Mrs. Heck, and in a
rigging-loft, sixty by eighteen feet, in William Street, which was
rented in 1767. Here Capt. Webb and Mr. Embury preached thrice a week
to large audiences. The original design to erect a chapel must be
credited to Mrs. Heck, the foundress of American Methodism. Mr.
Richard Owen, a convert of Robert Strawbridge, the founder of
Methodism in Baltimore, was the first native Methodist preacher on the
continent. The first American Annual Conference was held in
Philadelphia, Pa., twenty-nine years after Mr. Wesley held his first
conference in England, with ten members, precisely the same number
there were in his. They were Thos. Rankin, President; Richard
Boardman, Joseph Pilmoor, Francis Asbury, Richard Wright, George
Shadford, Thomas Webb, John King, Abraham Whiteworth, and Joseph
Yearbry. It began Wednesday the 14th and closed Friday the 16th of
July, 1773. All the members were foreigners, and in the Revolution
many of them were subject to unjust suspicions of sympathy with
England, in consequence of this fact alone. The aggregate statistical
returns for this conference showed 1,160, which was much less than Mr.
Rankin supposed to be the strength of Methodism in America.
On the 2d of September, 1784, Rev. Thomas Coke, D.D., LL.D., a
presbyter in the Church of England, was ordained by John Wesley, A.M.,
Superintendent or Bishop of the Methodist Societies in America. He was
charged with a commission to organize them into an Episcopal Church,
and to ordain Mr. Francis Asbury an Associate Bishop. He sailed for
America at 10 o'clock A.M., September 18th, and landed at New York,
Wednesday, November 3, 1784. Mr. Coke at once set out on a tour of
observation, accompanied by Harry Hosier, Mr. Asbury's travelling
servant, a Colored minister. Hosier was one of the notable characters
of that day. He was the first American Negro preacher of the M. E.
Church in the United States. In 1780 Mr. Asbury alluded to him as a
companion, suitable to preach to the Colored people. Dr. Rush,
allowing for his illiteracy--for he could not read--pronounced him the
greatest orator in America. He was small in stature and very black;
but he had eyes of remarkable brilliancy and keenness; and singular
readiness and aptness of speech. He travelled extensively with Asbury,
Coke, and Whiteworth. He afterward travelled through New England. He
excelled all the whites in popularity as a preacher; sharing with them
in their public services, not only in Colored but also in white
congregations. When they were sick or otherwise disabled they could
trust the pulpit to Harry without fear of unfavorably disappointing
the people. Mr. Asbury acknowledges that the best way to obtain a
large congregation was to announce that Harry would preach. The
multitude preferred him to the Bishop himself. Though he withstood for
years the temptations of extraordinary popularity, he fell,
nevertheless, by the indulgent hospitalities which were lavished upon
him. He became temporarily the victim of wine; but possessed moral
strength enough to recover himself. Self-abased and contrite, he
started one evening down the neck below Southwark, Philadelphia,
determined to remain till his backslidings were healed. Under a tree
he wrestled in prayer into the watches of the night. Before the
morning God restored to him the joys of His salvation. Thenceforward
he continued faithful. He resumed his public labors. In the year 1810
he died in Philadelphia. "Making a good end," he was borne to the
grave by a great procession of both Colored and white admirers, who
buried him as a hero--one overcome, but finally victorious.
It is said that on one occasion, in Wilmington, Del., where Methodism
was long unpopular, a number of the citizens, who did not ordinarily
attend Methodist preaching, came together to hear Bishop Asbury. Old
Asbury Chapel was, at that time, so full that they could not get in.
They stood outside to hear the Bishop, as they supposed; but in
reality they heard Harry. Before they left the place, they
complimented the speaker by saying: "If all Methodist preachers could
preach like the Bishop we should like to be constant hearers." Some
one present replied: "That was not the Bishop, but his servant." This
only raised the Bishop higher in their estimation, as their conclusion
was, if such be the servant what must the master be? The truth was,
that Harry was a more popular speaker than Asbury, or almost any one
else in his day.[130]
So we find in the very inception of Methodism in the United States the
Colored people were conspicuously represented in its membership,
contributing both money, labor, and eloquence to its grand success.
The great founder of Methodism was an inveterate foe of human slavery,
which he pronounced "the sum of all villainies," and in this
particular the Methodist societies in their earliest times reflected
his sentiments. The early preachers were especially hostile to
slavery. In 1784 it was considered and declared to be contrary to the
Golden Law of God, as well as every principle of the Revolution. They
required every Methodist to execute and record, within twelve months
after notice by the preacher, a legal instrument emancipating all
slaves in his possession at specified ages. Any person who should not
concur in this requirement had liberty to leave the Church within one
year; Otherwise the preacher was to exclude him. No person holding
slaves could be admitted to membership, or to the Lord's Supper, until
he complied with this law. But it was to be applied only where the law
of the State permitted.[131] These rules provoked great hostility, and
were suspended within six months.
The Church had, however, put the stamp of condemnation upon it. And
ever in a more or less active but always consistent manner opposed it,
until its final extirpation was accomplished, though not until the
Church had been several times divided in favor of and against it.
The Methodist Episcopal Church in the United States of America was
organized in what is historically known as the Christmas Conference,
which convened in Baltimore at ten o'clock Friday morning, December
24, 1784, Bishop Thomas Coke, presiding. Rev. Francis Asbury was there
consecrated a bishop. In 1786 a resolution emphatically enjoining it
upon the preachers to leave nothing undone for the spiritual benefit
and salvation of the Colored people was adopted. The Church is a
limited Episcopacy. The bishops are elected by the General Conference.
They fix the appointments of all the preachers, but the conference
arranges their duration. The bishops hold office during good behavior.
The General Conference is the Legislative, and the bishops, presiding
elders, pastors, annual, district, and quarterly conferences, with the
leaders' and stewards' meetings, and the general and local trustees,
are the Executive Department. The ministerial orders are two: elder
and deacon. The offices of the ministry and rank are in the order
named,--bishop, sub-bishop, pastor, and sub-pastors. The ministry are
classified as Effective, Supernumerary, Superannuate, and Local. The
property of each congregation is deeded in trust for them to a Board
of Local Trustees, who may sell, buy, or improve it for the use of
said congregation. The stewards are officers whose labors are partly
temporal and partly spiritual. They are entrusted with the raising of
supplies, benevolence, and the support of the ministry. Exhorters are
prayer-meeting leaders and general helpers in the work of the
circuits.
Methodism began in a college and has been a great patron of education.
It has been largely devoted to the educational and religious culture
of the Colored people in the South and in Africa. There are sixteen
conferences of Colored members in the M. E. Church--fifteen in the
United States and one in Liberia. For the Liberian Conference two
Colored bishops have been consecrated, viz.: Francis Burns and
ex-President Thomas Wright Roberts, both deceased. The present bishops
are all white, one of whom annually visits Africa. The same is true of
conferences in Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, India,
China, and Japan. The agency by which the Church prosecutes this work
is the Missionary, Church Extension, Freedmen's Aid, Education, and
Sunday-school Union societies. Books and periodicals are amply
supplied by its own publishing house, which is the largest religious
publishing house in the world.
In the sixteen conferences there are 225,000 members, 200,000
Sunday-school scholars, 3,500 day scholars, one medical, three law,
and seven theological colleges, and twelve seminaries. There is
$500,000 in school and $2,000,000 in church and parsonage property
owned by the Colored membership! The Colored members elect their own
representatives to the General Conference, and are fully represented
in all the work of the Church.
At the present time the Rev. Marshall W. Taylor, D. D., and the Rev.
Wm. M. Butler are the most prominent men in the Church. Marshall
William Boyd (alias) Taylor was born July 1, 1846, at Lexington,
Fayette County, Kentucky, of poor, uneducated, but respectable
parents. He was the fourth in a family of five children, three of whom
were boys, viz.: George Summers, Francis Asbury, and himself; and two
girls, Mary Ellen and Mary Cathrine. He is of Scotch-Irish and Indian
descent on his father's side. Hon. Samuel Boyd, of New York; Joseph
Boyd, of Virginia; and Lieut.-Gov. Boyd, of Kentucky, were
blood-relations of his, and all descended from the "Clan Boyd" of
Scotland. His mother was of African and Arabian stock. His
grandmother, on his mother's side, Phillis Ann, was brought from
Madagascar when a little girl, and became the slave of Mr. Alexander
Black, a Kentucky farmer, who at his death willed his slaves free. His
mother, Nancy Ann, thus obtained her freedom, and by the terms of the
will she was put to the millinery trade, which she fully mastered, and
meantime obtained an elementary knowledge of reading, writing, and
arithmetic. She married Albert Summers, and bore to him two children,
viz., George Summers and Mary Catharine. He ran away to prevent being
sold, and she afterward married Samuel Boyd, to whom she bore three
children, viz., Francis Asbury, Marshall William, and Mary Ellen. His
father, Samuel, was the son of Hon. Samuel Boyd, of New York. He was
noted for his independence of character; was a valuable but unruly
slave. He was allowed an opportunity to purchase his freedom, and this
he began to do, and had paid $250, three fourths of the price, when
his master sold him to Tennessee. He promptly ran away from his new
master, but unwilling to forsake his family, went back to Kentucky.
His master pursued and overtook him at Lexington, where he had
stopped. He refused to go back to Tennessee, and once more was
permitted to select a master, and finally to again contract for his
freedom, which he this time succeeded in obtaining. In consequence of
his mother's emancipation, Marshall was free when he first saw the
light of day. By occupation his father was a hemp-breaker, rope-maker,
and farmer. The last he elected to follow after he was free. He
employed his boys as farmers, but his mother strenuously opposed it,
wishing better opportunities than could be thus afforded for their
education. She at length succeeded in carrying her point.
In religion his father at first inclined to the Baptists, of which
Church he became a deacon in the congregation of Rev. Mr. Ferrill, of
Pleasant Green Church, Lexington. Later he became dissatisfied with
the Baptists, and united with the African Methodists at Frankfort, Ky.
He finally went back to the Baptist Church and died in that faith.
Marshall's mother, and all her people, so far as known, were
Methodists. His early training and first and only religious
impressions were Methodistic, which Church, after his conversion, he
joined. His father had no knowledge of letters, so that all his home
instruction came from his mother. Her text-books were the Bible,
Methodist Catechism, and Webster's Elementary Spelling Book. And in
these young Marshall became very proficient. He afterward attended
school daily to Rev. John Tibbs, an African Methodist preacher, who
came from Cincinnati to Lexington to teach free children and such of
the slaves as would be permitted to attend. Some masters granted this
permission, but the greater number refused it. Finally, some "_poor
white_" fellows, unable to own slaves themselves, mobbed the teacher,
rode him on a rail, tarred, feathered, and drove him from town. They
were called black Indians. It was impossible to secure another teacher
in Lexington for a day school, but Mr. George Perry, an intelligent
free Colored man, had the courage to teach Sunday-school, in the
Branch Methodist Church. It is now called Asbury M. E. Church.
Marshall attended, as did his mother and brothers. In 1854 the family
moved to Louisville, looking for a school. Finding none there, they
continued their journey about fifty miles above there on the Ohio
River, and landed at Ghent, a little village in Carroll County, Ky.,
opposite Vevey, Indiana. They indulged a hope that the children would
be allowed to attend the public schools at Vevey, but they were doomed
in this expectation. They spent two years at Ghent. Marshall and his
brother obtained instruction during this period from the little white
children who attended school, after hours, using "an old hay loft back
of a Mr. Sanders's Tavern" for a recitation-room, and paying their
teachers with cakes and candies bought with odd pennies gathered here
and there.
On the 1st of August, 1856, there was an Emancipation celebration at
Dayton, Ohio. Frederick Douglass was advertised to speak, and other
eminent Abolitionists were expected to participate. Marshall's mother
attended it. Soon after her return several slaves mysteriously
disappeared from the vicinity of Ghent. Among them was a very valuable
family belonging to Esquire Craig, of the village. Suspicion fastened
on the old lady who had been off among the "Abolitionists." She was
indicted by the Grand Jury, and thirty-six men filed into her cabin,
and while she lay sick in bed, read the indictment to her. They
ordered her to leave the place. She refused to go, claimed her
innocence, but to no purpose. "They chased Francis with guns and dogs
on the public streets in daylight; shaddowed the cabin and gave
unmistakable evidence of a diabolical purpose." She soon after
returned to Louisville.
Young Marshall became a messenger in the law firm of J. B. Kincaid and
John W. Barr. Here his chances were good, both of these gentlemen
aiding him in his studies. He did his work after school hours at the
office, and attended a school which was kept in the "Centre Street
Colored Methodist Church," until it closed.
Rev. Henry Henderson, a Colored Methodist preacher, now opened a
school in Centre Street, and Marshall was duly enrolled among his
pupils. On his retirement, Mrs. Elizabeth Cumings, a highly cultured
and pious lady, taught a private school on Grayson, between Sixth and
Seventh streets. He now went to her. She died soon after, when he was
sent to a Mr. William H. Gibson, who had already opened a school on
Seventh, between Jefferson and Green streets, in an old carpenter
shop. Here he continued until 1861.
In 1866 Mr. Taylor opened a Freedmen's School at Hardinsburg
Breckenridge Co., Ky. This was in an old church, the property of the
M. E. Church South. It had been donated for church purposes by George
Blanford. If used otherwise it was to revert to the donor. A Negro
school was obnoxious to the community. His was the first there had
ever been in the village, and notwithstanding the white people had
long since abandoned the property to the Colored people this question
was now raised in order to break up the school. It did not succeed, as
they easily proved that the original intent of the donor was not
violated, since Colored people still used the property as a church.
Failing in this the school was tormented by ruffians. Pepper was
rolled up in cotton, set on fire, and hurled into the room to set
every one coughing. Finally threats of personal violence were made if
he did not leave, but Mr. Taylor armed himself, defied the enemies of
freedom, and stayed. At last, on Christmas evening, Dec. 25, 1867, the
house was blown up with powder. The arrangement was to set off the
blast with a slow match so as to catch the house full of people, there
being a school exhibition that night. The explosion took place at
11:30 P.M., but owing to the excitement occasioned by the novelty of
such a thing as a "Negro School Exhibition," the crowd had gathered
much earlier than announced. The programme was completed before 11
P.M., and by this accident the school and teacher were saved. The old
wreck still remains a monument to color prejudice.
By the aid of the Freedmen's Bureau another school-house was soon
built, and the school proceeded. This was followed by a meeting-house.
The white people, whose sentiments were now rapidly turning,
subscribed liberally toward it.
In 1868 an educational convention was held at Owensboro, in Davies
Co., Ky., of which Mr. Taylor was elected president. He soon after
wrote a manual for Colored schools, which was generally used in that
section. In 1869 he attended the first Colored political convention
ever held in Kentucky, at Major Hall in Frankfort. He was one of the
Educational Committee, and submitted a report. This year he was also a
member of a convention at Jackson Street Church, Louisville, which
inaugurated the movement for the Lexington M. E. Conference. He was
licensed as a local preacher this year by Rev. Hanson Tolbert at
Hardinsburg, and was assisted in the study of theology by Rev. R. G.
Gardiner, J. H. Lennin, and Dr. R. S. Rust. He went to Arkansas as a
missionary teacher and preacher at the call of Rev. W. J. Gladwin, and
remained there one year. He organized several societies, of the
Church, taught school at Midway, Forrest City, and Wittsburg; took
part in the political campaign of that year; and was nominated, but
declined to run, for Representative from Saint Frances County.
He preached in Texas, Indian Territory, and Missouri; was put in peril
by the Ku Klux at Hot Springs; took the chills and returned to Ky., in
1871. He was then appointed to the Litchfield Circuit, Southwestern
Kentucky. In 1872 he united with the Lexington Conference of M. E.
Church on trial. He was ordained a deacon by Bishop Levi Scott at
Maysville, Ky., and sent to Coke Chapel, Louisville, Ky., and Wesley
Chapel, Jeffersonville, Indiana. He remained in this charge three
years, during which time he published the monthly "Kentucky
Methodist," and wrote extensively for the press. He was elected
assistant secretary, editor of the printed minutes of the conference,
and finally secretary. In 1875 he was sent as pastor to Indianapolis,
Ind. He was ordained elder by Bishop Wiley at Lexington in 1876, and
returned to Indianapolis. He took an active part in the political
campaign of 1876, and was sent to Union Chapel, Cincinnati, 1877-8. In
1879 the faculty of Central Tennessee College, at Nashville,
Tennessee, conferred upon him the title and credentials of a Doctor of
Divinity. He wrote the life of Rev. Geo. W. Downing.
In 1879 Dr. Taylor was appointed Presiding Elder of the Ohio District,
Lexington Conference. In 1880 he was sent as fraternal delegate from
the M. E. to the A. M. E. General Conference at St. Louis; he having
been previously elected lay delegate to the General Conference of the
M. E. Church in Brooklyn, New York, in 1879. He was the youngest
member of that body. Upon his motion fraternal representatives were
sent to the various Colored denominations of Methodists. He was
appointed in 1881 as a delegate from the M. E. Church to the
Ecumenical Conference at London, England. He was the caucus nominee of
the Colored delegates to the General Conference in Cincinnati in 1880
for bishop. He was always opposed to caste discriminations in Church,
State, or society. He has opposed Colored conferences and a Colored
bishop as tending to perpetuate discriminations. He does not oppose
the election of Colored men, but wishes that every honor may fall upon
them because of merit and not on account of their color. He has become
famous as an eloquent preacher, safe teacher, ready speaker, and
earnest worker; always aiming to do the greatest good to the greatest
number. Certainly the Methodist Episcopal Church has reason to be
proud of Marshall W. Taylor.
In this Church there are many other worthy and able Colored preachers.
The relations they sustain to the eloquent, scholarly, and pious white
clergymen of the denomination are pleasant and beneficial. It is an
education. And the fact that the best pulpits of white men are opened
to the Colored preachers is a prophecy that race antagonisms in the
Christian Church, so tenacious and harmful, are to perish speedily.
FOOTNOTES:
[130] Stevens's Hist. of M. E. Church, pp. 174, 175; also Lednum, p.
282.
[131] And there was not a single State where this rule could be
applied. Slavery ruled the land.
CHAPTER XXVI.
THE COLORED BAPTISTS OF AMERICA.
THE COLORED BAPTISTS AN INTELLIGENT AND USEFUL PEOPLE.--THEIR
LEADING MINISTERS IN MISSOURI, OHIO, AND IN NEW ENGLAND.--THE
BIRTH, EARLY LIFE, AND EDUCATION OF DUKE WILLIAM ANDERSON.--AS
FARMER, TEACHER, PREACHER, AND MISSIONARY.--HIS INFLUENCE IN THE
WEST.--GOES SOUTH AT THE CLOSE OF THE WAR.--TEACHES IN A
THEOLOGICAL INSTITUTE AT NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE.--CALLED TO
WASHINGTON.--PASTOR OF 19TH STREET BAPTIST CHURCH.--HE OCCUPIES
VARIOUS POSITIONS OF TRUST.--BUILDS A NEW CHURCH.--HIS LAST
REVIVAL.--HIS SICKNESS AND DEATH.--HIS FUNERAL AND THE GENERAL
SORROW AT HIS LOSS.--LEONARD ANDREW GRIMES, OF BOSTON,
MASSACHUSETTS.--HIS PIETY, FAITHFULNESS AND PUBLIC INFLUENCE FOR
GOOD.--THE COMPLETION OF HIS CHURCH.--HIS LAST DAYS AND SUDDEN
DEATH.--GENERAL SORROW.--RESOLUTIONS BY THE BAPTIST MINISTERS OF
BOSTON.--A GREAT AND GOOD MAN GONE.
The Baptist Church has always been a purely democratic institution.
With no bishops or head-men, except such as derive their authority
from the consent of the governed, this Church has been truly
independent and self-governing in its spirit. Its only Head is Christ,
and its teachers such as are willing to take "the Word of God as the
Man of their Counsel." From the time of the introduction of the
Baptist Church into North America down to the present time, the
Colored people have formed a considerable part of its membership. The
generous, impartial, and genuine Christian spirit of Roger Williams
had a tendency, at the beginning, to keep out of the Church the spirit
of race prejudice. But the growth of slavery carried with it, as a
logical result, the idea that the slave's presence in the Christian
Church was a rebuke to the system. For conscience' sake the slave was
excluded, and to oblige the feelings of those who transferred the
spirit of social caste from gilded drawing-rooms to cushioned pews,
even the free Negro was conducted to the organ-loft.
The simplicity of the Negro led him to the faith of the Baptist
Church; but being denied fellowship in the white congregations, he was
compelled to provide churches for himself. In Virginia, Georgia,
Tennessee, Kentucky, and Mississippi the Colored Baptists were
numerous. In the other States the Methodists and Catholics were
numerous. There were few ministers of note at the South; but New
England, the Middle States, and the West produced some very able
Baptist preachers. The Rev. Richard Anderson, of St. Louis, Missouri,
was a man of exalted piety, consummate ability, and of almost
boundless influence in the West. He was the pastor of a large church,
and did much to mould and direct the interests of his people
throughout Missouri. He was deeply revered by his own people, and
highly respected by the whites. When he died, the entire city of St.
Louis was plunged into profound mourning, and over three hundred
carriages--many belonging to the wealthiest families in the
city--followed his body to the place of interment.
In Ohio the Rev. Charles Satchell, the Rev. David Nickens, the Rev. W.
P. Newman, the Rev. James Poindexter, and the Rev. H. L. Simpson were
the leading clergymen in the Colored Baptist churches. Cincinnati has
had for the last half century excellent Baptist churches, and an
intelligent and able ministry. There are several associations
embracing many live churches.
In Kentucky the Colored Baptists are very numerous, and own much
valuable property; but Virginia seems to have more Baptists among its
great population of Colored people than any other State in the South.
There are a dozen or more in Richmond, including the one presided over
by the famous John Jasper. One of them has, it is said, three thousand
members(?). But the District of Columbia has more Colored churches for
its area and population than any other place in the United States.
There are at least twenty-five Baptist churches in the District, and
some of them have interesting histories. The Nineteenth Street Baptist
Church is as an intelligent a society of Christian people of color as
there is to be found in any city in the country. Its pulpit has always
been occupied by the ablest ministers in the country. The Revs.
Sampson White, Samuel W. Madden, and Duke W. Anderson were men of
education and marked ability. And there is little doubt but what Duke
W. Anderson was the ablest, most distinguished clergyman of color in
the United States. And for his work's sake he deserves well of
history.
Duke William Anderson was born April 10, 1812, in the vicinity of
Lawrenceville, Lawrence County, in the State of Illinois, of a Negro
mother by a white father. His father, lately from North Carolina,
fell under Gen. Harrison fighting the Indians. Like so many other
great men he was born in an obscure place--a wigwam. At the time of
his father's death he was quite a young baby. He was now left to the
care of a mother who, in many respects, was like her husband, bold and
courageous for the truth, and yet as gentle as a child. It is
peculiarly trying and difficult for a mother who has all the comforts
of modern city life, to train and educate her boys for the duties of
life; and if so, how much more trying and difficult must it have been
for a mother on the North-western frontiers, seventy years ago, to
train her boys?
Destitute of home and its comforts, without friends or money; no farm,
school, or church, Mrs. Anderson began to train her two boys, John
Anderson and D. W. Anderson. Of the former, little or nothing is
known, save that he was the only brother of D. W. Anderson.
True to the instincts of her motherly heart, Mrs. Anderson was
determined to remain upon the spot purchased and consecrated by the
blood of her lamented husband. She could not divorce herself from the
approximate idea and object of her husband's life and death. He had
turned from the comforts of a happy home; had chosen hardships rather
than ease that he might realize the dream of his youth, and the object
of his manly endeavors--the right of suffrage to all. Her children
could not build their play-house of Shakespeare, Milton, Dryden, or
Southey. All the instruction Duke William obtained came from his
mother. She was very large and healthy. Her complexion was of perfect
black. She was possessed of excellent judgment, patience, and
industry. She stored the young mind of her boy with useful
agricultural knowledge, of which she possessed a large amount.
An education does not consist in acquiring lessons, obtaining a
simple, abstract, objective knowledge of certain sciences. It is more
than this. It consists, also, in being able to apply and use rightly a
given amount of knowledge. And though D. W. Anderson was never
permitted to enter college, yet, what he got he got thoroughly, and
used at the proper time to the best advantage.
Nature was his best teacher. While yet a very young boy he was awed by
her splendors, and attracted by the complicated workings of her
manifold laws. He began to study the innumerable mysteries which met
him in every direction. He heard God in the rippling water, in the
angry tempest, in the sighing wind, and in the troops of stars which
God marshals upon the plains of heaven. In the study of nature he
exulted. He sat in her velvet lap, sported by her limpid waters,
acquainted himself perfectly with her seasons, and knew the coming and
going of every star.
God was training this man for the great mission which he afterward so
faithfully performed. No soul that was ever filled with such grand and
humane ideas as was that of Duke William Anderson can be crushed. He
knew no boundaries for his soul,--except God on one side and the whole
universe on the other. He was as free in thought and feeling as the
air he inhaled, or the birds in the bright sky over his head. His soul
had for many years communed with the God of nature; had been taught by
the mighty workings of truth, feeling, and genius within, and by the
world without, that he was not to be confined to earth forever, but
that beyond the deep blue sky, into which he so much longed to peer,
there dwelt the Creator of all things, and there the home of the good!
Like the "wise men of the East,"--knowing no other God but the God of
nature,--his primitive ideas of religion were naturally based upon
nature. In that wild and barren territory nature was impressive,
desolate, and awful. The earth, air, and sky incited him to thought
and stimulated his imagination. Every appearance, every
phenomenon--the storm, the thunder,--speak the prophecies of God. He
was filled with great thoughts and driven by grand ideas.
It is difficult to compute the value of the mother to the child. It is
the mother who loves, because she has suffered. And this seems to be
the great law of love. Not a triumph in art, literature, or
jurisprudence--from the story of Homer to the odes of Horace, from the
times of Bacon and Leibnitz to the days of Tyndall and Morse--that has
not been obtained by toil and suffering! The mother of Anderson,
having suffered so much in her loneliness and want, knew how to train
her boy,--the joy of her life. And he in return knew how to appreciate
a mother's love. He remembered that to her he owed every thing,--his
life, his health, and his early training. He remembered that in
childhood she had often, around their little camp-fire, enchanted his
youthful mind by the romance of the sufferings and trials of herself
and husband. And now finding himself a young man he was determined to
change the course of their life.
No work so thoroughly develops the body and mind, and is so conducive
to health, as farming; and, perhaps, none so independent. Anderson was
naturally healthy and strong, so that farming agreed with him. By this
he made a comfortable living, and soon demonstrated to his aged mother
that she had not labored in vain, nor spent her strength for naught.
For a number of years he farmed. His motto was "excelsior" in whatever
he engaged, and in farming he realized success.
As the father of Duke William Anderson had fallen under the U. S.
flag, it became the duty of the Government to care for his widow and
orphans. Accordingly, Duke William was sent to an Illinois school
where he received the rudiments of a Western education. A Western
education did not consist in reading poetry, or in examining Hebrew
roots, but in reading, writing, spelling, arithmetic, geography, and
history. There were no soft seats, no beautifully frescoed walls,
dotted with costly maps, or studded with beautiful pictures; not a
school with a dozen beautiful rooms, heated by hot air. In those days
a Western school-house was erected by the side of some public highway,
remote from the town. It was constructed of logs,--not of the logs
that have lost their roughness by going through the saw-mill, but logs
cut by the axe of the hardy frontiersman. The axe was the only tool
needed to fit the timber for the building. The building was about
twelve feet in height, and about sixteen by twenty. The cracks were
often left open, and sometimes closed by chips and mud. The floor was
made of split logs with the flat side up. At one end of the building
was a fireplace and chimney occupying the whole end of the house. At
each end of the fireplace were laid two large stones upon which to
rest the ends of the logs of wood, under all of which were laid
closely large pieces of flat stones covered with an inch or two of
mud. At the other end of the building was a door. It was constructed
of thinly split pieces of logs held together by pieces of hickory
withes which crossed each end of the door. This door was hung upon
wooden hinges, one part of which, instead of being fastened to the
door by screws, was fastened by little wooden pegs. The step at the
door was a short piece of log flattened a little on the top and braced
on the under side by small stones and pieces of chips. The roof was
made of long pieces of split timber, the flat side out and the edges
smoothed by the axe in order to make them lie snugly.
Such was the school-house in which D. W. Anderson was educated. And it
may be that the plain school in which he was educated loaned him that
modesty, plainness, and unostentatious air, which were among the many
remarkable traits in his character. The circumstances and society by
which boys are surrounded help to mould their character and determine
their future. To a healthy and vigorous body was coupled a clear and
active mind. He loved knowledge, and was willing to buy it at any
price--willing to make any sacrifice. He was an industrious student,
and possessed great power of penetration and acquisition. And every
thing he read he remembered. The greatest difficulty with students is
that they fail to apply themselves. A man may have the ability to
accomplish a given amount of work and yet that work can never be
accomplished except by the severest effort. It is one thing to possess
a negative power, but it is quite another thing to possess a positive
power. In this world we are set over against all external laws and
forces. We are to assume the offensive. We are to climb up to the
stars by microscopes. We are to measure this earth by our mathematics.
We are to penetrate its depths and lift to the sun its costly
treasures. We are to acquaint ourselves with the workings of the
manifold laws which lie about us. If we would know ourselves,
understand our relation to God, we must see after the requisite
knowledge. Suppose that Duke William Anderson had despaired of ever
receiving an education; sat down by the way in life and said: "There
is no use of troubling myself, I cannot get what I desire. I am
destined to be ignorant and weak all the days of my life; and if there
is any good thing for me it will come to me. I will sit here and
wait." Would the world ever have known of Anderson? His life would
have shed no perfume; his name would have been unknown and his grave
would have been forgotten.
But it was that courage which never knows defeat, it was that devotion
that never wavers, it was that assiduity, and it was that patience
that is certain to triumph, which bore him on to a glorious end, as a
summer wind bears up a silver cloud. At the age of seventeen he began
to teach school. What Colored man would have essayed to teach school
on the frontiers fifty years ago? But D. W. Anderson was born to rule.
He was of commanding presence, full of confidence and earnestness. He
entered upon his new duties full of hope and joy. This was something
new. There was a great deal of difference between handling the hoe
and the pen. He found that there was a great difference between the
farm and the school-house. But he was one of those boys who do every
thing with all their might, and he was at once at home, and soon
became master of his new situation.
Three laborious years were occupied in teaching. And they were years
of profit to teacher as well as to pupil. He labored hard to be
thorough; and he greatly improved and finished his own education
during his teaching.
About this time young Anderson met, courted, and married Miss Ruth Ann
Lucas.
Anderson soon made all necessary arrangements, and the nuptial
ceremony was solemnized by the village parson on the 30th of
September, 1830. With his bride he now settled down at home. For some
years he lived the life of a farmer. His mother was riveted to the
spot where her devoted husband fell at the hands of a besotted Indian.
But her son was of a progressive spirit. He longed to leave the old
home for one more comfortable. How strange that the old should sit by
the grave of the past, while the young never weary of chasing some
vague fancy!
He bought a tract of land, cleared it, and opened up a farm. He
planted a large orchard; became the owner of seven horses and all the
implements necessary to farming.
By his own industry and perseverance he had now acquired a neat little
home; on his farm he raised enough produce for the consumption of his
family, and still there was a large quantity left for the market.
Apples, potatoes, wheat, corn, and other commodities brought him
handsome returns.
On this farm were born five children, four of whom lived to adult age.
The oldest child, Luther Morgan, was born October 10, 1831. The second
child, Mary Catharine, was born in 1833. The third, George Washington,
was born in 1835. The fourth, Elizabeth, was born in 1837. And the
fifth and last child was born on the night of September 4, 1839, when,
also, the mother and child died.
This sad event filled a hitherto happy home with gloom, and bowed a
strong heart with grief. Anderson was a man possessed of a very tender
nature, though he was manly and resolute. His heart was fixed upon his
wife, and this sad providence smote him heavily.
During all these years, from his youth up, he had been very profane.
He knew no Sabbath, worshipped no God, and was himself the highest
law. He was filled with a grand religious sentiment, and only needed
the grace of God to bring it out, and the love of God to show him
where he stood.
The object of his youthful affection was gone. The faithful woman who
had walked for nineteen years by his side was no more; her eyes were
closed to mortal things, and she had ceased to be. He followed her
body to the grave, and there dropped a silent tear for her to whom he
had given his heart. It was the first funeral of anyone related to
him, and its lessons were sharply cut into his heart.
He returned to a desolate home, where the sad faces of motherless
children told that one whom they loved, and who had made home happy,
was gone.
His mind now turned to religious matters. He began to think of the
home beyond, of Jesus, who died for sinners, and wondered if he would
ever be able to see the loved one beyond the tide of death. As he
dreamed of immortality, longed for heaven, and wondered if Jesus were
his Saviour, he was filled with a deep sense of sin. He felt more
deeply a sense of sin. He felt more and more that he was unworthy of
the Saviour's love; and if he had his just dues, he would be "assigned
a portion among the lost."
For a long time he was bowed down under the weight of his sins, and at
length he found peace through the blood of Christ. He was renewed. The
avaricious man became liberal, the implacable enemy became the
forgiving friend, and the man of cursing a man of prayer. But it was
impossible for him to cease to grieve; so he thought he would sell the
farm and seek another home. The farm was sold, the horses and tools,
and every thing converted into money. The children were bound out, and
all arrangements were perfected to seek another home.
He paid a visit to Alton, Illinois, where he spent two or three years.
In those days Alton was the city _par excellence_ of Illinois, and
toward it flowed the tide of emigration. So favorably was he impressed
with Alton, that he was determined to make it his home. Accordingly,
he began to make preparations for moving the children. In the
meanwhile he formed the acquaintance of a widow lady in Alton with
whom he became very much pleased. She was a tall, handsome-looking
yellow woman, of cultivated manners, and of pleasing address.
Anderson's wife had been dead three or four years.
It was now August 17, 1842, and the hand and heart of Anderson were
offered Mrs. Mary Jane Ragens and accepted. With his new companion he
now returned to the scenes of his early days and to the four children
who joyfully awaited his return. He had made up his mind to settle in
Alton. He and his new companion began to prepare for the journey. The
family now consisted of the four children of Anderson and two children
of his wife, making a family of six besides the two heads.
During the time that intervened between the death of his first wife
and his engagement to the second, he taught school in Vincennes,
Indiana, Alton and Brookton, Illinois. The old home stood upon the
Wabash River, and was quite upon the line that divided the two
States,--Indiana and Illinois. His own children went to his school,
and were carried across the river on his back. On the other bank stood
the log school-house of which he was principal.
In those, days it was a matter of some comment to see a Colored man
who dared write his name or tell his age, but to see one who was
actually a schoolmaster was the marvel of the times. His teaching was
a matter of comment in Vincennes, but Vincennes was only a little
country town. But to go to Alton,--that city of great fame, then,--and
teach school, was an undertaking that required strong nerves. D. W.
Anderson had them. He never allowed himself to think that he was any
person other than a man and citizen clothed with all civil rights and
armed with God-given prerogatives. And so commanding was he, that a
man who stood in his presence instantly felt him a superior. Moreover,
the heated feeling and public sentiment which, on the night of
November 7, 1837, wrested from the hand of God,--to whom alone
vengeance belongeth,--a life, were not yet abated. Lovejoy, a
peaceable citizen, had been deprived of free speech and struck down by
the knife of the assassin; and could it be expected that a Negro would
be spared? The times were exciting and dangerous, and yet Anderson was
determined to take his place and work on in the path of duty, never
wincing, but leaving the results with God.
Before in his quiet home and farm life, nature was his peculiar study.
He had studied man in studying himself, but in the city of Alton he
could study men. He loved to walk through its long streets, watch its
hurrying pedestrians, and learn the manifold manifestations of city
life.
Having been converted just after the death of his first wife, but
never having connected himself with any church, he now joined the A.
M. E. Church of Alton. His views from the first were Baptistic, but
circumstances placed him among the Methodists. The elder in charge was
the powerful preacher, the successful revivalist, and the eminently
pious man, Rev. Shadrack Stewart. Some misunderstanding arose between
the minister in charge and some of the members, which resulted in the
withdrawal of the pastor, Rev. S. Stewart, Anderson and family, and
quite a number of the leading members. Minister and all connected
themselves with the Baptists. Anderson used often to say to his
family: "_That move placed me at home_." He was indeed at home, and
stayed there until he was called to his heavenly rest! He loved very
much to study the Bible, and to meditate upon its great truths. The
more he studied it the clearer duty seemed and the deeper and purer
his love grew for that beneficent Being whom he owned as Lord and
King.
It was now 1843. He felt that it was his duty to enter the Gospel
ministry. Naturally a modest man, he shrank somewhat from this voice
of God; but finally, in 1844, submitted to ordination. He was ordained
by the Rev. John Anderson, father of the late Richard Anderson, of St.
Louis, or by the Rev. John Livingston, of Illinois, though it is a
matter of some doubt as to who was present at his ordination.
He now moved to Upper Alton, and pitched his tent under the shadow of
Shurtleff College. His aim was always to excel. He had absorbed every
thing that had come within his reach, and now he had placed himself
where he could rub against "_College men_."
Some men have to study a great deal to get a very little; they lack
the power of mental absorption, and, consequently, have to wade far
out into the river of knowledge in order to feel the benefits of the
invigorating waters. Not so with Anderson; he was an indefatigable
student. He was always willing to be taught by any person who was able
to impart knowledge. Every new word that saluted his ear was forced
into his service; never mechanically, but always in its proper place.
If he learned a word to-day, to-morrow he would use it in its
grammatical relation to a sentence. He had no time for vacation; no
mental cessation, but it was one unceasing struggle for knowledge. And
no doubt his approximate relation to Shurtleff College helped to
impart a certain healthy tone and solidity to his style as a writer
and preacher which were ever strikingly manifest.
In a short time he moved out from Alton about twelve miles to the town
of Woodburn, Madison County, where he remained for a year, during
which time he taught school and preached occasionally. In 1845 he
bought an eighty-acre farm on Wood River, about five miles from Alton.
He moved his family on the farm, and began to make improvements. After
the farm had been put in good working condition, it was not hard for
Luther, the eldest child, to manage it. It might seem strange to the
boys of to-day, who are dwarfed by cities and cramped by a false
civilization, to know that Luther, a boy of fourteen, could follow the
plow and swing the cradle. But, nevertheless, his father could trust
most of the work of the farm to these young hands.
Duke William Anderson was a civilizer and a reformer. Wherever he
placed his foot there were thrift and improvement. He never was
satisfied with himself, or that which he did. He always felt when he
had done a thing that he could have done it _better_. He never
preached a sermon but what he felt that he ought to preach the next
one _better_. In his great brain were the insatiable powers of
civilization. He was prompt, rapid, decisive, and sagacious, working
up to his ideal standard. It was not his object to simply improve and
help himself; he was far from such selfishness. The basis of his
reformatory and benevolent operations was as broad as humanity and as
solid as granite. He never entered a community without the deep
feeling that it should be made better, and never lived in one except
his warm heart and willing hand went forth to minister to and
sympathize with all who were in need.
He felt keenly the bitter prejudice which pervaded the community from
which he had just moved, and was sensible of the weakness of the few
free Colored citizens who lived in that portion of the State. Wood
River was a healthy place to live; and the land was cheap and rich. He
was not shut up to any selfish motives, but was planning for the good
of his people. He knew that "in union there is strength," and if he
could get a number of families to move on Wood River he could form a
settlement, and thus bring the people together in religion and
politics, in feeling and sentiment.
This plan was no idle dream. In due time he gave notice, and offered
inducements, to the people to come. And they came from every section;
and in a few years it had grown to be a large and prosperous
settlement.
Duke William Anderson was the central figure in this community. His
colossal form, his clear mind, and excellent judgment, placed him at
the head of educational and religious matters. He was parson,
schoolmaster, and justice. All questions of theology were submitted to
his judgment, from which there was no appeal. All social and political
feuds were placed before him, and his advice would heal the severest
schisms and restore the most perfect harmony.
He now threw his great soul into the work of organization. He was
filled with a grand idea. He felt that the purity and intelligence of
the community depended upon their knowledge of the Bible and the
preaching of the Gospel. It was a grand idea, though he had to work
upon a small scale. It was this idea that made the Israelites
victorious; and Anderson was determined to impress upon this community
this primal truth. He knew that in knowledge only is there safety, and
in science alone can certainty be found. Before this idea every thing
must bow, and around it were to cluster, not only the hopes of that
little community, but the prayers of four million bondmen. He was
confident that in God he would triumph, and in Him was his trust.
The work was begun in the family circle. One evening it would be at
brother Anderson's house, and the next evening at another brother's
house, and so on until the meetings had gone around the whole
community. A deep work of grace was in progress. The whole community
felt the pervading influence of the Spirit, and large results
followed. Anderson was wrought upon powerfully. He felt to
reconsecrate himself to the Master, and live a more faithful life.
This feeling manifested itself in the lives of those who were
professors of religion, and the ungodly were anxious about their
salvation.
From a very few believers the company of the redeemed had largely
increased. One house would not accommodate them, and it became
necessary for them to hold their meetings outdoors. It became very
evident that this company of believers ought to be organized into a
church, and a pastor placed over them. Duke William Anderson was the
man to do this work, and, seeing the necessity of it, he immediately
organized a Baptist church.
He was a man who never desired to escape difficult duties--rather, he
always was on hand when hard burdens were to be borne. He approached
duty as something that, though at the time hard, brought peace in the
end. He loved the approbation of conscience, and never sought to turn
away from her teachings.
It is a task seldom, if ever, coveted by the ministers of to-day, to
attempt the building of a church edifice, though wealth, art, and all
modern facilities await their beck.
And one can easily imagine what a formidable task it must have been to
attempt the building of a church thirty years ago. He organized a
church out of those who had accepted the Gospel. And the next work was
the building of a house of worship. He put his great hand to this
work, and in a short time the house was completed and his people
worshipping under their own vine and fig-tree.
The house was unique, spacious, and comfortable, all in keeping with
the plain people and their unpretentious pastor.
There is a great deal in discipline, and Anderson knew it. Before the
organization of his church the people had been placed under no
discipline or charged with any special work. But now their leader
began the work of church discipline and practical preaching. The
feeling that every person was his own man, independent and free, under
the preaching of Anderson, gave way to the feeling that they were
members of one body, and Christ the head of that body. The unity of
the church was preached with great earnestness, and followed by large
results. It soon became evident that Duke William Anderson was no
ordinary man, and his fame began to spread. He had sought no
publicity, but in secret had toiled on in the path of duty.
During his labors in building a meeting-house and organizing a church
he had relinquished his hold upon the school; but now as the church
was erected and he had more time, he was against his will urged into
the school-room again. In the school-room he was as faithful as he was
in the pulpit. He sought, with marvellous earnestness, to do with all
his might that which was committed to his hands; and all his labors
were performed as if they were being performed for himself.
He was at this time pastor of a church, teacher of a school, and owner
of an eighty acre farm. If he were going to slight any work, it would
not be that of another, but his own. He watched the growth of his
little church with an apostolical eye, and nipped every false doctrine
in the bud. His excellent knowledge of human nature facilitated his
work in the church. He knew every man, woman, and child. He made
himself familiar with their circumstances and wants, and always placed
himself in complete sympathy with any and all of their circumstances.
He consequently won the confidence, love, and esteem of his people. In
his school he was watchful and patient. He studied character, and
classified his pupils; and was thereby enabled to deal with each pupil
as he knew their temperament demanded. Some children are tender,
affectionate, and obedient; while others are coarse, ugly, and
insubordinate. Some need only to have the wrong pointed out, while
others need the rod to convince them of bad conduct. And happy is that
teacher who does not attempt to open every child's heart with the same
key, or punish each with the same rod.
If there is one quality more than another that the minister needs, it
is downright earnestness--perfect sympathy with those to whom he
preaches. What does it amount to if a man preach unless he feels what
he preaches? Certainly no one can be moved or edified. But Anderson
was not a cold, lifeless man. He loved to preach, though he felt a
deep sense of unfitness. And it can be truly said of his little
church, as was said of the early church: "And believers were the more
added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women."
It was seen by the prophetic eye of Anderson that an association would
be the means of bringing the people together. Accordingly he went to
work to organize an association that would take into its arms all the
feeble communities or churches that had no pastor. In due time all
arrangements were perfected, and a call issued for the neighboring
churches to send their pastor and two delegates to sit in council with
the Salem Baptist Church on Wood River, to consider the propriety of
calling into existence such an organization. After the usual
preliminary services, Rev. D. W. Anderson stated the object of the
meeting, and urged the immediate action of the council in the matter.
After the usual amount of debate incident to such an occasion, the
proper steps were taken for the organization of an association to be
called the "_Wood River Baptist Association_," with Rev. Duke W.
Anderson as its first Moderator, to meet on Wood River annually. What
a triumph! that day was the proudest of his life! He had spoken to
the poor disheartened Baptists for fifty miles around, who were cold
and indifferent to the Master's cause: "Awake! and stand upon your
feet! Come with me to help the Lord against the mighty! Let us
organize for the conflict. There is much to do; so, let us be about
our Master's work." The call sent forth breathed new life into the
people, and was the signal for united effort in the cause of the Lord.
It was not enough that an association was formed, it was not enough
that a few churches were represented in that association; but it must
do definite work. It must organize where organization was needed; it
must send out missionaries into the destitute places, and give the
Gospel to the poor. Thus Anderson reasoned; and the association heard
him. Gradually the Wood River Association grew and extended its
workings throughout the entire State of Illinois.
It was evident that the associational gatherings were growing so large
that it was impossible to accommodate them. He advised the people to
build quarters sufficient to accommodate all. Accordingly two or three
rows of small houses were erected for the people to live in each year
during the time the association was in session. People now came yearly
from every part of the State. The great distances did not detain them.
Like the Jews who returned to Jerusalem every year to attend the
feast, they were glad when the time came to rest from their accustomed
duties and journey toward Wood River. It was a delightful gathering.
Brother ministers met and compared notes; while young men and maidens
gently ministered at the tables, and led the prayer-meetings.
They enjoyed those meetings. There were no conventionalities or forms
to check the spirit of Christian love. There was perfect liberty.
There were no strangers; for they were the children of one common
father. They were as one family, and had all things in common. The
utmost order and harmony characterized their gatherings. Not a cross
word escaped a single lip. Not a rude act, on the part of the boys,
could be seen. Boys, in those days, had the profoundest respect for
their seniors, and held a minister of the Gospel in all the simplicity
of a boy's esteem.
In the morning of the first day of their meeting the association was
called to order by the "_Moderator_," and opened with prayer and a
hymn. Then, after the usual business, a sermon was preached. In the
afternoon a doctrinal sermon was preached and discussed; and in the
evening a missionary sermon was delivered.
Like the Apostle Paul he could say to the ministers of his day, that
he had labored more abundantly than they all. He worked with his hands
and preached the Gospel, esteeming it an honor. The church over which
he presided had grown to one hundred and fifty active members, besides
a large and attentive congregation. This church had been gathered
through his incomparable assiduity. He had come into their midst with
a heart glowing with the love of God. He had shown himself an
excellent farmer, faithful teacher, and consistent Christian. He had
led one hundred and fifty souls to Christ. That was not all. In the
pulpit he had taught them the fundamental principles of Christianity,
and demonstrated those principles in his daily life. His royal manhood
towered high over the community, until he became to the whole people a
perfect measure of every thing that is lovely and of good report.
He had every thing just as he could wish. He was proprietor of an
eighty-acre farm, pastor of a flourishing church, schoolmaster of the
community, enthroned in the affections of the people for whose
well-being he had worked for seven years,--he might have remained the
unrivalled and undisputed king of Woodburn community. But
considerations rising high above his mere personal interests, led him
to make a great sacrifice in selling his farm, severing his relation
as pastor and teacher with a people whom he loved dearly, and who
regarded him with a sort of superstitious reverence. The object of the
change was that he might move to Quincy, Ill., where he might give his
children a thorough education. He secured a scholarship in Knox
College for his eldest son, Luther Morgan Anderson, and permission for
him to attend. He put his son George W., and daughter, Elizabeth
Anderson, to study in the Missionary Institute near Quincy. He now
gave his time to farming, preaching, missionary service, and
underground railroad work. His son, George W., says, concerning
Missionary Institute: "At Missionary Institute the atmosphere was more
mild, but such was the continued pressure by the slave-holding border
of Mo., offering large rewards for the heads of the Institution, as
well for those who were known to be connected with the underground
railroad, that the Institution after having done much good went
down."
The years of his residence at Quincy were full of public excitement,
peril, and strife. He was a spirited, progressive, and representative
man. This was the time of the Illinois Prohibition Law, making it a
criminal offence to aid or encourage a runaway slave. The slavery
question was being sharply discussed in all quarters, and began to
color and modify the politics of the day. Anderson was a sharp, ready,
and formidable debater, and was the most prominent Colored man in that
section of the country. He was gifted in the use of good English, had
an easy flow of language, was master of the most galling satire, quick
in repartee, prompt to see a weak point and use it to the best
advantage. He was a pungent and racy writer, and for a number of years
contributed many able articles to the "Quincy Whig." He never spared
slavery. In the pulpit, in the public prints, and in private, he
fought manfully against the nefarious traffic in human flesh.
Dangerous as was the position he took he felt himself on the side of
truth, humanity, and God, and consequently felt that no harm could
reach him. At this time, to the duties of farmer, pastor, and
contributor he added the severe and perilous duty of a missionary. He
canvassed the State, preaching and lecturing against slavery. Often he
was confronted by a mob who defied him, bantered him, but he always
spoke. He was in every sense the child of nature, endowed with
herculean strength, very tall, with a face beaming with benevolence
and intelligence. He appeared at his best when opposed, and was
enabled by his commanding presence, his phenomenal voice, and burning
eloquence to quiet and win the most obstreperous mob.
It was quite easy for a man to be carried away by the irresistible
enthusiasm of the excited multitude, and think the rising of the
animal spirits the impulses of his better nature. But, for a man to be
moved from within, to feel the irresistible power of truth, to feel
that except he obeys the voice of his better nature he is arraigned by
conscience--though the whole world without is against him, such a man
is a hero, deserving of the gratitude and praise of the world.
There were heroes in the days of Anderson, and he was worthy of the
high place he held among them. He was possessed of genius of the
highest order. He appreciated the times in which he lived. He was
equal to the work of his generation, and did not shrink from any work
howsoever perilous. He worked between the sluggish conservatism of the
anti-slavery element on the one hand, and the violent, mobocratic
slave element on the other. Hence, the school of religious and
political sentiment to which he belonged had few disciples and
encountered many hardships. It was a desperate struggle between an
ignorant, self-seeking majority and an intelligent, self-sacrificing
minority. It often appears that vice has more votaries than virtue,
that might is greater than right, and that wrong has the right of way.
But in the light of reason, history, and philosophy, we see the
divinity of truth and the mortality of error. We look down upon the
great spiritual conflict going on in this world--in society and
government,--and seeing the mutations of fortune we think we see truth
worsted, and sound the funeral requiem of our fondest hopes, our most
cherished ideals.
But the mills of the gods grind slowly, but they grind exceedingly
fine. Time rewards the virtuous and patient. It was faith in God,
united with a superior hope, that gave him strength in the darkest
hours of the "irrepressible conflict."
He was a faithful and indefatigable worker; and the State Missionary
Society honored him by thrice choosing him as State Missionary. About
this time he became an active member of the "Underground Railroad."
His presence, bearing, and high character carried conviction. He made
men feel his superiority. He was, consequently, a safe counsellor and
a successful manager. He was soon elevated to an official position,
which he filled with honor and satisfaction. Many slaves were helped
to their freedom by his efforts and advice. He was bold, yet discreet;
wise without pedantry; humble without religious affectation; firm
without harshness; kind without weakness.
The conflict between slavery and freedom grew hotter and hotter; and
the spirit of intolerance became more general. Anderson had proven
himself an able defender of human freedom and a formidable enemy to
slavery. But it _seemed_ as if his efforts in the great aggregate of
good were unavailing. His high hopes of educating his children were
blasted in the burning of Missionary Institute by a mob from Missouri.
It was evident that the slave power would leave no stone unturned in
order to accomplish their cowardly and inhuman designs. It was not
enough to destroy the only school where all races could be educated
together, to disturb the meetings of the few anti-slavery men who
dared to discuss a question that they believed involved the golden
rule and hence the well-being of the oppressed,--they put a price on
his head. He was to be hung to the first tree if caught upon the
sacred soil of Missouri. He was secretly, though closely watched. One
of his sons writes: "He took a deep interest in the Underground
Railroad in connection with a Mr. Turner and Vandorn of Quincy, and a
Mr. Hunter and Payne of Missionary Institute. These gentlemen, I
believe, with the exception of Mr. Payne, are alive and extensively
known in the North."
He was not lacking in the qualities of moral or physical bravery. He
could not be bought or bullied. He was unmovable when he felt he was
right. The bitterest assaults of his enemies only drove him nearer his
ideas, not from them. He might have lived and died in Quincy if he had
not greatly desired the education of his children, who were denied
such privileges in the destruction of the institute.
At this time intelligent, to say nothing of educated, ministers were
few and far between. St. Louis was blessed with an excellent minister
in the person of the Rev. Richard Anderson. He was a man of some
education, fine manners, good judgment, and deep piety; beloved and
respected by all classes both in and out of the church, white and
black. The Rev. Galusha Anderson, D.D., who pronounced the funeral
sermon over the remains of Richard Anderson, says he had the largest
funeral St. Louis ever witnessed. His servant, who had been an
attendant upon the ministrations of Richard Anderson, said mournfully,
when asked by the doctor if they missed him: "Ah, sir, he led us as by
a spider web!" Richard Anderson saw Duke William Anderson and loved
him. He saw in the young man high traits of character, and in his rare
gifts auguries of a splendid career. He saw the danger he lived in,
the hopeless condition of public sentiment, and advised him to accept
the pastoral charge of the Baptist church in Buffalo, N. Y., where
also he could educate his children.
Buffalo was an anti-slavery stronghold. The late Gerrit Smith was
chief of the party in that section of New York. By his vast wealth,
his high personal character, his deeply-rooted convictions, his
wide-spread and consistent opposition to slavery, he was the most
conspicuous character in the State, and made many converts to the
anti-slavery cause. Buffalo was the centre of anti-slavery operations.
Many conventions and conferences were held there. It was only
twenty-four miles to the Canadian boundaries, hence it was the last
and most convenient station of the U. G. R. R.
It was now about 1854-1855. The anti-slavery sentiment was a
recognized and felt power in the politics of the Nation. Anderson
appeared in Buffalo just in time to participate in the debates that
were rendering that city important. He took the pastoral charge of the
Baptist church and high standing as a leader. He remained here quite
two years or more, during which time he used the pulpit and the press
as the vehicles of his invectives against slavery. He did not have to
go to men, they went to him. He was a great moral magnet, and
attracted the best men of the city. The white clergy recognized in him
the qualities of a preacher and leader worthy of their admiration and
recognition. The Rev. Charles Dennison and other white brethren
invited him to their pulpits, where he displayed preaching ability
worthy of the intelligent audiences that listened to his eloquent
discourses.
His stay in Buffalo was salutary. By his industry and usefulness he
became widely known and highly respected. And when he accepted a call
from the Groghan Street Baptist Church, of Detroit, Michigan, his
Buffalo friends were conscious that in his departure from them they
sustained a very great loss.
It was now the latter part of 1857. The anti-slavery conflict was at
its zenith. This controversy, as do all moral controversies, had
brought forth many able men; had furnished abundant material for
satire and rhetoric. This era presented a large and brilliant galaxy
of Colored orators. There were Frederick Douglass--confessedly the
historic Negro of America,--Charles L. Remond, Charles L. Reason,
William Wells Brown, Henry Highland Garnett, Martin R. Delany, James
W. C. Pennington, Robert Purvis, Phillip A. Bell, Charles B. Ray,
George T. Downing, George B. Vashon, William C. Nell, Samuel A. Neale,
William Whipper, Ebenezer D. Bassett, William Howard Day, William
Still, Jermain W. Loguen, Leonard A. Grimes, John Sella Martin, and
many others. Duke William Anderson belonged to the same school of
orators.
The church at Detroit had been under the pastoral charge of the Rev.
William Troy, who had accepted the pulpit of the Baptist church in
Windsor, Canada West, and started to England to solicit funds to
complete a beautiful edifice already in process of erection. At this
time John Sella Martin had obtained considerable notoriety as an
orator. He had canvassed the Western States in the interest of the
anti-slavery cause, and was now residing in Detroit. He was baptized
and ordained by Brethren Anderson and Troy, and took charge of the
church at Buffalo.
Detroit lies in a salubrious atmosphere, upon Detroit River, not far
from Lake Erie; and at this time was not lacking in a high social and
moral atmosphere. The field was the most congenial he had yet labored
in. He found an excellent church-membership, an intelligent and
progressive people. He was heartily welcomed and highly appreciated.
He entered into the work with zeal, and imparted an enthusiasm to the
people. He developed new elements of strength in the church. He
attracted a large, cultivated audience, and held them to the last day
he remained in the city. His audience was not exclusively Colored:
some of the best white families were regular attendants upon his
preaching; and they contributed liberally to his support. Detroit had
never seen the peer of Duke William Anderson in the pulpit. He did not
simply attract large congregations on the Sabbath, but had a warm
place in the affections of all classes, and a personal moral
influence, which added much to the spirituality of the church. In
every church, thus far, he had been blessed with a revival of
religion, and souls had been added as "seals to his ministry." Detroit
was no exception to the rule. Under his leadership, through his
preaching and pastoral visitations the church was aroused, and the
result a revival. Many were added to the church.
It was now the spring of 1858. John Brown, the protomartyr of freedom,
by his heroism, daring, intrepid perseverance, inspired,--swallowed
with one great idea, had stirred all Kansas and Missouri to fear, and
carried off eleven slaves to Canada and set them free. He had
established his headquarters at Chatham, Canada West, and begun the
work of organization preparatory to striking the blow at Harper's
Ferry. Brown held his first convention at Chatham--only a few hours'
ride from Detroit--on May 8, 1858, at 10 o'clock A.M. The convention
was composed of some very able men. The following-named gentlemen
composed the convention: Wm. Charles Monroe, President of the
Convention; G. J. Reynolds, J. C. Grant, A. J. Smith, James M. Jones,
Geo. B. Gill, M. F. Bailey, Wm. Lambert, C. W. Moffitt, John J.
Jackson, J. Anderson, Alfred Whipple, James M. Bue, Wm. H. Leeman,
Alfred M. Ellsworth, John E. Cook, Stewart Taylor, James W. Purnell,
Geo. Akin, Stephen Detlin, Thomas Hickinson, John Cannet, Robinson
Alexander, Richard Realf, Thomas F. Cary, Thomas W. Stringer, Richard
Richardson, J. T. Parsons, Thos. M. Kinnard, Martin R. Delany, Robert
Vanrankin, Charles H. Tidd, John A. Thomas, C. Whipple, J. D. Shad,
Robert Newman, Owen Brown, John Brown, J. H. Harris, Charles Smith,
Simon Fislin, Isaac Hotley, James Smith. Signed, J. H. Kagi. The
following is the list of officers elected:
Commander-in-chief, John Brown; Secretary of War, J. H. Kagi; Members
of Congress, Alfred M. Ellsworth, Osborn Anderson; Treasurer, Owen
Brown; Secretary of Treasury, Geo. B. Gill; Secretary of State,
Richard Realf.
The reader will see that two Andersons are mentioned, J. Anderson and
Osborn Anderson. [Who these gentlemen are, the author does not know,
nor has he any means of knowing.]
Rev. D. W. Anderson's ministry in Detroit was a success both in and
out of the pulpit, both among his parishioners and among those of the
world.
His wife was in every sense a pastor's wife. She bore for him the
largest sympathy in his work; and cheered him with her prayers and
presence in every good cause. She was intelligent and pious, loved by
the church, honored by society. She found pleasure in visiting the
sick, helping the poor, comforting the sorrowful, and in instructing
the erring in ways of peace.
It is almost impossible to compute the value of a pastor's wife who
appreciates the work of saving souls. If she is a good woman her
influence is unbounded. Every person loves her, every person looks up
to her. There are so many little things that she can do, if not beyond
the province of the pastor, often out of range of his influence. Mrs.
Anderson was all that could be hoped as a pastor's wife. She was of
medium size, in complexion light, rather reserved in her manners,
affable in address, very sensitive in her physical and mental
constitution. Much of Anderson's service in Detroit must go to the
account of his sainted wife. And it may not be irrelevant to remark
that every minister of Christ's influence and success is perceptibly
modified by his wife--much depends upon her!
Eighteen years of happy wedded life had passed. It was the autumn of
1860. Mrs. Anderson's health was failing. Her presence was missed from
the church, from society, and at last on the 23d of October, 1860, she
died.
On the 18th of March, 1861, he married again, Mrs. Eliza Julia Shad,
of Chatham, Canada. He turned his attention to farming for a while, in
order to regain his health.
At the close of the war he went South and taught in a theological
institution at Nashville. Soon after he began his work here he
received and accepted a call from the 19th Street Baptist Church of
Washington, D. C. Washington was in a vile condition at the close of
the war. Its streets were mud holes; its inhabitants crowded and
jammed by the troops and curious Negroes from the plantations. Society
was in a critical condition. There was great need of a leader for the
Colored people. D. W. Anderson was that man. He entered upon his work
with zeal and intelligence. He carried into the pulpit rare abilities,
and into the parish work a genial, kindly nature which early gave him
a place in the affections and confidence of his flock.
As a preacher he was a marvel. He generally selected his text early in
the week. He studied its exegesis, made the plan of the sermon, and
then began to choose his illustrations and fill in. On Sunday he would
rise in his pulpit, a man six feet two and a half inches, and in a
rich, clear, deliberate voice commence an extemporaneous discourse.
His presence was majestic. With a massive head, much like that of John
Adams, a strong brown eye that flashed as he moved on in his
discourse, a voice sweet and well modulated, but at times rising to
tones of thunder, graceful, ornate, forcible, and dramatic, he was the
peer of any clergyman in Washington, and of Negroes there were none
his equal.
He showed himself a power in the social life of his people by being
himself a living epistle. He encouraged the young, and set every one
who knew him an example of fidelity and efficiency in the smaller
matters of life.
His early experiences were now in demand. The entire community
recognized in him the elements of magnificent leadership. He was in
great demand in every direction. He was elected a Trustee of the
Howard University, of the Freedman's Saving Bank and Trust Company,
Commissioner of Washington Asylum, Sept. 3d, 1871, and Justice of the
Peace, 8th of April, 1869, and 9th of April, 1872. The vast amount of
work he did on the outside did not impair his usefulness as a pastor
or his faithfulness as a minister of the Gospel. On the contrary he
gathered ammunition and experience from every direction. He made
every thing help him in his preparation for the pulpit. His deep
spiritual life, his nearness to the Master gave him power with men. No
winter passed without a revival of grace and the conversion of scores
of sinners. Thus the work continued until the house was both too small
and unsafe. Plans were drawn and steps taken to build a new church
edifice.
On the first Sunday in March, 1871, the old house of worship, on the
corner of Nineteenth and I streets was abandoned, and the congregation
went to worship in the Stevens School building. The corner-stone of
the new building was laid on the 5th of April, 1871, and the new
edifice dedicated on the 19th of November, 1871, five months after the
work had begun. The dedicatory exercises were as follows:
At eleven o'clock precisely. Rev. D. W. Anderson, pastor in charge,
announced that the hour for the religious exercises to commence had
arrived, and he took pleasure in introducing his predecessor. Rev.
Samuel W. Madden, of Alexandria, Va., who gave out the 934th hymn,
which was sung with considerable fervor and spirit, the entire
congregation rising and participating; after which, Rev. Jas. A.
Handy, read from the 6th chapter, 2d Chronicles, and also addressed
the throne of grace.
"Lift up your heads, ye eternal gates" was admirably rendered by the
choir, when the following letter was read from the President:
"EXECUTIVE MANSION, }
WASHINGTON, Nov. 18, 1871. }
"To Rev. D. W. ANDERSON, No. 1971 I Street,
"SIR: The President directs me to say that your note of the 8th
inst., inviting him to be present at the dedication of your
church, was mislaid during his absence from the city, and was not
brought to his notice till to-day. He regrets that his
engagements will not admit of his attendance at the time you
mention. He congratulates your congregation upon the completion
of so handsome a place of worship, and hopes that its dedication
may prove an occasion of deep interest to all who share in a
desire to promote the spread of the Christian religion.
"I am, sir, your obedient servant,
"HORACE PORTER, _Secretary_."
Rev. Henry Williams, of Petersburg, Va., who was announced to preach
the dedicatory sermon, selected the following words: "And he was
afraid, and said: How dreadful is this place! this is none other but
the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven."
Prominent among those present, who had been invited by Rev. Mr.
Anderson, were His Excellency Governor H. D. Cooke, Hon. N. P.
Chipman, Delegate to Congress; A. L. Sturtevant, Esq., Chief of
Stationery Bureau, Treasury Department; Ed. Young, Esq., Chief of the
Bureau of Statistics; Hon. A. K. Browne, Col. Wm. A. Cook, Dr. A. T.
Augusta, and Wm. H. Thompson, Esq., of Philadelphia. While, seated
around the altar, were Rev. Leonard A. Grimes, of Boston; Rev. Samuel.
W Madden, of Alexandria, Va.; Rev. Geo. W. Goins, of Philadelphia;
Rev. Jas. A. Handy, Washington; and Rev. Wm. Troy, Richmond, Va. At
three o'clock, Rev. Leonard A. Grimes officiated and delivered an
eloquent sermon.
A work of grace followed the dedication of the church; and from month
to month souls were converted. On the 21st of January, 1873, he wrote
the following letter to a Baptist minister residing in Chicago:
"1921, I Street, WASHINGTON, D. C., Jan. 21, 1873.
"REV. R. DEBAPTIST:
"DEAR BROTHER: I write to inform you of a wonderful outpouring of
the Spirit of God in the 19th Street Baptist Church of which I am
pastor. Without any especial effort, up to the last few days,
there have been one to five converted every month, for the past
seven years, in the congregation. This led too many to think that
that was enough. At our watch-meeting I asked how many there were
who would come to the front pews and kneel before God as a token
to Christians to pray for them, and ten came. We had no other
meeting until my weekly lecture, the first Thursday night in
January after it. I saw a great feeling and called again; and
there came twenty-two. The brethren and sisters decided to hold
meeting the next night, and there came thirty-two who were
converted. Now, at this date, Monday night, 20th, there came
forward 'ninety-seven'; and there were over a hundred on their
knees praying. Twenty-two found peace in believing last night.
"We are all well. Pray for us. Write soon.
"Yours ever,
"D. W. ANDERSON."
He was taken sick on the 7th of February, 1873, and after a painful
illness of eleven days, he fell asleep on the 17th of February, full
of years and honors, and was gathered to the fathers. On the Monday
evening, just before he died, he told his wife, daughter, and a small
company of friends who surrounded his death-bed: "It's all well," and
then, at 7:30 P.M., quietly "fell on sleep."
The news of his death cast gloom into thousands of hearts, and evoked
eulogies and letters of condolence never before bestowed upon a Negro.
His death was to the members of his church in the nature of a personal
bereavement. The various interests to which he had loaned the
enlightening influence of his judgment and the beneficence of his
presence mourned his loss, and expressed their grief in appropriate
resolutions. His life and character formed a fitting theme for the
leading pulpits; and the Baptist denomination, the Negro race, and the
nation sincerely mourned the loss of a great preacher, an able leader,
and a pure patriot.
At the request of many people of both races and political parties, his
body was placed in state in the church for twenty-four hours, and
thousands of people, rich and poor, black and white, sorrowfully gazed
upon the face of the illustrious dead. The funeral services were held
on the 20th of February, and his obsequies were the largest Washington
had ever seen, except those of the late Abraham Lincoln. The church
was crowded to suffocation, and the streets for many squares were
filled with solemn mourners. Thus a great man had fallen. The officers
of the Freedman's Bank passed the following resolutions, which were
forwarded with the accompanying letter from the president:
"OFFICE OF THE FREEDMAN'S SAVINGS AND TRUST }
COMPANY, WASHINGTON, D. C., Feb. 20th, 1873. }
"At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Freedman's Savings
and Trust Company, held this date, the following resolutions were
adopted:
"1st. _Resolved_, That in the death of the Rev. D. W. Anderson,
Trustee and Vice-President of this Company, we sustain the loss
of a most excellent Christian man, and an officer of highest
integrity. In all his relations to us he was an endeared
associate, and an honored, intelligent, co-worker: ever firm in
purpose and faithful to those for whom he labored. Our long
intercourse with him impressed us with the increasing value of
his services to the church of which he was pastor, and to _this
institution_.
"We also hereby express our sincere sympathy with his immediate
friends, and especially his afflicted family.
"2d. _Resolved_, That, as an added expression of our esteem, this
Board will attend and take part in his funeral services, _as a
body_.
"3d. _Resolved_, That these resolutions be spread upon our
Records, and that a copy of the same be transmitted to his
family."
"PRINCIPAL OFFICE, }
FREEDMAN'S SAVINGS AND TRUST COMPANY, }
WASHINGTON, D. C., Feb. 21, '73. }
"To Mrs. D. W. ANDERSON.
"_My Dear Sister_: Allow me to transmit to you the enclosed copy
of resolutions passed by the Board of Trustees of the F. S. and
T. Comp., _with_ the sincerest assurances of my _personal_
sympathy.
"Very respectfully, yours, etc.,
"I. W. ALVORD, _President_."
The Board of the Commissioners of the Washington Asylum passed the
following resolutions of condolence:
"WHEREAS, it has pleased Divine Providence to remove from this
life the Rev. D. W. Anderson, late President of this Board:
therefore,
"_Be it resolved_, That in his death we have lost an honorable
and faithful associate, a genial and kind-hearted friend, whom we
delighted to honor and respect for his many virtues and sterling
worth. In him the poor have lost a sympathizing friend; the
criminal an even dispenser of Justice, and the Government one of
its most efficient officers.
"_Resolved_, That we tender our most sincere sympathy to his
bereaved family, and condole with them in this sad dispensation
of Divine Providence.
"_Resolved_, That the resolutions be entered upon the Journal of
proceedings of this Board, and a copy sent to the family of the
lamented deceased.
"A. B. BOHRER,
_Sec. B. C. W. Asylum_.
"Mrs. D. W. ANDERSON, Present."
The Young People's Christian Association, which he had founded, have
spread the following resolutions of respect upon their minutes:
"_Whereas_, It has pleased the Supreme Ruler and Architect of the
Universe to remove from our Association our beloved and estimable
brother and Corresponding Secretary D. W. Anderson, whose
Christian life was a beacon light, for all associated with him to
follow, being humble, patient, forbearing, and forgiving,
Therefore,
"_Resolved_, That in his death we have lost an humble and true
Christian, possessing the same prominent characteristics which
distinguished the Saviour of Mankind, doing good whenever he
believed he was serving his Heavenly Master, administering to the
poor, feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, binding up the
wounds of those offended, and laboring zealously for the
salvation of souls, but while we feel the severe stroke of death
that has stricken down one of our best members, we bow humbly to
the will of Divine Providence, 'who doeth all things well,'
believing that He has summoned our brother to dwell with Him in
peace and happiness and to join the Army that is continually
singing praises to Him who rules both the Heavens and the earth,
so we cheerfully bow and acknowledge that our loss is his eternal
gain.
"_Resolved_, That we tender to his bereaved family our sincere
and Christian sympathy in this their hour of bereavement, and
pray that He who has promised to be a Husband to the Widow, and a
Father to the Fatherless, may keep and protect them.
"_Resolved_, That a copy of these resolutions be engrossed and
sent to the family of our deceased brother, and that the same be
entered upon the records of the Association."
And the church testified their love and sorrow in the following
beautiful resolves:
"BAPTIST CHURCH,
CORNER of 19TH & I STREETS,
WASHINGTON, D. C., Feb. 28, 1873.
"_Whereas_, It has pleased the Almighty God, the Supreme Ruler of
the universe to remove from us our much esteemed and beloved
Pastor,
"REVEREND D. W. ANDERSON,
"therefore, be it,
"_Resolved_, That we deeply deplore and lament the loss of so
great and noble a pioneer in the cause of Christ, one who, like
Christ, although scorned, traduced and ill-treated by enemies,
went forward and labored in and out of his church for the
promotion of the work of his Father in Heaven.
"_Resolved_, that as a Church we feel the severe stroke that has
summoned from us our dearly beloved Pastor; but knowing that our
loss is his eternal gain, we cheerfully submit to the will and
order of that God who does all things well, that God who controls
the destinies of nations, kingdoms, and empires, that God who
'moves in mysterious ways his wonders to perform.'
"_Resolved_, That we will endeavor by the assistance of our
heavenly Master to live up to the teachings and examples set by
our shepherd, thereby believing that when we are summoned to
appear at the bar of God we will meet our Pastor in that grand
Church above where 'sickness, pain, sorrow, or death is feared
and felt no more,' 'where congregations ne'er break up, and
Sabbath hath no end,' where 'we will sing hosannas to our
heavenly King, where we will meet to part no more forever.'
"_Resolved_, That we, the Church, extend to the bereaved family
our heartfelt sympathies, and that a copy of these resolutions be
sent to them, and also entered on the Church journal.
"LINDSEY MUSE, _Moderator_.
"DAVID WARNER, _Clerk_."
The Mite Society of his church erected a monument to his memory in
_Harmony Cemetery_, bearing the following inscriptions:
"The Christian Mite Society of the 19th Street Baptist Church
render this tribute to the memory of their beloved pastor. We
shall go to him, but he shall not return to us.
"Rev. D. W. ANDERSON,
"Born April 10th, 1812. Died Feb. 17th, 1873.
"'I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.'
"He was ordained in 1844, and after a ministry of 21 years
settled with the 19th Street Baptist Church of Washington, D. C.,
where he fell asleep in the midst of a great revival.
"For the cause of education, the welfare of the poor, the
promotion of humanity, liberty, and the conversion of the world.
"He labored faithfully until the Master called him hence."
This beautiful life was studded with the noblest virtues. From
obscurity and poverty Duke William Anderson had risen to fame and
honors; and having spent a useful life, died in the midst of a great
revival in the capital of the nation, holding more positions of trust
than any other man, white or black; died with harness on, and left a
name whose lustre will survive the corroding touch of time.
The Rev. James Poindexter, of Columbus, Ohio, and the Rev. Wallace
Shelton, of Cincinnati, are now and have been for years the foremost
Baptist ministers of Ohio. Both men came to Ohio more than a
generation ago, and have proven themselves able ministers of Christ.
But of New England Baptist ministers Leonard Andrew Grimes is of most
blessed memory.
It was some time during the year 1840, when disputings arose--about
what is not known--within the membership of what was known as the
"First Independent Baptist Church," of Boston, Mass., which resulted
in the drawing out from the same of about forty members. This party
was led by the Rev. Mr. Black, who had been, for some time, pastor of
the church he now left. They secured a place of worship in Smith
Court, off of Joy Street, where they continued for a considerable
space of time. It was not long, however, after they began to worship
in their new home, before their highly esteemed and venerable leader
was stricken down with disease, from which he subsequently died.
This little band was now without a leader, and was, consequently,
speedily rent by a schism within its own circle. But in the nucleus
that finally became the Twelfth Baptist Church, there were faithful
men and women who believed in the integrity of their cause, and,
therefore, stood firm. They believed that "He who was for them was
greater than all they who were against them." Though few in number,
they felt that "one shall chase a thousand, and two shall put ten
thousand to flight," was a very pertinent passage when applied to
themselves. And those who have been blessed to see that little
"company of believers" grow to be an exceedingly large and prosperous
church of Christ must be persuaded that God alone gave "the increase."
For a long time this little company struggled on without a leader.
They were called upon to walk through many discouraging scenes, and to
humble themselves under the remorseless hand of poverty. Unable to
secure, permanently, the services of a clergyman, they were driven to
the necessity of obtaining whomsoever they could when the Sabbath
came. And what a blessed thing it was for them that they were placed
under the severe discipline of want! It taught them humility and
faith--lessons often so hard to acquire. They bore their trials
heroically, and esteemed it great joy to be counted worthy to suffer
for Christ. When one Sabbath was ended they knew not whom the Lord
would send the next; and yet they never suffered for the "Word of
God." For He who careth for the lilies of the field, and bears up the
falling sparrow, fed them with the "bread of life," and gave them to
drink of the waters of salvation. "Unto the poor the Gospel was
preached."
After a few years of pain and waiting, after the watching and praying,
the hoping and fearing, God seemed pleased to hear the prayers of this
lonely band, and gave them a leader. It was whispered in the community
that a very intelligent and useful man, by the name of "Grimes," of
New Bedford, could be retained as their leader. After some
deliberation upon the matter, they chose one of their number to pay a
visit to "Brother Leonard A. Grimes, of New Bedford," and on behalf
of the company worshipping in "an upper room," on Belknap Street--now
Joy Street--Boston, extended him an invitation to come and spend a
Sabbath with them. In accordance with their request he paid them a
visit. Impressed with the dignity of his bearing, and the earnestness
of his manner, the company was unanimous in an invitation, inviting
"the young preacher" to return and remain with them for "three
months."
The invitation was accepted with alacrity, and the work begun with a
zeal worthy of the subsequent life of "the beloved pastor of the
Twelfth Baptist Church." Brother L. A. Grimes had been driven North on
account of his friendly and humane relations to the oppressed. He had
been incarcerated by the laws of slave-holding Virginia, for wresting
from her hand, and piloting into the land of freedom, those whom
slavery had marked as her children--or, rather, her "_goods_." A soul
like his was too grand to live in such an atmosphere. In keeping the
golden rule, he had insulted the laws of the institution under whose
merciless sway thousands of human beings were groaning. He would live
no longer where his convictions of duty were to be subordinated to,
and palliated by, the penurious and cruel teaching of the slave
institution. So, after having been robbed of his property, he left, in
company with his family, for the fair shores of New England. He had
sought no distinction, but had settled down to a quiet life in New
Bedford. But a man of his worth could not stay in the quiet walks of
life; he was born to lead, and heard God call him to the work his soul
loved.
His quiet, unpretentious ministry of "three months" shadowed forth the
loving, gentle, yet vigorous and successful ministry of a quarter of a
century; a ministry so like the Master's, not confined to sect or
nationality, limited only by the wants of humanity and the great
heart-love that went gushing out to friend and foe. Those who were so
happy as to sit under his ministry for the "three months" were quite
unwilling to be separated from one whose ministry had so greatly
comforted and built them up. In the young preacher they had found a
leader of excellent judgment, a pastor of tender sympathies, and a
father who loved them with all the strength of true manly affection.
How could they retain him? They were poor. How could they release him?
They loved him. After much prayer and pleading, Brother Grimes was
secured as their leader, with a salary at the rate of $100 per annum.
He returned to New Bedford and moved his family to Boston. His salary
barely paid his rent; but by working with his hands, as Paul did, and
through the industry of his wife, he was enabled to get along.
During all this time this little company of believers was without
"church organization." At length a council was called and their prayer
for organization presented. After the procedure common to such
councils, it was voted that this company of Christian men and women be
organized as the "Twelfth Baptist Church." The church consisted of
twenty-three members.
On the evening of the 24th of November, 1848, occurred the services of
the recognition of the church, and the ordination of Rev. L. A. Grimes
as its pastor. The order of exercises was as follows:
Reading of Scriptures and prayer, by the Rev. Edmund Kelley; sermon,
by the Rev. J. Banvard, subject: "The way of salvation," from Acts
xvi, 17: "The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men
are the servants of the most high God, which show unto us the way of
salvation"; hand of fellowship to the church, by the Rev. T. F.
Caldicott; prayer of recognition and ordination, by the Rev. John
Blain; charge to the candidate, by the Rev. Nathaniel Colver; address
to the church, by the Rev. Rollin H. Neale; concluding prayer, by the
Rev. Sereno Howe; benediction, by the pastor, Rev. Leonard A. Grimes.
The exercises were of a very pleasant nature, and of great interest to
the humble little church that assembled to enjoy them. It was an
occasion of no small moment that published to the world the "Twelfth
Baptist Church," and sent upon a mission of love and mercy, Leonard
Andrew Grimes! It was an occasion that has brought great strength to
the Colored people of Boston, yea, of the country! It was the opening
of a door; it was the loosening of chains, the beginning of a ministry
that was to stretch over a period of twenty-five years, carrying peace
and blessing to men in every station. And may we not, with propriety,
halt upon the threshold of our gratitude, and thank that wise Being
who gave him, a blessing to the church a friend to humanity?
Happy, thrice happy, was the little church that had wedded itself for
life to one who had laid himself upon the altar of their common cause.
These relations and manifold responsibilities were not hastily or
rashly assumed. The little church felt keenly its poverty and
weakness, while its new pastor knew that the road to prosperity lay
through fields of toil and up heights of difficulty. Before him was no
dark future, for the light of an extraordinary faith scattered the
darkness as he advanced to duty. What man of intelligence, without
capital or social influence, would have undertaken so discouraging a
project as that to which Leonard A. Grimes unconditionally brought the
sanctified zeal of a loving heart? To him it was purely a matter of
duty, and it was this thought that urged him on with his almost
superhuman burdens.
But to return to the "upper chamber," and take one more look at the
happy little church. It was not the pastor's object to begin at once
to perfect plans to secure a place more desirable to worship in than
their present little room. His heart longed for that enlargement of
soul secured by a nearness to the divine Master. His heart yearned
after those who were enemies to the "_cross of Christ_." His first
prayer was: "O Lord, revive thy work!" and it was not offered in vain.
A season of prayer was instituted for the outpouring of the Spirit.
The pastor led the way to the throne of grace in a fervent and
all-embracing prayer. A spirit of prayer fell upon his people. Every
heart trembled in tenderest sympathy for those who were strangers to
the "covenant of mercy"; every eye was dampened with tears of
gratitude and love; every tongue was ready to exclaim with Watts:--
"'T was the same love that spread the feast,
That sweetly forced us in;
Else we had still refused to taste,
And perished in our sin."
The church had reached that point in feeling where the blessing is
sure. They heard the coming of the chariot, and felt the saving power
of the Lord in their midst. It was a glorious revival. There were more
converted than there were members in the church. Oh, what joy, what
peace, what comfort in the Holy Ghost was there in that "upper
chamber"! What tongue or pen can describe the scene in that room when
over thirty souls were gathered into the fold! A pastor's _first_
revival! What rejoicing! The gathering of his first children in the
Lord! Ask Paul what conscious pride he took in those who were his
"epistles," his "fruit in the Gospel," his "children" in Christ
Jesus. It lifted Brother Grimes up to the heights of Pisgah in his
rejoicing, and laid him low at the cross in his humility. "The Lord
had done great things for him, whereof he was glad"; And they "did eat
their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and
having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church
daily such as should be saved."
The rooms in which they began now proved too small for their rapidly
increasing membership. They agreed to have a building of their own. It
was now the latter part of 1848. The business eye of the pastor fell
upon a lot on Southac Street; and in the early part of 1849 the
trustees purchased it. Preparations for building were at once begun.
It seemed a large undertaking for a body of Christians so humble in
circumstances, so weak in numbers. But faith and works were the
_genii_ that turned the tide of prosperity in their favor. They
decided that the ground and edifice should not exceed in cost the sum
of $10,000. The society proposed to raise two or three thousand within
its own membership; three thousand by loan, and solicit the remainder
from the Christian public. Previous to this period the public knew
little or nothing of this society. Brother Grimes had come to Boston
almost an entire stranger, and had now to undertake the severe task of
presenting the interests of a society so obscure and of so recent
date. But he believed in his cause, and knew that success would come.
He had known Dr. Neale in Washington City, during his early ministry;
they were boys together. They met. It was a pleasant meeting. The Rev.
Mr. Neale vouched for him before the public. It was not particularly
necessary, for Brother Grimes carried a recommendation in his face: it
was written all over with veracity and benevolence.
Joyfully and successfully he hurried on his mission. He made friends
of the enemies of evangelical religion, and gathered a host of
admirers around him. The public saw in him not only the zealous pastor
of an humble little church, but the true friend of humanity. The
public ear was secured; his prayer was answered in the munificent
gifts that came in from every direction. Every person seemed anxious
to contribute something to this noble object.
It was a beautiful morning! The sun never shone brighter, nor the air
smelled sweeter or purer than on that memorable first day of August,
1850. The first persons to usher themselves into the street that
morning were the happy members of the "_Twelfth_ _Baptist Church_."
Every face told of the inward joy and peace of thankful hearts. Those
who had toiled long through the days of the church's "small things,"
felt that their long-cherished hopes were beginning to bud.
Long before the appointed hour the members and friends of the church
began to gather to participate in the "laying of the corner-stone of
the Twelfth Baptist Church." It was a sweet, solemn occasion.
"Rev. Drs. Sharp, Neale and Colver, together with the pastor of the
church, officiated on the occasion. The usual documents were deposited
with the stone, and the customary proceedings gone through with, in a
solemn and impressive manner."
The occasion lent an enthusiasm for the work hitherto unknown. They
were emboldened. The future looked bright, and on every hand the times
were propitious. Gradually the walls of the edifice grew heavenward,
and the building began to take on a pleasing phase. At length the
walls had reached their proper height, and the roof crowned all. Their
sky was never brighter. It is true a "little speck of cloud" was seen
in the distance; but they were as unsuspicious as children. The cloud
approached gradually, and, as it approached, took on its terrible
characteristics. It paused a while; it trembled. Then there was a
death-like silence in the air, and in a moment it vomited forth its
forked lightning, and rolled its thunder along the sky. It was the
explosion of a Southern shell over a Northern camp, that was lighted
by the torch of ambition in the hands of fallen Webster. It was the
culmination of slave-holding Virginia's wrath. It was invading the
virgin territory of liberty-loving Massachusetts. It was hunting the
fugitive on free soil, and tearing him from the very embrace of sweet
freedom.
When the time came to enlist Colored soldiers, Leonard A. Grimes was
as untiring in his vigilance as any friend of the Fifty-fourth
Regiment of Massachusetts volunteers, while the members of his church
were either joining or aiding the regiment. So highly were the
services of Brother Grimes prized that the chaplaincy of the regiment
was not only tendered him, but urged upon him; but the multifarious
duties of his calling forbade his going with the regiment he loved and
revered.
The ladies of his congregation were busy with their needles, thus
aiding the cause of the Union; and no church threw its doors open more
readily to patriotic meetings than the Twelfth Baptist Church. And
during those dark days of the Union, when all seemed hopeless, when
our armies were weak and small, the prayers of a faithful pastor and
pious people ascended day and night, and did much to strengthen the
doubting.
The fugitive-slave law and civil war had done much to weaken the
church financially and numerically. Many who fled from the
fugitive-slave law had not returned; the young men had entered the
service of the country, while many others were absent from the city
under various circumstances. But notwithstanding all these facts, God
blessed the church--even in war times,--and many were converted.
The struggle was now ended. "The Boys in Blue" came home in triumph.
The father separated from child, the husband from wife, could now meet
again. Those who were driven before the wrath of an impious and cruel
edict could now return to the fold without fear. What a happy occasion
it was for the whole church! The reunion of a family long separated;
the gathering of dispersed disciples. The occasion brought such an
undistinguishable throng of fancies--such joy, such hope, such blessed
fellowship--as no pen can describe.
At the commencement of the Rebellion the church numbered about 246;
and at the close of the Rebellion it numbered about 300,
notwithstanding the discouraging circumstances under which she
labored. The revivals that followed brought many into the church, and
the heart of the pastor was greatly encouraged.
At first it was thought that the entire cost of the land and building
would not exceed $10,000; but the whole cost, from the time they began
to build until the close of the war, was $14,044.09. In 1861 the
indebtedness of the church was $2,967.62; at the close of the war it
was about $2,000.
During all these years of financial struggle the church had ever paid
her notes with promptness and without difficulty. And now that the war
was over, freedom granted to the enslaved, and the public again
breathing easy, the little church, not weary of well-doing, again
began the work of removing the remaining debt. The public was sought
only in the most extreme necessity. The ladies held sewing circles,
and made with the needle fancy articles to be sold in a festival,
while the members of the church were contributing articles of wearing
apparel, or offering their services at the sale tables. The proceeds
were given to the society to pay its debts; and it was no mean gift.
From 1865 to 1871 the church grew rapidly. Revivals were of frequent
occurrence; and many from the South, learning of the good name of Rev.
Mr. Grimes, sought his church when coming to Boston. But it was
apparent that their once commodious home was now too small. The pastor
saw this need, and began to take the proper steps to meet it. It was
at length decided that the church should undergo repairs; and the
pastor was armed with the proper papers to carry forward this work.
The gallery that was situated in the east end of the church was used
chiefly by the choir and an instrument. In making repairs it was
thought wise to remove the organ from the gallery, and put in seats,
and thereby accommodate a larger number of people. Then, the old
pulpit took up a great deal of room, and by putting in a new pulpit of
less dimensions, more room could be secured for pews. This was done,
with the addition of a baptistry, the lack of which for nearly
twenty-five years had driven them, in all kinds of weather, to Charles
River. Every thing, from the basement up, underwent repairs. The pews
were painted and furnished with book-racks. The floors were repaired,
and covered with beautiful carpet; while the walls and ceilings were
richly clothed with fresco, by the hands of skilful workmen. In the
centre of the ceiling was an excellent ventilator, from which was
suspended a very unique chandelier, with twelve beautiful globes, that
were calculated to dispense their mellow light upon the worshippers
below. But to crown all this expensive work and exceeding beauty thus
bestowed upon the house, was the beautiful organ that adorned the
southwest corner of the church, just to the pastor's right when in the
pulpit. It was secured for the sum of two thousand five hundred
dollars. All was accomplished. The old house of worship was now
entirely refitted. No heart was happier than the pastor's the day the
church was reopened.[132] The new and elegant organ sent forth its
loud peals of music in obedience to the masterly touch of the
"_faithful one_," who for more than twelve years was never absent from
her post of duty, and whom none knew but to love and honor.
What supreme satisfaction there is in the accomplishment of a work
that comprehends, not the interests of an individual, but the
interests of the greatest number of human beings! The labors of Rev.
Mr. Grimes were bestowed upon those whom he loved. He had toiled for
his church as a father does to support his family. And no pastor,
perhaps, was ever more paternal to his flock than Leonard A. Grimes.
He was a man wondrously full of loving-kindness,--a lover of mankind.
It has been the rule rather than the exception, for a long time, for
churches to carry heavy debts; and when a church is free from debt, it
certainly furnishes a cause for great rejoicing. It was so with the
Twelfth Baptist Church. For a long time--more than twenty years--the
church had been before the public as an object of charity. For more
than twenty years the people had struggled heroically amid all of the
storms that gathered around them. Sometimes they expected to see "_the
red flag_" upon their house of worship, but the flag Was never raised.
The debts of the church had all been removed. The house was absolutely
free from every encumbrance; the people owned their church.
But the little church of twenty-three had become the large church of
six hundred. The once commodious house was now too small for the
communicants of the church. The pastor began to look around for a
place to build, and considered the matter of enlarging the present
house of worship. He had expended the strength of his manhood in the
service of his church; he had built one house, and had never denied
the public his service. It would seem natural that a man whose life
had been so stormy, yea, so full of toil and care, would seek in
advanced age the rest and quiet so much desired at that stage of life.
But it was not so with Brother Grimes. He was willing to begin another
lifetime work, and with all the freshness of desire and energy of
young manhood.
It was now the latter part of the winter of 1873. A revival had been
for a long time, and was still, in progress. Converts were coming into
the church rapidly. The heart of the pastor was never fuller of love
than during the revival. He seemed to be in agony for sinners to be
saved. He impatiently paced the aisles, and held private and personal
interviews with the impenitent. He disliked to leave the church at the
close of the services. He remained often in the vestibule, watching
for an opportunity to say a word for the Saviour. Brother C. G. Swan,
who preached for him once, said: "I never beheld a more heavenly face;
it seemed as if his soul were ripe for heaven."
Those who saw him in the pulpit the last Sabbath he spent on
earth--March 9, 1874--will not soon forget the earnestness and
impressiveness of his manner. On Wednesday, March 12th, he left the
scene of his labors to discharge a duty nearest to his heart. He took
$100 from his poor church, as a gift to the _Home Mission Society_,
that was to be used in the _Freedman's Fund_.
On Friday evening, March 14th, he reached home just in time to breathe
his last in the arms of his faithful, though anxious wife. Thus he
fell asleep in the path of duty, in the midst of a mighty work.
The news of his death spread rapidly, and cast a shadow of grief over
the entire community. The people mourned him.
The morning papers gave full account and notice of his death. The
following is one of the many notices that were given:
"DEATH OF AN ESTEEMED CLERGYMAN.
"The Rev. L. A. Grimes, the well-known and universally esteemed
colored clergyman, died very suddenly last evening, at his
residence on Everett Avenue, East Somerville. He had just
returned from New York, where he had been to attend the meeting
of the _Baptist Board of Home Missions_, of which he was a
member. He had walked to his home from the cars, and died within
fifteen minutes after his arrival. The physicians pronounce it a
case of apoplexy. Mr. Grimes was pastor of the Twelfth Baptist
Church, on Phillips Street, in this city. During the twenty-six
years of his ministry in Boston he had won the confidence and
regard, not only of his own sect, but of the entire community.
His labors for the good of his oppressed race attracted public
attention to him more than twenty years ago, and this interest
manifested itself in the generous contributions of Unitarians,
Episcopalians, and Universalists in aid of his church. During the
thirty-four dark days of the infamous Fugitive-Slave Law, and the
excitements occasioned by slave hunts in Boston, Mr. Grimes had a
'level head,' and did much to keep down riotous outbreaks from
those who then were told that they had no rights that white men
were bound to respect. Fortunate, indeed, will be the church of
the deceased, if his successor, like him, shall be able to keep
them together, and lead them in righteous ways for a quarter of a
century."
On the following Monday morning, at the ministers' meeting,
appropriate remarks were made, and resolutions drawn up. The following
appeared in the daily papers:
"BAPTIST MINISTERS' MEETING.
"The Monday morning meeting of the Baptist ministers of Boston
and vicinity was held at ten o'clock, Monday, as is the weekly
custom. After the devotional exercises, the committee to prepare
resolutions on the death of the late Rev. Leonard Andrew Grimes
made their report to the meeting. Pending the acceptance of the
report remarks eulogizing the deceased were made by Rev. R. H.
Neale, D.D., and others. The resolutions, which were thereupon
given a place upon the records of the meeting, are as follows: In
the death of Leonard Andrew Grimes, for twenty-seven years the
pastor of the Twelfth Baptist Church of Boston, the city in which
he lived, the race for which he labored have sustained an
irreparable loss. The _confrère_ of Daniel Sharp, Baron Stow,
Phineas Stow, Nathaniel Colver, Rev. Mr. Graves of the
'Reflector,' he was one whose coming might always be welcomed
with the exclamation of our Saviour concerning Nathaniel: 'Behold
an Israelite indeed in whom there is no guile.' His last efforts
were put forth for his race. He carried to the Board of the
American Baptist Home Mission Society, of which he had been for
many years an honored member, a large contribution from his
church, to help on Christ's work among the Freedmen, and, on
returning from New York, stopped at New Bedford to comfort a
broken-hearted mother, whose little child was dying, and then
came to the city, and in fifteen minutes after crossing the
threshold of his home passed on to God.
"His death affected the ministry and churches as when 'a
standard-bearer fainteth.' His familiar face was ever welcome.
His resolute bearing, his unswerving fidelity to Christ, to
truth, to the church at large, and his own denomination in
particular, and his life-long service as a philanthropist, his
devotion to the interests of the negro, to whom he was linked by
ties of consanguinity and of sympathy, made him a felt power for
good in our State and in our entire country. No man among us was
more sincerely respected or more truly loved. His departure,
while it came none too soon for the tired warrior, impoverishes
us with the withdrawal of an all-embracing love, and leaves God's
poor to suffer to an extent it is impossible to describe.
"_Resolved_, That the death of this good minister of Jesus Christ
imposes heavy responsibilities upon his surviving brethren. The
interests of the race of which he was an honored representative
are imperilled. Their noble champion has gone up higher; but no
waiting Elisha saw the ascent, and cried, 'My father, my father,
the chariot of Israel and the horsemen thereof'; so who can hope
to wear his mantle and continue his work?
"_Resolved_, That we tender to his afflicted widow, and to the
church he had so long and faithfully served, this poor expression
of our sympathy, and this truthful evidence of our love.
"_Resolved_, That the good of his race, just passing from the
morning of emancipation into the noonday radiance of a liberty of
which they have dreamed, and for which they have prayed, demands
that a permanent record be made of this noble man of God."
The ministers' meeting adjourned after the reading of the foregoing
resolutions, to attend the funeral services, which were to take place
in Charles Street Church. At an early hour in the morning the body was
placed in front of the altar in the church of the deceased, where it
lay in state all the forenoon, and where appropriate services were
conducted by Drs. Cheney, Fulton, and others. Thousands, of every
grade and hue, thronged the church to have a last fond look at the
face so full of sunlight in life, and so peaceful in death.
At one o'clock the remains were removed to Charles Street Church,
where the funeral services were conducted with a feeling of solemnity
and impressiveness worthy of the sad occasion. The addresses of Drs.
Neale and Fulton were fall of tenderness and grief. Both of these
gentlemen were, for many years, the intimate friends of the deceased.
They were all associated together in a noble work for a number of
years, and there were no hearts so sad as those of Brothers Neale and
Fulton. Clergymen of every denomination were present, and the
congregation contained men and women from all the walks of life. The
funeral was considered one of the largest that ever took place in
Boston.
On the following Sabbath quite a number of the Boston pulpits gave
appropriate discourses upon the "Life and Character of the late L. A.
Grimes." The most noticeable were those delivered by Rev. R. N. Neale,
D.D., Rev. Justin D. Fulton, D.D., and Rev. Henry A. Cook.
Within the last decade quite a number of educated Colored Baptist
clergymen have come into active work in the denomination. The old-time
preaching is becoming distasteful to the people. The increasing
intelligence of the congregations is an unmistakable warning to the
preachers that a higher standard of preaching is demanded; that the
pew is becoming as intelligent as the pulpit. The outlook is very
encouraging. However, the danger of the hour is, that too many Negro
churches may be organized. We have the quantity; let us _have_ the
_quality_ now.
FOOTNOTES:
[132] It was our good fortune to be present. We remember distinctly
his happy face, his words of gratitude and thanks. And as we looked
around every face wore an expression of complete satisfaction.
Part 9.
_THE DECLINE OF NEGRO GOVERNMENTS._
CHAPTER XXVII.
REACTION, PERIL, AND PACIFICATION.
1875-1880.
THE BEGINNING OF THE END OF THE REPUBLICAN GOVERNMENTS AT THE
SOUTH.--SOUTHERN ELECTION METHODS AND NORTHERN SYMPATHY.--GEN.
GRANT NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DECLINE AND LOSS OF THE REPUBLICAN
STATE GOVERNMENTS AT THE SOUTH.--A PARTY WITHOUT A LIVE
ISSUE.--SOUTHERN WAR CLAIMS.--THE CAMPAIGN OF 1876.--REPUBLICAN
LETHARGY AND DEMOCRATIC ACTIVITY.--DOUBTFUL RESULTS.--THE
ELECTORAL COUNT IN CONGRESS.--GEN. GARFIELD AND CONGRESSMEN
FOSTER AND HALE TO THE FRONT AS LEADERS.--PEACEFUL
RESULTS.--PRESIDENT HAYES'S SOUTHERN POLICY.--ITS FAILURE.--THE
IDEAS OF THE HON. CHARLES FOSTER ON THE TREATMENT OF THE SOUTHERN
PROBLEM.--"NOTHING BUT LEAVES" FROM CONCILIATION.--A NEW POLICY
DEMANDED BY THE REPUBLICAN PARTY.--A REMARKABLE SPEECH BY THE
HON. CHARLES FOSTER AT UPPER SANDUSKY, OHIO.--HE CALLS FOR A
SOLID NORTH AGAINST A SOLID SOUTH.--HE SOUNDS THE KEY-NOTE FOR
THE NORTH AND THE NATION RESPONDS.--THE DECAY AND DEATH OF THE
NEGRO GOVERNMENTS AT THE SOUTH INEVITABLE.--THE NEGRO MUST TURN
HIS ATTENTION TO EDUCATION, THE ACCUMULATION OF PROPERTY AND
EXPERIENCE.--HE WILL RETURN TO POLITICS WHEN HE SHALL BE EQUAL TO
THE DIFFICULT DUTIES OF CITIZENSHIP.
From 1868 to 1872 the Southern States had been held by the Republican
party, with but a few exceptions, without much effort. The friends of
the Negro began to congratulate themselves that the Southern problem
had been solved. Every Legislature in the South had among its members
quite a fair representation of Colored men. Among the State officers
there was a good sprinkling of them; and in some of the States there
were Negroes as Lieut.-Governors. Congress had opened its doors to a
dozen Negroes; and the consular and diplomatic service had employed a
number of them in foreign parts. And so with such evidences of
political prosperity before their eyes the friends of the Negro at the
North regarded his "calling and election sure."
In 1873 a great financial panic came to the business and monetary
affairs of the country. It was the logic of an inflated currency, wild
and visionary enterprises, bad investments, and prodigal living. Banks
tottered and fell, large business houses suspended, and financial ruin
ran riot. Northern attention was diverted from Southern politics to
the "destruction that seemed to waste at noon-day." Taking advantage
of this the South seized the shot-gun and wrote on her banners: "_We
must carry these States, peaceably if we can; forcibly if we must._"
An organized, deliberate policy of political intimidation assumed the
task of ridding the South of Negro government. The first step was in
the direction of intimidating the white leaders of the Republican
organizations; and the next was to deny employment to all intelligent
and influential Colored Republicans. Thus from time to time the
leaders of the Republican party were reduced to a very small number.
Without leaders the rank and file of the party were harmless and
helpless in State and National campaigns. This state of affairs seemed
to justify the presence of troops at the polls on election days. Under
an Act of Congress "the President was empowered to use the army to
suppress domestic violence, prevent bloodshed," and to protect the
Negroes in the constitutional exercise of the rights conferred upon
them by the Constitution. This movement was met by the most determined
opposition from the South, aided by the sympathy of the Northern
press, Democratic platforms, and a considerable element in the
Republican party.
In 1874 the condition of affairs in the South was such as to alarm the
friends of stable, constitutional government everywhere. The city of
New Orleans was in a state of siege. Streets were blockaded with State
troops and White Line leagues, and an open battle was fought. The
Republican State government fell before the insurgents, and a new
government was established _vi et armis_. Troops were sent to New
Orleans by the President, and the lawful government was restored. The
Liberal movement in the North, which had resulted in the defeat of the
Republican tickets in Indiana, Ohio, New York, New Jersey,
Connecticut, and even in Massachusetts, greatly encouraged the Bourbon
Democrats of the South, and excited them to the verge of the most open
and cruel conduct toward the white and black Republicans in their
midst.
A large number of Northern Legislatures passed resolutions condemning
the action of the President in sending troops into the South, although
he did it in accordance with law. Many active and influential
Republicans, displeased with the action of the Republican governments
at the South, and the conduct of the Forty-third Congress, demanded
the destruction of the Republican party. The Liberal movement had
started in 1872. Its leaders thought the time had come for a new
party, and counselled the country accordingly.
The Forty-fourth Congress was organized by the Democrats. The Cabinet
Ministers were divided on the policy pursued toward the South. In the
autumn of 1875 the shot-gun policy carried Mississippi; and from the
6th of July till the Republican government in that State went down
into a bloody grave, there was an unbroken series of political
murders.
President Grant was met by a Democratic Congress; a divided Cabinet:
Zachariah Chandler and Edwards Pierrepont were in sympathy with him;
Bristow and Jewell represented the Liberal sentiment. Then, the
Republican party of the North, and many leading journals, were urging
a change of policy toward the South. The great majority of Republicans
wanted a change, not because they did not sympathize with the Negro
governments, but because they saw some of the best men in the party
withdrawing their support from the administration of Gen. Grant. There
were other men who charged that the business failures in the country
were occasioned by the financial policy of the Republican party, and
in a spirit of desperation were ready to give their support to the
Democracy.
It was charged by the enemies of Gen. Grant that when he was elected
President he had a solid Republican South behind him; that under his
administration everything had been lost; and that he was responsible
for the political ruin which had overtaken the Republican party at the
South. The charge was false. The errors of reconstruction under the
administration of President Andrew Johnson, and the mistakes of the
men who had striven to run the State governments at the South had to
be counteracted by the administration of President Grant. This indeed
was a difficult task. He did all he could under the Constitution; and
when Congress endeavored to pass the Force Bill, the Hon. James G.
Blaine, of Maine, made a speech against it in caucus. Mr. Blaine had a
presidential ambition to serve, and esteemed his own promotion of
greater moment than the protection of the Colored voters of the
South. And Mr. Blaine never allowed an opportunity to pass in which he
did not throw every obstacle in the way of the success of the Grant
administration. Mr. Blaine has never seen fit to explain his
opposition to the Force Bill, which was intended to strengthen the
hands of the President in his efforts to protect the Negro voter at
the South.
When the National Republican Convention met at Cincinnati, Ohio, in
the summer of 1876, there was still lacking a definite policy for the
South. Presidential candidates were numerous, and the contest bitter.
Gen. Rutherford B. Hayes, at that time Governor of Ohio, was nominated
as a compromise candidate. There was no issue left the Republican
party, as the "bloody shirt" had been rejected by the Liberals, and
was generally distasteful at the North. But the initial success of the
Democratic party South, and the loss of many Northern States to the
Republicans, had emboldened the South to expect national success. But
a too precipitous preparation for a raid upon the United States
Treasury for the payment of rebel war claims threw the Republicans
upon their guard, and, for the time being, every other question was
sunk into insignificance. So the insolence of the "Rebel Brigadier
Congress," and the letter of Samuel Jones Tilden, the Democratic
candidate for the Presidency, on the question of the Southern war
claims, gave the Republican party a fighting chance. But there were a
desperate South and a splendid campaign organizer in Mr. Tilden to
meet. And with a shot-gun policy, tissue ballets, and intimidation at
the South, while a gigantic, bold, and matchless system of fraudulent
voting was pushed with vigor in the North, there was little show of
success for the Republican ticket. The contest on the part of the
Republicans was spiritless. It was difficult to raise funds or excite
enthusiasm. The Republican candidate had only a local reputation. He
had been to Congress, but even those who had known that had forgotten
it. A modest, retiring man, Gov. Hayes was not widely known. The old
and tried leaders were not enthusiastic. Mr. Blaine had no second
choice. He was for himself or nobody. The Democrats prosecuted their
campaign with vigor, intelligence, and enthusiasm. They went "into the
school districts," and their organization has never been equalled in
America.
The result was doubtful. One thing, however, was sure: the Negro
governments of the South were now a thing of the past. Not a single
State was left to the Republican party. Florida, Louisiana, and South
Carolina were hanging by the slender thread of doubt, with the
provisions of a returning board in favor of the Republican party. The
returning boards were the creation of local law; their necessity
having grown out of the peculiar methods employed by Democrats in
carrying elections. These boards were empowered to receive and count
the votes cast for presidential electors; and wherever it could be
proven that intimidation and fraud had been used, the votes of such
precincts, counties, etc., were to be thrown out. The three doubtful
States named above were counted for the Republican presidential
electors. Their work was carried before Congress. A high joint
electoral commission was created by law, composed of the ablest men of
the two parties in Congress, with the salt of judicial judgment thrown
in. This commission examined the returns of the three doubtful States,
and decided not to go behind the returns; and, according to a previous
agreement, one branch of Congress ratifying, the candidate having the
more votes was to be declared duly elected.
The country was in an unprecedented state of excitement; and even
European governments felt the shock. The enemies of Republican
government laughed their little laugh, and said that the end of the
republic had come. British bankers brought out into the light
Confederate bonds; while stocks in the United States went through an
experience as variable as the weather in the Mississippi valley. The
public press was intemperate in its utterances, and the political
passions of the people were inflamed every hour. The national House of
Representatives was a vast whirlpool of excitement,--or, rather it was
an angry sea stirred to its depths, and lashing itself into aimless
fury by day and by night. When the vote of a State was called, some
Democrat would object, and the Senate, which was always present, would
retire, and the House would then open a war of words running through
hours and sometimes days. When the debate ended, or rather when the
House had reached the end of its parliamentary halter, the Senate
would again enter, the vote of the State would be counted, and the
next one called. Thus the count proceeded through anxious days and
weary nights. Business was suspended; and the bulletin boards of
commercial 'changes were valueless so long as the bulletin boards of
the newspapers contained "the latest news from Washington."
In this state of affairs there was need of statesmen at the head of
the Republican minority in Congress. There were orators; but the
demand was for men of judgment, energy, executive ability,--men in
whom the Democrats had confidence, who could put a stop to
filibustering, and secure a peaceful solution of a unique and
dangerous problem.
These were forthcoming; the late President Garfield and Gov. Foster,
then a member of Congress, with Kasson, Hale, and other members of
Congress, were among those most active and effective in securing a
peaceful result.
When the electoral fight was on, and the end seemed uncertain, these
gentlemen stepped to the front and fairly won the reputation of
statesmen. They saw that if the filibustering of the Democrats were
brought to a close, it would have to be accomplished by the leaders in
that party and on that side of the House. Accordingly they secured
Fernando Wood, of New York, as the leader in opposition to
filibustering, and John Young Brown, of Kentucky, as his lieutenant.
The Republican policy was to allow the Democrats to lead and do the
talking, while they should fall into line and vote when the proper
time came. But Fernando Wood at the head of the Republicans as a
leader, was a spectacle as strange and startling as Satan leading a
prayer-meeting. It was too much for an orthodox, close-communion,
hard-shell Republican like Martin I. Townsend!
On Thursday afternoon, the last day of the alarming scenes in
Congress, nearly everybody had lost hope. There was no telling at what
moment the government would be in anarchy. In the midst of the
confusion, excitement, and threatening danger, the Hon. Charles Foster
was the most imperturbable man in Congress. On Thursday afternoon
Senator Hoar, a member of Congress from Massachusetts, saw Mr. Foster
seated at his desk writing as quietly and composedly as if in his
private office; he seemed perfectly oblivious to the angry storm which
was raging about him. The cold-blooded, conservative New England
Senator was as greatly amazed at the serenity of the clear-headed
Western Congressman as he was distressed at the impending disaster. He
went to Mr. Foster and talked very discouragingly respecting the
situation. He said that the Senate was growing impatient at the
dilatory conduct of the House, and would probably, at the earliest
convenience, send a message to the House demanding that the latter
open their doors and admit the Senate to complete the count.
Congressman Foster stated to the Senator that the House was not in a
temper to be driven; that a resolution of the character of the one
proposed would hinder rather than help a peaceful solution of the
vexatious count; and that if he would only possess his soul in
patience, before the rising of another sun R. B. Hayes would be
peaceably and constitutionally declared the President of the United
States. And it was even as he said; for before four o'clock the next
morning the count was completed, and Hayes declared the President of
the United States for the Constitutional term of four years. This is
given as one of the many unwritten incidents that occurred during this
angry, and, probably, most perilous controversy that ever threatened
the life of the American Republic.
A new policy for the South was now inevitable. From October 1876 till
March 1877, President Grant had refused to recognize Chamberlain as
Governor of South Carolina, or Packard as Governor of Louisiana. He
had simply preserved those governments _in statu quo_. He had heard
all that could be said in favor of the Republican side of the
question, and seemed to believe that it was now beyond his power to
hold up the last of the Negro governments with bayonets. He was right.
It would have been as vain to have attempted to galvanize those
governments into existence as to have attempted the resuscitation of a
dead man by applying a galvanic battery. Governments must have, not
only the subjective elements of life, but the powers of
self-preservation. The Negro governments at the South died for the
want of these elements. It was a pity, too, after the noble fight the
Republican party of Louisiana and South Carolina had made, and after
they had secured their electoral votes for Hayes, that their State
officers who had been chosen at the same time should have been
abandoned to their own frail governmental resources. But this was
unavoidable. Their governments could not have existed twenty-four
hours without the presence and aid of the United States army. And this
could not have been done in the face of the sentiment against such use
of the army which had grown to be nearly unanimous throughout the
country. If the Republicans could have inaugurated their officers and
administered their governments they would have received the applause
of the administration at Washington and the God-speed of the
Republican party of the North; but the moment the United States
troops were withdrawn the Negro governments melted into nothingness.
Every thing had been tried but pacification. The men who best
understood the temper of that section knew it was incapable, as a
whole, of receiving the olive branch in the spirit in which the North
would tender it. But a policy of conciliation was demanded; the
Northern journals asked it. An ex-Major-General of the Confederate
Army was called to the Cabinet of President Hayes, and was given a
portfolio where he could do more for the South than in any other
place. Gen. Longstreet, a gallant Confederate soldier during the late
war, was made Postmaster at Gainesville, Georgia, and afterward sent
as Minister to Turkey. Col. Mosby, another Confederate soldier, or
guerilla, was sent to China, and Col. Fitzsimmons was made Marshal of
Georgia. It was the policy of the Hon. Charles Foster to have the
President recognize young men at the South who had the pluck and
ability to divide the Bourbon Democratic party of that section, and
hasten the day of better feeling between the sections. But the
President, either incapable of comprehending this idea, or jealous of
the credit that the country had already bestowed upon him, blundered
on in selecting men to represent his policy in the South who had no
following, and were, therefore, valueless to his cause. His heart was
right, but he put too much confidence in Southern statesmen.
The South showed no signs of improvement. White Republicans were
intimidated, persecuted, and driven out. The black Republicans were
allowed to vote, but the Democrats counted the votes and secured all
the offices. The President was under the influence of Alex. H.
Stephens, of Georgia, and Wade Hampton, of South Carolina. He expected
much; but he received nothing. Instead of gratitude he received
arrogance. The Southern leaders in Congress sought to deprive the
Executive of his constitutional veto; to starve the army; and to
protract the session of Congress. The North had invited its "erring
brethren" back, and had killed the fatted calf, but were unwilling to
allow the fellow to eat all the veal! The conduct of the South was
growing more intolerable every day; and the President's barren policy
was losing him supporters. He had not tied to any safe advisers. Hon.
Charles Foster, Senator Stanley Matthews, and Gen. James A. Garfield
could have piloted him through many dangerous places. But he shut
himself up in his own abilities, and left his friends on the outside.
The South had gulped down every thing that had been given it, and was
asking for more. Every thing had been given except the honor of the
cause that the Union army had fought for. To complete the task of
conciliation it was only required that the nation destroy the
monuments to its hero dead, and open the treasury to the payment of
rebel war claims, and pension the men who were maimed in an attempt to
shoot the government to death. To the credit of President Hayes let
history record that he did not surrender his veto power to arrogant
and disloyal Southern Congressmen. He became convinced at last that
the South was incapable of appreciating his kindness, and was willing
to change front. His policy was inevitable. It did great good. It
united the Republican party against the South; and a splendid cabinet,
a clean administration, and the resumption of specie payments wrought
wonders for the Republican party.
There was a ripe sentiment in the North in favor of "a change" of
policy. The very men who had advocated pacification; who had "flowers
and tears for the Gray, and tears and flowers for the Blue"; who
wanted the grave of Judas equally honored with the grave of Jesus--the
destroyer and the Saviour of the country placed in the same
calendar;--were the first men to grow sick of the policy of
pacification. But what policy to inaugurate was not clear to them.
In the summer of 1878 the Hon. Charles Foster returned to Ohio from
Washington City. He had seen State governments in the North slip from
the control of Republicans, because of the folly of the Hayes' policy
of pacification toward the South. He had the good-sense to take in the
situation. He saw that it was madness to attempt any longer to
conciliate the South. He saw that the lamb and lion had lain down
together, but that the lamb was on the inside of the lion. Brave,
intelligent, and far-seeing, on the 1st of August, 1878, he gave the
Republican party of the North a battle-cry that died away only amid
the shouts of Republican State and National victories in 1880. This
was all the North needed. A leader was demanded, and the Hon. Charles
Foster sounded the key-note that met with a response in every loyal
heart in the country. His idea was that as the South had not kept the
faith; had not accorded protection to the Negro voter; had not broken
up old Bourbon Democratic organizations, it was the imperative duty
of the North to meet that section with a solid front. Hence his
battle-cry: "_A Solid North against a Solid South._" The following is
his famous speech--pure gold:
"I happened to be one who thought and believed that the
President's Southern policy, as far as it related to the use of
troops for the support of State governments, was right. I
sustained it upon the ground of high principle, nevertheless it
could have been sustained on the ground of necessity. The
President has extended to the people of the South the hand of
conciliation and friendship. He has shown a desire, probably
contrary to the wishes of the great mass of his party, to bring
about, by the means of conciliation, better relations between the
North and South. In doing this he has alienated from him the
great mass of the leading and influential Republicans of the
country. He had lost their sympathy, and to a great degree their
support. What has he received in return for these measures of
conciliation and kindness? How have these measures been received
by the South? What advance can we discover in them, of the
recognition of the guarantees of the rights of the Colored men
under the Constitutional Amendments? We see Jeff. Davis making
speeches as treasonable as those of 1861, and these speeches
endorsed and applauded by a great portion of their press and
people. We see also the declaration of Mr. Singleton, of
Mississippi, in answer to a question of mine on the floor of the
House, declaring that his paramount allegiance in peace and war
was due to his State.
"No gentleman from the South, or even of the Democratic party,
has taken issue with him. We see also, all over the South, a
disposition to resist the execution of the United States laws,
especially in the matter of the collection of internal revenue.
To-day there are four U. S. officers under arrest by the
authorities of the State of South Carolina, in jail and bail
refused, for an alleged crime in their State, while in fact these
officers were discharging their duty in executing the laws of the
United States in that State. Their State courts and their
officers refused to obey the writs of the United States courts in
the surrender of these men to the United States authorities. No
former act of this treasonable State shows a more defiant
attitude toward the U. S. Government, or a greater disposition to
trample upon its authority. I trust the Administration will, in
this case, assert in the most vigorous manner possible the
authority of the United States Government for the rescue and
protection of these officers. I have no bloody shirt to wave. If
there is one man in this country, more than another, who desires
peace and quiet between the sections, I believe I am that man.
Gentlemen may philosophize over this question until they are
gray, but you cannot escape the discussion of this question so
long as a Solid South menaces the peace of the country. A Solid
Democratic South means the control of the country by the spirit
and the men who sought its destruction.
"My own opinion is that there can be no peace--this question will
not down, until the menace of the Solid South is withdrawn. I had
hoped that the policy of President Hayes would lead to the
assertion, by a very considerable portion of the South, of their
antagonism to Bourbon Democracy.
"I confess to a degree of disappointment in this, though I think
I see signs of a breaking up of the Solid South in the
independent movement that seemed to be gaining a foothold in all
sections of that country. But the effective way to aid these
independent movements, this breaking up of the Solid South, is
for the North to present itself united against the Solid South. A
Solid South under the control of the Democratic party means the
control of the party by this element. It means the repeal of the
Constitutional Amendments, if not in form, in spirit. It means
the payment of hundreds of rebel claims. It means the payment of
pensions to rebel soldiers. It means the payment for slaves lost
in the Rebellion. It means the abrogation of that provision of
the Constitution which declares, that the citizens of one State
shall have all the rights, privileges, and immunities of the
citizens of other States.
"If my Democratic friends who seem to be anxious to bring about
peace and quiet between the sections are sincere and desire to
make their expressions effective, they should act with that party
that presents a solid front, a United North, so long as we are
menaced with the Solid South.
"If it could be understood in the South that they are to be met
with a Solid North, I do not believe that the Solid South would
exist in that condition a single year. They retain this position
because they believe that they can have the support of a fragment
of the North; and thus with this fragment rule and control the
country. I would have no fear of the control of the country by
the Democratic party if it were made up of something like equal
proportion from all sections of the country. I discuss this
question, first, because I believe it the most important question
at issue in the pending canvass. _I repeat that it is the
imperative duty of the North to meet the Solid South with a
united front._"[133]
This speech was delivered at Upper Sandusky, Wyandotte Co., Ohio. It
thrilled the North, and put new life into the Republican party. It
gave him the nomination for governor, and from 23,000 Democratic
majority he redeemed the State by a Republican majority of 17,000. A
wave of enthusiasm swept the country. His battle-cry became the
editorial of a thousand journals, and hundreds of orators found
ammunition enough in his little speech of a hundred lines to keep up a
campaign of two years' duration. It is a fact that history should not
omit to record, that from the 1st of August, 1878, until the election
of James A. Garfield to the presidency, there was no cessation to the
campaign in the North.
But the securing of a Solid North did not restore the Negro
governments at the South. The North had rallied to rebuke an insolent
South; to show the Democrats of that section that the United States
Treasury should be protected, and that the honor of the nation _would_
be maintained unsullied. If the South would not pay its honest debts
there was every reason for believing that it would not pay the
national debt. It was to be regretted that the Negro had been so
unceremoniously removed from Southern politics. But such a result was
inevitable. The Government gave him the statute-book when he ought to
have had the spelling-book; placed him in the Legislature when he
ought to have been in the school-house. In the great revolution that
followed the war, the heels were put where the brains ought to have
been. An ignorant majority, without competent leaders, could not rule
an intelligent Caucasian minority. Ignorance, vice, poverty, and
superstition could not rule intelligence, experience, wealth, and
organization. It was here that the "one could chase a thousand, and
the two could put ten thousand to flight." The Negro governments were
built on the shifting sands of the opinions of the men who
reconstructed the South, and when the storm and rains of political
contest came they fell because they were not built upon the granite
foundation of intelligence and statesmanship.
It was an immutable and inexorable law which demanded the destruction
of those governments. It was a law that knows no country, no
nationality. Spain, Mexico, France, Turkey, Russia, and Egypt have
felt its cruel touch to a greater or less degree. But a lesson was
taught the Colored people that is invaluable. Let _them_ rejoice that
they are out of politics. Let white men rule. Let them enjoy a
political life to the exclusion of business and education, and they
too will sooner or later be driven out of their places by the same law
that sent the Negro to the plantations and to the schools. And if the
Negro is industrious, frugal, saving, diligent in labor, and laborious
in study, there is another law that will quietly and peaceably,
without a social or political shock, restore him to his normal
relations in politics. He will be able to build his governments on a
solid foundation, with the tempered mortar of experience and
knowledge. This is inevitable. The Negro will return to politics in
the South when he is qualified to govern; will return to stay. He will
be respected, courted and protected then. Then as a tax-payer, as well
as a tax-gatherer, reading his own ballot, and choosing his own
candidates, he will be equal to all the exigencies of American
citizenship.
FOOTNOTES:
[133] Cincinnati Commercial, Aug. 1, 1878.
CHAPTER XXVIII.
THE EXODUS--CAUSE AND EFFECT.
THE NEGROES OF THE SOUTH DELIGHT IN THEIR HOME SO LONG AS IT IS
POSSIBLE FOR THEM TO REMAIN.--THE POLICY OF ABRIDGING THEIR
RIGHTS DESTRUCTIVE TO THEIR USEFULNESS AS MEMBERS OF
SOCIETY.--POLITICAL INTIMIDATION, MURDER, AND OUTRAGE DISTURB THE
NEGROES.--THE PLANTATION CREDIT SYSTEM THE CRIME OF THE
CENTURY.--THE EXODUS NOT INSPIRED BY POLITICIANS, BUT THE NATURAL
OUTCOME OF THE BARBAROUS TREATMENT BESTOWED UPON THE NEGROES BY
THE WHITES.--THE UNPRECEDENTED SUFFERINGS OF 60,000 NEGROES
FLEEING FROM SOUTHERN DEMOCRATIC OPPRESSION.--THEIR PATIENT,
CHRISTIAN ENDURANCE.--THEIR INDUSTRY, MORALS, AND FRUGALITY.--THE
CORRESPONDENT OF THE "CHICAGO INTER-OCEAN" SENDS INFORMATION TO
SENATOR VOORHEES RESPECTING THE REFUGEES IN KANSAS.--THE POSITION
OF GOV. ST. JOHN AND THE FAITHFUL LABORS OF MRS. COMSTOCK.--THE
RESULTS OF THE EXODUS BENEFICENT.--THE SOUTH MUST TREAT THE NEGRO
BETTER OR LOSE HIS LABOR.
The exodus of the Negroes from Southern States forms one of the most
interesting pages of the almost romantic history of the race. It
required more than ordinary causes to drive the Negro from his home in
the sunny South to a different climate and strange country. It was no
caprice of his nature, nor even a nomadic feeling. During the entire
period of the existence of the Republican governments at the South the
Negroes remained there in a state of blissful contentment. And even
after the fall of those governments they continued in a state of quiet
industry. But there followed the decline of those governments a policy
as hurtful to the South as it was cruel to the Negroes.
During the early years of reconstruction quite a number of Negroes
began to invest in real estate and secure for themselves pleasant
homes. Their possessions increased yearly, as can be seen by a
reference to statistical reports. Some of the estates and homesteads
of the oldest and most reputable white families, who had put every
thing info the scales of Confederate rebellion, fell into the
possession of ex-slaves. Such a spectacle was not only unpleasant, it
was exasperating, to the whites. But so long as the Republican
governments gave promise of success there was but little or no
manifestation of displeasure on the part of the whites. Just as soon,
however, as they became the masters of the situation, the property of
many Negroes was seized, and sold upon the specious plea--"for
delinquent taxes"; and the Negroes were driven from eligible places to
the outskirts of the larger towns and cities. No Negro was allowed to
live in the vicinity of white persons as tenants; and it became a
social crime to sell property to Negroes in close proximity to the
whites. In the rural districts, where Negroes had begun to secure
small farms, this same cruel spirit was "the lion in their way." The
spirit that sought to keep the Negro ignorant as a slave, now that he
was at least nominally free, endeavored to deprive him of one of the
necessary conditions of happy and useful citizenship: the possession
of property, the aggregations of the results of honest labor. Nothing
could have been more fatal to the growth of the Negro toward the
perfect stature of free, intelligent, independent, and self-sustaining
manhood and citizenship. The object and result of such a system can
easily be judged. It was intended to keep the Negroes the laboring
element after as well as before the war. The accomplishment of such a
result would have been an argument in favor of the assertion of the
South that the normal condition of the Negro was that of a serf; and
that he, did not possess the elements necessary to the life of a
freeman. Thus would have perished the hopes, prayers, arguments and
claims of the friends of the cause of universal, manhood suffrage.
Among the masses of laboring men the iniquitous, outrageous, thieving
"_Plantation Credit System_" was a plague and a crime. Deprived of
homes and property the Negroes were compelled to "work the crops on
the shares." A plantation store was kept where the Negroes' credit was
good for any article it contained. He got salt meat, corn meal, sugar,
coffee, molasses, vinegar, tobacco, and coarse clothing for himself
and family. An account was kept by "a young white man," and at the end
of the season "a reckoning" was had. Unable to read or cipher, the
poor, credulous, unsuspecting Negroes always found themselves in debt
from $50 to $200! This necessitated another year's engagement; and so
on for an indefinite period. There was nothing to encourage the
Negroes; nothing to inspire them with hope for the future; nothing for
their families but a languid, dead-eyed expectation that somehow a
change _might_ come. But the crime went on unrebuked by the men who
were growing rich from this system of petty robbery of the poor. For
the cheapest qualities of brown sugar, for which the laboring classes
of the North pay 8 cents, the Negroes on the plantations were charged
11 and 13 cents a pound. Corn meal purchased at the North for 4 cents
a quart, brought 9 and 10 cents at the plantation store. And thus for
every article the Negroes purchased they were charged the most
exorbitant prices.
There were two results which flowed from this system, viz.: robbing
the families of these Negroes of the barest comforts of life, and
destroying the confidence of the Negro in the blessings and benefits
of freedom. No man--no race of men--could endure such blighting
influences for any length of time.
Moreover the experiences of the Negroes in voting had not been
extensive, and a sudden curtailing and abridgment of their rights was
a shock to their confidence in the government under which they lived,
and in the people by which they were surrounded. It was thought
expedient to intimidate or destroy the more intelligent and determined
Negroes; while the farm laborers were directed to refrain from voting
the Republican ticket, or commanded to vote the Democratic ticket, or
starve. There never was a more cruel system of slavery than this.
Writing under date of January 10, 1875, General P. H. Sheridan, then
in command at New Orleans, says:
"Since the year 1866 nearly thirty-five hundred persons, a great
majority of whom were colored men, have been killed and wounded
in this State. In 1868 the official record shows that eighteen
hundred and eighty-four were killed and wounded. From 1868 to the
present time no official investigation had been made, and the
civil authorities in all but a few cases have been unable to
arrest, convict, or punish the perpetrators. Consequently there
are no correct records to be consulted for information. There is
ample evidence, however, to show that more than twelve hundred
persons have been killed and wounded during this time on account
of their political sentiments. Frightful massacres have occurred
in the parishes of Bossier, Caddo, Catahoula, Saint Bernard,
Grant, and Orleans."
He then proceeded to enumerate the political murders of Colored men in
various parishes, and says:
"Human life in this State is held so cheaply that when men are
killed on account of political opinions, the murderers are
regarded rather as heroes than as criminals in the localities
where they reside."
This brief summary is not by a politician, but by a distinguished
soldier, who recounts the events which had occurred within his own
military jurisdiction. Volumes of testimony have since been taken
confirming in all respects General Sheridan's statement, and giving in
detail the facts relating to such murders, and the times and
circumstances of their occurrence. The results of the elections which
immediately followed them disclose the motives and purposes of their
perpetrators. These reports show that in the year 1867 a reign of
terror prevailed over almost the entire State. In the parish of St.
Landry there was a massacre of Colored people which began on the 28th
of September, 1868, and lasted from three to six days, during which
time between three and four hundred of them were killed. "Thirteen
captives were taken from the jail and shot, and a pile of twenty-five
dead bodies were found burned in the woods." The result of this
Democratic campaign in the parish was that the registered Republican
majority of 1,071 was wholly obliterated, and at the election which
followed a few weeks later, not a vote was cast for General Grant,
while Seymour and Blair received 4,787.
In the parish of Bossier a similar massacre occurred between the 20th
and 30th of September, 1868, which lasted from three to four days,
during which time two hundred Negroes were killed. By the official
registry of that year the Republican voters in Bossier Parish numbered
1,938, but at the ensuing election only _one_ Republican vote was
cast.
In the parish of Caddo, during the month of October, 1868, over forty
Negroes were killed. The result of that massacre was that out of a
Republican registered vote of 2,894 only _one_ was cast for General
Grant. Similar scenes were enacted throughout the State, varying in
extent and atrocity according to the magnitude of the Republican
majority to be overcome.
The total summing up of murders, maimings, and whippings which took
place for political reasons in the months of September, October, and
November, 1868, as shown by official sources, is over one thousand.
The net political results achieved thereby may be succinctly stated as
follows: The official registration for that year in twenty-eight
parishes contained 47,923 names of Republican voters, but at the
presidential election held a few weeks after the occurrence of these
events but 5,360 Republican votes were cast, making the net Democratic
gain from said transactions 42,563.
In nine of these parishes where the reign of terror was most
prevalent, out of 11,604 registered Republican votes only nineteen
were cast for General Grant. In seven of said parishes there were
7,253 registered Republican votes, but not one was cast at the ensuing
election for the Republican ticket.
In the years succeeding 1868, when some restraint was imposed upon
political lawlessness and a comparatively peaceful election was held,
these same Republican parishes cast from 33,000 to 37,000 Republican
votes, thus demonstrating the purpose and the effects of the reign of
murder in 1868.
In 1876 the spirit of violence and persecution which, in parts of the
State, had been partially restrained for a time, broke forth again
with renewed fury. It was deemed necessary to carry that State for
Tilden and Hendricks, and the policy which had proved so successful in
1868 was again invoked, and with like results. On the day of general
election in 1876 there were in the State of Louisiana 92,996
registered white voters, and 115,310 Colored, making a Republican
majority of the latter of 22,314. The number of white Republicans was
far in excess of the number of Colored Democrats. It was, therefore,
well known that if a fair election should be held the State would go
Republican by from twenty-five to forty thousand majority. The policy
adopted this time was to select a few of the largest Republican
parishes and by terrorism and violence not only obliterate their
Republican majorities, but also intimidate the Negroes in the other
parishes. The sworn testimony found in our public documents and
records at Washington shows that the same system of assassinations,
whippings, burnings, and other acts of political persecution of
Colored citizens, which had occurred in 1868, was again repeated in
1876, and with like results.
In fifteen parishes where 17,726 Republicans were registered in 1876
only 5,758 votes were cast for Hayes and Wheeler, and in one of them
(East Feliciana) where there were 2,127 Republicans registered, but
_one_ Republican vote was cast. By some methods the Republican
majority of the State was supposed to have been effectually suppressed
and a Democratic victory assured. And because the legally constituted
authorities of Louisiana, acting in conformity with law and justice,
declined to count some of the parishes thus carried by violence and
blood, the Democratic party, both North and South, has ever since
complained that it was fraudulently deprived of the fruits of the
victory thus achieved, and it now proposes to make this grievance the
principal plank in the party platform[134] for the future.
The worm trampled upon so persistently at length turned over. There
was nothing left to the Negro but to go out from the land of his
oppression and task-masters.
The Exodus was not a political movement. It was not inspired from
without. It was but the natural operation of a divine law that moved
whole communities of Negroes to turn their faces toward the setting
sun. When the Israelites went out of Egypt God commanded their women
to borrow the finger-rings and ear-rings of the Egyptians. All had
sandals on their feet, staves in their hand, and headed by a matchless
leader. God went before them as a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar
of fire by night. But when the Negroes began their exodus from the
Egypt of their bondage they went out empty; without clothing, money,
or leaders. They were willing to endure any hardships short of death
to reach a land where, under their own vine and fig-tree, they could
enjoy free speech, free schools, the privilege of an honest vote, and
receive honest pay for honest work. And how forcibly they told why
they left the South.
"Now, old Uncle Joe, what did you come for?"
"Oh, law! Missus, I follers my two boys an' the ole woman an'
then 'pears like I wants a taste of votin' afore I dies, an' the
ole man done wants no swamps to wade in afore he votes, 'kase he
must be Republican, ye see."
"Well, old Aunty, give us the sympathetic side of the story; or,
tell us what you think of leaving your old home."
"I done have no home nohow, if they shoots my ole man an' the
boys, an' gives me no money for de washin."
A bright woman of twenty-five years is asked her condition, when she
answers; "I had n't much real trouble yet, like some of my neighbors
who lost every thing. We had a lot an' a little house, an' some stock
on the place. We sold all out 'kase we did n't dare to stay when
votin' time came again. Some neighbors better off than we had been all
broken up by a pack of "_night-riders_"--all in white,--who scared
everybody to death, run the men off to the swamps before elections,
run the stock off, an' set fire to their places. A poor woman might
as well be killed and done with it."
In the early Spring of 1879, the now famous Exodus of the Negroes from
the South set in toward the Northern States.
"Many already have fled to the forest and lurk on its outskirts,
Waiting with anxious hearts the dubious fate of the morrow. Arms
have been taken from us, and warlike weapons of all kinds;
Nothing is left but the blacksmith's sledge and the scythe of the
mower."
The story of the emigration of a people has been often repeated since
the world began. The Israelites of old, with their wanderings of forty
years, furnish the theme of an inspired poem as old as history itself.
The dreadful tale of the Kalmuck Tartars, in 1770, fleeing from their
enemies, the Russians, over the desolate steppes of Asia in
mid-winter; starting out six hundred thousand strong, men, women, and
children, with their flocks and herds, and reaching the confines of
China with only two hundred thousand left, formed an era in oriental
annals, and made a combination from which new races of men have
sprung. But still more appropriate to this occasion is the history of
the Huguenots of France, driven by religious persecution to England
and Ireland, where, under their influence, industries sprang up as the
flowers of the field, and what was England's gain was irreparable loss
to France.[135] The expulsion of the Acadians, a harmless and
inoffensive people, from Nova Scotia, is another instance of the
revenge that natural laws inflict upon tyranny and injustice. Next to
the persecuted Pilgrims crossing a dreary ocean in mid-winter to the
sterile coasts of a land of savages for freedom's sake, history hardly
furnishes a more touching picture than that of forty thousand
homeless, friendless, starving Negroes going to a land already
consecrated with the blood of the martyrs to the cause of free Soil
and unrestricted liberty. It was grandly strange that these poor
people, persecuted, beaten with many stripes, hungry, friendless, and
without clothing or shelter, should instinctively seek a home in
Kansas where John Brown had fought the first battle for liberty and
the restriction of slavery! Some journeyed all the way from Texas to
Kansas in teams, with great horned oxen, and little steers in front no
larger than calves, bowing eagerly to the weary load. Worn and weary
with a nine weeks' journey, the travellers strained their eyes toward
the land of hope, blindly yet beautifully "trustin' de good Lord."
Often they buried their dead as soon as they arrived, many dying on
the hard floor of the hastily-built wooden barracks before beds could
be provided, but praying all night long and saying touchingly: "Come,
Lord Jesus. Come quickly. Come with dyin' grace in one hand and savin'
love in the other."[136]
A relief association was organized at once. A dear, good, old Quaker
lady, in her sixty-fourth year, a quarter of a century of which had
been spent in relieving suffering humanity, came forward and offered
her services free of charge. The association was organized as _The
Kansas Freedmen's Relief Association_. Mrs. Comstock was just the
person to manage the matter of raising funds and securing clothing. In
Gov. J. P. St. John, Mrs. Comstock and the association found a
warm-hearted Christian friend.
Notwithstanding the plain, world-known causes, the Hon. D. W.
Voorhees, United States Senator from Indiana, introduced a resolution
providing for the investigation of "_the causes of the migration of
the Colored people from the Southern to the Northern States_." It cost
the Government thousands of dollars, but developed nothing save what
the country had known for years, that the political cruelties and
systematic robbery practised upon the Colored people in the South had
forced them into a free country.
In one year those who had taken up a residence in Kansas had become
self-sustaining. They took hold of the work with enthusiasm; they
proved themselves industrious and frugal.
The Relief Association at first supplied them with stoves, teams, and
seed. In round numbers, in a little more than a year, $40,000 was
used, and 500,000 pounds of clothing, bedding, etc. England
contributed 50,000 pounds of goods and $8,000 in money; the chief
givers being Mrs. Comstock's friends who knew her in her good work
abroad. Much of the remainder had come in small sums, and from the
Christian women of America. One third was furnished by the Society of
Friends. Ohio gave more than any other State. The State and municipal
funds of Kansas were not drawn upon at all, though much had come from
private sources.
During the first year in Kansas, the freedmen entered upon 20,000
acres of land, and plowed and fitted for grain-growing 3,000 acres.
They built 300 cabins and dugouts, and accumulated $30,000. In 1878
Henry Carter, of Tennessee, set out from Topeka on foot for Dunlap,
sixty-five miles away; he carrying his tools, and his wife their
bedclothes. In 1880 he had forty acres of land cleared and the first
payment made, having earned his money on sheep ranches and elsewhere
by daily labor. He has built a good stone cottage sixteen feet by ten,
owns two cows, a horse, etc. In Topeka, where there were about 3,000
refugees, nearly all paupers when they came, all have found means in
some way to make a living. These people have shown themselves worthy
of aid. Mrs. Comstock has heard of only five or six cases of
intoxication in nine months, and of no arrests for stealing. They do
not want to settle where there is no church, and are all eager to have
a Bible and to learn. Schools have been opened for the adults--the
public schools of Kansas wisely making no distinction on account of
color,--and also industrial schools, especially for women, who are
quite ignorant of the ordinary duties of home life.
In the month of February, 1880, John M. Brown, Esq., General
Superintendent of the Freedmen's Relief Association read an
interesting report before the Association, from which the following
extract is taken:
"The great exodus of Colored people from the South began about
the 1st of February, 1879. By the 1st of April 1,300 refugees had
gathered around Wyandotte, Ks. Many of them were in a suffering
condition. It was then that the Kansas Relief Association came
into existence for the purpose of helping the most needy among
the refugees from the Southern States. Up to date about 60,000
refugees have come to the State of Kansas to live. Nearly 40,000
of them were in a destitute condition when they arrived, and have
been helped by our association. We have received to date $68,000
for the relief of the refugees. About 5,000 of those who have
come to Kansas have gone to other States to live, leaving about
55,000 yet in Kansas. About 30,000 of that number have settled in
the country, some of them on lands of their own or rented lands;
others have hired out to the farmers, leaving about 25,000 in and
around the different cities and towns of Kansas. There has been
great suffering among those remaining in and near the cities and
towns this winter. It has been so cold that they could not find
employment, and, if they did, they had to work for very low
wages, because so many of them are looking for work that they are
in each other's way.
"Most of those about the cities and towns are men with large
families, widows, and very old people. The farmers want only
able-bodied men and women for their work, and it is very hard for
men with large families to get homes among the farmers. Kansas
is a new State, and most farmers have small houses, and they
cannot take large families to live with them. So, when the
farmers call for help, they usually call for a man and his wife
only, or for a single man or woman.
"Now, in order that men with large families may become owners of
land, and be able to support their families, the K. F. R.
Association, if they can secure the means, will purchase cheap
lands, which can be bought at from $3 to $5 per acre, on long
time, by making a small payment in cash. They will settle the
refugees on those lands, letting each family have from twenty to
forty acres, and not settling more than sixteen families in
anyone neighborhood, so that they can easily obtain work from the
farmers in that section or near by. I do not think it best to
settle too many of them in any one place, because it will make it
hard for them to find employment.
"If our association can help them to build a small house, and
have five acres of their land broken, the women and children can
cultivate the five acres, and make enough to support their
families, while the men are out at work by the day to earn money
to meet the payments on their land as they come due. In this way
many families can be helped to homes of their own, where they can
become self-sustaining, educate their children, and be useful
citizens to the State of Kansas.
"Money spent in this way will be much more profitable to them
than so much old clothing and provisions. Then they will no
longer be objects of charity or a burden to benevolent people."
The sad stories of this persecuted people had touched the hearts of
the friends of humanity everywhere. Money and clothing came on every
train, and as fast as the association could secure homes for the
refugees they were distributed throughout the State.[137]
A special correspondent of the "Chicago Inter-Ocean" was despatched to
Topeka to report the condition of things there, and to throw some
light upon the great intellect of Senator Voorhees. He reported as
follows:
"TOPEKA, KAN., April 9.--During the last few days I have, in
obedience to your request, been taking notice of the exodus, as
it may be studied here at the headquarters for relief among the
refugees in Kansas. This is the third visit your correspondent
has made to the 'promised land' of the dusky hosts who, fleeing
from persecution and wrongs, have swarmed within its borders to
the number of 25,000. In a letter written while here in December
last the number then within the State was estimated at about
15,000, and since that date at least 12,000 more have come. In
the 'barracks' to-day I found what seemed to be the same one
hundred * * * who crowded about the stove that cold December day;
but they were not the same, of course, for their places have been
filled many times with other hundreds, who have found their first
welcome to Kansas in the rest, food, and warmth which the charity
of the North has provided here. So efficient have the plan of
relief and the machinery of distribution been made, that of the
thousands who have passed through here, none have remained as a
burden of expense to the association more than four or five days
before places were found where their own labor could furnish them
support.
"If that pure statesman of Indiana whose great heart was so
filled with solicitude for the welfare of his colored brethren,
that he asked Congress to appropriate thousands of dollars to
ascertain why they moved from one State to another, will come
here he will be rewarded by such a flood of light on the question
as can never penetrate the recesses of his committee room in
Washington. He need hardly propound an inquiry; he had, indeed,
best not let his great presence be known, for in the presence of
Democracy the negro has learned to keep silence. But in search of
the truth let him go to the file of over 3,000 letters in the
Governor's office from negroes in the South, and read in them the
homely but truthful tales of suffering, oppression, and wrongs.
Let him note how real is their complaint, but how modest the boon
they seek; for in different words, sometimes in quaint and often
in awkward phrases, the questions are always the same: Can we be
free? Can we have work, and can we have our rights in Kansas? Let
him go next to the barracks and watch the tired, ragged, hungry,
scared-looking negroes as they come by the dozens on every train.
If he is not prompted by shame, then from caution necessary to
the success of his errand, let him here conceal the fact that he
is a Democrat, for these half-famished and terrified negroes have
been fleeing from Democrats in the South, and in their ignorance
they may not be able to comprehend the nice distinction between a
Northern and Southern Democrat. If he will be content simply to
listen as they talk among themselves, he will soon learn much
that the laborious cross-examination of witnesses has failed to
teach him. He may take note of the fact that fleeing from
robbery, oppression, and murder, they come only with the plea for
work and justice while they work. He may see reason to criticise
what generally has been deemed by Southern Democrats at least,
the unreasonable folly in a negro which prompts husband and wife
to go only where they can go together, but he will find nothing
to cause him to doubt the sincerity and good faith with which the
negro grapples with the problem of his new life here. If he would
learn more of this strength of resolution and the patience which
they have brought to the search for a home in a free land, let
him inquire concerning the lives of these refugees in Kansas. It
may seem of significance and worthy of approving note to him,
that as laborers they have been faithful and industrious; that in
no single case have they come back asking aid of the relief
association nor become burdens in any way upon corporate or
public charities; that as citizens they are sober and law-abiding
to such a degree that he would hardly be able to discover a
single case of crime so far among them; and, finally, that in
those instances where they were able to purchase a little land
and stock, they have made as good progress toward the acquirement
of homes and property as have the average poor white immigrants
to the State. He will first learn, then, from the refugees
themselves something of the desperate nature of the causes that
drove them from the South, and secondly, from their lives here,
with what thrift, patience, and determination they have met the
difficulties which they have encountered in their efforts to gain
a foothold, and as men among men, in the land of equal rights.
From the Hon. Milton Reynolds, President of the Auxiliary Relief
Association at Parsons, I learn that the negroes who have come
into the southern part of the State, mostly from Texas, are all
either settled on small tracts of land or employed as laborers at
from $8 to $12 per month, and are all doing well. Mr. Reynolds's
testimony to this effect was positive and unqualified. To assist
these refugees in Southern Kansas--over 3,000 in all--only $575
has been expended. From Judge R. W. Dawson, who was the Secretary
of the association under the old management and during the early
months of the movement, one year ago, when 6,000 refugees were
distributed throughout the State and provided with homes at a
cost of $5,000, I learned much of interest concerning the welfare
and progress of this advance guard of the great exodus. Judge
Dawson, although not connected now with the relief work, feels of
course a great interest in the welfare of those to whose
assistance he contributed much, and loses no opportunity for
observation of their condition while travelling over the State.
He says he knows of no case where one has come back to the
association for aid, and that, as laborers and citizens, their
conduct has been such as to win the approval of all classes. Four
colonies have been established. State lands were bought by the
association and given to the colonies with the understanding
that, to secure their title, they must make the second and third
payments on the land purchased on the one-third cash and
two-thirds time payment plan. Two of the newest of these colonies
are still receiving aid from the association, but the others are
self-sustaining and will be able, it is thought, to make the
small purchase payments on the land as they become due.
"If our inquiring Statesman is interested in observing in what
spirit these refugees receive the aid which has made existence
possible here during the cold winter months, he may be profited
by spending a few days in looking about the city of Topeka. There
are in Topeka alone over 3,000 refugees, and nearly all of them,
paupers when they came, have found means in some way to make a
living. In many cases it is a precarious subsistence that is
gained, and in not a few cases among late arrivals he would find
evidences of want and destitution, but, compared with this, he
cannot but be struck with the small number of applicants to the
Relief Association for aid. Only 213 rations were issued outside
the barracks last week to the 3,000 refugees who came here only a
few months since without money, and frequently without clothing,
to undertake what seemed under the circumstances the desperate
purpose of making a living.
"The dangers and difficulties which beset the refugees' departure
from a land where even the right to emigrate is denied him are
great. * * * He may learn (Mr. Voorhees), however, from copies of
over 1,000 letters in the Governor's office, that Gov. St. John
has never, in reply to their appeals, failed to warn them of the
difficulties that would beset their way here, and has never
extended them promise of other assistance than that implied in
the equal rights which are guaranteed to every citizen of Kansas.
Further than this, however surprising it may be to Mr. Voorhees'
theory of the causes of the exodus, it is nevertheless a fact
that this very association, which is charged with encouraging the
exodus, has sent the Rev. W. O. Lynch, a colored man, to the
South to warn the colored people that they must not come here
expecting to be fed or to find homes already prepared, and to do
all in his power to dissuade them from coming at all. Still they
come, and why they come the country has determined long in
advance of Mr. Voorhees' report. * * *
"While we have Mr. Voorhees here we would be glad to have him
glance at a State document to be found upon Governor St. John's
table, which bears the Great Seal and signature of Gov. O. M.
Roberts, of the State of Texas. It is a requisition by the
Governor of Texas upon the Governor of Kansas for the body of one
Peter Womack, a colored man, who was indicted by the Grand Jury
of Grimes County at the last November term for the felony of
fraudulently disposing of ten bushels of corn. From further
particulars we learn that this Peter Womack gave a mortgage early
in the spring of 1879 upon his crop just planted to cover a debt
of twenty dollars due the firm of Wilson and Howel. When Womack
came to gather his crop, he yields to the importunities of
another white creditor ten bushels of corn _to be applied_ upon
the debt. About this time this Peter Womack becomes influential
in inducing a number of his colored neighbors in Grimes County to
emigrate to Kansas. Undeterred by threats and despite the
bull-dozing methods employed to cause him to remain a 'citizen'
of Texas, Womack, with others, sick of a condition of citizenship
which is nothing less than hopeless peonage, leaves stock and
crops behind to seek a home in Kansas. His acts in inciting the
movement of these black serfs are not forgotten, however, by the
white chivalry of Grimes County. The evidence of this surrender
on a debt of ten bushels of corn, mortgaged for another debt, is
hunted up, presented to the Grand Jury of Grimes County, he is
promptly indicted for a felony, and the great State of Texas
rises in her majesty and demands a surrender of his body. The
demand is in accordance with law, undoubtedly,--Texas law,--but
if Texas would occasionally punish one of the white murderers who
do not think it necessary to leave her borders, this pursuit of a
negro for selling ten bushels of corn from a mortgaged crop would
seem a more imposing exhibition of the power of the commonwealth
to enforce its laws."[138]
The effect, or rather the results of the Exodus have been twofold. It
taught the Southern people that there was need of some effort to
regain the confidence of the Negroes; that the Negro is the only
laborer who can cultivate that section of the country; that the Negro
can get on without the Southern people a great deal better than they
can get on without Negro labor; that the severe political treatment
and systematic robbery of the Negroes had not only driven them out,
but had discouraged white people from settling or investing money at
the South; that dissatisfied labor was against their interests; that
it was the duty of business men in the South to take a firm stand for
the protection of the Negroes, because every stroke of violence
administered to the Negroes shocked and injured the business of that
section; and that kind treatment of and protection for the Negroes
would insure better work and greater financial prosperity. On the
other hand, the Exodus benefited the Negroes who sought and found new
homes in a new country; and it secured better treatment for those who
remained behind. The Exodus was in line with a great law that governs
nations. The Negro race must win by contact with the white race; by
absorbing all that is good; by the inspiration of example. He must
come in contact now not with a people who hate him, but with a people
of industrious, sober, and honest habits; a people willing to
encourage and instruct him in the duties of life. Race lines must be
obliterated at the South, and the old theory of the natural
inferiority of the Negro must give way to the demonstrations of Negro
capacity. A new doctrine must supplant the old theories of pre-slavery
days, and every man in the Republic must enjoy a citizenship as wide
as the continent, and, like the coin of the Government, pass for his
intrinsic value, and no more.
FOOTNOTES:
[134] See Senator Windom's speech on the Exodus, Monday, June 14,
1880; also the report of the Senate Committee having under
consideration the investigation of the causes of the migration of the
Colored people from the Southern to the Northern States.
[135] Pamphlet on Exodus.--Anonymous.
[136] The Congregationalist, Aug. 11, 1880.
[137] We visited Kansas twice in 1880, and again in 1881. We conversed
with Gov. St. John, Mr. John M. Brown, and other gentlemen related to
and familiar with the matter of the Exodus, and found that those who
at the first so violently opposed the coming of the Negroes had been
pleased with their simplicity, patience, industry, and character. They
were all doing well. The association had discontinued its work, and
the people were settled in quiet homes.
[138] Chicago Inter-Ocean, April 15, 1880.
CHAPTER XXIX.
RETROSPECTION AND PROSPECTION.
THE THREE GRAND DIVISIONS OF THE TRIBES OF AFRICA.--SLAVE MARKETS
OF AMERICA SUPPLIED FROM THE DISEASED AND CRIMINAL CLASSES OF
AFRICAN SOCIETY.--AMERICA ROBS AFRICA OF 15,000,000 SOULS IN 360
YEARS.--NEGRO POWER OF ENDURANCE.--HIS WONDERFUL ACHIEVEMENTS AS
A LABORER, SOLDIER, AND STUDENT.--FIRST IN WAR, AND FIRST IN
DEVOTION TO THE COUNTRY.--HIS IDIOSYNCRASIES.--MRS. STOWE'S
ERRORS.--HIS GROWING LOVE FOR SCHOOLS AND CHURCHES.--HIS GENERAL
IMPROVEMENT.--THE NEGRO WILL ENDURE TO THE END.--HE IS CAPABLE
FOR ALL THE DUTIES OF CITIZENSHIP.--AMALGAMATION WILL NOT
OBLITERATE THE RACE.--THE AMERICAN NEGRO WILL CIVILIZE
AFRICA.--AMERICA WILL ESTABLISH STEAMSHIP COMMUNICATION WITH THE
DARK CONTINENT.--AFRICA WILL YET BE COMPOSED OF STATES, AND
"ETHIOPIA SHALL SOON STRETCH OUT HER HANDS UNTO GOD."
It has been shown that the tribes of Africa are divisible into three
classes: The tribes of the mountain districts, the tribes of the
sandstone districts, and the tribes of the alluvial districts; those
of the mountain districts most powerful, those of the sandstone
districts less powerful, and those of the alluvial districts least
powerful. The slave markets of America were supplied,[139] very
largely, from two classes of Africans, viz.: the criminal class, and
the refuse of African society, which has been preyed upon by local
disease, decimated by wars waged by the more powerful tribes which
have pushed down from the abundant supply that has poured over the
terraces of the mountains for centuries. Nevertheless, some of the
better class have found their way to this country. About 137 Negro
tribes are represented in the United States.
For every slave landed safely in North America, there was one lost in
procuring and bringing down to the coast, and in transportation. Thus
in the period of 360 years, Africa was robbed of about 30,000,000 of
souls! When it is remembered that the Negroes in America sprang from
the criminal, diseased, and inferior classes of Africa, it is nothing
short of a phenomenon that they were able to endure such a rigorous
state of bondage. Under-fed and over-worked; poorly clad and miserably
housed; with the family altar cast down, and intelligent men allowed
to run over it as swine; and with the fountains of knowledge sealed by
law against the thirstings of human souls for knowledge, the Negroes
of America, nevertheless, have shown the most wonderful signs of
recuperation, and the ability to rise, against every cruel act of man
and the very forces of nature, to a manhood and intelligent
citizenship that converts the cautious, impartial, and conservative
spirit of history into eulogy! They have overcome the obstacles in the
path of the physical civilization of North America; they have earned
billions of dollars for a profligate people; they have made good
laborers, efficient sailors, and peerless soldiers. In three wars they
won the crown of heroes by steady, intrepid valor; and in peace have
shown themselves the friends of stable government. During the war for
the Union, 186,017[140] Colored men enlisted in the service of the
nation, _and participated in 249 battles_. From 1866 to 1873, besides
the money saved in other banking houses, they deposited in the
Freedmen's Banks at the South $53,000,000! From 1866 to 1875 there
were seven Negroes as Lieutenant-Governors of Southern States; two
served in the United States Senate, and thirteen in the United States
House of Representatives. There have been five Negroes appointed as
Foreign Ministers. There have been ten Negro members of Northern
legislatures; and in the Government Departments at Washington there
are 620 Negroes employed. Starting without schools this remarkable
people have now 14,889 schools, with an attendance of 720,853 pupils!
And this does not include the children of color who attend the white
schools of the Northern States; and as far as it is possible to get
the statistics, there are at present 169 Colored students attending
white colleges in the Northern States.
The first blood shed in the Revolution was that of a Negro, Crispus
Attucks, on the 5th of March, 1770. The first blood shed in the war
for the Union was that of a Negro, Nicholas Biddle, a member of the
very first company that passed through Baltimore in April, 1861; while
the first Negro killed in the war was named _John Brown!_ The first
Union regiment of Negro troops raised during the Rebellion, was raised
in the State that was first to secede from the Union, South Carolina.
Its colonel was a Massachusetts man, and a graduate of Harvard
College. The first action in which Negro troops participated was in
South Carolina. The first regiment of Northern Negro troops fought its
first battle in South Carolina, at Fort Wagner, where it immortalized
itself. The first Negro troops recruited in the Mississippi Valley
were recruited by a Massachusetts officer, Gen. B. F. Butler; while
their first fighting here was directed by another Massachusetts
officer, Gen. N. P. Banks. The first recognition of Negro troops by
the Confederate army was in December, 1863, when Major John C.
Calhoun, a grandson of the South Carolina statesman of that name, bore
a flag of truce, which was received by Major Trowbridge of the First
South Carolina Colored Regiment. The first regiment to enter
Petersburg was composed of Negroes; while the first troops to enter
the Confederate capital at Richmond were Gen. Godfry Weitzel's two
divisions of Negroes. The last guns fired at Lee's army at Appomattox
were in the hands of Negro soldiers. And when the last expiring effort
of treason had, through foul conspiracy, laid our beloved President
low in death, a Negro regiment guarded his remains, and marched in the
stately procession which bore the illustrious dead from the White
House. And on the 15th of May, 1865, at Palmetto Ranch, Texas, the 62d
Regiment of Colored Troops fired the last volley of the war!
Several attempts have been made to define the racial characteristics
of the Negro, but they have not been attended with success.
Mrs. Harriet Beecher Stowe has written more and written better about
the American Negro than any other person during the present century.
She has given laboriously and minutely wrought pictures of plantation
life. She has held up to the gaze of the world portraitures comic and
serio-comic, which for the gorgeousness and awfulness of their drapery
will perish only with the language in which they are painted.
But Mrs. Stowe's great characters are marred by some glaring
imperfections. "Uncle Tom" is too goodish, too lamb-like, too
obsequious. He is a child of full growth, yet lacks the elements of an
enlarged manhood. His mind is feeble, body strong--too strong for the
conspicuous absence of spirit and passion.
"Dred" is the divinest character of the times--is prophet, preacher,
and saint. He is _so_ grand. He is eloquent beyond compare, and as
familiar with the Bible as if he were its author. And every hero Mrs.
Stowe takes in charge must make up his mind to get religion, lots of
it too, and then prepare to die. There is a terrible fatality among
her leading characters.
Mrs. Stowe has given but one side of Negro character, and that side is
terribly exaggerated. But all strong natures like hers are given to
exaggeration. Wendell Phillips never tells the truth, and yet he
always tells the truth. He is a man of strong convictions, and always
pronounces his conviction strongly. He has a poetical nature, is a
word-painter, and, therefore, indulges in the license of the poet and
painter. Mrs. Stowe belongs to this school of writers. The lamb and
lion are united in the Negro character. Mrs. Stowe's mistake consists
in ascribing to the Negro a peculiarly religious character and
disposition. Here is detected the mistake. The Negro is not, as she
supposes, the most religious being in the world. He has more religion
and has less religion than any other of the races, in one sense. And
yet, divorced from the circumstances by which he has been surrounded
in this country, he is not so very religious. Mrs. Stowe seizes upon a
characteristic that belongs to mankind wherever mankind is enslaved,
and gently binds it about the neck of the Negro. All races of men
become religious when oppressed. Frederick the Great was an infidel
when with his friend Voltaire, but when suffering the reverses of war
in Silesia he could write very pious letters to his "favorite sister."
This is true in national character when traced to its last analysis.
Men pray while they are down in life, but curse when up. And of
necessity the religion of a bond people is not always healthy. There
is an involuntary turning to a divine helper; a sort of religious
superstition, that believes all things, hopes all things, and is
patient. The soul of such a people is surcharged with an almost
incredulous amount of poetry, song, and rude but grand eloquence. And
when the songs that cheered and lighted many a heavy heart in the
starless night of bondage shall have been rescued and purified by the
art of music, the hymnology of this century will be greatly indebted
to this much-abused people. So, under this religious garb, woven by
the cruel experiences consequent upon slavery, the lion slumbers in
the Negro.
Every year since the close of the Rebellion the Negro has been taking
on better and purer traits of character. Possessed of an impressible
nature, a discriminating sense of the beautiful, and a deep, pure
taste for music, his progress has been phenomenal. Strong in his
attachments, gentle in manners, confiding, hopeful, enduring in
affection, and benevolent to a fault, there is no limit to the outcome
of his character.
Like the oscillations of the pendulum of a clock the Negro is swinging
from an extreme religious fanaticism to an extreme rationalism. But he
will finally take his position upon a solid religious basis; and to
his "faith" will add virtue, knowledge, and good works. Everywhere
under good influences he has made a good citizen. No issue in the
State has been foreign to him. He has proven his patriotism and his
fondness for this land to which he was dragged in chains, and in his
obedience to its laws and devotion to its principles has stood second
to none. His home promises much good. His whole life seems to have
undergone a radical change. He has shown a disposition and delight in
the education of his children; and the constantly growing demand for
competent teachers and educated preachers shows that he has outgrown
his old ideas concerning education and religion. From an insatiable
desire for gewgaws he has turned to a practice of the precepts of
economy. From the state of semi-civilization in which he cared only
for the comforts of the present, his desires and wants have swept
outward and upward into the years to come and toward the Mysterious
Future. He has learned the difficult lesson that "man shall not live
by bread alone," and has shown himself delighted with a keen sense of
intellectual hunger. One hundred weekly newspapers, conducted by
Negroes, are feeding the mind of the race, binding communities
together by the cords of common interests and racial sympathy; while
the works of twenty Negro authors[141] lend inspiration and purpose
to every honest effort at self-improvement.
The fiery trials of the young Colored men who gained admission to West
Point, and the noble conduct of the four regiments of black troops in
the severe service of the frontiers have strengthened the hopes of a
nation in the final outcome of the American Negro.
* * * * *
But what of the future? Can the Negro endure the sharp competition of
American civilization? Can he keep his position against the tendencies
to amalgamation? Since it has been proven that the Negro is not dying
out, but on the contrary possesses the powers of reproduction to a
remarkable degree, a new source of danger has been discovered. It is
said that the Negro will perish, will be absorbed by the dominant race
ere long; that where races are crossed the inferior race suffers; and
that mixed races lack the power to reproduce their species; and that
hence the disappearance of the Negro is but a question of time. Mr.
Joseph C. G. Kennedy, superintendent of the Federal Census during the
war, took the following view of this question:
"That an unfavorable moral condition has existed and continues
among the free Colored, be the cause what it may, notwithstanding
the great number of excellent people included in that population,
no one can for a moment doubt who will consider that with them an
element exists which is to some extent positive, and that is the
fact of there being more than half as many mulattoes as blacks,
forming, as they do, 36-1/4 per cent. of the whole Colored
population, and they are maternally descendants of the Colored
race, as it is well known that no appreciable amount of this
admixture is the result of marriage between white and black, or
the progeny of white mothers--a fact showing that whatever
deterioration may be the consequence of this alloyage, is
incurred by the Colored race. Where such a proportion of the
mixed race exists, it may reasonably be inferred that the
barriers to license are not more insuperable among those of the
same color. That corruption of morals progresses with greater
admixture of races, and that the product of vice stimulates the
propensity to immorality, is as evident to observation as it is
natural to circumstances. These developments of the census, to a
good degree, explain the slow progress of the free Colored
population in the Northern States, and indicate, with unerring
certainty, the gradual extinction of that people the more rapidly
as, whether free or slave, they become diffused among the
dominant race. There are, however, other causes, although in
themselves not sufficient to account for the great excess of
deaths over births, as is found to occur in some Northern cities,
and these are such as are incident to incongenial climate and a
condition involving all the exposures and hardships which
accompany a people of lower caste. As but two censuses have been
taken which discriminate between the blacks and mulattoes, it is
not yet so easy to determine how far the admixture of the races
affects their vital power; but the developments already made
would indicate that the mingling of the races is more unfavorable
to vitality, than a condition of slavery, which practically
ignores marriage to the exclusion of the admixture of races, has
proved, for among the slaves the natural increase has been as
high as three per cent. per annum, and ever more than two per
cent., while the proportion of mulattoes at the present period
reaches but 10.41 per cent. in the slave population. Among the
free Colored in the Southern States, the admixture of races
appears to have progressed at a somewhat less ratio than at the
North, and we can only account for the greater proportionate
number of mulattoes in the North by the longer period of their
freedom in the midst of the dominant and more numerous race, and
the supposition of more mulattoes than blacks having escaped or
been manumitted from slavery."
Whatever merit this view possessed before the war of the Rebellion, it
is obsolete under the present organization of society. The
environments of the Negro, the downward tendencies of his social life,
and the exposed state in which slave laws left him, have all perished.
In addition to his aptitude for study and capacity for improvement, he
is now under the protecting and restraining influences of congenial
climate; and pure sociological laws will impart to his offspring the
power of reproduction and the ability to maintain an excellent social
footing with the other races of the world. The learned M. A.
DeQuatrefages says, concerning this question:
None of the eminent men with whom I regret to differ take any
account of the influence of the action of the surroundings. I
believe that the conditions of the surroundings play as important
a part in the crossing of races as they do in other matters. They
may sometimes favor, sometimes restrict, sometimes prevent, the
establishment of a mixed race. This simple consideration accounts
for many apparently contradictory facts. Etwick and Long have
affirmed that in Jamaica the mulattoes hold out only because they
are constantly recruited by the marriage of whites with
negresses. But in San Domingo, in the Dominican Republic, there
are, we may say, no whites, and the population consists of two
thirds mulattoes and one third negroes. The numbers of the
mulattoes are there well kept up by themselves without the
introduction of fresh blood. In respect to fertility; different
instances of crossing between individuals of the two same races
may give different results, according to the place where they are
effected. I believe it is unnecessary to insist and show that the
physical and physiological faculties of children born of mixed
unions ought to present analogous facts.
"In my view the aggregation of physical conditions does not in
itself alone constitute the environment. Social and moral
conditions have an equal part in it. Here, again, it is easy to
establish, in the results of crossings, differences which have no
other cause than differences in these conditions. It is true that
mongrels, born and grown up in the midst of the hatred of the
inferior race and the contempt of the superior race, are liable
to merit the reproaches which are commonly attached to them. On
the other hand, if real marriages take place between the races,
and their offspring are placed upon a footing of equality with
the mass of the population, they are quite able to reach the
general level, and sometimes to display superior qualities.
"All of my studies on this question have brought me to the
conclusion that the mixture of races has in the past had a great
part in the constitution of a large number of actual populations.
It is also clear to me that its part in the future will not be
less considerable. The movement of expansion, to which I have
just called attention, has not slackened since the days of Cortez
and Pizarro, but has become more extended and general. The
perfection of the means of communication has given it new
activity. The people of mixed blood already constitute a
considerable part of the population of certain states, and their
number is large enough to entitle them to be taken notice of in
the population of the whole world.
* * * * *
"These facts show that man is everywhere the same, and that his
passions and instincts are independent of the differences that
distinguish the human groups. The reason of it is that these
differences, however accentuated they may seem to us, are
essentially morphological, but do not in any way touch the wholly
physiological power of reproduction."[142]
Race prejudice is bound to give way before the potent influences of
character, education, and wealth. And these are necessary to the
growth of the race. Without wealth there can be no leisure, without
leisure there can be no thought, and without thought there can be no
progress. The future work of the Negro is twofold: subjective and
objective. Years will be devoted to his own education and improvement
here in America. He will sound the depths of education, accumulate
wealth, and then turn his attention to the civilization of Africa. The
United States will yet establish a line of steamships between this
country and the Dark Continent. Touching at the Grain Coast, the Ivory
Coast, and the Gold Coast, America will carry the African
missionaries, Bibles, papers, improved machinery, instead of rum and
chains. And Africa, in return, will send America indigo, palm-oil,
ivory, gold, diamonds, costly wood, and her richest treasures, instead
of slaves. Tribes will be converted to Christianity; cities will rise,
states will be founded; geography and science will enrich and enlarge
their discoveries; and a telegraph cable binding the heart of Africa
to the ear of the civilized world, every throb of joy or sorrow will
pulsate again in millions of souls. In the interpretation of _History_
the plans of God must be discerned, "_For a thousand years in Thy
sight are but as yesterday when it is passed, and as a watch in the
night_."
FOOTNOTES:
[139] From the year 1500 to 1860 the number of slaves imported from
Africa were as follows:
Number of Negroes imported Total.
into America per annum.
From 1500 to 1525 500 12,500
From 1525 to 1550 5,000 125,000
From 1550 to 1600 15,000 750,000
From 1600 to 1650 20,000 1,000,000
From 1650 to 1700 35,000 1,750,000
From 1700 to 1750 60,000 3,000,000
From 1750 to 1800 80,000 4,000,000
From 1800 to 1850 65,000 3,250,000
----------
Total, 350 years 13,887,500
From 1850 to 1860, increase for decade 749,931
----------
Total importation of Negro slaves into America
during a period of 360 years 14,637,431
or about 15,000,000 in round numbers.
The above figures are taken from Mr. Dunbar's Mexican Papers. The
process by which he reaches his conclusions and secures his figures is
rather remarkable.
[140] This includes the officers, most of whom were white men.
[141] Thus far the Negro has not gone, as an author, beyond mere
narration. But we may soon expect a poet, a novelist, a composer, and
a philosophical writer.
[142] Revue Scientifique, Paris.
THE END.
APPENDIX.
Part 5.
_ANTI-SLAVERY AGITATION._
CHAPTER VI.
WALKER'S APPEAL.
One of the most remarkable papers written by a Negro during the
Anti-Slavery Agitation Movement was the Appeal of David Walker, of
Boston, Massachusetts. He was a shopkeeper and dealer in second-hand
clothes. He was born in Wilmington, North Carolina, September 28,
1785, of a free mother by a slave father. When quite young he said:
"If I remain in this bloody land, I will not live long. As true as God
reigns, I will be avenged for the sorrow which my people have
suffered. This is not the place for me--no, no. I must leave this part
of the country. It will be a great trial for me to live on the same
soil where so many men are in slavery; certainly I cannot remain where
I must hear their chains continually, and where I must encounter the
insults of their hypocritical enslavers. Go, I must!"
He went to Boston, Massachusetts, where he took up his residence. He
applied himself to study, and in 1827, capable of reading and writing,
he began business in Brattle Street. He was possessed of a rather
reflective and penetrating mind. And before Mr. William Lloyd Garrison
unfurled his flag for the Agitation Movement, David Walker wrote and
published his Appeal in 1829. It was circulated widely, and touched
and stirred the South as no other pamphlet had ever done. Three
editions were published. The feeling at the South was intense. The
following correspondence shows how deeply agitated the South was by
Walker's Appeal. The editor of the _Boston Courier_ observed: "It will
be recollected that some time in December last [1829] Gov. Giles sent
a message to the Legislature of Virginia complaining of an attempt to
circulate in the city of Richmond a seditious pamphlet, said to have
been sent there from Boston. We find in the _Richmond Enquirer_ of the
18th inst. [February, 1830] the following Message from the Governor,
enclosing a correspondence which unravels all the mystery which has
hitherto enveloped the transaction."
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Feb. 16th, 1830.
SIR: In compliance with the advice of the Executive Council, I do
myself the honor of transmitting herewith the copy of a letter
from the Honorable Harrison Gray Otis, Mayor of Boston, conveying
the copy of a letter from him addressed to the Mayor of Savannah,
in answer to one received by him from that gentleman respecting a
seditious pamphlet written by a person of color in Boston, and
circulated by him in other parts of the United States.
Very respectfully, your obd't serv't,
WM. B. GILES.
The Hon. LINN BANKS, _Speaker of the House of Delegates_.
_To his Excellency, the Governor of Virginia_:
SIR: Perceiving that a pamphlet published in this city has been a
subject of animadversion and uneasiness in Virginia as well as in
Georgia, I have presumed that it might not be amiss to apprize
you of the sentiments and feelings of the city authorities in
this place respecting it, and for that purpose I beg leave to
send you a copy of my answer to a letter from the Mayor of
Savannah, addressed to me on that subject. You may be assured
that your good people cannot hold in more absolute detestation
the sentiments of the writer than do the people of this city, and
as I verily believe, the mass of the New England population. The
only difference is, that the insignificance of the writer, the
extravagance of his sanguinary fanaticism tending to disgust all
persons of common humanity with his object, and the very partial
circulation of this book, prevent the affair from being a subject
of excitement and hardly of serious attention.
I have reason to believe that the book is disapproved of by the
decent portion even of the free colored population in this place,
and it would be a cause of deep regret to me, and I believe to
all my well-disposed fellow-citizens, if a publication of this
character, and emanating from such a source, should be thought to
be countenanced by any of their number.
I have the honor to be respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. OTIS, _Mayor of the City of Boston_.
BOSTON, Feb. 10, 1830.
_To the Mayor of Savannah_:
SIR: Indisposition has prevented an earlier reply to your favor
of the 12th December. A few days before the receipt of it, the
_pamphlet_ had been put into my hands by one of the Board of
Aldermen of this city, who received it from an individual, it not
having been circulated here. I perused it carefully, in order to
ascertain whether the writer had made himself amenable to our
laws; but notwithstanding the extremely bad and inflammatory
tendency of the publication, he does not seem to have violated
any of these laws. It is written by a free black man, whose true
name it bears. He is a shopkeeper and dealer in old clothes, and
in a conversation which I authorized a young friend of mine to
hold with him, he openly avows the sentiments of the book and
authorship. I also hear that he declares his intention to be, to
circulate his pamphlets by mail, at his own expense, if he cannot
otherwise effect his object.
You may be assured, sir, that a disposition would not be wanting
on the part of the city authorities here, to avail themselves of
any lawful means for preventing this attempt to throw firebrands
into your country. We regard it with deep disapprobation and
abhorrence. But, we have no power to control the purpose of the
author, and without it we think that any public notice of him or
his book, would make matters worse.
We have been determined, however, to publish a general caution to
Captains and others, against exposing themselves to the
consequences of transporting incendiary writings into your and
the other Southern States.
I have the honor to be your obedient servant,
H. G. OTIS.
Part 6.
_THE PERIOD OF PREPARATION._
CHAPTER XI.
LIST OF WORKS BY NEGRO AUTHORS.
"Olaudah Equiano or Gustavus Vassa." Autobiography. Boston, 1837.
"Light and Truth." Lewis (R. B.). Boston, 1844.
"Volume of Poems." Whitfield, (James M.). 1846.
"Volume of Poems." Payne, (Daniel A., D.D.). 1850.
"The Condition, Elevation, Emigration, and Destiny of the Colored
People of the United States, Politically Considered." Delaney (Martin
R.). Philadelphia, 1852.
"Principia of Ethnology: The Origin of Races and Color." Delaney
(Martin R.).
"Narrative of the Life of an American Slave." London, 1847. "My
Bondage and My Freedom." New York, 1855. "Life and Times." Hartford,
Conn., 1882. Douglass (Frederick).
"Autobiography of a Fugitive Negro," etc. Ward (Rev. Samuel Ringgold).
London, 1855.
"The Colored Patriots of the American Revolution." Nell (Wm. C).
Boston, 1855.
"Narrative of Solomon Northup." New York, 1859. "Twenty-two Years a
Slave, and Forty Years a Freeman." Rochester, 1861. Stewart (Rev.
Austin).
"The Black Man." Boston, Mass., 1863. "The Negro in the Rebellion."
Boston, 1867. "Clotelle." Boston, 1867. "The Rising Sun." Boston,
1874. "Sketches of Places and People Abroad." 1854. Brown (Wm. Wells,
M.D.).
"An Apology for African Methodism." Tanner (Benj. T.). Baltimore,
1867.
"The Underground Railroad." Still (William). Philadelphia, 1872.
"The Colored Cadet at West Point." Flipper (H. O.), U. S. A. New York,
1877.
"Music and Some Highly Musical People." Trotter (James M.). Boston,
1878.
"My Recollections of African Methodism." Wayman (Bishop A. W.).
Philadelphia, Pa., 1881.
"First Lessons in Greek." Scarborough (W. S., A.M.). New York, 1882.
"History of the Black Brigade." Clark (Peter H.)
"Uncle Tom's Story of His Life." From 1789 to 1879. Henson (Rev.
Josiah). Boston.
"The Future of Africa." New York, 1862, Charles Scribner & Co.
"The Greatness of Christ," and other Sermons. Crummell (Rev.
Alexander, D.D.). T. Whittaker, 2 and 3 Bible House, New York, 1882.
"Not a Man and Yet a Man." Whitman (A. A.).
"Mixed Races." Sampson (John P.). Hampton, Va., 1881.
"Poems." Wheatley (Phillis). London, England, 1773.
"As a Slave and as a Freeman." Loguen (Bishop, J. W.).
CHAPTER XIII.
THE JOHN BROWN MEN.
The subjoined correspondence was published in the _Republican_, J. K.
Rukenbrod, editor, at Salem, Ohio, Wednesday, December 28, 1859. The
beautiful spirit of self-sacrifice, the lofty devotion to the sublime
principles of universal liberty, and the heroic welcome to the hour of
martyrdom, invest these letters with intrinsic historic value.
LETTER FROM EDWIN COPPOCK TO HIS UNCLE JOSHUA COPPOCK.
CHARLESTON, VA., December 13, 1859.
MY DEAR UNCLE: I seat myself by the stand to write for the _last_
time, to thee and thy family. Though far from home, and overtaken
by misfortune, I have not forgotten you. Your generous
hospitality toward me during my short stay with you last Spring
is stamped indelibly upon my heart; and also the generosity
bestowed upon my poor brother, at the same time, who now wanders
an outcast from his native land. But thank God he is free, and I
am thankful it is I who have to suffer instead of him.
The time may come when he will remember me. And the time may come
when he will still further remember the _cause in which I die_.
Thank God the principles of the cause in which we were engaged
_will not die with me and my brave comrades_. They will spread
wider and wider, and gather strength with each hour that passes.
The voice of truth will echo through our land, bringing
conviction to the erring, and adding numbers to _that glorious
Army who will enlist under its banner_. The cause of everlasting
truth and justice will go on "conquering and to conquer," until
our broad and beautiful land shall rest beneath the banner of
freedom. I had hoped to live to see the dawn of that glorious
day. I had hoped to live to see the principles of the Declaration
of our Independence fully realized. I had hoped to see the dark
stain of slavery blotted from our land, and the _libel_ of our
boasted freedom erased; when we can say in truth that our beloved
country is "the land of the free, and the home of the
brave."--But this cannot be. I have heard my sentence passed, my
doom is sealed. But two brief days between me and eternity. At
the expiration of those two days, I shall stand upon the scaffold
to take my last look at earthly scenes. But that scaffold has but
little dread for me; for I honestly believe I am innocent of any
crime justifying such punishment.
But by the taking of my life, and the lives of my comrades,
Virginia is but hastening on that glorious day, when the slave
will rejoice in his freedom; when he can say that _I too am a
man_, and am groaning no more under the yoke of oppression. But I
must now close. Accept this short scrawl as a remembrance of me.
Remember me to my relatives and friends. And now Farewell.
From thy nephew,
EDWIN COPPOCK.
P. S. I will say for I know it will be a satisfaction to all of
you, that we are all kindly treated, and I hope the North will
not fail to give Sheriff Campbell and Captain Avis due
acknowledgment for their kind and noble actions.
E.
LETTER FROM EDWIN COPPOCK TO THOMAS WINN.
MY DEAR FRIEND THOMAS WINN: For thy love and sympathy, and for
thy unwearied exertion in my behalf, accept my warmest thanks. I
have no words to tell the gratitude and love I have for thee. And
may God bless thee and thy family, for the love and kindness thee
has always shown towards my family and me. And when life with
thee is over, may we meet on that shore where there is no
parting, is the farewell prayer of thy true friend.
EDWIN COPPOCK.
* * * * *
THAT LETTER.
The following is the letter from Edwin Coppock, seized upon by the
Virginia authorities as a pretence for not commuting his sentence. The
offensive remark consisted alone wherein he spoke of the chivalry as
"the enemy." There certainly is nothing in this communication that
could justify a Government in taking the life of a man whom it
otherwise considered not guilty of a capital crime, but whose greatest
offence was that of being found, as Wise claimed, in bad company. We
give the letter entire:
EDWIN COPPOCK TO MRS. BROWN.
CHARLESTON JAIL, VIRGINIA, November --, 1859.
MRS. JOHN BROWN--Dear Madam: I was very sorry that your request
to see the rest of the prisoners was not complied with. Mrs. Avis
brought me a book whose pages are full of truth and beauty,
entitled "Voice of the True-Hearted," which she told me was a
present from you. For this dear token of remembrance, please
accept my thanks.
My comrade, J. E. Cook, and myself, deeply sympathize with you in
your sad bereavement. We were both acquainted with Anna and
Martha. They were to us as sisters, and as brothers we sympathize
with them in the dark hour of trial and affliction.
I was with your sons when they fell. Oliver lived but a few
moments after he was shot. He spoke no word, but yielded calmly
to his fate. Watson was shot at 10 o'clock on Monday morning, and
died about 3 o'clock on Wednesday morning. He suffered much.
Though mortally wounded at 10 o'clock, yet at 3 o'clock Monday
afternoon he fought bravely against the men who charged on us.
When the enemy were repulsed, and the excitement of the charge
was over, he began to sink rapidly.
After we were taken prisoners, he was placed in the guard-house
with me. He complained of the hardness of the bench on which he
was lying. I begged hard for a bed for him, or even a blanket,
but could obtain none for him. I took off my coat and placed it
under him, and held his head in my lap, in which position he died
without a groan or a struggle.
I have stated these facts thinking that they may afford to you,
and to the bereaved widows they have left, a mournful
consolation.
Give my love to Anna and Martha, with our last farewell.
Yours truly,
EDWIN COPPOCK.
* * * * *
COOK'S LAST LETTER TO HIS WIFE.
CHARLESTOWN JAIL, Dec. 16, 1859.
MY DEAR WIFE AND CHILD: For the last time I take my pen to
address you--for the last time to speak to you through the tongue
of the absent. I am about to leave you and this world forever.
But do not give way to your grief. Look with the eyes of hope
beyond the vale of life, and see the dawning of that brighter
morrow that shall know no clouds or shadows in its sunny
sky--that shall know no sunset. To that eternal day I trust,
beloved, I am going now. For me there waits no far-off or
uncertain future. I am only going from my camp on earth to a home
in heaven; from the dark clouds of sin and grief, to the clear
blue skies, the flowing fountains, and the eternal joys of that
better and brighter land, whose only entrance is through the vale
of death--whose only gateway is the tomb.
Oh, yes! think that I am only going home; going to meet my
Saviour and my God; going to meet my comrades, and wait and watch
for you. Each hour that passes, every tolling bell, proclaims
this world is not our home. We are but pilgrims here, journeying
to our Father's house. Some have a long and weary road to wander;
shadowed o'er with doubts and fears, they often tire and faint
upon life's roadside; yet, still all wearied, they must move
along. Some make a more rapid journey, and complete their
pilgrimage in the bright morn of life; they know no weariness
upon their journey, no ills or cares of toil-worn age. I and my
comrades here are among that number. Our pilgrimage is nearly
ended; we can almost see our homes. A few more hours and we shall
be there.
True, it is hard for me to leave my loving partner and my little
one, lingering on the rugged road on which life's storms are
bursting. But cheer up, my beloved ones; those storms will soon
be over; through their last lingering shadows you will see the
promised rainbow. It will whisper of a happy land where all
storms are over. Will you not strive to meet me in that clime of
unending sunshine? Oh! yes, I know you will; that you will also
try to lead our child along that path of glory; that you will
claim for him an entrance to that celestial city whose maker and
builder is God. Teach him the way of truth and virtue. Tell him
for what and how his father left him ere his lips could lisp my
name. Pray for him. Remember that there is no golden gateway to
the realms of pleasure here, but there is one for the redeemed in
the land that lies starward. There I hope we may meet, when you
have completed your pilgrimage on the road of life. Years will
pass on and your journey will soon be ended. Live so that when
from the verge of life you look back you may feel no vain
regrets, no bitter anguish for mis-spent years. Look to God in
all your troubles; cast yourself on Him when your heart is dark
with the night of sorrow and heavy with the weight of woe. He
will shed over you the bright sunshine of His love, and take away
the burden from your heart.
* * * * *
And now farewell. May that all-wise and eternal God, who governs
all things, be with you to guide and protect you through life,
and bring us together in eternal joy beyond the grave. Farewell,
fond partner of my heart and soul. Farewell, dear babe of our
love. A last, long farewell, till we meet in heaven.
I remain, in life and death, your devoted husband.
JOHN E. COOK.
* * * * *
FUNERAL OF JOHN E. COOK.
The funeral of Capt. Cook took place at Brooklyn on the 20th, from the
residence of Mrs. S. L. Harris. The services were conducted by the
Rev. Mr. Caldicott, of the Lee Avenue Dutch Reformed Church, and at
the Cypress Hills Cemetery by the Rev. Wm. H. Johnson. Of the body the
day previous, the _Tribune_ says:
Owing to the length of time that elapsed between the decease and
the time the body was delivered into the charge of Dr. Holmes,
the process of embalming has been somewhat difficult, and
consequently the appearance of the remains is not so natural as
it otherwise would have been. Last evening the body was placed
in an erect position, in order to allow the injected fluid to
settle in the veins and arteries, so as to give to the face a
more natural appearance. The swelling has entirely disappeared
from the neck and face, and the decomposition which had set in
had been checked. The remains will not be enshrouded until this
morning, when they will be placed in the coffin, enclosed in a
white merino robe with a satin collar, satin cord about the
waist, and a black neckerchief about the neck.
Yesterday afternoon the father, sisters, and wife of the deceased
were permitted to view the remains. His wife removed the
breast-pin and a miniature of their child from about his neck,
which she had placed there but a few days previous to his
execution. She is but eighteen years of age, and has an infant
four months old. She is from Harper's Ferry, Va., where she was
married about seventeen months since. She, as well as the other
relatives, was overwhelmed with sorrow, and it was some moments
before they were sufficiently recovered to be enabled to leave
the body. The refusal of the Consistories of the Lee Avenue and
Fourth Reformed Dutch Churches to permit the services to be held
in their edifices has given rise to the expression of much
feeling, and many of the friends of the deceased infer that this
refusal is made from a fear of censure on the part of some of the
members of their congregations, in allowing a Christian burial to
the remains.
* * * * *
In the little burial-ground at Oberlin, Lorain County, Ohio, there is
a monument dedicated to the memory of three of the John Brown Men, as
follows:
L. S. Leary, died at Harper's Ferry, Oct. 20, 1859,
aged 24 years.
S. Green, died at Charlestown, Virginia, Dec. 2, 1850,
aged 28 years.
J. A. Copeland, died at Charlestown, Virginia, Dec. 2, 1859,
aged 25 years.
The monument bears the following inscription:
These Colored citizens of Oberlin, the heroic associates of the
Immortal John Brown, gave their lives for the Slave.
* * * * *
THE NEGRO ARTIST OF THE STATUE OF LIBERTY ON THE CAPITOL.
When the bronze castings were being completed at the foundry of Mr.
Mills, near Bladensburg, his foreman, who had superintended the work
from the beginning, and who was receiving eight dollars per day,
struck, and demanded ten dollars, assuring Mr. M. that the advance
must be granted him, as nobody in America, except himself, could
complete the work. Mr. M. felt that the demand was exorbitant, and
appealed in his dilemma to the slaves who were assisting in the
moulding. "I can do that well," said one of them, an intelligent and
ingenious servant, who had been intimately engaged in the various
processes. The striker was dismissed, and the negro, assisted
occasionally by the finer skill of his master, took the striker's
place as superintendent, and the work went on. The black
master-builder lifted the ponderous, uncouth masses, and bolted them
together, joint by joint, piece by piece, till they blended into the
majestic "Freedom," who to-day lifts her head in the blue clouds above
Washington, invoking a benediction upon the imperilled Republic!
Was there a prophecy in that moment when the slave became the artist,
and with rare poetic justice, reconstructed the beautiful symbol of
freedom for America?[143]
FOOTNOTES:
[143] Washington Correspondent of the New York Tribune, December 2,
1863.
Part 7.
_THE NEGRO IN THE WAR FOR THE UNION._
CHAPTER XIX.
NEGROES AS SOLDIERS.
Gen. Benj. F. Butler commanded a number of Negro Troops at Fort
Harrison on the 29th Sept., 1864. After white troops had been driven
back by the enemy, Gen. Butler ordered his Negro troops to storm the
fortified position of the enemy at the point of the bayonet. The
troops had to charge down a hill, ford a creek, and--preceded by
axemen who had to cut away two lines of _abatis_--then carry the works
held by infantry and artillery. They made one of the most brilliant
charges of the war, with "Remember Fort Pillow" as their battle-cry,
and carried the works in an incredibly short time.
Nearly a decade after this battle, Gen. Butler, then a member of
Congress from Massachusetts, said, in a speech on the Civil Rights
Bill of this affair:
"It became my painful duty to follow in the track of that
charging column, and there, in a space not wider than the clerk's
desk, and three hundred yards long, lay the dead bodies of five
hundred and forty-three of my colored comrades, fallen in defence
of their country, who had offered up their lives to uphold its
flag and its honor, as a willing sacrifice; and as I rode along
among them, guiding my horse this way and that way, lest he
should profane with his hoofs what seemed to me the sacred dead,
and as I looked on their bronze faces upturned in the shining
sun, as if in mute appeal against the wrongs of the country for
which they had given their lives, whose flag had only been to
them a flag of stripes, on which no star of glory had ever shone
for them--feeling I had wronged them in the past, and believing
what was the future of my country to them--among my dead comrades
there, I swore to myself a solemn oath--'May my right hand forget
its cunning, and my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth,' if I
ever fail to defend the rights of those men who have given their
blood for me and my country that day and for their race forever,
and God helping me, I will keep that oath."
* * * * *
BATTLES IN WHICH COLORED TROOPS PARTICIPATED.
"Alliance," Steamer, Fla. Bermuda Hundred, Va.
March 8, 1865. May 4, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 99th Inf. U. S. C. T. 4th Inf.
Amite River, La. Bermuda Hundred, Va.
March 18, 1865. May 20, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 77th Inf. U. S. C. T. 1st Cav.
Appomattox Court House, Va. Bermuda Hundred, Va.
April 9, 1865. Aug. 24 and 25, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 41st Inf. U. S. C. T. 7th Inf.
Arkansas River, Ark. Bermuda Hundred, Va.
Dec. 18, 1864. Nov. 30 and Dec. 4, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 54th Inf. U. S. C. T. 19th Inf.
Ash Bayou, La. Bermuda Hundred, Va.
Nov. 19, 1864. Dec. 1, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 93d Inf. U. S. C. T. 39th Inf.
Ashepoo River, S. C. Bermuda Hundred, Va.
May 16, 1864. Dec. 13, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 34th Inf. U. S. C. T. 23d Inf.
Ashwood, Miss. Berwick, La.
June 25, 1864. April 26, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 63d Inf. U. S. C. T. 98th Inf.
Ashwood Landing, La. Big Creek, Ark.
May 1 and 4, 1864. July 26, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 64th Inf. U. S. C. T. Batt'ry E, 2d Lt. Art.;
60th Inf.
Athens, Ala. Big Springs, Ky.
Sept. 24, 1864. Jan. --, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 106th, 110th, U. S. C. T. 12th Hy. Art.
and 111th Inf.
Barrancas, Fla. Black Creek, Fla.
July 22, 1864. July 27, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 82d Inf. U. S. C. T. 35th Inf.
Baxter's Springs, Kan. Black River, La.
Oct. 6, 1863. Nov. 1, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 83d (new) Inf. U. S. C. T. 6th Hy. Art.
Bayou Bidell, La. Bogg's Mills, Ark.
Oct. 15, 1864. Jan. 24, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 52d Inf. U. S. C. T. 11th (old) Inf.
Bayou Boeuf, Ark. Boyd's Station, Ala.
Dec. 13, 1863. March 18, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 3d Cav. U. S. C. T. 101st Inf.
Bayou Mason, Miss. Boykin's Mill, S. C.
July --, 1864. April 18, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 66th Inf. U. S. C. T. 54th (Mass.) Inf.
Bayou St. Louis, Miss. Bradford's Springs, S. C.
Nov. 17, 1863. April 18, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 91st Inf. U. S. C. T. 102d Inf.
Bayou Tensas, La. Brawley Fork, Tenn.
Aug. 10, 1863. March 25, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 48th Inf. U. S. C. T. 17th Inf.
Bayou Tensas, La. Brice's Cross Roads, Miss.
July 30 and Aug. 26, 1864. June 10, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 66th Inf. U. S. C. T. Batt'y F, 2d Lt. Art.;
55th and 59th Inf.
Bayou Tunica, La. Briggin Creek, S. C.
Nov. 9, 1863. Feb. 25, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 73d Inf. U. S. C. T. 55th (Mass.) Inf.
Bryant's Plantation, Fla. Decatur, Tenn.
Oct. 21, 1864. Aug. 18, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 3d Inf. U. S. C. T. 1st Hy. Art.
Cabin Creek, Caddo Nation. Decatur, Ala.
July 1 and 2, 1863. Oct. 28 and 29, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 79th (new) Inf. U. S. C. T. 14th Inf.
Cabin Creek, Caddo Nation. Decatur, Ala.
Nov. 4, 1865. Dec. 27 and 28, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 54th Inf. U. S. C. T. 17th Inf.
Cabin Point, Va. Deep Bottom, Va.
Aug. 5, 1864. Aug. 14 to 18, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 1st Cav. U. S. C. T. 7th and 9th Inf.
Camden, Ark. Deep Bottom, Va.
April 24, 1864. Sept. 2 and 6, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 57th Inf. U. S. C. T. 2d Cav.
Camp Marengo, La. Deep Bottom, Va.
Sept. 14, 1864. Oct. 1, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 63d Inf. U. S. C. T. 38th Inf.
Cedar Keys, Fla. Deep Bottom, Va.
Feb. 16, 1865. Oct. 31, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 2d Inf. U. S. C. T. 127th Inf.
Chapin's Farm, Va. Deveaux Neck, S. C.
Sept. 29 and 30, 1864. Dec. 7, 8, and 9, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 2d Cav.; 1st, 4th, U. S. C. T. 32d, 34th, 55th (Mass.),
5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, and 102d Inf.
9th, 22d, 29th (Conn.), 36th,
37th, and 38th Inf. Drury's Bluff, Va.
May 10, 16, and 20, 1864.
Chapin's Farm, Va. U. S. C. T. 2d Cav.
Nov. 4, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 22d Inf. Dutch Gap, Va.
Aug. 24, 1864.
Chattanooga, Tenn. U. S. C. T. 22d Inf.
Feb. --, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 18th Inf. Dutch Gap, Va.
Sept. 7, 1864.
"Chippewia," Steamer, Ark. U. S. C. T. 4th Inf.
Feb. 17, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 83d (new) Inf. Dutch Gap, Va.
Nov. 17, 1864.
"City Belle," Steamer, La. U. S. C. T. 36th Inf.
May 3, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 73d Int. East Pascagoula, Miss.
April 9, 1863.
City Point, Va. U. S. C. T. Cos. B. and C.,
May 6, 1864. 74th Inf.
U. S. C. T. 5th Inf.
Eastport, Miss.
City Point, Va. Oct. 10, 1864.
June --, 1864. U. S. C. T. 61st Inf.
U. S. C. T. Batt'y B, 2d Lt. Art.
Fair Oaks, Va.
Clarksville, Ark. Oct. 27 and 28, 1864.
Jan. 18, 1865. U. S. C. T. 1st, 5th, 9th, 22d,
U. S. C. T. 79th (new) Inf. 29th (Conn.), and
37th Inf.
Clinton, La.
Aug. 25, 1864. Federal Point, N. C.
U. S. C. T. 4th Cav. Feb. 11, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 39th Inf.
Coleman's Plantation, Miss.
July 4, 1864. Fillmore, Va.
U. S. C. T. 52d Inf. Oct. 4, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 1st Inf.
Columbia, La.
Feb. 4, 1864. Floyd, La.
U. S. C. T. 66th Inf. July --, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 51st Inf.
Concordia Bayou, La.
Aug. 5, 1864. Fort Adams, La.
U. S. C. T. 6th Hy. Art. Oct. 5, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 3d Cav.
Cow Creek, Kan.
Nov. 14, 1864. Fort Anderson, Ky.
U. S. C. T. 54th Inf. March 25, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 8th Hy. Art.
Cox's Bridge, N. C.
March 24, 1865. Fort Blakely, Ala.
U. S. C. T. 30th Inf. March 31 to April 9, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 47th, 48th, 50th, 51st,
Dallas, Ga. 68th, 73d, 76th,82d, and 86th Inf.
May 31, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 40th Inf. Fort Brady, Va.
Jan. 24, 1865.
Dalton, Ga. U. S. C. T. 118th Inf.
Aug. 15 and 16, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 14th Inf. Fort Burnham, Va.
Dec. 10, 1864.
Darbytown Road, Va. U. S. C. T. 41st Inf.
Oct. 13, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 7th, 8th, 9th, and Fort Burnham, Va.
29th (Conn.) Inf. Jan. 24, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 7th Inf.
Davis's Bend, La.
June 2 and 29, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 64th Inf.
Fort Donelson, Tenn. Henderson, Ky.
Oct. 11, 1864. Sept. 25, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 4th Hy. Art. U. S. C. T. 118th Inf.
Fort Gaines, Ala. Holly Springs, Miss.
Aug. 2 to 8, 1864. Aug. 28, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 96th Inf. U. S. C. T. 11th (new) Inf.
Fort Gibson, Caddo Nation. Honey Hill, S. C.
Sept. 16, 1864. Nov. 30, 1864,
U. S. C. T. 79th (new) Inf. U. S. C. T. 32d, 35th, 54th,
and 55th (Mass.), and 102d Inf.
Fort Gibson, Caddo Nation.
Sept., 1865. Honey Springs, Kan.
U. S. C. T. 54th Inf. July 17, 1863.
U. S. C. T. 79th (new) Inf.
Fort Jones, Ky.
Feb. 18, 1865. Hopkinsville, Va.
U. S. C. T. 12th Hy. Art. Dec. 12, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 5th Cav.
Fort Pillow, Tenn.
April 12, 1864. Horse-Head Creek, Ark.
U. S. C. T. Batt'y F, 2d Lt. Art.; Feb. 17, 1864.
11th (new) Inf. U. S. C. T. 79th (new) Inf.
Fort Pocahontas, Va. Indian Bay, Ark.
Aug., 1864. April 13, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 1st Cav. U. S. C. T. 56th Inf.
Fort Smith, Ark. Indiantown, N. C.
Aug. 24, 1864. Dec. 18, 1863.
U. S. C. T. 11th (old) Inf. U. S. C. T. 36th Inf.
Fort Smith, Ark. Indian Village, La.
Dec. 24, 1864. Aug. 6, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 83d (new) Inf. U. S. C. T. 11th Hy. Art.
Fort Taylor, Fla. Island Mound, Mo.
Aug. 21, 1864. Oct. 27 and 29, 1862.
U. S. C. T. 2d Inf. U. S. C. T. 79th (new) Inf.
Fort Wagner, S. C. Island No. 76, Miss.
July 18 and Sept. 6, 1863. Jan. 20, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 54th (Mass.) Inf. U. S. C. T. Batt'y E, 2d Lt. Art.
Fort Wagner, S. C. Issaquena County, Miss.
Aug. 26, 1863. July 10 and Aug. 17, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 3d Inf. U. S. C. T. 66th Inf.
Franklin, Miss. Jackson, La.
Jan. 2, 1865. Aug. 3, 1863.
U. S. C. T. 3d Cav. U. S. C. T. 73d, 75th, and 78th Inf.
Ghent, Ky. Jackson, Miss.
Aug. 29, 1864. July 5, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 117th Inf. U. S. C. T. 3d Cav.
Glasgow, Mo. Jacksonville, Fla.
Oct. 15, 1864. March 29, 1863.
U. S. C. T. 62d Inf. U. S. C. T. 33d Inf.
Glasgow, Ky. Jacksonville, Fla.
March 25, 1865. May 1 and 28, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 119th Inf. U. S. C. T. 7th Inf.
Goodrich's Landing, La. Jacksonville, Fla.
March 24 and July 16, 1864. April 4, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 66th Inf. U. S. C. T. 3d Inf.
Grand Gulf, Miss. James Island, S. C.
July 16, 1864. July 16, 1863.
U. S. C. T. 53d Inf. U. S. C. T. 54th (Mass.) Inf.
Gregory's Farm, S. C. James Island, S. C.
Dec. 5 and 9, 1864. May 21, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 26th Inf. U. S. C. T. 55th (Mass.) Inf.
Hall Island, S. C. James Island, S. C.
Nov. 24, 1863. July 1 and 2, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 33d Inf. U. S. C. T. 33d and
55th (Mass.) Inf.
Harrodsburg, Ky.
Oct. 21, 1864. James Island, S. C.
U. S. C. T. 5th Cav. July 5 and 7, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 7th Inf.
Hatcher's Run, Va.
Oct. 27 and 28, 1864. James Island. S. C.
U. S. C. T. 27th, 39th, 41st, 43d, Feb. 10, 1865.
and 45th Inf. U. S. C. T. 55th (Mass.) Inf.
Haynes Bluff, Miss. Jenkins's Ferry, Ark.
Feb. 3, 1864. April 30, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 53d Inf. U. S. C. T. 79th (new) and
83d (new) Inf.
Haynes Bluff, Miss.
April, 1864. Jenkins's Ferry, Ark.
U. S. C. T. 3d Cav. May 4, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 83d (new) Inf.
Helena, Ark.
Aug. 2, 1864. John's Island, S. C.
U. S. C. T. 64th Inf. July 5 and 7, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 26th Inf.
John's Island, S. C. Mount Pleasant Landing, La.
July 9, 1864. May 15, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 7th and 34th Inf. U. S. C. T. 67th Inf.
Johnsonville, Tenn. Mud Creek, Ala.
Sept. 25, 1864. Jan. 5, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 13th Inf. U. S. C. T. 106th Inf.
Jones's Bridge, Va. Murfreesboro', Tenn.
June 23, 1864. Dec. 24, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 28th Inf. U. S. C. T. 12th Inf.
Joy's Ford, Ark. N. and N. W. R. R., Tenn.
Jan. 8, 1865. Sept. 4, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 79th (new) Inf. U. S. C. T. 100th Inf.
Lake Providence, La. Nashville, Tenn.
May 27, 1863. May 24, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 15th Inf.
Lawrence, Kan.
July 27, 1863. Nashville, Tenn.
U. S. C. T. 79th (new) Inf. Dec. 2 and 21, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 44th Inf.
Little Rock, Ark.
April 26 and May 28, 1864. Nashville, Tenn.
U. S. C. T. 57th Inf. Dec. 7, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 18th Inf.
Liverpool Heights, Miss.
Feb. 3, 1864. Nashville, Tenn.
U. S. C. T. 47th Inf. Dec. 15 and 16, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 12th, 13th, 14th, 17th,
"Lotus," Steamer, Kan. 18th, and 100th Inf.
Jan. 17, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 83d (new) Inf. Natchez, Miss.
Nov. 11, 1863.
Madison Station, Ala. U. S. C. T. 58th Inf.
Nov. 26, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 101st Inf. Natchez, Miss.
April 25, 1864.
Magnolia, Tenn. U. S. C. T. 98th Inf.
Jan. 7, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 15th Inf. Natural Bridge, Fla.
March 6, 1865.
Mariana, Fla. U. S. C. T. 2d and 99th Inf.
Sept. 27, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 82d Inf. New Kent Court House, Va.
March 2, 1864.
Marion, Va. U. S. C. T. 5th Inf.
Dec. 18, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 6th Cav. New Market Heights, Va.
June 24, 1864.
Marion County, Fla. U. S. C. T. 22d Inf.
March 10, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 3d Inf. Olustee, Fla.
Feb. 20, 1864.
McKay's Point, S. C. U. S. C. T. 8th, 35th,
Dec. 22, 1864. and 54th (Mass.) Inf.
U. S. C. T. 26th Inf.
Owensboro', Ky.
Meffleton Lodge, Ark. Aug. 27, 1864.
June 29, 1864. U. S. C. T. 108th Inf.
U. S. C. T. 56th Inf.
Palmetto Ranch, Texas.
Memphis, Tenn. May 15, 1865.
Aug. 21, 1864. U. S. C. T. 62d Inf.
U. S. C. T. 61st Inf.
Pass Manchas, La.
Milliken's Bend, La. March 20, 1864.
June 5, 6, and 7, 1863. U. S. C. T. 10th Hy. Art.
U. S. C. T. 5th Hy. Art.;
49th and 51st Inf. Petersburg, Va.
June 15, 1864, to April 2, 1865.
Milltown Bluff, S. C. U. S. C. T. 5th (Mass.) Cav.;
July 10, 1863. 1st, 4th, 5th,6th, 7th, 10th, 19th,
U. S. C. T. 33d Inf. 22d, 23d, 27th, 28th, 29th,
29th (Conn.), 30th, 31st, 36th,
Mitchell's Creek, Fla. 39th, 41st, 43d, 45th, and
Dec. 17, 1864. 116th Inf.
U. S. C. T. 82d Inf.
Pierson's Farm, Va.
Morganzia, La. June 16, 1864.
May 18, 1864. U. S. C. T. 36th Inf.
U. S. C. T. 73d Inf.
Pine Barren Creek, Ala.
Morganzia, La. Dec. 17, 18, and 19, 1864.
Nov. 23, 1864. U. S. C. T. 97th Inf.
U. S. C. T. 84th Inf.
Pine Barren Ford, Fla.
Moscow, Tenn. Dec. 17 and 18, 1864.
June 15, 1864. U. S. C. T. 82d Inf.
U. S. C. T. 55th Inf.
Pine Bluff, Ark.
Moscow Station, Tenn. July 2, 1864.
Dec. 4, 1863. U. S. C. T. 64th Inf.
U. S. C. T. 61st Inf.
Pleasant Hill, La.
Mound Plantation, La. April 9, 1864.
June 29, 1863. U. S. C. T. 75th Inf.
U. S. C. T. 46th Inf.
Plymouth, N. C.
Nov. 26, 1863, and April 18, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 10th Inf.
Plymouth, N. C. Saltville, Va.
April 1, 1864. Oct. 2, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 37th Inf. U. S. C. T. 5th and 6th Cav.
Point Lookout, Va. Saltville, Va.
May 13, 1864. Dec. 20, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 36th Inf. U. S. C. T. 5th Cav.
Point of Rocks, Md. Sand Mountain, Tenn.
June 9, 1864. Jan. 27, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 2d Cav. U. S. C. T. 18th Inf.
Point Pleasant, La. Sandy Swamp, N. C.
June 25, 1864. Dec. 18, 1863.
U. S. C. T. 64th Inf. U. S. C. T. 5th Inf.
Poison Springs, Ark. Scottsboro', Ala.
April 18, 1864. Jan. 8, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 79th (new) Inf. U. S. C. T. 101st Inf.
Port Hudson, La. Section 37, N. and N.W.R.R., Tenn.
May 22 to July 8, 1863. Nov. 24, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 73d, 75th, 78th, U. S. C. T. 12th Inf.
79th (old), 80th, 81st, 82d,
and 95th Inf. Sherwood, Mo.
May 18, 1863.
Powhatan, Va. U. S. C. T, 79th (new) Inf.
Jan. 25, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 1st Cav. Simpsonville, Ky.
Jan. 25, 1865.
Prairie D'ann, Ark. U. S. C. T. 5th Cav.
April 13, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 79th (new) and Smithfield, Va.
83d (new) Inf. Aug. 30, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 1st Cav.
Pulaski, Tenn.
May 13, 1864. Smithfield, Ky.
U. S. C. T. 111th Inf. Jan, 5, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 6th Cav.
Raleigh, N. C.
April 7, 1865. South Tunnel, Tenn.
U. S. C. T. 5th Inf. Oct. 10, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 40th Inf.
Rector's Farm, Ark.
Dec. 19, 1864. Spanish Fort, Ala.
U. S. C. T. 83d (new) Inf. March 27 to April 8, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 68th Inf.
Red River Expedition, La.
May --, 1864. Suffolk, Va.
U. S. C. T. 92d Inf. March 9, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 2d Cav.
Richland, Tenn.
Sept. 26, 1864. Sugar Loaf Hill, N. C.
U. S. C. T. 111th Inf. Jan. 19, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 6th Inf.
Richmond, Va.
Oct. 28 and 29, 1864. Sugar Loaf Hill, N. C.
U. S. C. T. 2d Cav.; 7th Inf. Feb. 11, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 4th, 6th, and 30th Inf.
Ripley, Miss.
June 7, 1864. Sulphur Branch Trestle, Ala.
U. S. C. T. 55th Inf. Sept. 25, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 111th Inf.
Roache's Plantation, Miss.
March 31, 1864. Swift's Creek, S. C.
U. S. C. T. 3d Cav. April 19, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 102d Inf.
Rolling Fork, Miss.
Nov. 22, 1864. Taylorsville, Ky.
U. S. C. T. 3d Cav. April 18, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 119th Inf.
Roseville Creek, Ark.
March 20, 1864. Timber Hill, Caddo Nation.
U. S. C. T. 79th (new) Inf. Nov. 19, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 79th (new) Inf.
Ross's Landing, Ark.
Feb. 14, 1864. Town Creek, N. C.
U. S. C. T. 51st Inf. Feb. 20, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 1st Inf.
St. John's River, S. C.
May 23, 1864. Township, Fla.
U. S. C. T. 35th Inf. Jan. 26, 1863.
U. S. C. T. 33d Inf.
St. Stephen's, S. C.
March 1, 1865. Tupelo, Miss.
U. S. C. T. 55th (Mass.) Inf. July 13, 14, and 15, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 59th, 61st, and 68th Inf.
Saline River, Ark.
May 4, 1864. Vicksburg, Miss.
U. S. C. T. 83d (new) Inf. Aug. 27, 1863.
U. S. C. T. 5th Hy. Art.
Saline River, Ark.
May --, 1865. Vicksburg, Miss.
U. S. C. T. 54th Inf. Feb. 13, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 52d Inf.
Salkehatchie, S. C.
Feb. 9, 1865. Vicksburg, Miss.
U. S. C. T. 102d Inf. June 4, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 3d Cav.
Saltville, Va.
Oct. 2, 1864. Vicksburg, Miss.
U. S. C. T. 5th and 6th Cav. July 4, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 48th Inf.
Vidalia, La. Williamsburg, Va.
July 22, 1864. March 4, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 6th Hy. Art. U. S. C. T. 6th Inf.
Wallace's Ferry, Ark. Wilmington, N. C.
July 26, 1864. Feb. 22, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 56th Inf. U. S. C. T. 1st. Inf.
Warsaw, N. C. Wilson's Landing, Va.
April 6, 1865. June 11, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 1st Inf. U. S. C. T. 1st Cav.
Waterford, Miss. Wilson's Wharf, Va.
Aug. 16 and 17, 1864. May 24, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 55th and 61st Inf. U. S. C. T. Batt'y B, 2d Lt. Art.;
1st and 10th Inf.
Waterloo, La.
Oct. 20, 1864. Yazoo City, Miss.
U. S. C. T. 75th Inf. March 5, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 3d Cav.; 47th Inf.
Waterproof, La.
Feb. 14, 1864. Yazoo City, Miss.
U. S. C. T. 49th Inf. May 13, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 3d Cav.
Waterproof, La.
April 20, 1864. Yazoo City, Miss.
U. S. C. T. 63d Inf. March 15, 1865.
U. S. C. T. 3d Cav.
White Oak Road, Va.
March 31, 1865. Yazoo Expedition, Miss.
U. S. C. T. 29th Inf. Feb. 28, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 3d Cav.
White River, Ark.
Oct. 22, 1864.
U. S. C. T. 53 Inf.
CHAPTER XX.
HOISTING THE BLACK FLAG.--OFFICIAL CORRESPONDENCE AND REPORTS.
GENERAL S. D. LEE TO GENERAL COOPER.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT ALABAMA, MISSISSIPPI, AND }
EAST LOUISIANA, MERIDIAN, June 30, 1864. }
GENERAL: I have the honor to transmit copies of correspondence
between General Washburn, U. S. A., General Forrest, and myself,
which I consider very important, and should be laid before the
Department. It will be my endeavor to avoid, as far as is
consistent with my idea of the dignity of my position, resorting
to such an extremity as the black flag; and the onus shall be
with the Federal commander.
I would like that the onus be put where it properly belongs,
before the public, should the extremity arise. The correspondence
is not complete yet, and the Department will be informed of the
result at the earliest practicable moment.
I am, General, yours respectfully,
S. D. LEE, _Lieutenant-General_.
General S. COOPER, _A. and I. G., Richmond, Va._
GENERAL FORREST TO GENERAL WASHBURN.
HEADQUARTERS FORREST'S CAVALRY, }
IN THE FIELD, June 14, 1864. }
Major-General Washburn, _Commanding United States Forces,
Memphis_:
GENERAL: I have the honor herewith to enclose copy of letter
received from Brigadier-General Buford, commanding United States
forces at Helena, Arkansas, addressed to Colonel E. W. Rucker,
commanding Sixth Regiment of this command; also a letter from
myself to General Buford, which I respectfully request you will
read and forward to him.
There is a matter also to which I desire to call your attention,
which, until now, I have not thought proper to make the subject
of a communication. Recent events render it necessary,--in fact,
demand it.
It has been reported to me that all the negro troops stationed in
Memphis took an oath on their knees, in the presence of
Major-General Hurlbut and other officers of your army, to avenge
Fort Pillow, and that they would show my troops no quarter.
Again, I have it from indisputable authority that the troops
under Brigadier-General Sturgis, on their recent march from
Memphis, publicly and in various places proclaimed that no
quarter would be shown my men. As his troops were moved into
action on the eleventh, the officers commanding exhorted their
men to remember Fort Pillow, and a large majority of the
prisoners we have captured from that command have voluntarily
stated that they expected us to murder them, otherwise they would
have surrendered in a body rather than taken to the bushes after
being run down and exhausted. The recent battle of Tishemingo
Creek was far more bloody than it otherwise would have been but
for the fact that your men evidently expected to be slaughtered
when captured, and both sides acted as though neither felt safe
in surrendering even when further resistance was useless. The
prisoners captured by us say they felt condemned by the
announcements, etc., of their own commanders, and expected no
quarter. In all my operations since the war began, I have
conducted the war on civilized principles, and desire still to do
so, but it is due to my command that they should know the
position you occupy and the policy you intend to pursue. I
therefore respectfully ask whether my men in your hands are
treated as other Confederate prisoners, also the course intended
to be pursued in regard to those who may hereafter fall into your
hands.
I have in my possession quite a number of wounded officers and
men of General Sturgis's command, all of whom have been treated
as well as we have been able to treat them, and are mostly in
charge of a surgeon left at Ripley by General Sturgis to look
after the wounded. Some of them are too severely wounded to be
removed at present. I am willing to exchange them for any men of
my command you may have, and as soon as they are able to be
removed will give them safe escort through my lines in charge of
the surgeon left with them.
I made such an arrangement with Major-General Hurlbut when he was
in command of Memphis, and am willing to renew it, provided it is
desired, as it would be better than to subject them to the long
and fatiguing delay necessary to a regular exchange at City
Point, Virginia.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
N. B. FORREST, _Major-General_.
GENERAL WASHBURN TO GENERAL LEE.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF WEST TENNESSEE, }
MEMPHIS, TENN., June 17, 1864. }
Major-General S. D. LEE, _Commanding Confederate Forces near
Tupelo, Miss._:
GENERAL: When I heard that the forces of Brigadier-General
Sturgis had been driven back, and a portion of them probably
captured, I felt considerable solicitude for the fate of the two
colored regiments that formed a part of the command, until I was
informed that the Confederate forces were commanded by you. When
I learned that, I became satisfied that no atrocities would be
committed upon those troops, but that they would receive the
treatment which humanity as well as their gallant conduct
demanded.
I regret to say that the hope that I entertained has been
dispelled by facts which have recently come to my knowledge.
From statements that have been made to me by colored soldiers who
were eye-witnesses, it would seem that the massacre at Fort
Pillow had been reproduced at the late affair at Bryce's
Cross-roads. The detail of the atrocities there committed I will
not trouble you with. If true, and not disavowed, they must lead
to consequences too fearful to contemplate. It is best that we
should now have a fair understanding upon this question, of the
treatment of this class of soldiers. If it is contemplated by the
Confederate government to murder all colored troops that may by
chance of war fall into their hands, as was the case at Fort
Pillow, it is but fair that it should be freely and frankly
avowed. Within the last six weeks I have, on two occasions, sent
colored troops into the field from this point. In the expectation
that the Confederate government would disavow the action of their
commanding general at the Fort Pillow massacre, I have forborne
to issue any instructions to the colored troops as to the course
they should pursue toward Confederate soldiers. No disavowal on
the part of the Confederate government having been made, but, on
the contrary, laudations from the entire Southern press of the
perpetrators of the massacre, I may safely presume that
indiscriminate slaughter is to be the fate of colored troops that
fall into your hands. But I am not willing to leave a matter of
such grave import, and involving consequences so fearful, to
inference, and I have therefore thought it proper to address you
this, believing that you would be able to indicate the policy
that the Confederate government intend to pursue hereafter on
this question.
If it is intended to raise the black flag against that
unfortunate race, they will cheerfully accept the issue. Up to
this time no troops have fought more gallantly, and none have
conducted themselves with greater propriety. They have fully
vindicated their right (so long denied) to be treated as men.
I hope that I have been misinformed in regard to the treatment
they have received at the battle of Bryce's Cross-roads, and that
the accounts received result rather from the excited imaginations
of the fugitives than from actual fact.
For the government of the colored troops under my command, I
would thank you to inform me, with as little delay as possible,
if it is your intention, or the intention of the Confederate
government, to murder colored soldiers that may fall into your
hands, or treat them as prisoners of war, and subject to be
exchanged as other prisoners.
I am, General, respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. C. WASHBURN, _Major-General, Commanding_.
GENERAL WASHBURN TO GENERAL FORREST.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF WEST TENNESSEE, }
MEMPHIS, TENN., June 19, 1864. }
Major-General N. B. FORREST, _Commanding Confederate Forces:_
GENERAL: Your communication of the fourteenth instant is
received. The letter to Brigadier-General Buford will be
forwarded to him.
In regard to that part of your letter which relates to colored
troops, I beg to say that I have already sent a communication on
the subject to the officer in command of the Confederate forces
at Tupelo.
Having understood that Major-General S. D. Lee was in command
there, I directed my letter to him--a copy of it I enclose. You
say in your letter that it has been reported to you that all the
negro troops stationed in Memphis took an oath on their knees, in
the presence of Major-General Hurlbut, and other officers of our
army, to avenge Fort Pillow, and that they would show your troops
no quarter.
I believe it is true that the colored troops did take such an
oath, but not in the presence of General Hurlbut. From what I can
learn, this act of theirs was not influenced by any white
officer, but was the result of their own sense of what was due to
themselves and their fellows who had been mercilessly
slaughtered.
I have no doubt that they went into the field, as you allege, in
the full belief that they would be murdered in case they fell
into your hands. The affair at Fort Pillow fully justified that
belief. I am not aware as to what they proclaimed on their late
march, and it may be, as you say, that they declared that no
quarter would be given to any of your men that might fall into
their hands.
Your declaration that you have conducted the war, on all
occasions, on civilized principles, cannot be accepted; but I
receive with satisfaction the intimation in your letter that the
recent slaughter of colored troops at the battle of Tishemingo
Creek resulted rather from the desperation with which they fought
than a predetermined intention to give them no quarter.
You must have learned by this time that the attempt to intimidate
the colored troops by indiscriminate slaughter has signally
failed, and that, instead of a feeling of terror, you have
aroused a spirit of courage and desperation that will not down at
your bidding.
I am left in doubt, by your letter, as to the course you and the
Confederate government intend to pursue hereafter in regard to
colored troops, and I beg you to advise me, with as little delay
as possible, as to your intentions.
If you intend to treat such of them as fall into your hands as
prisoners of war, please so state; if you do not so intend, but
contemplate either their slaughter or their return to slavery,
please state _that_, so that we may have no misunderstanding
hereafter. If the former is your intention, I shall receive the
announcement with pleasure, and shall explain the fact to the
colored troops at once, and desire that they recall the oath they
have taken; if the _latter_ is the case, then let the oath stand,
and upon those who have aroused this spirit by their atrocities,
and upon the government and people who sanction it, be the
consequences.
In regard to your inquiry relating to prisoners of your command
in our hands, I have to state that they have always received the
treatment which a great and humane Government extends to its
prisoners. What course will be pursued hereafter toward them
must, of course, depend on circumstances that may arise. If your
command, hereafter, does nothing which should properly exclude
them from being treated as prisoners of war, they will be so
treated.
I thank you for your offer to exchange wounded officers and men
in your hands. If you will send them in, I will exchange man for
man, so far as I have the ability to do so.
Before closing this letter, I wish to call your attention to one
case of unparalleled outrage and murder that has been brought to
my notice, and in regard to which the evidence is overwhelming.
Among the prisoners captured at Fort Pillow was Major Bradford,
who had charge of the defence of the fort after the fall of Major
Booth.
After being taken prisoner, he was started with other prisoners
of war, in charge of Colonel Duckworth, for Jackson. At
Brownsville they rested over night. The following morning two
companies were detailed by Colonel Duckworth to proceed to
Jackson with the prisoners.
After they had started, and proceeded a very short distance, five
soldiers were recalled by Colonel Duckworth, and were conferred
with by him; they then rejoined the column, and after proceeding
about five miles from Brownsville the column was halted, and
Major Bradford taken about fifty yards from the roadside and
deliberately shot by the five men who had been recalled by
Colonel Duckworth, and his body left unburied upon the ground
where he fell.
He now lies buried near the spot, and, if you desire, you can
easily satisfy yourself of the truth of what I assert. I beg
leave to say to you that this transaction hardly justifies your
remark, that your operations have been conducted on civilized
principles, and until you take some steps to bring the
perpetrators of this outrage to justice, the world will not fail
to believe that it had your sanction.
I am, General, your obedient servant,
C. C. WASHBURN, _Major-General Commanding_.
GENERAL FORREST TO GENERAL WASHBURN.
HEADQUARTERS FORREST'S CAVALRY, }
TUPELO, MISS., June 20, 1864.}
Major-General C. C. WASHBURN, _Commanding U. S. Forces, Memphis,
Tenn_.
GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt (per flag of
truce) of your letter of the seventeenth instant, addressed to
Major-General S. D. Lee, or officer commanding Confederate forces
near Tupelo. I have forwarded it to General Lee, with a copy of
this letter.
I regard your letter as discourteous to the commanding officer of
this department, and grossly insulting to myself.
You seek by implied threats to intimidate him, and assume the
privilege of denouncing me as a murderer, and as guilty of the
wholesale slaughter of the garrison at Fort Pillow, and found
your assertion upon the _ex parte_ testimony of (your friends)
the enemies of myself and country. I shall not enter into the
discussion, therefore, of any of the questions involved, nor
undertake any refutation of the charges made by you against
myself; nevertheless, as a matter of personal privilege alone, I
unhesitatingly say that they are unfounded and unwarranted by the
facts. But whether those charges are true or false, they, with
the question you ask, as to whether negro troops, when captured,
will be recognized and treated as prisoners of war, subject to
exchange, etc., are matters which the governments of the United
States and Confederate States are to decide and adjust, not their
subordinate officers. I regard captured negroes as I do other
captured property, and not as captured soldiers; but as to how
regarded by my government, and the disposition which has been and
will hereafter be made of them, I respectfully refer you, through
the proper channel, to the authorities at Richmond. It is not the
policy or the interest of the South to destroy the negro; on the
contrary to preserve and protect him, and all who have
surrendered to us have received kind and humane treatment.
Since the war began I have captured many thousand Federal
prisoners, and they, including the survivors of the "Fort Pillow
Massacre," "black and white," are living witnesses of the fact
that with my knowledge or consent, or by my order, not one of
them has ever been insulted, or in any way maltreated.
You speak of your forbearance in not giving your negro troops
instructions and orders as to the course they should pursue in
regard to Confederate soldiers that might fall into their (your)
hands, which clearly conveys to my mind two very distinct
impressions. The first is, that in not giving them instructions
and orders, you have left the matter entirely to the discretion
of the negroes as to how they should dispose of prisoners.
Second, an implied threat to give such orders as will lead to
"consequences too fearful" for contemplation. In confirmation of
the correctness of the first impression (which your language now
fully develops), refer most respectfully to my letter from the
battle-field, Tishemingo Creek, and forwarded you by flag of
truce on the fourteenth instant. As to the second impression, you
seem disposed to take into your own hands the settlements which
belong to, and can only be settled by, your government; but if
you are prepared to take upon yourself the responsibility of
inaugurating a system of warfare contrary to civilized usages,
the onus as well as the consequences will be chargeable to
yourself.
Deprecating, as I should do, such a state of affairs; determined,
as I am, not to be instrumental in bringing it about; feeling and
knowing, as I do, that I have the approval of my government, my
people, and my conscience as to the past, and with the firm
belief that I will be sustained by them in my future policy, it
is left with you to determine what that policy shall be, whether
in accordance with the laws of civilised nations, or in violation
of them.
I am, General, yours, very respectfully,
N. B. FORREST, _Major-General_.
GENERAL FORREST TO GENERAL WASHBURN.
HEADQUARTERS FORREST'S CAVALRY, }
IN THE FIELD, June 23, 1864. }
Major-General C. C. WASHBURN, _Commanding District of West
Tennessee, Memphis, Tenn._:
Your communication of the nineteenth inst. is received, in which
you say "you are left in doubt as to the course the Confederate
government intends to pursue hereafter in regard to colored
troops."
Allow me to say that this is a subject upon which I did not and
do not propose to enlighten you. It is a matter to be settled by
our governments through their proper officers, and I respectfully
refer you to them for a solution of your doubts.
You ask me to state whether "I contemplate either their slaughter
or their return to slavery." I answer that I slaughter no man
except in open warfare, and that my prisoners, both white and
black, are turned over to my government to be dealt with as it
may direct. My government is in possession of all the facts as
regards my official conduct, and the operations of my command
since I entered the service, and if you desire a proper
discussion and decision, I refer you again to the President of
the Confederate States. I would not have you understand, however,
that in a matter of so much importance I am indisposed to place
at your command and disposal any facts desired, when applied for
in a manner becoming an officer holding your rank and position,
for it is certainly desirable to every one occupying a public
position to be placed right before the world, and there has been
no time since the capture of Fort Pillow, that I would not have
furnished all the facts connected with its capture, had they been
applied for properly, but now the matter rests with the two
governments. I have, however, for your information, enclosed you
copies of the official correspondence between the commanding
officers at Fort Pillow and myself; also copies of a statement of
Captain Young, the senior officer of that garrison, together with
(sufficient) extracts from a report of the affair by my A. D. C.,
Captain Chas. W. Anderson, which I approve and endorse as
correct.
As to the death of Major Bradford, I knew nothing of it until
eight or ten days after it is said to have occurred.
On the thirteenth (the day after the capture of Fort Pillow) I
went to Jackson, and the report I had of the affair was this:
Major Bradford was, with other officers, sent to the headquarters
of Colonel McCulloch, and all the prisoners were in charge of one
of McCulloch's regiments. Bradford requested the privilege of
attending the burial of his brother, which was granted, he giving
his parole of honor to return. Instead of returning, he changed
his clothing and started for Memphis. Some of my men were hunting
deserters, and came on Bradford just as he had landed on the
south bank of the Hatchie, and arrested him. When arrested, he
claimed to be a Confederate soldier belonging to Bragg's army;
that he had been on furlough, and was then on his way to join his
command.
As he could show no papers he was believed to be a deserter, and
was taken to Covington, and not until he was recognized and
spoken to by citizens did the guards know that he was Bradford.
He was sent by Colonel Duckworth, or taken by him, to
Brownsville.
All of Chalmers's command went from Brownsville, _via_ La Grange,
and as all the other prisoners had been gone some time, and there
was no chance for them to catch up and place Bradford with them,
he was ordered by Colonel Duckworth or General Chalmers to be
sent south to me at Jackson.
I knew nothing of the matter until eight or ten days afterwards I
heard that his body was found near Brownsville. I understand that
he attempted to escape and was shot. If he was improperly killed,
nothing would afford me more pleasure than to punish the
perpetrators to the full extent of the law, and to show you how I
regard such transactions.
I can refer you to my demand on Major-General Hurlbut (no doubt
upon file in your office) for the delivery to Confederate
authorities of one Colonel Fielding Hurst and others of his
regiment, who deliberately took out and killed seven Confederate
soldiers, one of whom they left to die after cutting off his
tongue, punching out his eyes, splitting his mouth on each side
to his ears, and cutting off his privates. I have mentioned and
given you these facts in order that you may have no further
excuse or apology for referring to these matters in connection
with myself, and to evince to you my determination to do all in
my power to avoid the responsibility of causing the adoption of
the policy which you have determined to press. In your letter you
acknowledge the fact that the negro troops did take an oath on
bended knees to show no quarters to my men, and you say further
"you have no doubt they went to the battle-field expecting to be
slaughtered," and admit, also, the probability of their having
proclaimed on their march that no quarter would be shown us. Such
being the case, why do you ask for the disavowal on the part of
the commanding general of this department of the government, in
regard to the loss of life at Tishemingo Creek? That your troops
expected to be slaughtered, appears to me, after the oath they
took, to be a very reasonable and natural expectation. Yet you
who sent them out, knowing and now admitting that they had sworn
to such a policy, are complaining of atrocities, and demanding
acknowledgments and disavowals on the part of the very men you
sent forth sworn to slay whenever in your power.
I will, in all candor and truth, say to you that I had only heard
these things, but did not believe them; indeed, did not attach to
them the importance they deserved, nor did I know of the
threatened vengeance as proclaimed along the line of march until
the contest was over. Had I and my men known it, as you admit it,
the battle of Tishemingo Creek would have been noted as the
bloodiest battle of the war. That you sanctioned this policy is
plain, for you say now "that if the negro is treated as a
prisoner of war, you will receive with pleasure the announcement,
and will explain the facts to your colored troops, and _desire_
(not _order_) that they recall the oath; but if they are to be
either slaughtered or returned to slavery, let the oath stand."
Your rank forbids a doubt as to the fact that you and every
officer and man of your department are identified with the policy
and responsible for it, and I shall not permit you,
notwithstanding by your studied language in both your
communications you seek to limit the operations of your unholy
scheme, and visit its terrible consequences alone upon that
ignorant, deluded, but unfortunate people, the negroes, whose
destruction you are planning in order to accomplish ours. The
negroes have our sympathy, and, so far as consistent with safety,
we will spare them at the expense of those who are alone
responsible for the inauguration of a worse than savage warfare.
Now, in conclusion, I demand a plain and unqualified answer to
two questions, and then I have done with further correspondence
with you on this subject. This matter must be settled. In battle
and on the battle-field do you intend to slaughter my men who
fall into your hands? If you do not intend so to do, will they be
treated as prisoners of war?
I have over two thousand of Sturgis's command prisoners, and will
hold every officer and private hostage until I receive your
declarations, and am satisfied that you carry out in good faith
the answers you make, and until I am assured that no Confederate
soldier has been foully dealt with from the day of the battle of
Tishemingo Creek to this time. It is not yet too late for you to
retrace your steps and arrest the storm.
Relying, as I do, upon that Divine power which in wisdom disposes
of all things; relying also upon the support and approval of my
government and countrymen, and the unflinching bravery and
endurance of my troops; and with a consciousness that I have done
nothing to produce, but all in my power, consistent with honor
and the personal safety of myself and command, to prevent it, I
leave with you the responsibility of bringing about, to use your
own language, "a state of affairs too fearful to contemplate."
I am, General, yours, very respectfully,
N. B. FORREST, _Major-General_.
OFFICIAL MEMORANDA.
CAHABA HOSPITAL, CAHABA, ALABAMA, }
May 11, 1864. }
Colonel H. C. DAVIS, _Commanding Post Cahaba_:
COLONEL: I herewith transmit you, as near as my memory serves me,
according to promise, the demand made by Major-General Forrest,
C. S. A., for the surrender of Fort Pillow, Tennessee.
Major BOOTH, _Commanding U. S. Forces, Fort Pillow, Tennessee_:
I have force sufficient to take your works by assault. I
therefore demand an unconditional surrender of all your forces.
Your heroic defence will entitle you to be treated as prisoners
of war, but the surrender must be unconditional. I await your
answer.
FORREST, _Major-General, Commanding_.
HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, )
FORT PILLOW, TENNESSEE, April 12, 1864.)
Major-General FORREST, _Commanding Confederate Forces_:
GENERAL: Your demand for the surrender of United States forces
under my command received. I ask one hour for consultation with
my officers and the commander of gunboat No. 7, at this place. I
have the honor to be
Your obedient servant,
L. F. BOOTH,
_Major, Commanding U. S. Forces, Fort Pillow_.
Major L. F. BOOTH, _Commanding United States Forces_:
I do not demand the surrender of the gunboat No. 7. I ask only
for the surrender of Fort Pillow, with men and munitions of war.
You have twenty minutes for consideration. At the expiration of
that time, if you do not capitulate, I will assault your works.
Your obedient servant,
FORREST, _Major-General, Commanding_.
HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, }
FORT PILLOW, TENNESSEE, April 12, 1864.}
Major-General FORREST, _Commanding Confederate Forces_:
GENERAL: Your second demand for the surrender of my forces is
received. Your demand will not be complied with.
Your obedient servant,
L. F. BOOTH, Major,
_Commanding U. S. Forces, Fort Pillow_.
I give you the above for your own satisfaction from memory. I
think it is true in substance. My present condition would
preclude the idea of this being an official statement.
I am, Colonel, your obedient servant,
JOHN T. YOUNG,
_Captain, Company A, Twenty-fourth Mo. Inf. Vols_.
CAPTAIN J. T. YOUNG TO MAJOR-GENERAL FORREST.
CAHABA, ALABAMA, May 19, 1864.
Major-General FORREST, _C. S. A._:
GENERAL: Your request, made through Judge P. T. Scroggs, that I
should make a statement of the treatment of the Federal dead and
wounded at Fort Pillow, has been made known to me. Details from
Federal prisoners were made to collect the dead and wounded. The
dead were buried by their surviving comrades. I saw no ill
treatment of their wounded on the evening of the battle, or next
morning. My friend, Lieutenant Leaming, Adjutant Thirteenth
Tennessee Cavalry, was left wounded in the sutler's store near
the fort, also a lieutenant Sixth U. S. Artillery; both were
alive next morning, and sent on board U. S. transport, among many
other wounded. Among the wounded were some colored troops--I
don't know how many.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. T. YOUNG, _Captain, Twenty-fourth Missouri Volunteers_.
P. S.--I have examined a report said to be made by Captain
Anderson (of) A. D. C. to Major-General Forrest, appendix to
General Forrest's report, in regard to making disposition of
Federal wounded left on the field at Fort Pillow, and think it is
correct. I accompanied Captain Anderson, on the day succeeding
the battle, to Fort Pillow, for the purpose above mentioned.
JOHN T. YOUNG, _Captain, Twenty-fourth Missouri Volunteers_.
A true copy.
SAMUEL DONALSON, Lieutenant and _A. D. C._
Official,
HENRY B. LEE, _A.D.C._
GENERAL WASHBURN TO GENERAL FORREST.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF WEST TENNESSEE, }
MEMPHIS, TENN., July 2, 1864. }
Major-General N. B. FORREST, _Commanding Confederate Forces, near
Tupelo_:
GENERAL: Your communications of the twentieth and twenty-third
ult. are received. Of the tone and temper of both I do not
complain. The desperate fortunes of a bad cause excuse much
irritation of temper, and I pass it by. Indeed, I received it as
a favorable augury, and as evidence that you are not indifferent
to the opinions of the civilized world.
In regard to the Fort Pillow affair, it is useless to prolong the
discussion.
I shall forward your report, which you did me the favor to
enclose, to my government, and you will receive the full benefit
of it.
The record is now made up, and a candid world will judge of it. I
beg leave to send you herewith a copy of the report of the
Investigating Committee from the United States Congress on the
affair. In regard to the treatment of Major Bradford, I refer you
to the testimony contained in that report, from which you will
see that he was not attempting to escape when shot. It will be
easy to bring the perpetrators of the outrage to justice if you
so desire.
I will add to what I have heretofore said, that I have it from
responsible and truthful citizens of Brownsville, that when Major
Bradford was started under an escort from your headquarters at
Jackson, General Chalmers remarked that "he would never reach
there."
You call attention, apparently as an offset to this affair of
Major Bradford, to outrages said to have been committed by
Colonel Fielding Hurst and others of his regiment (Sixth
Tennessee Cavalry). The outrages, if committed as stated by you,
are disgraceful and abhorrent to every brave and sensitive mind.
On receiving your letter I sent at once for Colonel Hurst, and
read him the extract pertaining to him. He indignantly denies the
charge against him, and until you furnish me the names of the
parties murdered, and the time when, and the place where, the
offence was committed, with the names of witnesses, it is
impossible for me to act. When you do that, you may rest assured
that I shall use every effort in my power to have the parties
accused tried, and if found guilty, properly punished.
In regard to the treatment of colored soldiers, it is evidently
useless to discuss the question further.
Your attempt to shift from yourself upon me the responsibility of
the inauguration of a "worse than savage warfare," is too
strained and far-fetched to require any response. The full and
cumulative evidence contained in the Congressional Report I
herewith forward, points to _you_ as the person responsible for
the barbarisms already committed.
It was _your_ soldiers who, at Fort Pillow, raised the black
flag, and while shooting, bayoneting, and otherwise maltreating
the Federal prisoners in their hands, shouted to each other in
the hearing of their victims that it was done by "Forrest's
orders."
Thus far I cannot learn that you have made any disavowal of these
barbarities.
Your letters to me inform me confidently that you have always
treated our prisoners according to the rules of civilized
warfare, but your disavowal of the Fort Pillow barbarities, if
you intend to make any, should be full, clear, explicit, and
published to the world.
The United States Government is, as it always has been, lenient
and forbearing, and it is not yet too late for you to secure for
yourself and your soldiers a continuance of the treatment due to
honorable warriors, by a public disclaimer of barbarities already
committed, and a vigorous effort to punish the wretches who
committed them.
But I say to you now, clearly and unequivocally, that such
measure of treatment as you mete out to Federal soldiers will be
measured to you again.
If you give no quarter, you need expect none. If you observe the
rules of civilized warfare, and treat our prisoners in accordance
with the laws of war, your prisoners will be treated, as they
ever have been, with kindness.
If you depart from these principles, you may expect such
retaliation as the laws of war justify.
That you may know what the laws of war are, as understood by my
Government, I beg leave to enclose a copy of General Orders No.
100 from the War Department Adjutant-General's Office,
Washington, April twenty-four, 1863.
I have the honor to be, sir,
Very respectfully yours,
C. C. WASHBURN, _Major-General_.
GENERAL LEE TO GENERAL WASHBURN.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT ALABAMA, MISSISSIPPI, AND }
EAST LOUISIANA, MERIDIAN, June 28, 1864. }
Major-General C. C. WASHBURN, _Commanding Federal Forces at
Memphis, Tennessee_:
GENERAL: I am in receipt of your letter of the seventeenth inst.,
and have also before me the reply of Major-General Forrest
thereto. Though that reply is full, and approved by me, yet I
deem it proper to communicate with you upon a subject so
seriously affecting our future conduct and that of the troops
under our respective commands.
Your communication is by no means respectful to me, and is by
implication insulting to Major-General Forrest. This, however, is
overlooked in consideration of the important character of its
contents.
You assume as correct an exaggerated statement of the
circumstances attending the capture of Fort Pillow, relying
solely upon the evidence of those who would naturally give a
distorted history of the affair.
No demand for an explanation has ever been made either by
yourself or your government, a course which would certainly
recommend itself to every one desirous of hearing truth; but, on
the contrary, you seem to have been perfectly willing to allow
your soldiers to labor under false impressions upon a subject
involving such terrible consequences. Even the formality of
parades and oaths have been resorted to for the purpose of
inciting your colored troops to the perpetration of deeds which,
you say, "will lead to consequences too fearful to contemplate."
As commanding officer of this Department I desire to make the
following statement concerning the capture of Fort Pillow--a
statement supported in a great measure by the evidence of one of
your own officers captured at that place.
The version given by you and your government is untrue, and not
sustained by the facts to the extent that you indicate.
The garrison was summoned in the usual manner, and its commanding
officer assumed the responsibility of refusing to surrender after
having been informed by General Forrest of his ability to take
the fort, and of his fears as to what the result would be in case
the demand was not complied with.
The assault was made under a heavy fire, and with considerable
loss to the attacking party.
Your colors were never lowered, but retreated from the fort to
the cover of the gunboats, with arms in their hands, and
constantly using them.
This was true, particularly of your colored troops, who had been
firmly convinced by your teachings of the certainty of their
slaughter in case of capture. Even under these circumstances many
of your men--white and black--were taken prisoners.
I respectfully refer you to history for numerous cases of
indiscriminate slaughter, even under less aggravated
circumstances.
It is generally conceded by all military precedents that where
the issue has been fairly presented, and the ability displayed,
fearful results are expected to follow a refusal to surrender.
The case under consideration is almost an extreme one.
You had a servile race armed against their masters, and in a
country which had been desolated by almost unprecedented
outrages.
I assert that our officers, with all these circumstances against
them, endeavored to prevent the effusion of blood; and, as
evidence of this, I refer you to the fact that both white and
colored prisoners were taken, and are now in our hands.
As regards the battle of Tishemingo Creek, the statements of your
negro witnesses are not to be relied on. In this panic they acted
as might have been expected from their previous impressions. I do
not think many of them were killed--they are yet wandering over
the country, attempting to return to their masters.
With reference to the status of those captured at Tishemingo
Creek and Fort Pillow, I will state that, unless otherwise
ordered by my government, they will not be regarded as prisoners
of war, but will be retained and humanely treated, subject to
such future instructions as may be indicated.
Your letter contains many implied threats; these you can of
course make, and you are fully entitled to any satisfaction that
you may feel from having made them.
It is my intention, and that also of my subordinates, to conduct
this war upon civilized principles, provided you permit us to do
so; and I take this occasion to state that we will not shrink
from any responsibilities that your actions may force upon us.
We are engaged in a struggle for the protection of our homes and
firesides, for the maintenance of our national existence and
liberty; we have counted the cost and are prepared to go to any
extremes; and although it is far from our wish to fight under the
"black flag," still, if you drive us to it, we will accept the
issue.
Your troops virtually fought under it at the battle of Tishemingo
Creek, and the prisoners taken there state that they went into
battle with the impression that they were to receive no quarter,
and I suppose with the determination to give none.
I will further remark that if it is raised, so far as your
soldiers are concerned, there can be no distinction, for the
unfortunate people whom you pretend to be aiding are not
considered entirely responsible for their acts, influenced as
they are by the superior intellect of their white brothers.
I enclose for your consideration certain papers touching the Fort
Pillow affair, which were procured from the writer after the
exaggerated statements of your press were seen.
I am, General, very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
S. D. LEE, _Lieutenant-General, Commanding_.
ENCLOSURE IN THE FOREGOING.
CAHABA, ALABAMA, May 16, 1864.
I was one of the bearers of the flag of truce, on the part of the
United States authorities, at Fort Pillow. A majority of the
officers of the garrison doubted whether General Forrest was
present, and had the impression that it was a ruse to induce the
surrender of the fort. At the second meeting of the flag of
truce, General Forrest announced himself as being General
Forrest; but the officers who accompanied the flag, being
unacquainted with the General, doubted his word, and it was the
opinion of the garrison, at the time of the assault, that General
Forrest was not in the vicinity of the fort. The commanding
officer refused to surrender. When the final assault was made, I
was captured at my post, inside the works, and have been treated
as a prisoner of war.
JOHN T. YOUNG,
_Captain, Twenty-fourth Missouri Volunteers_.
F. W. UNDERHILL, _First Lieutenant, Cavalry_.
GENERAL WASHBURN TO GENERAL LEE.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF WEST TENNESSEE, }
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE, July 3, 1864. }
Lieutenant-General S. D. LEE, _Commanding Department Alabama,
Mississippi and East Louisiana, C. S. A., Meridian, Miss.:_
GENERAL: Your letter of the twenty-eighth ult., in reply to mine
of the seventeenth ult., is received.
The discourtesy which you profess to discover in my letter I
utterly disclaim. Having already discussed at length, in a
correspondence with Major-General Forrest, the Fort Pillow
massacre, as well as the policy to be pursued in regard to
colored troops, I do not regard it necessary to say more on those
subjects. As you state that you fully approve of the letter sent
by General Forrest to me, in answer to mine of the seventeenth
ult., I am forced to presume that you fully approve of his action
at Fort Pillow.
Your arguments in support of that action confirm such
presumption. You state that the "version given by me and my
government is not true, and not sustained by the facts to the
extent I indicate." You furnish a statement of a certain Captain
Young, who was captured at Fort Pillow, and is now a prisoner in
your hands. How far the statement of a prisoner under duress and
in the position of Captain Young should go to disprove the sworn
testimony of the hundred eye-witnesses who had ample opportunity
of seeing and knowing, I am willing that others shall judge.
In relying, as you do, upon this certificate of Captain Young,
you confess that all better resources are at an end.
You are welcome to all the relief that that certificate is
calculated to give you. Does he say that our soldiers were not
inhumanly treated? No. Does he say that he was in a position to
see in case they had been mistreated? No. He simply says that "he
saw no ill-treatment of their wounded." If he was in a position
to see and know what took place, it was easy for him to say so.
I yesterday sent to Major-General Forrest a copy of the report of
the Congressional Investigating Committee, and I hope it may fall
into your hands. You will find there the record of inhuman
atrocities, to find a parallel for which you will search the page
of history in vain. Men--white men and black men--were crucified
and burned; others were hunted by bloodhounds; while others, in
their anguish, were made the sport of men more cruel than the
dogs by which they were hunted.
I have also sent to my government copies of General Forrest's
reports, together with the certificate of Captain Young.
The record in the case is plainly made up, and I leave it. You
justify and approve it, and appeal to history for precedents.
As I have said, history furnishes no parallel. True, there are
instances where, after a long and protracted resistance,
resulting in heavy loss to the assailing party, the garrison has
been put to the sword, but I know of no such instance that did
not bring dishonor upon the commander that ordered or suffered
it.
There is no Englishman that would not gladly forget Badajos, nor
a Frenchman that exults when Jaffa or the Caves of Dahra and
Shelas are spoken of. The massacre of Glencoe, which the world
has read of with horror, for nearly two hundred years, pales into
insignificance before the truthful recital of Fort Pillow.
The desperate defence of the Alamo was the excuse for the
slaughter of its brave survivors after its surrender, yet that
act was received with just execration, and we are told by the
historian that it led more than anything else to the independence
of Texas.
At the battle of San Jacinto the Texans rushed into action with
the war-cry, "Remember the Alamo," and carried all before them.
You will seek in vain for consultation in history, pursue the
inquiry as far as you may.
Your desire to shift the responsibility of the Fort Pillow
massacre, or to find excuses for it, is not strange. But the
responsibility still remains where it belongs, and there it will
remain.
In my last letter to General Forrest I stated that the treatment
which Federal soldiers received would be their guide hereafter,
and that if you give no quarter you need expect none. If you
observe the rules of civilized warfare I shall rejoice at it, as
no one can regret more than myself a resort to such measures as
the laws of war justify towards an enemy that gives no quarter.
Your remark that our colored soldiers "will not be regarded as
prisoners of war, but will be retained and humanely treated,"
indicating that you consider them as of more worth and importance
than your own soldiers who are now in our hands, is certainly
very complimentary to the colored troops, though but a tardy
acknowledgment of their bravery and devotion as soldiers; but
such fair words can neither do justice to the colored soldiers
who were butchered at Fort Pillow after they had surrendered to
their victors, nor relieve yourself, General Forrest, and the
troops serving under you, from the fearful responsibility now
resting upon you for those wanton and unparalleled barbarities.
I concur in your remarks that if the black flag is once raised,
there can be no distinction so far as our soldiers are concerned.
No distinction in this regard as to color is known to the laws of
war, and you may rest assured that the outrages we complain of
are felt by our white soldiers, no less than by our black ones,
as insults to their common banner, the flag of the United States.
I will close by a reference to your statement that many of our
colored soldiers "are yet wandering over the country attempting
to return to their masters." If this remark is intended for a
joke, it is acknowledged as a good one; but, if stated as a fact,
permit me to correct your misapprehensions by informing you that
most of them have returned to their respective commands, their
search for their late "masters" having proved bootless; and I
think I do not exaggerate in assuring you that there is not a
colored soldier here who does not prefer the fate of his comrades
at Fort Pillow to being returned to his "master."
I remain, General,
Yours, very respectfully,
C. C. WASHBURN, _Major-General_.
CAPTAIN J. T. YOUNG TO GENERAL WASHBURN.
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE, September 13, 1864.
Major-General C. C. WASHBURN, Commanding District West Tennessee:
GENERAL: I have the honor to address you in regard to certain
papers forwarded you by Major-General Forrest, of the so-called
Confederate army, signed by me under protest, whilst a prisoner
of war at Cahaba, Alabama. I would first call your attention to
the manner by which these papers were procured. About
twenty-seventh April last, all Federal prisoners (except colored
soldiers) were sent to Andersonville and Macon, Georgia, myself
among the number. About ten days after my arrival at Macon
prison, a Confederate captain, with two men as guard, came to
that prison with an order for me to return to Cahaba. I appealed
to the officer in command to know why I was taken from the other
officers, but received no explanation. Many of my friends among
the Federal officers who had been prisoners longer than myself
felt uneasy at the proceedings, and advised me to make my escape
going back, as it was likely a subject of retaliation.
Consequently I felt considerable uneasiness of mind. On returning
to Cahaba, being quite unwell, I was placed in hospital, under
guard, with still no explanation from the military authorities.
On the day following, I was informed by a sick Federal officer,
also in hospital, that he had learned that I had been recognized
by some Confederate as a deserter from the Confederate army, and
that I was to be court-martialed and shot. The colored waiters
about the hospital told me the same thing, and although I knew
that the muster-rolls of my country would show that I had been in
the volunteer service since first May, 1861, I still felt uneasy,
having fresh in my mind Fort Pillow, and the summary manner the
Confederate officers have of disposing of men on some occasions.
With the above impressions on my mind, about three days after my
return to Cahaba I was sent for by the Provost Marshal, and
certain papers handed me, made out by General Forrest for my
signature. Looking over the papers, I found that signing them
would be an endorsement of General Forrest's official report of
the Fort Pillow affair. I of course returned the papers,
positively refusing to have anything to do with them. I was sent
for again the same day, with request to sign other papers of the
same tendency, but modified. I again refused to sign the papers,
but sent General Forrest a statement, that although I considered
some of the versions of the Fort Pillow affair, which I had read
in their own papers, said to be copied from Federal papers,
exaggerated, I also thought that his own official report was
equally so in some particulars.
Here the matter rested about one week, when I was sent for by
Colonel H. C. Davis, commander of post at Cahaba, who informed me
that General Forrest had sent P. T. Scroggs to see me, and have a
talk with me about the Fort Pillow fight; I found the judge very
affable and rather disposed to flatter me; he said that General
Forrest thought that I was a gentleman and a soldier, and that
the General had sent him (the judge) down to see me and talk to
me about the Fort Pillow fight; he then went on to tell over a
great many things that were testified to before the Military
Commission, which I was perfectly ignorant of, never having seen
the testimony. He then produced papers which General Forrest
wished me to sign. Upon examination, I found them about the same
as those previously shown me, and refused again to sign them, but
the Judge was very importunate, and finally prevailed on me to
sign the papers you have in your possession, pledging himself
that if I wished it they should only be seen by General Forrest
himself, that they were not intended to be used by him as
testimony, but merely for his own satisfaction.
I hope, General, that these papers signed by me, or rather
extorted from me while under duress, will not be used by my
government to my disparagement, for my only wish is now, after
three years' service and over, to recruit my health, which has
suffered badly by imprisonment, and _go in for the war_.
I have the honor to be, General,
Your obedient servant,
JOHN T. YOUNG,
_Captain, Company A, Twenty-fourth Mo. Inf._[144]
It should not be forgotten that the material part of Gen. Forrest's
defence was extorted from Capt. John T. Young, an officer in the Union
forces at Fort Pillow. He was sick and a prisoner in the hands of the
rebels; and while in this condition he was compelled to sign the
papers given above, which had been made out by Forrest himself. The
last letter of the correspondence shows that Capt. Young did not want
the papers used by the United States Government, because they were not
true. Moreover, the despatches of Forrest to Major Bradford make no
mention of retaliation. The despatches above are not true copies. For
instance, he demanded the surrender of Paducah on the 25th of March,
1864, just before he took Fort Pillow, and this was his despatch:
H'DQU'RS FORREST'S CAVALRY CORPS, }
PADUCAH, March 23, 1864 }
To Col. HICKS, _Commanding Federal Forces at Paducah_:
Having a force amply sufficient to carry your works and reduce
the place, in order to avoid the unnecessary effusion of blood, I
demand the surrender of the fort and troops, with all the public
stores. If you surrender, you shall be treated as prisoners of
war; but, _if I have to storm your works, you may expect no
quarter_.
N. B. FORREST, _Maj.-Gen. Com'ding_.
And on the 19th of April, 1864, the next day after the massacre at
Fort Pillow, Gen. Abe Buford demanded the surrender of Columbus,
Kentucky, in the following despatch:
_To the Commander of the United States Forces, Columbus. Ky.:_
Fully capable of taking Columbus and its garrison by force, I
desire to avoid shedding blood. I therefore demand the
unconditional surrender of the forces under your command. Should
you surrender, the negroes now in arms will be returned to their
masters. Should I be compelled to take the place by force, no
quarter will be shown negro troops whatever; white troops will be
treated as prisoners of war.
I am, sir, yours,
A. BUFORD, _Brig.-Gen._
Now, as both Bradford and Booth were dead, it was impossible to learn
just what language was used by Forrest in the despatches he sent them.
But from the testimony given above, the explanation of Capt. Young and
the language of the two despatches just quoted, addressed to the
commander of the Union forces at Paducah and Columbus, Kentucky,
history has made out a case against Gen. Forrest that no human being
would covet.
FOOTNOTES:
[144] Rebellion Records, vol. x. pp. 721-730.
Part 8.
_THE FIRST DECADE OF FREEDOM._
CHAPTER XXII.
AN EDUCATED AFRICAN.
Daniel Flickinger Wilberforce, a native African, and educated in
America, presents a striking illustration of the capabilities of the
Negro. He was born a pagan, and when brought in contact with the
institutions of civilization he outstripped those whose earlier life
had been impressed with the advantages of such surroundings. There was
nothing in his blood, or in his early rearing, to develop him. He came
from darkness himself as well as by his ancestry. Rev. Daniel K.
Flickinger, D.D., has been secretary of the Home Frontier and Foreign
Missionary Society for the past twenty-five years. He was the
companion in Africa of George Thompson, and on one of his trips had a
short association with Livingstone. Dr. Flickinger aided in
establishing the United Brethren Mission on the Western Coast of
Africa, and has had his heart in it for a quarter of a century. During
that time he has made six trips to Africa to look after this mission;
returning from his last voyage in May, 1881. He has studied those
people and found them apt in the schools as well as in the acquiring
of American customs in tilling the soil and in the trades. During Dr.
Flickinger's first visit to Africa in 1855, while at Good Hope
Station, Mendi Mission, located on the eastern banks of Sherbro
Island, latitude 7° north, and longitude 18° west, he employed a
native to watch over him at night as he slept in his hammock, there
being wild and dangerous tribes in the vicinity. To that man in that
time was born a child. The father came to the missionaries the next
day to tell them that his wife "done born picin" and wanted them to
give it a name. Mr. Burton, the missionary in charge, suggested that
of Daniel Flickinger, and it was taken. The missionaries had performed
the usual marriage ceremony for as many as came within their reach,
and broken up the former heathen customs in their immediate vicinity
as far as possible, and this man was duly married. He took as his last
name that of Wilberforce after the English philanthropist, who was
dear to all Colored people, and from that time on this native and his
family became attached to the mission, and were known by the name of
Wilberforce. This man had children born in heathendom and under quite
different circumstances.
Dr. Flickinger soon afterward sailed for America, and soon forgot that
he had a namesake on the distant shore. He made other trips across the
water, but failed to come in contact with the Wilberforce family.
Sixteen years afterward, in 1871, he was in New York City shipping
goods to the African missionaries. The boxes, labelled "Daniel K.
Flickinger," were being loaded and unloaded at the American Mission
Rooms in that city, and the doctor noticed that the colored porter boy
was about half wild over something. He asked him if there was any
thing wrong, but got no reply. The young porter kept rolling his eyes
and acting half scared at the name on those boxes, and finally the
doctor asked him his name, to which there came the prompt reply,
Daniel Flickinger Wilberforce! In his travels of a lifetime the
missionary had often been surprised, but this bewildered him. A
thunder-bolt could not have shocked him more. Then the two stood
gazing at each other in perfect amazement, and neither able to tell
how their names came to be so near alike. The boxes were forgotten.
The boy soon had his relief and began laughing as few others could
laugh, while the doctor was still unable to see through the mystery.
He gave the young fellow two shillings and told him to proceed with
the boxes. The doctor then began an investigation about the Mission
Rooms, and found that this boy, just a short time before that, had
been brought over on a merchant vessel to care for an invalid
missionary lady during the voyage, that he had served a short time as
bell-boy at a hotel, and that they had employed him in the Mission
Rooms, but had promised to send him back on the next sail vessel. The
doctor got his location in Africa and a complete chain of
circumstances such as to convince him that this was the boy that was
named after him in 1855. He told the authorities at the American
Mission Rooms, to write to Africa and say that Dan. was well cared for
over here, and for them to keep him till further advised. As soon as
the doctor made his shipments to the missionaries he returned to
Dayton and asked the Executive Committee of his Board if they would
assist him in educating this African who had turned up in such a
romantic manner. Consent was given, and young Wilberforce was shipped
to Dayton. He was brought into Dr. Flickinger's office with the tag of
an express company attached to his clothes--young, green, and, in
fact, a raw recruit to the ranks of civilization. Seven years after
that he bid adieu to his friends in that same office, to return to his
people in Africa as a teacher, preacher, and physician. He was then
one of the finest scholars of his age in this country. When he arrived
at Dayton he of course had to have a private tutor. He was sixteen
years old and had to start with the rudiments, but he was, at the
beginning of the next school year, able to join classes on which he
doubled right along. It requires a course of eight years to reach the
High School, but in less than four years after his arrival in Dayton
he passed the examination for admission to the High School of Dayton,
Ohio, and was the first Colored pupil ever admitted to that school.
Since then, other Colored pupils have annually been following his
example. The course in the High School was four years, and the Board
and teachers were very particularly averse to gaining time. Owing to
Wilberforce's great aptness, that allowed him to go ahead of his
class, he gained one year then and there, and took the honors of the
class that started one year ahead of him. There were twenty-three
members of that class. The Commencement was in the Opera-house at
Dayton in 1878, and on that occasion the President of the Board said,
without discredit to any others, he felt called upon to make special
mention of young Wilberforce, which he did in a handsome manner. This
was not all; the Missionary Society wanted to send Wilberforce to
Africa in September of that year, and as he went along they had him at
other studies. He had become an excellent musician, both vocal and
instrumental. He had been studying theology and read Hebrew well. He
had also taken a course of reading in medicine, so that he might be of
service to the bodies as well as the souls of his brethren.
Marvellous as it may seem, all of this was done in so short a time,
and from a state of savage life up to civilized life; still it is
true. And, besides, Wilberforce had been a reader of history and
general literature, and was a writer of unusual merit. His progress
has always and always will seem incredible, even to those who had
personal knowledge of him during the time that he had this experience
of seven years. He had a remarkable mind, was born a heathen, had no
youthful advantages, and is to-day one of the best-informed and most
thoroughly cultivated thinkers of his age. When he left Dayton in the
summer of 1878, he was greatly missed. At the Colored United Brethren
Church he was janitor, leader of a choir, organist, superintendent of
the Sunday-school, and class leader, and when the pastor failed,
Wilberforce also did the preaching. He was never proud. In the humble
capacity of janitor he took excellent care of Dr. Flickinger's office,
and was willing and ready to do anything. He was modest socially, but
a favorite among his classmates, and not only respected but admired by
all. He married a Dayton girl before he left for Africa, and has
remained abroad since 1878, but he expects at no distant time to
return to America to complete his professional studies. He belonged to
the Sherbro tribe or people, and with them he is now laboring.
* * * * *
LAFAYETTE'S PLAN OF COLONIZATION.
Now, my dear General, that you are about to enjoy some repose,
permit me to propose to you a scheme which may prove of great
benefit to the black part of the human race. Let us unite in the
purchase of a small estate, where we can attempt to free the
negroes and employ them simply as farm laborers. Such an example
set by you might be generally followed, and should we succeed in
America I shall gladly consecrate a part of my time to
introducing the custom into the Antilles. If this be a crude idea
I prefer to be considered a fool in this way rather than be
thought wise by an opposite conduct.[145]
5th February, 1783.
* * * * *
THE RESULTS OF EMANCIPATION.
As an evidence of the growing confidence in the eagerness for and
capacity of the Negro to become an educated citizen, the handsome
bequest of John F. Slater, Esq., for the education of the race stands
forth as a conspicuous example. The Negroes of the South have
acknowledged this munificent gift with that graceful gratitude so
strikingly characteristic of them.
DRAFT OF AN ACT TO INCORPORATE THE TRUSTEES OF THE JOHN F. SLATER
FUND.
_Whereas_, Messrs. RUTHERFORD B. HAYES, of Ohio; MORRISON R.
WAITE, of the District of Columbia; WILLIAM E. DODGE, of New
York; PHILLIPS BROOKS, of Massachusetts; DANIEL C. GILMAN, of
Maryland; JOHN A. STEWART, of New York; ALFRED H. COLQUITT, of
Georgia; MORRIS K. JESUP, of New York; JAMES P. BOYCE, of
Kentucky; and WILLIAM A. SLATER, of Connecticut, have, by their
memorial, represented to the Senate and Assembly of this State
that a letter has been received by them from JOHN F. SLATER, of
Norwich, in the State of Connecticut, of which the following is a
copy:
To Messrs. RUTHERFORD B. HAYES, of Ohio; MORRISON R. WAITE,
of the District of Columbia; WILLIAM E. DODGE, of New York;
PHILLIPS BROOKS, of Massachusetts; DANIEL C. GILMAN, of
Maryland; JOHN A. STEWART, of New York; ALFRED H. COLQUITT,
of Georgia; MORRIS K. JESUP, of New York; JAMES P. BOYCE, of
Kentucky; and WILLIAM A. SLATER, of Connecticut:
GENTLEMEN.--It has pleased God to grant me prosperity in my
business, and to put it into my power to apply to charitable
uses a sum of money so considerable as to require the
counsel of wise men for the administration of it.
It is my desire at this time to appropriate to such uses the
sum of one million of dollars ($1,000,000 00); and I hereby
invite you to procure a charter of incorporation under which
a charitable fund may be held exempt from taxation, and
under which you shall organize; and I intend that the
corporation, as soon as formed, shall receive this sum in
trust to apply the income of it according to the
instructions contained in this letter.
The general object which I desire to have exclusively
pursued, is the uplifting of the lately emancipated
population of the Southern States, and their posterity, by
conferring on them the blessings of Christian education. The
disabilities formerly suffered by these people, and their
singular patience and fidelity in the great crisis of the
nation, establish a just claim on the sympathy and good will
of humane and patriotic men. I cannot but feel the
compassion that is due in view of their prevailing ignorance
which exists by no fault of their own.
But it is not only for their own sake, but also for the
safety of our common country, in which they have been
invested with equal political rights, that I am desirous to
aid in providing them with the means of such education as
shall tend to make them good men and good
citizens--education in which the instruction of the mind in
the common branches of secular learning shall be associated
with training in just notions of duty toward God and man, in
the light of the Holy Scriptures.
The means to be used in the prosecution of the general
object above described, I leave to the discretion of the
corporation; only indicating, as lines of operation adapted
to the present condition of things, the training of teachers
from among the people requiring to be taught, if, in the
opinion of the corporation, by such limited selection the
purposes of the trust can be best accomplished; and the
encouragement of such institutions as are most effectually
useful in promoting this training of teachers.
I am well aware that the work herein proposed is nothing new
or untried. And it is no small part of my satisfaction in
taking this share in it, that I hereby associate myself with
some of the noblest enterprises of charity and humanity, and
may hope to encourage the prayers and toils of faithful men
and women who have labored and are still laboring in this
cause.
I wish the corporation which you are invited to constitute,
to consist at no time of more than twelve members, nor of
less than nine members for a longer time than may be
required for the convenient filling of vacancies, which I
desire to be filled by the corporation, and, when found
practicable, at its next meeting after the vacancy may
occur.
I designate as the first President of the corporation the
Honorable RUTHERFORD B. HAYES, of Ohio. I desire that it may
have power to provide from the income of the fund, among
other things, for expenses incurred by members in the
fulfilment of this trust, and for the expenses of such
officers and agents as it may appoint, and generally to do
all such acts as may be necessary for carrying out the
purposes of this trust. I desire, if it may be, that the
corporation may have full liberty to invest its funds
according to its own best discretion, without reference to,
or restriction by, any laws or rules, legal or equitable, of
any nature, regulating the mode of investment of trust
funds; only I wish that neither principal nor income be
expended in land or buildings, for any other purpose than
that of safe and productive investment for income. And I
hereby discharge the corporation, and its individual
members, so far as it is in my power so to do, of all
responsibility, except for the faithful administration of
this trust, according to their own honest understanding and
best judgment. In particular, also, I wish to relieve them
of any pretended claim on the part of any person, party,
sect, institution, or locality, to benefactions from this
fund, that may be put forward on any ground whatever; as I
wish every expenditure to be determined solely by the
convictions of the corporation itself as to the most useful
disposition of its gifts.
I desire that the doings of the corporation each year be
printed and sent to each of the State Libraries in the
United States, and to the Library of Congress.
In case the capital of the Fund should become impaired, I
desire that a part of the income, not greater than one half,
be invested, from year to year, until the capital be
restored to its original amount.
I purposely leave to the corporation the largest liberty of
making such changes in the methods of applying the income of
the Fund as shall seem from time to time best adapted to
accomplish the general object herein defined. But being
warned by the history of such endowments that they sometimes
tend to discourage rather than promote effort and
self-reliance on the part of beneficiaries, or to inure to
the advancement of learning instead of the dissemination of
it; or to become a convenience to the rich instead of a help
to those who need help, I solemnly charge my Trustees to use
their best wisdom in preventing any such defeat of the
spirit of this trust; so that my gift may continue to future
generations to be a blessing to the poor.
If at any time after the lapse of thirty-three years from
the date of this foundation it shall appear to the judgment
of three fourths of the members of this corporation that, by
reason of a change in social conditions, or by reason of
adequate and equitable public provision for education, or by
any other sufficient reason, there is no further serious
need of this Fund in the form in which it is at first
instituted, I authorize the corporation to apply the capital
of the Fund to the establishment of foundations subsidiary
to then already existing institutions of higher education,
in such wise as to make the educational advantages of such
institutions more freely accessible to poor students of the
colored race.
It is my wish that this trust be administered in no
partisan, sectional, or sectarian spirit, but in the
interest of a generous patriotism and an enlightened
Christian faith; and that the corporation about to be
formed, may continue to be constituted of men distinguished
either by honorable success in business, or by services to
literature, education, religion, or the State.
I am encouraged to the execution in this charitable
foundation of a long-cherished purpose, by the eminent
wisdom and success that has marked the conduct of the
Peabody Education Fund in a field of operation not remote
from that contemplated by this trust. I shall commit it to
your hands, deeply conscious how insufficient is our best
forecast to provide for the future that is known only to
God; but humbly hoping that the administration of it may be
so guided by divine wisdom, as to be, in its turn, an
encouragement to philanthropic enterprise on the part of
others, and an enduring means of good to our beloved country
and to our fellow-men.
I have the honor to be, Gentlemen, your friend and
fellow-citizen,
JOHN F. SLATER.
NORWICH, CONN., March 4, 1882.
_And whereas_, said memorialists have further represented that
they are ready to accept said trust and receive and administer
said Fund, provided a charter of incorporation is granted by this
State, as indicated in said letter;
_Now, therefore_, for the purpose of giving full effect to the
charitable intentions declared in said letter;
_The people of the State of New York, represented in Senate and
Assembly, do enact as follows:_
SEC. 1. Rutherford B. Hayes, Morrison R. Waite, William E. Dodge,
Phillips Brooks, Daniel C. Gilman, John A. Stewart. Alfred H.
Colquitt, Morris K. Jesup, James P. Boyce, and William A. Slater,
are hereby created a body politic and corporate by the name of
THE TRUSTEES OF THE JOHN F. SLATER FUND, and by that name shall
have perpetual succession; said original corporators electing
their associates and successors, from time to time, so that the
whole number of corporators may be kept at not less than nine nor
more than twelve.
Said corporation may hold and manage, invest and re-invest all
property which may be given or transferred to it for the
charitable purposes indicated in said letter, and shall, in so
doing, and in appropriating the income accruing therefrom,
conform to and be governed by the directions in said letter
contained; and such property and all investments and
re-investments thereof, excepting real estate, shall, while owned
by said corporation and held for the purposes of said trust, be
exempt from taxation of any and every nature.
SEC. 2 Rutherford B. Hayes, of Ohio, shall be the first President
of the corporation, and it may elect such other officers and hold
such meetings, whether within or without this State, from time to
time, as its by-laws may authorize or prescribe.
SEC. 3. Said corporation shall annually file with the Librarian
of this State a printed report of its doings during the preceding
year.
SEC. 4. This act shall take effect immediately.
* * * * *
COLORED EMPLOYÉS IN WASHINGTON.
There are six hundred and twenty persons of color employed in the
different departments of the Government at Washington, D. C.,
distributed as follows:
War Department 44
Treasury Department 342
Department of Justice 7
Department of State 20
Navy Department 40
Department of the Interior 106 men, 7 women
Post-Office Department 54
----
Total 620
* * * * *
NEWSPAPERS CONDUCTED BY COLORED MEN.
ALABAMA.
MOBILE.-_The Mobile Gazette_; Phillip Joseph, Editor; $2.00 per year;
office No. 36 Conti Street.
HUNTSVILLE.-_Huntsville Gazette_;----, Editor; $1.50 per year;
Saturdays.
ARKANSAS.
HELENA.-_Golden Epoch_; H. W. Stewart. LITTLE ROCK.--_Arkansas
Mansion_; Henry Simkens, Editor; $1.50 a year.
CALIFORNIA.
SAN FRANCISCO.--_The Elevator_, Phillip A. Bell, Editor.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.
WASHINGTON CITY.--_People's Advocate_, established in 1876; J. W.
Cromwell, Editor; C. A. Lemar, Manager; $1.50 a year.
WASHINGTON CITY.--_The Bee_; W. C. Chase, Editor; C. C. Stewart,
Business Manager; $2.00 per year; Saturdays; office, No. 1107 I
Street, N. W.
FLORIDA.
PENSACOLA.--_The Journal of Progress_; Matthews & Davidson, Editors
and Proprietors; $2.00; Saturdays.
KEY WEST.--_Key West News_; J. Willis Menard, Editor; weekly; five
columns; price, $1.50 per annum.
GEORGIA.
ATLANTA.--_Weekly Defiance_; W. H. Burnett, Editor.
AUGUSTA.--_The People's Defense_; Smith, Nelson, & Co., Proprietors.
AUGUSTA.--_Georgia Baptist_; Wm. J. White, Editor; $2.00 per year;
office, No. 633 Ellis Street.
SAVANNAH.--_Savannah Echo_; Hardin Bros. & Griffin, Proprietors;
$2.00; Saturdays.
ILLINOIS.
CHICAGO.--_The Conservator_; Barnett, Clark, & Co., Editors and
Proprietors; $2.00 per year; Saturdays; 194 Clark Street.
CAIRO.--_The Three States_; M. Gladding, Publisher; Saturdays; $1.50
per year; 190 Commercial Avenue.
CAIRO.--_The Cairo Gazette_; J. J. Bird, Editor; Wednesdays and
Saturdays; $2.50 per year.
KANSAS.
TOPEKA.--_Topeka Tribune_; E. H. White.
KENTUCKY.
LOUISVILLE.--_The Bulletin_; Adams Brothers; $2.00 per year;
Saturdays; 562 West Jefferson Street.
LOUISVILLE.--_The American Baptist_; Wm. H. Stewart.
LOUISVILLE.--_Ohio Falls Express_; Dr. H. Fitzbutler, Editor; $1.50
per year; Saturdays.
BOWLING GREEN.--_Bowling Green Watchman_; C. C. Strumm, Editor; C. R.
McDowell, Manager; Saturdays; $1.50 per year.
LOUISIANA.
NEW ORLEANS.--_Observer_; Saturdays; republican; four pages; size, 22
x 32; subscription, $2.00; established, 1878; G. T. Ruby, Editor and
Publisher.
MASSACHUSETTS.
BOSTON.--_The Boston Leader_; Howard L. Smith, Editor; $1.50 per year;
office, No. 8 Boylston Street. Room 9.
MISSISSIPPI.
VERONA.--_The Banner of Liberty_; J. B, Wilkins, Editor; $1.50 per
year.
GREENVILLE.--_The Baptist Signal_; Rev. G. W. Gayles, Editor; $1.00
per year.
JACKSON.--_People's Adviser_.
JACKSON.--_Mississippi Republican_; Preston Hay, Editor; $1.00;
Saturdays.
MAYERSVILLE.--_Mayersville Spectator_; W. E. Mollison, Editor; D. T.
Williamson, Publisher; $1.50 per year; Saturdays.
MISSOURI.
ST. LOUIS.--_Tribune_; Sundays; republican; eight pages; size, 26 x
40; subscription, $2.00; established, 1876; J. W. Wilson, Editor and
Publisher; circulation, I.
KANSAS CITY.--_The Kansas City Enterprise_; D. V. A. Nero; published
every Wednesday and Saturday; $2.00 per year; office, No. 537 Main
Street, Room No. 2.
NEW JERSEY.
TRENTON.--_The Sentinel_; R. Henri Herbert, Editor; Saturdays; $1.25
per year; No. 4 North Green Street.
NEW YORK.
NEW YORK CITY.--_Progressive American_; Thursdays; four pages; size,
22 x 31; subscription, $2.00; established, 1871; John J. Freeman,
Editor; George A. Washington, Publisher; circulation, J.; office, 125
W. 25th Street.
NEW YORK CITY.--_New York Globe_; Geo. Parker & Co.; T. Thos. Fortune,
Editor; office, No. 4 Cedar Street, Room 15.
BROOKLYN.--_The National Monitor_; R. Rufus L. Perry, D.D.
NORTH CAROLINA.
GOLDSBOROUGH.--_The Carolina Enterprise_; E. E. Smith, Editor; $1.00
per year; Saturday.
CHARLOTTE.--_Charlotte Messenger_; W. H. Smith, Editor; $1.50 per
year.
WILSON.--_The Wilson News_; Ward, Moore, & Hill, Editors; $1.50 a
year.
RALEIGH.--_Raleigh Banner_; J. H. Williams.
WILMINGTON.--_Africo-American Presbyterian_; D. J. Sanders.
OHIO.
CINCINNATI.--_The Afro-American_; Clark, Johnson, and Jackson, Editors
and Proprietors; $1.50 per year; Saturdays; office, 172 Central
Avenue.
CINCINNATI.--_The Weekly Review_; Review Publishing Co.; Chas. W.
Bell, Editor; $1.50 per year.
PENNSYLVANIA.
PHILADELPHIA.--_Christian Recorder_; Thursdays; Methodist; four pages;
size, 28 x 42; subscription, $2.00; established, 1862; Rev. Benj. T.
Tanner, D.D., Editor; Rev. Theo. Gould, Publisher; circulation, G;
office, 631 Pine Street.
SOUTH CAROLINA.
CHARLESTON.--_The New Era_; Wm. Holloway, Business Manager; $1.50 per
year; Saturdays; democratic; 196 Meeting Street.
CHARLESTON.--_The Palmetto Press_; Robert L. Smith, Editor; $1.50 per
year; Saturdays.
TENNESSEE.
NASHVILLE.--_Knights of Wise Men_; J. L. Brown, Editor; office. No. 5
Cherry Street.
CHATTANOOGA.--_The Enterprise_; Rev. D. W. Hays.
TEXAS.
AUSTIN.--_The Austin Citizen_; J. J. Hamilton & Co.
DALLAS.--_The Baptist Journal_; S. H. Smothers, Editor; A. R. Greggs,
Publisher.
DALLAS.--_Christian Preacher_; C. M. Wilmeth.
MARSHALL.--_The Christian Advocate_; M. F. Jamison.
GALVESTON.--_Spectator_; Richard Nelson, Editor; $1.50 per year.
PALESTINE.--_Colored American Journal_; monthly; C. W. Porter, Editor.
VIRGINIA.
RICHMOND.--_Virginia Star_; Saturdays; four pages; size, 20 x 26;
subscription, $2.00; established, 1876; R. M. Green, M.D., O. M.
Stewart, and P. H. Woolfolk, Editors and Publishers; circulation, K.
RICHMOND.--_Industrial Herald_; John Oliver, Editor; $1.00 per year.
PETERSBURGH.--_The Lancet_; Geo. F. Bragg, Jr., Manager; $1.50 per
year; Saturdays.
WEST VIRGINIA.
WHEELING.--_The Weekly Times_; Welcome, Buckner, & Co., Publishers;
Geo. W. Welcome, Editor; 8 pages; $1.00 per annum.
* * * * *
NEGROES IN NORTHERN COLLEGES.
In response to a circular sent out, seventy Northern Colleges sent
information; and in them are at present one hundred and sixty-nine
Colored students. The exact number of graduates cannot be ascertained,
as these colleges do not keep a record of the nationality of their
students.
FOOTNOTES:
[145] Correspondence of American Revolution, vol. iii. p. 547.
CHAPTER XXIII.
HENRY HIGHLAND GARNET, D.D.
The career of this man, who died at Monrovia, Liberia, Feb. 14, 1882,
where he was the Minister of the United States, was extraordinary.
Grandson of a native African, brought over in a slave-trader, himself
born a slave, he was brought to Pennsylvania by his father, when he
fled from slavery in 1824. Next we find him, at the age of seventeen,
ridiculed for studying Greek and Latin; then mobbed in a New Hampshire
seminary; then dragged from a street car in Utica; then studying
theology with Dr. Beman in Troy, N. Y. Soon he was settled as a
minister; afterward he travelled in Great Britain and on the Continent
of Europe, and was sent by a Scottish Society as Presbyterian
missionary to Jamaica, West Indies. He returned to New York, and was
long the pastor of the Shiloh Presbyterian Church; his house escaping
the riots in 1863 "by the foresight of his daughter, who wrenched off
the door plate." He was the first Colored man who ever spoke in public
in the Capitol at Washington, having preached there Sunday, Feb. 12,
1865. In 1881 he was appointed Minister to Liberia. Dr. Garnet was
equal in ability to Frederick Douglass, and greatly his superior in
learning, especially excelling in logic and terse statement. We heard
him make a speech in 1865, which in force of reasoning, purity of
language, and propriety of utterance, was not unworthy of comparison
with a sermon of Bishop Thomson, or an address of George William
Curtis. As he was "a full-blooded Negro," he was a standing and
unanswerable proof that the race is capable of all that has
distinguished MAN. How much of history and progress could be crowded
in a memorial inscription for him! It might be something like this:
Born a slave in the country to which his grandfather was stolen away,
he competed, under the greatest disadvantages, with white men for the
prizes of life; attaining the highest intellectual culture, and a
corresponding moral elevation, his career commanded universal respect
in Europe and America, wherever he was known. He died the Minister of
the United States to a civilized nation in the land whence his
barbaric ancestors were stolen. To God, who "hath made of one blood
all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath
determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their
habitation" (Acts xvii: 26), be the glory. "How unsearchable are His
judgments, and His ways past finding out!"
* * * * *
EBENEZER D. BASSETT.
One of the ablest diplomats the Negro race has produced is the
Honorable Ebenezer D. Bassett, for nearly nine years the Resident
Minister and Consul-General from the United States to Hayti. He was
born and educated in the State of Connecticut, and for many years was
the successful Principal of the Institute for Colored Youth at
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As a classical scholar and for proficiency
in the use of modern languages he has few equals among his race.
Returning to this country, after years of honorable service abroad, he
was promoted by the Haytian Government to the position of Consul at
New York City, and at present is serving the Republic of Hayti. As an
evidence of the high esteem in which he was held as an officer the
following documents attest:
(COPY.)
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, }
WASHINGTON, October 5, 1877. }
EBENEZER D. BASSETT, Esquire, etc., etc., etc.
SIR: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch No. 529,
of the 23d August last, tendering your resignation of the office
of Minister Resident and Consul-General of the United States to
Hayti, and to inform you that it is accepted.
I cannot allow this opportunity to pass without expressing to you
the appreciation of the Department of the very satisfactory
manner in which you have discharged the duties of the mission at
Port au Prince during your term of office. This commendation of
your services is the more especially merited, because at various
times your duties have been of such a delicate nature as to have
required the exercise of much tact and discretion.
I enclose herewith a letter addressed by the President of the
United States to the President of Hayti, announcing your
retirement from the mission at Port au Prince, together with an
office copy of the same. You will transmit the latter to the
Minister of Foreign Affairs, and make arrangements for the
delivery of the original to the President when your successor
shall present his credentials.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
(Signed.) F. W. SEWARD, _Acting Secretary_.
(TRANSLATION.)
BOISROND CANAL, _President of the Republic of Hayti_,
_To His Excellency the President of the United States of America_.
GREAT AND GOOD FRIEND: Mr. Ebenezer D. Bassett, who has resided
here in the capacity of Minister of the United States, has placed
in my hands the letter by which your Excellency has brought his
mission to an end.
In taking leave of me in conformity with the wishes of your
Excellency, he has renewed the assurance of the friendly
sentiments which so happily exist on the part of the Government
and the people of the United States toward the Government and the
people of the Republic of Hayti.
I have not failed to request him to transmit to your Excellency,
the expression of my great desire to maintain always the
relations of the two Countries upon the footing of that cordial
understanding.
It is for me a pleasing duty to acknowledge fully to your
Excellency, the zeal and the intelligence with which Mr. Bassett
has fulfilled here the high and delicate functions that had been
entrusted to him.
I have, therefore, been happy to be able to testify to him
publicly before his departure, in the name of my fellow-citizens,
the esteem and sincere affection which his talents, his
character, his private and public conduct have won for him, as
well as the particular sentiments of friendship and gratitude I
personally entertain for him.
I pray God that He may have your Excellency always in His Holy
keeping.
Given at the National Palace of Port au Prince, the 29th day of
November, 1877.
Your Good Friend,
(Signed) BOISROND CANAL.
Countersigned.
(Signed.) F. CARRIE, _Secretary of State_.
* * * * *
COLORED SENATORS AND CONGRESSMEN.
UNITED STATES SENATORS.
HIRAM R. REVELS, United States Senator from Mississippi, was born in
Fayetteville, North Carolina, September 1, 1822; desiring to obtain an
education, which was denied in his native State to those of African
descent, he removed to Indiana; spent some time at the Quaker Seminary
in Union County; entered the Methodist ministry; afterward received
further instructions at the Clarke County Seminary, when he became
preacher, teacher, and lecturer among his people in the States of
Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, and Missouri; at the breaking out of the war,
he was ministering at Baltimore; he assisted in the organization of
the first two Colored regiments in Maryland and Missouri; during a
portion of 1863 and 1864 he taught school in St. Louis, then went to
Vicksburg, and assisted the provost marshal in managing the freedmen
affairs; followed on the heels of the army to Jackson; organized
churches, and lectured; spent the next two years in Kansas and
Missouri in preaching and lecturing on moral and religious subjects;
returned to Mississippi, and settled at Natchez; was chosen presiding
elder of the Methodist Church, and a member of the city council; was
elected a United States Senator from Mississippi as a Republican,
serving from February 25, 1870, to March 3, 1871; was pastor of a
Methodist Episcopal church at Holly Springs, Mississippi; removed to
Indiana, where he was pastor of the African Methodist Episcopal Church
at Richmond.
BLANCHE K. BRUCE, United States Senator from Mississippi, was born in
Prince Edward County, Virginia, March 1, 1841; as his parents were
slaves, he received a limited education; became a planter in
Mississippi in 1869; was a member of the Mississippi Levee Board, and
sheriff and tax-collector of Bolivar County from 1872 until his
election to the United States Senate from Mississippi, February 3,
1875, as a Republican, to succeed Henry R. Pease, Republican, and took
his seat March 4, 1875. His term of service expired March 3, 1881.
UNITED STATES CONGRESSMEN.
RICHARD H. CAIN was born in Greenbrier County, Virginia, April 12,
1825. His father removed to Ohio in 1831, and settled in Gallipolis.
He had no education, except such as was afforded in Sabbath-school,
until after his marriage; entered the ministry at an early age; became
a student at Wilberforce University at Xenia, Ohio, in 1860, and
remained there for one year; removed, at the breaking out of the war,
to Brooklyn, New York, where he was a pastor for four years; was sent
by his Church as a missionary to the freedmen in South Carolina; was
chosen a member of the Constitutional Convention of South Carolina;
was elected a member of the State Senate from Charleston, and served
two years; took charge of a republican newspaper in 1868; was elected
a representative from South Carolina in the Forty-third Congress as a
Republican, receiving 66,825 votes against 26,394 for Lewis E.
Johnson, and was again elected to the Forty-fifth Congress as a
Republican, receiving 21,385 votes against 16,074 votes for M. P.
O'Connor, Democrat.
* * * * *
ROBERT C. DE LARGE was born at Aiken, South Carolina, March 15, 1842;
received such an education as was then attainable; was a farmer; was
an agent of the Freedmen's Bureau from May, 1867, to April, 1868, when
he was elected a member of the State Constitutional Convention; was a
member of the House of Representatives of the State Legislature in
1868, 1869, and 1870; was one of the State Commissioners of the
Sinking Fund; was elected in 1870 State Land Commissioner, and served
until he was elected a representative from South Carolina in the
Forty-second Congress as a Republican, receiving 16,686 votes, against
15,700 votes for C. C. Bowen, Independent Republican; was appointed a
trial justice, which office he held when he died at Charlestown, South
Carolina, February 15, 1874.
* * * * *
ROBERT BROWN ELLIOTT was born at Boston, Massachusetts, August 11,
1842; received his primary education at private schools; in 1853
entered High Holborn Academy in London, England; in 1855 entered Eton
College, England, and graduated in 1859; studied law, and practises
his profession; was a member of the State Constitutional Convention of
South Carolina in 1868; was a member of the House of Representatives
of South Carolina from July 6, 1868, to October 23, 1870; was
appointed on the 25th of March, 1869, assistant adjutant-general,
which position he held until he was elected a representative from
South Carolina in the Forty-second Congress as a Republican, receiving
20,564 votes against 13,997 votes for J. E. Bacon, Democrat, serving
from March 4, 1871, to 1873, when he resigned; and was re-elected to
the Forty-third Congress as a Republican, receiving 21,627 votes
against 1,094 votes for W. H. McCan, Democrat, serving from December
1, 1873, to May, 1874, when he resigned, having been elected sheriff.
* * * * *
JERE HARALSON was born in Muscogee County, Georgia, April 1, 1846, the
slave property of John Walker; after Walker's death, was sold on the
auction-block in the city of Columbus, and bought by J. W. Thompson,
after whose death he became the property of J. Haralson, of Selma, and
so remained until emancipated in 1865; received no education until
after he was free, when he instructed himself; was elected to the
State House of Representatives of Alabama in 1870; was elected to the
State Senate of Alabama in 1872; was elected a representative from
Alabama in the Forty-fourth Congress as a Republican, receiving 19,551
votes against 16,953 votes for F. G. Bromberg, Democrat, serving from
December 6, 1875, to March 3, 1877; was defeated by the Republican
candidate for the Forty-fifth Congress, receiving 8,675 votes against
9,685 votes for Charles L. Shelley, Democrat, and 7,236 votes for
James T. Rapier, Republican.
* * * * *
JOHN R. LYNCH was born in Concordia Parish, Louisiana, September 10,
1847, a slave; and he remained in slavery until emancipated by the
results of the Rebellion, receiving no early education; a purchaser of
his mother carried her with her children to Natchez, where, when the
Union troops took possession, he attended evening school for a few
months, and he has since by private study acquired a good English
education; he engaged in the business of photography at Natchez until
1869, when Governor Ames appointed him a justice of the peace; he was
elected a member of the State Legislature from Adams County, and
re-elected in 1871, serving the last term as Speaker of the House; was
elected a representative from Mississippi in the Forty-third Congress
as a Republican, receiving 15,391 votes against 8,430 votes for H.
Cassidy, Sr., Democrat; and was re-elected to the Forty-fourth
Congress as a Republican (defeating Roderick Seals, Democrat), serving
from December 1, 1873, to March 3, 1877.
* * * * *
CHARLES E. NASH was born at Opelousas, Louisiana; received a
common-school education at New Orleans; was a bricklayer by trade;
enlisted as private in the Eighty-third Regiment, United States
Chasseurs d'Afrique, April 20, 1863, and was promoted until he became
acting sergeant-major of the regiment; lost a leg at the storming of
Fort Blakely, and was honorably discharged from the army May 30, 1865;
was elected a representative from Louisiana in the Forty-fourth
Congress as a Republican, receiving 13,156 votes against 12,085 votes
for Joseph M. Moore, Democrat, serving from December 6, 1875, to March
3, 1877; was defeated as the Republican candidate for the Forty-fifth
Congress, receiving 11,147 votes against 15,520 votes for Edward White
Robertson, Democrat.
* * * * *
JOSEPH H. RAINEY was born at Georgetown, South Carolina (where both of
his parents were slaves, but, by their industry, obtained their
freedom), June 21, 1832; although debarred by law from attending
school he acquired a good education, and further improved his mind by
observation and travel; his father was a barber, and he followed that
occupation at Charlestown till 1862, when, having been forced to work
on the fortifications of the Confederates, he escaped to the West
Indies, where he remained until the close of the war, when he returned
to his native town; he was elected a delegate to the State
Constitutional Convention of 1868, and was a member of the State
Senate of South Carolina in 1870, resigning when elected a
representative from South Carolina in the Forty-first Congress as a
Republican (to fill the vacancy caused by the non-reception of B. F.
Whittemore), by a majority of 17,193 votes over Dudley, Conservative;
was re-elected to the Forty-second Congress, receiving 20,221 votes
against 11,628 votes for C. W. Dudley, Democrat; was re-elected to the
Forty-third Congress, receiving 19,765 votes, being all that were
cast; was re-elected to the Forty-fourth Congress, receiving 14,370
votes against 13,563 votes for Samuel Lee, Republican; was re-elected
to the Forty-fifth Congress, receiving 18,180 votes against 16,661
votes for J. S. Richardson, Democrat, serving from March 4, 1869.
* * * * *
ALONZO J. RANSIER was born at Charlestown, South Carolina, in January,
1834; was self-educated; was employed as shipping-clerk in 1850 by a
leading merchant, who was tried for violation of law in "hiring a
Colored clerk," and fined one cent with costs; was one of the foremost
in the works of reconstruction in 1865; was a member of a convention
of the friends of equal rights in October, 1865, at Charlestown, and
was deputed to present the memorial there framed to Congress; was
elected a member of the State Constitutional Convention of 1868; was
elected a member of the House of Representatives in the State
Legislature in 1869; was chosen chairman of the State Republican
Central Committee, which position he held until 1872; was elected a
presidential elector on the Grant and Colfax ticket in 1868; was
elected lieutenant-governor of South Carolina in 1870 by a large
majority; was president of the Southern States Convention at Columbia
in 1871; was chosen a delegate to, and was a vice-president of, the
Philadelphia Convention which nominated Grant and Wilson in 1872; and
was elected a representative from South Carolina in the Forty-third
Congress as a Republican, receiving 20,061 votes against 6,549 votes
for W. Gurney, Independent Republican, serving from December 1, 1873,
to March 3, 1875.
* * * * *
JAMES T. RAPIER was born in Florence, Alabama, in 1840; was educated
in Canada; is a planter; was appointed a notary public by the governor
of Alabama in 1866; was a member of the first Republican Convention
held in Alabama, and was one of the committee that framed the platform
of the party; represented Lauderdale County in the Constitutional
Convention held at Montgomery in 1867; was nominated for secretary of
State in 1870, but defeated with the rest of the ticket; was appointed
assessor of internal revenue for the second collection-district of
Alabama in 1871; was appointed State commissioner to the Vienna
Exposition in. 1873 by the governor of Alabama; was elected a
representative from Alabama in the Forty-third Congress as a
Republican, receiving 19,100 votes against 16,000 votes for C. W.
Oates, Democrat, serving from December 1, 1873, to March 3, 1875; and
was defeated as the Republican candidate for the Forty-fourth
Congress, receiving 19,124 votes against 20,180 votes for Jeremiah N.
Williams, Democrat.
* * * * *
ROBERT SMALLS was born at Beaufort, South Carolina, April 5, 1839;
being a slave, was debarred by statute from attending school, but
educated himself with such limited advantages as he could secure;
removed to Charlestown in 1851; worked as a rigger, and led a
seafaring life; became connected in 1861 with "The Planter," a steamer
plying in Charlestown harbor as a transport, which he took over
Charlestown Bar in May, 1862, and delivered her and his services to
the commander of the United States blockading squadron; was appointed
pilot in the United States navy, and served in that capacity on the
monitor "Keokuk" in the attack on Fort Sumter; served as pilot in the
quartermaster's department, and was promoted as captain for gallant
and meritorious conduct December 1, 1863, and placed in command of
"The Planter," serving until she was put out of commission in 1866;
was elected a member of the State Constitutional Convention of 1868;
was elected a member of the State House of Representatives in 1868,
and of the State Senate (to fill a vacancy) in 1870, and re-elected in
1872; and was elected a representative from South Carolina in the
Forty-fourth Congress as a Republican, receiving 17,752 votes against
4,461 votes for J. P. M. Epping, Republican; and was re-elected to the
Forty-fifth Congress, receiving 19,954 votes against 18,516 votes for
G. D. Tillman, Democrat, serving from December, 6, 1875, to March 3,
1877; and is now a member.
* * * * *
JOSIAH T. WALLS was born at Winchester, Virginia, December 30, 1842;
received a common-school education; was a planter; was elected a
member of the State Constitutional Convention in 1868; was elected a
member of the State House of Representatives in 1868; was elected to
the State Senate 1869-1872; claimed to have been elected a
representative from the State-at-large to the Forty-second Congress as
a Republican, but the election was contested by his competitor, Silas
L. Niblack, who took the seat January 29, 1873; was re-elected for the
State-at-large, receiving 17,503 votes against 15,881 votes for
Niblack, Democrat; and was re-elected to the Forty-fourth Congress,
receiving 8,549 votes against 8,178 votes for Jesse J. Finley,
Democrat.
* * * * *
BENJ. STERLING TURNER was born in Halifax County, North Carolina,
March 17, 1825; was raised as a slave, and received no early
education, because the laws of that State made it criminal to educate
slaves; removed to Alabama in 1830, and, by clandestine study,
obtained a fair education; became a dealer in general merchandise; was
elected tax-collector of Dallas County in 1867, and councilman of the
city of Selma in 1869; was elected a representative from Alabama in
the Forty-second Congress as a Republican, receiving 18,226 votes
against 13,466 votes for S. J. Cumming, Democrat, serving from March
4, 1871, to March 3, 1873; was defeated as the Republican candidate
for the Forty-third Congress, receiving 13,174 votes against 15,607
votes for F. G. Bromberg, Democrat and Liberal and 7,024 votes for P.
Joseph, Republican.
* * * * *
JEFFERSON F. LONG, Macon, Georgia. Took his seat Feb. 24, 1871.
* * * * *
BUREAU OFFICER.
Honorable BLANCHE K. BRUCE, Register of the United States Treasury;
appointed by President James A. Garfield, 1881.
NEGROES IN THE DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR SERVICE OF THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT.
_Hayti._--E. D. BASSETT, Pennsylvania, 1869-77.
_Hayti._--JOHN M. LANGSTON, District of Columbia, Minister Resident
and Consul-General to Hayti, 1877.
_Liberia._--J. MILTON TURNER, Missouri.
_Liberia._--JOHN H. SMYTH, North Carolina. Reappointed in 1882.
_Liberia._--HENRY HIGHLAND GARNET, New York, Minister Resident and
Consul-General to Liberia.
* * * * *
LIEUTENANT-GOVERNORS.
The following Colored men were Lieutenant-Governors during the years
of reconstruction. At the head of them all for bravery, intelligence,
and executive ability stands Governor Pinchback. One of the first men
of his race to enter the army in 1862 as captain, when the conflict
was over and his race free, he was the first Colored man in Louisiana
to enter into the work of reconstruction. He has been and is a power
in his State. He is true to his friends, but a terror to his enemies.
A sketch of his life would read like a romance.
_Louisiana._ _South Carolina._ _Mississippi._
OSCAR J. DUNN, ALONZO J. RANSIER, ALEX. DAVIS.
P. B. S. PINCHBACK, RICHARD H. GLEAVES,
C. C. ANTOINE.
INDEX.
Acvis, Capt., his opinion of John Brown, 225.
Adams, C. F., advocates the education of Negroes, 158.
Adams, John, first Colored teacher in the D. C., 183.
Adams, John Quincy, remarks on the death of William Costin, 192.
Adams, Rufus, opposes school for Colored children in Conn., 150.
Aden, D., letter on the bravery of Negro troops, 348.
Africa, imported slaves ordered to be returned to, 12;
agents appointed by the United States for that purpose, 13;
proposed colony of free Negroes on the coast, 51;
a line of war steamers to be established, to suppress the
slave-trade, promote commerce, and colonize the coast, 53-55;
colonization of, by Negroes, opposed, 70;
the "Amistad" captives returned to, 93-96;
number of slaves imported from, 544.
African Methodist Episcopal Church, origin, growth, organization,
and influence, 135, 452;
numerical and financial strength, missionary and educational
spirit, 455-458;
publishing house, periodicals, and papers, 458, 459;
report of Wilberforce University for 1876, 455, 456;
list of the faculty, 460;
report and general statement, 462-464;
list of bishops, 464.
African School Association established, 157.
Aggressive Anti-Slavery Party, the, 50.
Alabama, formation of the territory of, the most cruel of slave
States, 3;
slave population, 1820, 22;
1830, 1840, 99;
1850, 100;
education of Negroes prohibited, 148;
recedes from the Union, 232;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
represented in Congress by Negroes, 382;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institution for the instruction of Negroes, 392;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Albany Atlas and Argus (The) denounces the Rev. Justin D. Fulton
for his views on slavery, 243.
Alexander, Francis A., his testimony in regard to the Fort Pillow
massacre, 372.
Allegheny City, Pa., Avery College founded, 177.
Allen, Rev. Richard, founder of the African Methodist Episcopal
Church, 452;
mentioned, 458;
first bishop of the Church, 459.
Alton, Ill., mob destroy printing-press, 51.
Ambush, James Enoch, founds the Wesleyan Seminary, 194.
American Anti-Slavery Society, organized, 43;
influence of, 79, 80.
American Colonization Society, organized, list of officers, 52;
commended, 68;
protest against the colonization of Negroes in Liberia, 69, 70,
73, 76.
American Missionary Association establish the first school for
freedmen, at Fortress Monroe, 393.
"Amistad" captives, natives of Africa, sail from Havana on the
Spanish slaver "Amistad," cruelly treated, take possession
of the ship, alter her course for Africa, 93;
captured by a United States vessel and carried to New London,
Conn., their trial and release, tour through the United
States, 94;
return to Africa, 96.
Anderson, Rev. Duke William, Colored Baptist minister, birth,
early life, and education, 476-478;
farmer, teacher, preacher, and missionary, 479-492;
his influence in the West, 493-496;
pastor of the 19th Street Baptist Church at Washington,
occupies various positions of trust, 497;
builds a new church, 498;
death and funeral, 499, 500;
resolutions on his death, 500-503.
Anderson, Ransom, testimony in regard to the Fort Pillow massacre,
365.
Andrew, Gov. John A., authorizes the raising of Negro regiments, 289.
Andrew, William, representative of Attleborough, Pa., in the first
conference of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Anti-slavery, societies formed, 20;
sentiment at the North, 22;
agitation, 1825-1850, 31-36;
speeches in the Legislature of Virginia, 33-35;
methods, 37-60;
antiquity of, sentiment, 38;
newspapers established, 38, 39, 41;
Garrison, leader of the, movement, 39;
National Convention, number of societies in the United States,
1836, 44;
Sumner's speech before the Whig party, 45;
heterodox party, 48;
economic party, 49;
aggressive party, 50;
colonization society, 51;
American colonization society, 52;
underground railroad organization, 58;
literature, 59, 60;
efforts of free Negroes, 61-81;
New England, Society, dissolution of Negro societies, 79;
convention of the women of America, 80;
prejudice against admitting Negroes into white societies, 81;
friends of, instruct the "Amistad" captives, 94;
the cause benefited by their stay in the United States, 96;
violent treatment of, orators, 97;
opposed, 98;
John C. Calhoun opposed to, 104.
Appleton, John W. M., superintends the enlistment of Negro regiment
in Mass., 289.
Appomattox, Va., bravery of Negro troops at the battle of, 344.
Arkansas, territory organized, 15;
slave population, 1820, 22;
1830, 1840, 99;
1850, 100;
opposed to the education of Negroes, 149;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the U. S.,
422.
Asbury, Francis, member of the first American Methodist Conference,
446;
and bishop of the Church, 468.
Ashley, James M., opposes the return of fugitive slaves, 246.
Ashum Institute, founded, list of trustees, 178.
Attucks Guards, a Colored militia company, organized, 145.
Auchmuty, Rev. Samuel, teaches Negro slaves in New York, 165.
Auld, Hugh, master of Frederick Douglass, 431, 432.
Austin, James T., signs memorial against the increase of slavery, 16.
Avery, Rev. Charles, founder of the Avery College, 177.
Baily, Frederick, see Douglass, Frederick.
Ball, Flamen, counsel for the Colored people in Cincinnati, 172.
Baltimore, Md., anti-slavery newspaper published, 38;
cargo of slaves sent to New Orleans, to be sold, 40;
Democratic and Whig conventions held at, 1852, 1853, 106;
St. Frances Academy founded, 160;
the Wells school established, 161.
Bancroft, George, views on the Declaration of Independence, 32.
Banks, Maj.-Gen. N. P., orders the enlistment of Negro troops, 290;
official report on the battle of Port Hudson, 322;
commends the Negro troops for their bravery, 323.
Baptist Church, Colored, organized, 135;
the members an intelligent and useful people, 475;
their leading ministers, 476;
sketch of Duke William Anderson, 476-503;
Leonard Andrew Grimes, 504-515.
Barclay, David, donates money to the Quakers, 174.
Barclay, Rev. Henry, advocates the education of Negro slaves, 165.
Bartram, Col. Nelson B., description of Colored regiment commanded
by, 292.
Bassett, Lieut.-Col. Chauncey J., commands the 1st La. regiment of
Colored troops at the battle of Port Hudson, 320.
Bassett, E. D., appointed U. S. minister to Hayti, 423.
Beams, Charlotte, establishes a school for Colored children, 213.
Beaufort, S. C., military savings bank for Negroes established, 403.
Beauregard, Gen. G. T., urges passage of the bill for the execution
of prisoners, 270.
Bell, George, former slave, founds a Colored school, 182.
Becraft, Maria, sketch of, 195, 196.
Benezet, Anthony, establishes Colored school in Philadelphia, 1750,
172;
his will, donating money for education of the Colored people, 173;
death, 174.
Bennington, Vt., anti-slavery newspaper published, 39.
Billing, Mary, establishes school for Colored children, 183.
Birney, Maj.-Gen. David B., bravery of Negro troops under his command,
refuses to march his troops in the rear of the whites, 344.
Birney, James G., member of the heterodox and aggressive anti-slavery
party, 48, 50;
his newspaper destroyed by a mob, 51.
Black Regiment, the, a poem by George H. Boker, 324.
Blake, George, signs memorial against the increase of slavery, 16.
Bleecker, John, mentioned, 166.
Blunt, Maj.-Gen. James G., letter on the bravery of Negro troops,
346.
Boardman, Richard, member of the first American Methodist Conference,
466.
Boker, George H., The Black Regiment, a poem by, 324.
Boiling, P. A., speech against slavery in the Legislature of
Virginia, 34.
Boon _vs._ Juliet, case of, mentioned, 120.
Booth, Maj. L. F., in command of Fort Pillow, his death, 360;
Gen. Forrest commends his bravery for the defence of the fort, 368.
Border States, number of troops furnished by, 300.
Boston, Mass., meeting in opposition to the increase of slavery,
held in, 1819, 16;
William Lloyd Garrison mobbed, 97;
first school for Colored children, 1798, Colored schools, Baptist
Church, 162;
meeting for the relief of Kansas, 216;
amount of money and arms supplied, 216, 218.
Boyd, Henry, sketch of, 138, 140.
Boyd, Marshall William, see Taylor, Rev. Marshall M.
Boyle, Brig.-Gen. Jeremiah T., orders the return of fugitive slaves,
245.
Bradford, Major W. F., in command at Fort Pillow, surrenders, 360.
Briscoe, Isabella, establishes school for Colored children, 212.
Brooke, Samuel, member of the heterodox anti-slavery party, 48.
Brown, Daniel, principal of Catholic Colored school, 213.
Brown, John, member of the aggressive anti-slavery party, 50;
mentioned, 82;
hero and martyr, his birth, personal description of, 214;
arrives in Kansas, denounces slavery in a political meeting at
Osawatomie, 215;
at Boston, 216;
urges aid for the fugitive slaves, secures arms for the defence
of Kansas, 218;
his plan for freeing the slaves, 219;
extract of a letter while in prison in regard to the attack on
Harper's Ferry, plan for the rescue of, 220;
instructions of, before the attack on Harper's Ferry, denies the
charges of murder, treason, or rebellion, desires only the
freedom of slaves, 222;
descendant of a revolutionary officer, 223;
in Ohio and Canada, matures his plan's for the attack, purchases
farm near Harper's Ferry, amount of arms under his control,
attack on Harper's Ferry, 224;
defeat, capture, and execution, 225;
last letter to Mrs. George Steams, 226;
his influence upon the slavery question at the North, place in
history, 227;
held his first convention, list of the members, 495.
Brown, John M., bishop of the African M. E. Church, 464.
Brown, Robert, establishes school for Colored children, 207.
Bruce, Blanche K., his birth, enslavement, secures his freedom,
education, 444;
removes to Miss., appointed sergeant-at-arms of the State Senate,
sheriff of Bolivar Co., chosen U. S. Senator, 445;
candidate for Vice-Presidency, appointed Register of the U. S.
Treasury, 446.
Bryan, Joseph, petitions Congress for a line of mail steam-ships to
the Western Coast of Africa, 53.
Buchanan, George, oration on the moral and political evil of
slavery, 1791, mentioned, 38.
Buchanan, James, in sympathy with the South, refuses military
support to Gov. Geary, 110.
Buell, Brig.-Gen. D. C., letter to J. R. Underwood on the return
of fugitive slaves to their masters, 248.
Bulkley, I., counsel for the prosecution in the trial of Prudence
Crandall, 156.
Bureau of refugees, freedmen, and abandoned lands, established, 398;
report, 399.
Burling, Thomas, mentioned, 166.
Burns, Francis, bishop of the M. E. Church, 469.
Burnside, Maj.-Gen., Ambrose E., orders the arrest of two free
Negroes, 244;
proclamation protecting slave property, 248;
services of Negro troops at the siege of Petersburg, commanded by,
341, 342.
Butler, Maj.-Gen., Benjamin F., letter to Gen. Scott, declaring
slaves contraband of war, 250;
orders the employment of Negroes for fatigue duty, calls for the
enlistment of free Negroes, 287;
outlawed by Jefferson Davis, 354, 359;
establishes military savings-bank for Negroes, 403.
Cain, R. H., bishop of the African M. E. Church, 464.
Calhoun, John C., his followers favor a demolition of the Union, 98;
speech in the United States Senate in favor of slavery, 103-105;
in favor of State rights, 230.
California, resolution in regard to the admission into the Union,
100, 101.
Callioux, Capt. Andre, bravery at the battle of Port Hudson,
318, 321;
his death, 319, 321.
Cameron, Simon, letter to Gen. Butler approving his action of
declaring slaves contraband of war, 251;
order in regard to enlistment of troops, 278.
Campbell, H. G., commanding naval officer at Charleston, S. C.,
circular letter to, in regard to the importation of slaves, 10.
Campbell, Jabez P., delivers address on the ratification of the
fifteenth amendment, 422;
bishop of the African M. E. Church, 459, 464.
Canada, Negroes settle in, 66, 70, 71;
Negro colonization of, opposed, 72.
Cannon, Gov. William, requests the enlistment of Negroes in
Delaware, 291.
Canterbury, Conn., protest of the citizens against admitting Colored
pupils to school, 150, 151;
school abolished by act of the Legislature, 152, 153;
school-house mobbed, 156.
Carey, Mary Ann Shadd, lecturer, writer, and school-teacher, 419.
Carney, William H., sergeant in the 54th Mass. Regiment Colored
Troops, his bravery at the assault on Fort Wagner, plants the
colors of the regiment on the fort, 329-331.
Carrollton, La., fugitive slaves offer their services to the
army, 285.
Casey, Maj.-Gen. Silas, letter endorsing the free military school
for Negroes, 296.
Cass, Lewis, speech in reply to Calhoun, in the United States
Senate, on slavery, 105.
Chalmers, Brig.-Gen. James R., his connection with the Fort Pillow
massacre, 375.
Champion, James, representative of Phila. in the first conference
of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Chapin's Farm, Va., Negro troops engage in the battle of, 335.
Chapman, Maria Weston, her opinion of the American Anti-Slavery
Society, 79.
Charleston, S. C., the Negro plot of 1822, 83.
"Charleston Mercury" (The) on the exchange of captured Negro
soldiers, 358.
Charlton, Rev. Richard, teaches Negro slaves in New York, 165.
Chase, Salmon P., speech against the repeal of the Missouri
compromise, 109.
Chauncey, Isaac, letter to Captain Perry defending the enlistment
of Negroes in the U. S. Navy, 29.
Child, Adventur, free Negro, petitions for relief from taxation in
Mass., 1780, 126.
"Choctaw," gun-boat, at the battle of Milliken's Bend, 326.
Cincinnati, Ohio, mob destroys newspaper, 51;
report on the condition of the Colored people, 1835, 136-138;
prominent Colored men of, 138-143;
home for Colored orphans established, 144;
the Attucks Guards organized, 145;
Colored schools established, 170-172.
Cinquez, Joseph, son of an African prince, one of the "Amistad"
captives, leads in the capture of the ship, 93;
tour through the United States, describes his capture, 94;
returns to Africa, 96.
Clarkson, Mathew, mentioned, 166.
Clay, Cascius M., member of the aggressive anti-slavery party, 50;
mentioned, 51.
Clay, Henry, mentioned, 20;
favors colonization of free Negroes at Liberia, 52;
resolutions in Congress for the adjustment of the slavery
question, 101.
Cleaveland, C. F., counsel for the prosecution in the trial of
Prudence Crandall, 156.
Coggeshall, Pero, free Negro, petitions for relief from taxation
in Mass., 1780, 126.
Cogswell, James, mentioned, 166.
Coke, Rev. Thomas, ordained bishop of the Methodist societies in
America, 465.
Coker, Daniel, representative of Baltimore in the first conference
of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Colgan, Rev. Thomas, teaches Negro slaves in New York, 165.
Colonization Anti-Slavery Society, objects of the, 51.
Colorado, number of Negro troops furnished by, 300.
Columbian Institute, Washington, D. C., 186.
Columbus, Ky., fort at, garrisoned by Negro troops, 345.
Confederate States, organized, 232;
list of delegates to the convention, 232, 233;
Jefferson Davis chosen President, Alexander H. Stephens,
Vice-President, Constitution adopted, 233;
impress Negroes to build fortifications, 261;
effect of President Lincoln's emancipation proclamation, 271;
Negroes in the service of the, 277;
resolutions of their Congress against the military employment of
Negroes by the U. S., 350, 351;
white officers commanding Negro troops against the, and Negroes
captured in arms against the, to be executed, the first to
employ Negro soldiers, 352;
refuse to exchange Negro prisoners, 355-357;
proclamation of Jefferson Davis outlawing Gen. Butler, 358;
reconstruction of the, 377-383;
provisional military government established, 379.
Connecticut, slave population, 1800, 2;
1810, 9;
1820, 22;
prejudice against Colored schools, 149;
school abolished by act of Legislature, 152, 153;
school-house mobbed, 157;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Convention of the people of color, 1831, report on the condition
of free Negroes in the United States, 62;
on the establishment of a college, 63;
provisional committee appointed in each city, 64;
conventional address, 65-68;
second convention, 1832, 68;
resolutions on colonization, 70;
conventional address, 75-78.
Cook, D. R., organizes company of Negro troops, 277.
Cook, Eliza Anne, establishes school for Colored children, 211.
Cook, Major John B., Negro troops commanded by, capture redoubt
at Petersburg, Va., 339.
Cook, Rev. John F., sketch of, 187-191;
mentioned, 206, 211, 212.
Coppin, Mrs. Fanny M. _See_ Jackson, Fanny M.
Cornish, Alexander, establishes school for Colored children, 209.
Costin, Louisa Parke, establishes school for Colored
children, 192, 193.
Costin, William, his death, 192;
sketch of, 193.
Coxe, R. S., emancipates slave, 210.
Crandall, Prudence, establishes a school in Conn., admits Colored
pupil, 149;
protest of the citizens, 150, 151;
receives additional Colored pupils, 152;
school abolished by act of the Legislature, 152, 153;
her arrest and trial, 153-156;
school-house mobbed, 156.
Cuff, Peter, representative of Salem, N. J., in the first conference
of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Cuffe, John and Paul, free Negroes, petition for relief from
taxation in Mass., 1780, 126, 127.
Cumberland, Department of the, Negro troops recruited for, 294.
Cumings, Mrs. Elizabeth, school of, mentioned, 471.
Dandridge, Ann, family of, 193.
Darnes, Mary A., address to the Attucks Guards of Cincinnati, 145.
Davis, Jefferson, speech in the U. S. Senate, on the right to hold
slaves, 102;
chosen president of the Confederate States, 233;
his message to the Confederate Government, 234;
views on President Lincoln's emancipation proclamation, 271, 350;
proclamation outlawing Gen. Butler, 359;
plantation of, owned by Negroes, 414;
succeeded in the U. S. Senate by a Negro, 423.
Davis, John, Negro sailor, his bravery and death, 30.
Deep Bottom, Va., Negro troops engage in the battle of, 335.
De Grasse, John T., first Colored member of the Mass. Medical
Society, 133;
sketch of, 134.
Delaware, slave population, 1800, 2,
1810, 9;
in favor of restriction of slavery, 16;
slave population, 1820, 22;
Quakers emancipate their slaves, 35;
slave population, 1830, 1840, 99,
1850, 100;
tax on slaves, added to the school fund for the education of white
children, 157;
order for the enlistment of Negroes, 291;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392.
Deloach, C., organizes company of Negro troops, 277.
Democratic Party, convention of, 1853, nominates Franklin Pierce
for the Presidency, defines its position on the slavery
question, 106.
De Mortie, Louis, her birth, education, public reader, secures
funds for the erection of an asylum for Colored orphans, her
death, 449.
De Peyster, Maj.-Gen. J. Watts, advocates the employment of Negroes
as soldiers, 276.
Dickerson, William F., bishop of the African M. E. Church, 464.
District of Columbia, slave population, 1800, 2,
1810, 9;
1820, 22;
petition of Garrison for the abolition of slavery in, 39;
slave population, 1830, 1840, 99;
1850, 100;
schools for the education of the Negro population, 182-213;
Lincoln in favor of the abolishing of slavery in the, 237;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
Negro school population, 1871, 1876, 387;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392, 393.
Dix, Maj.-Gen. John A., proclamation protecting slave property, 246.
Dixon, Archibald, introduces bill in Congress for the repeal of the
Missouri compromise, 108.
Dodge, Henry, introduces bill in Congress to organize the territory
of Nebraska, 107.
Douglass, Frederick, his book "My Bondage, and My Freedom," 59;
mentioned, 79, 81;
delivers address on the ratification of the fifteenth
amendment, 422;
birth, enslavement, 424;
escapes to the North, marries, life as a freeman, 425;
becomes an anti-slavery orator, 426;
publishes the experiences of a "fugitive slave," leaves for
Great Britain, 427;
letter to William Lloyd Garrison, 428;
his freedom purchased, copy of freedom papers, 431;
his former name when a slave, how he received his present
one, 431, 432;
returns to America, 432;
reasons for leaving the Garrisonian party, establishes the
newspaper "North Star," 433;
his eloquence, 434, 437;
influence and career, 437, 438;
death of his wife, 437;
mentioned, 471.
Douglass, Margaret, arrested for instructing Negroes, 181.
Douglass, Stephen A., speech in favor of the repeal of the Missouri
compromise, 108;
questions to Lincoln, on slavery, 237, 238.
Douty, Lieut. Jacob, fires the mine at the siege of
Petersburg, Va., 341.
Dow, Jesse E., urges the establishment of a free Colored public
school in the D. C., 209.
Dunlap, George W., resolution in Congress, opposing the enlistment
of Negroes, 282.
Durham, Rev. Clayton, representative of Phila., in the first
conference of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Dutch Gap, Va., excavated by Negroes, 262.
Dwight, Brig.-Gen. William, orders the Negro troops to capture
a battery at the battle of Port Hudson, 318.
Early, Peter, introduces bill in Congress for the forfeiture of
slaves illegally imported, 8.
Economic Anti-Slavery Party, 49.
Edwards, G. G., describes the bravery of Negro troops, 327.
Edwards, Samuel, his connection with the Negro insurrection in
Southampton County, Va., 87.
Elsworth, W. W., counsel for Prudence Crandall, 156.
Embree, Lawrence, mentioned, 166.
Embury, Phillip, one of the founders of M. E. Church in
New York, 465.
Emerson, Dr., owner of the Negro slave Dred Scott, 114.
Emerson, R. W., his opinion of John Brown, 217.
Emancipation proclamations, 255, 257, 263-275;
the results of, 384-418.
Fair Oaks, Va., Negro troops engage in the battle of, 335.
Faneuil Hall, Boston, meeting for the relief of Kansas, 216.
Farmville, Va., Negro troops engaged in the battle of, 335.
Faulkner, C. J., speech against slavery in the Legislature of
Virginia, 35.
Ferrer, Capt. Ramon, commander of the Spanish slaver "Amistad," 93.
Ferrero, Brig.-Gen. Edward, Negro troops under the command of,
defeat the Hampton Legion, 349.
Finnegas, Lieut.-Col. Henry, commands the 3d La. Regiment of
Colored Troops at the battle of Port Hudson, 320.
Fish, Hamilton, certifies the ratification of the fifteenth
amendment to the Constitution of the U. S., 421.
Fleet, John H., establishes a school for Colored children, 207, 208.
Florida, slave population, 1830, 1840, 99;
1850, 100;
proceeds of the sale of slaves added to the school-fund, 158;
secedes from the Union, 232; Gen. Hunter's proclamation
emancipating slaves, 257;
rescinded, 258;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
represented in Congress by Negroes, 382;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Follen, Rev. Mr., speech in support of resolution on anti-slavery, 80.
Ford, Mrs. George, establishes a school for Colored children, 207.
Forrest, Maj.-Gen., N. B., attacks Fort Pillow, demands its
surrender, orders the massacre of Negro soldiers, 360, 361;
testimony against his inhuman treatment of Negroes, 361-375;
commends the bravery of the U. S. soldiers, 368;
his conduct endorsed, 375.
Fort Gibson, Ark., bravery of the Negro troops at the battle of, 313.
Fort Mackinac, Mich., Negro sailors at, 28.
Fort Pillow, Tenn., defended by Union troops, refuse to
capitulate, 360;
massacre of the Negro soldiers, 360, 361;
testimony in regard to the massacre, 361-375;
Gen. Forrest commends the bravery of the U. S. soldiers, 368.
Fort Wagner, S. C., assault on, Negro regiment leads the
charge, 308, 313, 328, 329.
Forte, Sarah, verses on the Negro, 81.
Forten, James, his subscription to the "Liberator," 43.
Fortress Monroe, Va., first school for freedmen established at, 393.
Fortune, Charlotte L., her education, literary abilities, 450.
Foster, Gov. Charles, appoints Negro to office, 447;
one of the leaders of the Republican Party in the contest over
the electoral count of 1876, 521;
his speech on "a solid North against a solid South," 525, 526.
Foster, Col. John A., letter on the bravery of the Negro troops, 348.
Franklin, Jesse, his report against the modification of the
ordinance of 1787, in Indian Territory, 7.
Franklin, Nicholas, former slave, establishes a Colored school, 182.
Free Mission Institute, Ill., destroyed by a mob, 159.
Free Soil Party, organized, 46.
Freedman's Savings Bank and Trust Company, incorporated, list of the
trustees, 403, 404;
act incorporating, amended, 407;
organized, 408;
reports, 408-410;
total amount deposited, failure, commissioners appointed to
settle the affairs of the, 411, 412;
dividends, 413.
Freedmen's Bureau, established, 379;
number of schools in charge of the, 385, 394;
amount expended, 386, 394, 395;
report, 401, 402, 403.
Friends, see Quakers.
Fry, Brig.-Gen., orders the return of fugitive slaves, 246.
Fugitive-Slave Law, of 1793, condemned, 2;
amended, 10;
of 1850, 106;
recognized in Ohio, 112;
passed in Kansas, 215;
Lincoln opposed to the repeal of the, 237.
Fulton, Rev. Justin D., preaches the funeral sermon of Col.
Elsworth, views on slavery, 242, 243.
Gabriel, General, leader of the Negro plot in Virginia, 1800, 83.
Gaillard, Nicholas, representative of Baltimore, in the first
conference of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Gaines, John I., urges the claims of the Colored people to
school-fund in Cincinnati, 171.
Galveston, Texas, captured Negro soldiers sold into slavery, 353.
Garnet, Henry Highland, mentioned, 79, 134.
Garnett, James M., reports in favor of the modification of the
ordinance of 1787, in Indiana Territory, 5.
Garrison, William Lloyd, leader of the anti-slavery movement,
edits newspapers, petitions Congress for the abolition of
slavery in the District of Columbia, 39;
favors immediate emancipation, imprisoned for libel, 40;
released, establishes the "Liberator," 41;
extract from his article on the abolition of slavery, 41, 42;
organizes the American Anti-Slavery Society, 43;
mentioned, 63;
opposed to the colonization of Negroes in Liberia, 70, 75;
mobbed at Boston, 97;
address at the Framingham celebration, 98;
mentioned, 425, 426;
Frederick Douglass's letter to, 428;
his views on slavery, 433.
Garrisanian Party, mentioned, 44;
in favor of the dissolution of the Union, 98.
Gedney, Lieut., Thomas R., captures the Spanish slaver "Amistad," 94.
Georgetown, D. C., Colored schools, 206, 207.
Georgia, slave population, 1800, 2;
cedes territory for the formation of Alabama and Mississippi, 3;
slave population, 1810, 9,
1820, 22,
1830, 1840, 99,
1850, 100;
education of Negroes' prohibited, 158,
advocated, 159;
secedes from the Union, 232;
Gen. Hunter's proclamation emancipating slaves, 257,
rescinded, 258;
expedition of Negro regiment into, 314;
represented in Congress by Negroes, 382;
number of slaves, 1860, Negro school population, 1876, 387;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392;
elects Negro representative to Congress, 423.
Gilmore, Rev. Hiram S., founder of the Cincinnati High School, 171.
Goddard, Calvin, counsel for Prudence Crandall, 156.
Gooch, D. W., one of the committee of investigation of the Fort
Pillow massacre, 361.
Gordon, Charlotte, establishes a school for Colored children, 213.
"Governor Tompkins," armed schooner, bravery of Negro sailors on
board of the, 30.
Grant, Gen. Ulysses S., orders the attack on Petersburg, 336, 337;
carries the Southern States in the presidential elections of
1868 and 1872, 382;
special message to Congress on ratification of the fifteenth
amendment, 420;
appoints Negroes in the diplomatic service, 423;
not responsible for the decline and loss of the republican State
governments at the South, 518.
Grant, Nancy, establishes a school for Colored children, 206.
Gray, Samuel, free Negro, petitions for relief from taxation,
in Mass., 1780, 125.
Greeley, Horace, leader of the economic anti-slavery party, 49;
letter to President Lincoln on slavery, 253;
Lincoln's reply, 254;
newspaper editorials on Negro troops, 303-307;
opposed to the resolutions of the Confederate Congress in
regard to Negro troops, 356.
Green, John P., his struggles to obtain an education, successful
orator, lawyer, and statesman, 447, 448.
Greener, Richard Theodore, his early life, 438;
education, first Colored graduate of Harvard University, 439;
principal of the Institute for Colored Youth, and Sumner High
School, accepts the Chair of Metaphysics and Logic in the
University of S. C., Dean of the Law Department of Howard
University, graduates from the Law School of the University
of S. C., literary career, 440;
the intellectual position of the Negro, a reply to James
Parton's article on the antipathy to the Negro, 441;
speech at the dinner of the Harvard Club, 442.
Greenlaw, William B., organizes company of Negro troops, 277.
Grimes, Rev. Leonard Andrew, Colored Baptist minister, sketch of
his life, 505-512;
death, 513;
resolutions on his death, 513-515.
Grow, G. A., Stanton's letters to, 279.
Guinea, memorial against the slave-trade on the coast of, 2.
Gurley, Rev. R. R., favors the colonization of free Negroes at
Liberia, 52, 70, 75.
Hall, Anne Maria, establishes school for Colored children, 183.
Hall, Primus, first school for Colored children, held in the house
of, 1798, 162.
Hallock, Maj.-Gen., Henry W., forbids fugitive slaves entering the
army, 247, 248.
Hamilton, Paul, circular letter to H. G. Campbell, in regard to the
importation of slaves, 10.
Hammond, Eliza Ann, arrested for attending school in Conn., 152.
Hampton, Va., school for the education of Negroes, 394;
normal and agricultural institute, 395.
Hampton, Fanny, establishes school for Colored children, 207.
Hampton Legion, defeated by Negro troops, 349.
Harden, Henry, representative of Baltimore in the first conference
of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Harper, Frances Ellen, essayist and lecturer, 419.
Harper's Ferry, Va., operations of John Brown at, 222, 224.
Harris, Sarah, protests of the citizens of Canterbury, Conn.,
against her attending school, 150.
Hartford, Conn., establishes a separate school for Colored
children, 149.
Harvard University, first Colored graduate, 439.
Hatcher's Run, Va., Negro troops engaged in the battle of, 335.
Havana, Cuba, Spanish slaver "Amistad" sails from, with slaves, 93.
Hayard, Elisha, mentioned, 187;
school-house destroyed by a mob, 189.
Hayes, Alexander, establishes school for Colored children, 209;
emancipated, his marriage, 210.
Hayes, Rutherford B., failure of his Southern policy, 522-524.
Hayti, opposition to the colonization of, by free Negroes, 70;
E. D. Bassett appointed Minister to, 423.
Heck, Barbara, foundress of American Methodism, 465.
Helena, Ark., bravery of Negro troops at battle of, 313.
Helper, Hinton R., influence of his book the "Impending Crisis," 60.
Henderson, Rev. Henry, school of, mentioned, 471.
Henry, Patrick, opposed to slavery, 33.
Heterodox Anti-Slavery Party, the platform of the, 48.
Higginson, Col. Thomas Wentworth, description of regiment of
Colored Troops commanded by, 304;
expedition into Georgia, 314.
Hildreth, Joseph, teaches Negro slaves in New York, 165.
Hill, Margaret, establishes school for Colored children, 209.
Hill, Stephen, representative of Baltimore in the first conference
of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Hinks, Brig.-Gen. Edward W., commands brigade of Negro troops at
the battle of Petersburg, Va., 336, 339, 346.
Holt, Joseph, letter to the Secretary of War on the enlistment of
slaves, 307.
Honey Springs, Ark., bravery of Negro troops at the battle of, 346.
Hooker, Maj.-Gen. Joseph, order in regard to harboring fugitive
slaves in the army, 249.
Hosier, Rev. Harry, first Negro preacher in the M. E. Church in
America, 466;
his eloquence as a pulpit orator, 466, 467.
Houston, Gen. Samuel, proposition to Congress on the admission of
California and New Mexico, 100, 101;
maintains Congress has no authority to prohibit or interfere with
slavery, 101.
Howard, Maj.-Gen. O. O. appointed Commissioner of the Freedmen's
Bureau, his report on schools established by the bureau, 385;
in charge of Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned
Lands, 398;
report, 399, 400.
Howland, Pero, free Negro, petitions for relief from taxation in
Mass., 1780, 126.
Huddlestone, William, teaches Negro slaves in New York, 165.
Humphreys, Richard, founder of the Institute for Colored
Youth, 176.
Hunter, Maj.-Gen. David, proclamation emancipating slaves, 257;
rescinded by President Lincoln, 258;
organizes Negro regiment, 278;
official correspondence with the Secretary of War, respecting the
enlistment of Negroes, 279, 280;
asks to be relieved of his command, 284;
outlawed by Jefferson Davis, 354.
Hunter, Rev. William H., establishes school for Colored people, 212.
Illinois, slave population in the territory of, 1810, 9,
1820, 22,
1830, 1840, 99;
first constitution, Negroes, Mulattoes, and Indians exempted
from militia service, free Negroes required to produce
certificate of freedom, persons bringing slaves into, for the
purpose of emancipating, to give bonds, 122;
criminal code enacted, Negroes, Mulattoes, and Indians declared
incompetent to be witnesses, Act to prevent the immigration
of free Negroes into, 123;
separate schools for Colored children established, the Free
Mission Institute destroyed by mob, 159;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422;
Negro elected to the Legislature, 447.
Indiana, slave population in the territory of, 1800, 2;
William Henry Harrison, appointed governor, 3;
memorial to Congress for the modification of the ordinance of
1787, 4-8;
slave population, 1810, 9,
1820, 22;
law in regard to executions against the time of service of
slaves, 119, 121;
Act for the introduction of Negroes, 120;
first constitution, Negroes excluded from giving testimony,
Act regulating free Negroes, 121;
Negroes denied the right of suffrage, 159;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Indians, list of, ordered to leave Mass., 130.
Institute for Colored Youth, established, 176.
Iowa, number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
"Isaac Smith," gun-boat, free Negroes captured from, 354.
Jackson, Alfred, fugitive slave, claimed by his master, 245;
leaves for Michigan, 246.
Jackson, Andrew, proclamation of, calling for Negro troops, War of
1812, 25;
orders the suppression of the Snow riot at Washington, D. C., 189.
Jackson, Edward, representative of Attleborough, Pa., in the first
conference of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Jackson, Fanny M., her birth, education, 448;
school-teacher, 449.
Jackson, Rev. Henry, Negroes excluded from the church of, 430.
Jarrot _vs._ Jarrot, case of, mentioned, 120.
Jay, John, president of the N. Y. Society for Promoting the
Manumission of Slaves, 167.
Jefferson, Thomas, recommends the abolishing of the slave-trade, 8;
predicts the abolition of slavery, 33;
condemns slavery, 35.
Jerusalem Court-House, Va., Negro insurrection at, 1831, 88.
Johnson, John, Negro sailor, his bravery and death, 30.
Jordan, Thomas, letter to Col. B. R. Rhett, Jr., relative to the
refusal of the Confederate army to exchange captured Negro
soldiers, 358.
Jordan _vs._ Smith, case of, mentioned, 113.
"Journal of the Times" (The), anti-slavery newspaper, advocates the
claims of John Quincy Adams, 39.
Judah, Brig.-Gen., H. M., orders the return of fugitive slaves, 245.
Judge, Philadelphia, former slave to Martha Washington, 193.
Judson, Andrew T., decision in the case of the "Amistad" captives, 94;
advocates resolutions against school for Colored children in
Conn., 150;
secures enactment of a law abolishing the same, 152;
counsel for the prosecution in the trial of Prudence Crandall, 156.
Kansas, fugitive-slave bill passed, speech of John Brown against
slavery, 215;
infested by border ruffians, aid for the relief of, 216;
arms purchased for the defence of, 218;
plan of John Brown for the freedom of slaves in, 219;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422;
freedmen's relief association, organized, 536.
Kentucky, slave population, 1800, 2,
1810, 9;
opposed to the restriction of slavery, 16;
slave population, 1820, 22, 1830, 1840, 99, 1850, 100;
slave laws retard the education of the Negroes, 159;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392.
King, John, member of the first American Methodist Conference, 466.
Ku Klux, a secret organization, objects of, 382.
Lafayette, Marquis de, address to the scholars of the N. Y. African
free school, 168.
Langston, John Mercer, born a slave, education, services, Resident
Minister and Consul-General to Hayti, 446.
Lake Erie, N. Y., Negro sailor represented in the picture of
Perry's victory on, 28;
bravery of the Negro sailors at the battle of, 30.
Lancaster County, Pa., free public Colored school, 206.
Lawrence, John, mentioned, 166.
Lawrence, Kansas, sacked and burned by a mob, 215.
Lawrence, Nathaniel, mentioned, 166.
Leaman, Jacob, mentioned, 166.
Leaman, Willett, mentioned, 166.
Ledlie, Brig.-Gen., James H., attempts to fire the mine at the siege
of Petersburg, Va., 341.
Lee, General Fitz-Hugh, defeated by Negro troops at the battle of
Wilson's Wharf, 335.
Lee, William Thomas, his school for Colored children burned, 205;
threatened by mob, 206.
Leming, Lieut., Mc J., his testimony in regard to the Fort Pillow
massacre, 367.
Lenox, Walter, opposed to the education of Colored people, 201.
Leonard, Rev. Chauncey, his school for Colored children destroyed
by mob, 192.
Lewis, Edmonia, Negro sculptress, sketch of, 450.
"Lexington," gun-boat, at the battle of Milliken's Bend, 326.
"Liberator" (The), anti-slavery newspaper, established, 41.
Liberia, proposed colony of free Negroes at, 51, 54, 56;
protest against the colonization, 70.
Lincoln, Abraham, in favor of the Union of the States, 230;
speech against slavery, 232;
his answers to Stephen A. Douglass' questions on slavery, 237-239;
in favor of gradual emancipation, elected President of the
United States, 239;
his inaugural address regarding slavery, 240;
letter in reply to Horace Greeley, on slavery, 254;
to Gen. Fremont, disproving his proclamation emancipating slaves
in Missouri, 256;
rescinds proclamation of Gen. Hunter, 258;
conservative policy of, 259;
his reasons for not issuing emancipation proclamation, 264-266;
issues emancipation proclamation, 267-269;
second proclamation, 272;
opposed to the enlistment of Negroes, 278;
authorizes the enlistment of Negro
troops, 285;
second call for troops, 287;
his order in regard to prisoners of war, 355.
Lincoln University, see Ashum Institute.
Littlefield, Col. M. S., letter describing the bravery of Sergeant
William II. Carney at the assault on Fort Wagner, 331.
Liverpool, Moses, former slave, erects Colored school, 182.
Livingston, Edward, address to the Negro troops before the battle
of New Orleans, 26.
Loguen, Bishop, his book, "As a Slave and as a Freeman,"
mentioned, 59.
Longworth, Nicholas, builds the first school-house for Colored
people in Cincinnati, 172.
Louisiana, slave population in, and territory of, 1810, 9,
1820, 22;
bravery of the Negro troops of, at the battle of New Orleans, 27;
slave population, 1830, 1840, 99, 1850, 100;
education of Negroes prohibited, 160;
secedes from the Union, 232;
fugitive slaves offer their services in the army, 285;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
bravery of the 1st regiment, Negroes, at the battle of Port
Hudson, 317-324, 345;
the 9th and 11th regiments, Negroes, at the battle of Milliken's
Bend, 326, 327;
represented in Congress by Negroes, 382;
Negro population in excess of the white, 386;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392, 393;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Lovejoy, E. P., member of the aggressive anti-slavery party, 50;
killed by a mob, 51.
Lundy, Benjamin, earliest advocate of the abolition of slavery in
the United States, establishes anti-slavery newspaper, 1821, 38;
his sacrifices and work in the cause of emancipation, 38, 39;
visits William Lloyd Garrison, favors gradual emancipation, 40;
colonization of manumitted slaves, 51;
mentioned, 63, 73.
McClellan, Maj.-Gen, George B., views on slavery, 249;
Secretary Seward's letter to, in regard to fugitive slaves, 263.
McCoy, Benjamin M., one of the founders of Colored Sunday-school at
Washington, D. C., 187;
takes charge of public Colored school in Pa., 189;
school for Colored children, 206.
McCrady, John, chief engineer of Georgia, ordered to impress Negroes
to build fortifications, 261.
McLeod, John, in favor of the education of the Colored people, 186.
Madden, Rev. Samuel, a Colored Baptist minister, 476.
Madison, James, opposed to slavery, 33;
president of the American Colonization Society, 52.
Maine, bill for the admission of, into the Union, 16,
admitted, 18;
equal school privileges granted to Negroes, 160;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Malcom, Rev. Howard, favors the colonization of free Negroes at
Liberia, 52.
Mallory, Col., fugitive slaves of, declared contraband of war, 250.
Mann, Horace, favors the colonization of free Negroes at Liberia, 52.
Marechal, Rev. Ambrose, in favor of the education of the
Negroes, 161.
Marsh, Jacob, representative of Attleborough, Pa., in the first
conference of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Maryland, slave population, 1800, 2,
1810, 9,
1820, 22;
Quakers emancipate their slaves, 35;
slave population, 1830, 1840, 99,
1850, 100;
Negroes excluded from the schools, St. Frances Academy
founded, 160;
the Wells school established, 161;
order for the enlistment of Negroes, 290;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392, 393.
Massachusetts, petition of the free Negroes for relief from
taxation, 1780, 126, 127;
law preventing Negroes from other States from settling in, 127;
notice to Negroes, Indians, and Mulattoes warning them to
leave, 128;
list of the same, 128, 129;
first school for Colored children, 162;
number of Negro troops, furnished, 299;
captured Negro soldiers from, sold into slavery, 353.
Massachusetts General Colored Association, 78;
letter to New England Anti-Slavery Society desiring to become
auxiliary to the latter, 79.
Massachusetts Medical Society, first Colored member admitted to
the, 133.
Massachusetts State Kansas Committee, amount of money furnished
for the relief of Kansas, 216, 218.
Massachusetts Volunteers, 54th regiment, first Colored troops
raised at the North, 289;
at James Island, 328, 335;
march to Morris Island, 328, 329, 332;
assault Fort Wagner, and plant the colors of the regiment on the
fort, 329;
Edward L. Pierce's letter describing the valor and losses of the
regiment, 331;
Gen. Strong commends the bravery of the regiment, 334.
Mattock, White, mentioned, 166.
May, Rev. Samuel J., in favor of education of Colored children in
Conn., 150, 151, 153, 157.
Memphis, Tenn., Negro troops raised for the Confederate
States, 277;
fort garrisoned by Negroes, 345.
Mercer, Brig.-Gen. Hugh W., order to impress Negroes to build
fortifications, 261.
Methodist Episcopal Church founded, Negro servants and slaves
contributors to the erection of the first chapel in New
York, 1768, 465;
first American annual conference, 465, 466;
first Negro preacher in the, 466;
opposed to slavery, 467;
organized, interested in the welfare of the Negro, 468;
strength of the churches and Sunday-schools of the Colored
members in the, 469.
Michigan, slave population in the territory of, 1810, 9;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Middleton, Charles H., establishes school for Colored
children, 207, 208.
Milliken's Bend., La., bravery of the Negro troops at the battle
of, 308, 313, 326, 345.
Miner, Myrtilla, establishes seminary for Colored girls, 196;
sketch of, 197-205.
Minnesota, number of Negro troops furnished by, 300;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Minot, William, address at the dedication of the Smith
school-house, 162.
Mississippi, slave population in territory of, 1800, 2;
one of the most cruel of slave States, 3;
formation of the territory of, 3;
slave population, 1810, 9;
applies for admission into the Union with a slave
constitution, 9;
slave population, 1820, 22, 1830, 1840, 99, 1850, 100;
education of Negroes prohibited, conduct of slaves regulated,
preaching the Gospel by slaves declared unlawful, 163;
secedes from the Union, 232;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 300;
1st regiment of Negroes at the battle of Milliken's Bend, 326;
represented in Congress by Negroes, 382;
Negro population in excess of the white, 386;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392, 393;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Missouri, applies for admission into the Union, 14;
Arkansas formed from, 15;
controversy, 16-20;
admitted into the Union, 20;
slave population, 1820, 22, 1830, 1840, 99, 1850, 100;
Negroes ordered to leave the State, education prohibited, 163;
order for the enlistment of Negroes, 290;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 300;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Mitchell, Charles L., member of the Legislature of Mass., 446.
Mobile, Ala., educational privileges granted to the free Creoles, 148.
Monroe, James, message to Congress in regard to the slave-trade, 12.
Montes, Don Pedro, passenger on the Spanish slaver "Amistad,"
compelled by the slaves to navigate the ship, 93;
charged with piracy, 94.
Montgomery, Ala., Confederate States organized, 232.
Morgan, Rev. J. V. B., establishes school for Colored children, 209.
Morris, Catharine, contributes money for the education of Colored
people, 199.
Morris Island, S. C., battle on, Negro regiment leads the
assault, 313, 328, 329.
Morsell, Judge James, interested in the education of Colored
people, 207.
Mott, Lydia P., establishes a home for Colored orphans, 144.
Murfreesboro, Tenn., captured Negro soldiers massacred at, 353.
Murray, John, Jr., mentioned, 166.
Muse, Lindsay, one of the founders of Colored Sunday-school at
Washington, D. C., 186.
Mussey, Captain R. D., superintends the recruiting of Negro
troops, 294.
Nantucket, Mass., anti-slavery convention at, 425.
Nashville, Tenn., Negroes in the Confederate service, 277;
Negro troops recruited, 294;
engaged in the battle of, 342.
Natchez, Miss., fort at, garrisoned by Negro troops, 345.
National anti-slavery convention, held in Phila., 1833, 44.
Neau, Elias, establishes a school for Negro slaves, in New
York, 1704;
pupils accused of being concerned in the Negro plot, his life
threatened, 164;
his death, 165.
Nebraska, bill introduced in Congress, to organize the territory
of, 107, 110;
number of troops furnished by, 300;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Negroes, free, sold as slaves, 2;
premium to informer of illegally imported, seized in the
United States, 10;
imported to St. Mary's, 10;
to be returned to Africa, 12;
serve in the War of 1812, 23-27;
Gen. Jackson's proclamation calling for Negro troops, 25;
Gen. Livingston's address, 26;
rated as chattel property, their valor in war secures them
immunity in peace, at the battle of New Orleans, 27;
in the United States Navy, 28-30; at Fort Mackinac, 1814, 28;
their treatment as sailors, Captain Perry's letter to Commodore
Chauncey, complaining of the men sent him, 28;
Commodore Chauncey's reply, 29;
at the battle of Lake Erie, represented in the picture of Perry's
victory on Lake Erie, letter of Nathaniel Shaler commending
the bravery of the sailors under his command, 30;
military services, 32;
proposed colony of free, at Liberia, 51, 54, 56;
authors of anti-slavery literature, 59;
anti-slavery efforts of free, 61-81;
conventions of the people of color, 61-79;
condition of free, in United States, 62, 67;
proposed college for, 63;
settle in Canada, 66, 71, 73;
opposed to colonization in Liberia and Hayti, 70;
leave Ohio, for Canada, 71, 76;
colonization of Upper Canada, opposed, 72;
dissolution of anti-slavery societies composed of, 79;
prejudice against admitting, into white societies, eloquence of
the, as orators, 81;
insurrections of, 82-92;
why they were kept in bondage, 82;
plot of the, in Virginia, 1800, 83;
in Charleston, S. C., 1822, 84;
insurrection in Southampton County, Va., 1831, 87-89;
the "Amistad" captives, 93-96;
Northern sympathy and Southern subterfuges, 1850-1860, 97-100;
schools broken up, pupils maltreated, 97;
the "Black Laws" of "Border States," 111-124;
Ohio laws against free, 111, 112;
compelled to show certificate of freedom, 112;
laws against kidnapping, 113;
not citizens, 114, 118;
denied the right to vote, 119, 122;
excluded from the militia service, schools established for
free, 119;
Act for the introduction of, into Indiana, 120;
excluded from giving testimony, 121, 123;
exempted from militia service, 122;
Act to prevent the immigration of free, into Illinois, 123;
restrictions and proscriptions in the Northern States, 124;
the Northern, 125-146;
number of free, in the slave and Northern States, 125;
petition for relief from taxation of free, in Mass., 1780, 126;
law preventing, from other States settling in Mass., 127;
notice to, warning them to leave Mass., 128;
list of, ordered to leave Mass., 128, 129;
rights and privileges restricted, 130-132;
educated by their own race, admitted to the bar, practice of
medicine, pulpit, authors, orators, 133;
prominent, 134, 135;
amount paid for their freedom, 134;
distinguished in the pulpit, 135;
report on the condition of, in Cincinnati, 1835, 136-138;
militia company of, 145;
emigrate to Liberia, overcome prejudice against the race, 146;
school laws, 1619-1860, 147-213;
education of, prohibited, 148, 149, 157, 158, 160, 163, 170,
178-181;
prejudice against the schools for, in Conn., 149;
resolutions against the establishing of schools for, in
Conn., 150;
school abolished, 152, 153;
school-house mobbed, 156, 159;
African School Association established, 157;
education of, advocated, 158, 159;
denied the right of suffrage, 159;
elective franchise and school privileges in Maine, 160;
schools established, 161, 162, 164, 168-178, 182-213;
first school established by, 162;
ordered to leave Missouri, 163;
plot for burning New York, 164;
prohibited the use of the streets, kidnapped, 165;
school trustees, 171, 172;
admitted to Oberlin College, 172;
the employment of, as clerks forbidden, 180;
stringent laws of Va., 180, 181;
attacked by a mob, 188;
population in United States, 229;
their services in the War of 1861 declined, not the cause of the
War of 1861, 242;
arrest of free, by the army, 244;
ordered from the Union army, 250;
on fatigue duty, 260-262;
employed as teamsters and in the quartermaster's department, 260;
number at Port Royal, cultivate land, self-supporting, 261;
order to impress, to build fortifications for Confederate
States, 261, 262;
fortifications and earthworks built by, industrious and earn
promotion, 262;
emancipation proclamations, 263-275;
President Lincoln's emancipation proclamation imparts new hope
to the, 274;
as soldiers in the War of 1861, 276-309;
in the Confederate service, 277, 278;
presented with war flag, 277;
President Lincoln opposed to the enlistment of, first regiment
of loyal, organized, 278;
official correspondence of the Secretary of War, concerning the
enlistment of, 279, 280;
their abilities as soldiers, 282;
President Lincoln authorizes the raising of five regiments
of, 285;
regiments of free, at New Orleans, 287;
bill in Congress for the employment of, as soldiers, 287;
action of Congress, on the proposed amendment to the army
appropriation bill, to prohibit the enlistment of, 288;
Mass. furnishes regiment of, 289;
official order for the enlistment of, 290;
New York furnishes regiments of, 292;
Pennsylvania regiments of, 293;
prejudice against, as soldiers, free military school
established, 293;
number of, in the army, 297, 299-301;
use of, as soldiers, 301;
the character of, 303;
as soldiers, 306, 310-349;
bravery of, in battle, 308, 313, 323, 329, 336, 338, 342, 345-349;
legally and constitutionally soldiers, 309;
persecuted in the army, 311;
expedition of the First S. C. Volunteers into Ga., and Fla., 314;
at the battle of Port Hudson, 316-323;
commended for their bravery, 323, 338, 346;
Boker's poem on "The Black Regiment," 324;
at the battle of Milliken's Bend, 326;
draft riot at N. Y., mob destroy orphan asylum, hang several,
and destroy property of, 328;
lead the assault on Fort. Wagner, 329, 331-335;
number of battles fought by, in the Army of the Potomac, 335;
defeat Gen. Fitz-Hugh Lee at Wilson's Wharf, 335, 336;
at the battle of Petersburg, Va., 336-342;
Nashville, Tenn., 342;
list of the losses, 343;
at Appomattox, Va., their efficiency as soldiers, 344;
forts garrisoned by, 345;
soldierly qualities, 346, 347;
history records their deeds of valor, in the preservation of the
Union, 349;
capture and treatment of, 350-376;
Confederate States opposed to the military employment of, by the
U. S. Government, 350, 351;
captured in arms against the Confederate States to be executed, 352;
captured, sold into slavery, the government urged to protect
enlisted, massacre of prisoners, 353;
ill-treatment of free, captured on gun-boat, 354;
Confederate States refuse to exchange captured, as prisoners of
war, 355, 357;
defend Fort Pillow, and are massacred, 360, 361;
testimony in regard to the massacre, 361-375;
the first decade of freedom, 377-383;
condition of, at the close of the war, 378, 381, 382;
bureau for the relief of freedmen and refugees established, 379;
in Congress, members of Legislature in the Southern States, 382;
the results of emancipation, 384-418;
advance in education, 382, 387, 388, 396;
number of schools attended, 382;
amount of money raised by, for the support of schools, 386, 394;
population in excess of the whites, in La., S. C., and Miss., 386;
comparative statistics of education at the South, 388;
statistics of institutions for the instruction of, 389-393;
Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned Lands established, 398;
military savings-banks, Freedman's Savings Bank and Trust Company
established, 403, 407;
failure of the bank, 411, 412;
social and financial condition of the, in the South, 413, 414;
character of the Southern, 414;
rarely receive justice in Southern courts, 415;
their treatment as convicts, 416;
increase, from 1790-1880, 417;
susceptible of the highest civilization, 418;
representative men, 419-448;
ratification of the fifteenth amendment, granting manhood suffrage
to American, 420-422;
in the U. S. Senate and House of Representatives, in the
diplomatic service, 423;
representative women, 448-451;
African M. E. Church, 452-464;
contributors to the erection of the first M. E. chapel in New
York, 1768, 465;
Baptists of America, 475-515;
the decline of Negro governments, 516-528;
the exodus--cause and effect, 529;
abridgment of their rights, the plantation credit system, 530;
political intimidation, murder, and outrage against the, 531-533;
settle in Kansas, 536;
retrospection and prospection, 544;
power of endurance, number of tribes of, represented in U. S.,
achievements as laborers, soldiers, and students, 545;
first blood shed by, in the Revolution and the War for the
Union, 546.
Nelson, Col. John A., commands Negro troops at the battle of Port
Hudson, 318.
Nevada, ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of
the U. S., 422.
New Bedford, Mass., Negroes excluded from the Lyceum, 430.
Newburyport, Mass., anti-slavery newspaper published, 39;
ship "Francis Todd" from, engaged in the slave-trade, 40.
New England Anti-slavery Society, appoints Mass. General Colored
Association its auxiliary, 79;
resolution in regard to anti-slavery, 80.
"New Era," gun-boat, at the attack on Fort Pillow, 360.
New Hampshire, slave population, 1800, 2;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
New Haven, Conn., proposed college for young men of color, 63;
citizens of, oppose the erection of the college, 76.
New Jersey, slave population, 1800, 2,
1810, 9;
resolutions against the extension of slavery, 16;
anti-slavery society formed, Act for the gradual abolition of
slavery, 20;
slave population, 1820, 22;
Quakers emancipate their slaves, 38;
slave population, 1830, 1840, 99,
1850, 100;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299.
New London, Conn., the Spanish slaver "Amistad" captured and taken
to, trial of the slaves, 94.
Newman, Rev. W. P., Colored Baptist minister, 476.
New Mexico, resolution in regard to the admission into the
Union, 100, 101;
number of troops furnished by, 300.
New Orleans, La., bravery of the Negro troops at the battle of, 27;
slaves from Baltimore to, to be sold, 40;
Negro troops in the Confederate army at, 277;
regiments of free Negroes organized, 287;
forts at, garrisoned by Negro troops, 345.
New York, slave population, 1800, 2,
1810, 9;
Legislature passes resolutions against the extension of
slavery, 16;
slave population, 1820, 22;
authorizes the enlistment of Negro troops in the War of 1812, 23;
convention of the Anti-Slavery Women of America, 80;
slave population, 1840, 99;
right of suffrage granted to every male inhabitant, 163,
amended, 163, 164;
rights of Negroes denied, 164;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
New York African Free School, organized, 165;
list of the trustees, sketch of, school destroyed by fire, 166;
Lafayette's address to the scholars, 168.
New York City, prominent Colored men of, 134;
school for Negro slaves, 1704, 164, 165;
Negro plot, 164;
Negroes prohibited the use of the streets, kidnapped, N. Y.
African Free School organized, 165;
school-house destroyed by fire, 166;
public schools for Colored children, 168-170;
Union League Club raise Colored troops, 292;
draft riot, Colored Orphan Asylum burned by mob, 328;
first Methodist Episcopal chapel erected, 465.
New York Public School Society, assumes control of the Colored
schools, 168.
New York Society for Promoting the Manumission of Slaves,
organized, 165.
"New York Times" (The), articles on Negro troops, 284, 301, 313,
314, 320.
"New York Tribune" (The), articles on Negro troops, 303-307, 353.
Nichols, Manuel, his testimony in regard to the Fort Pillow
massacre, 361.
Nickens, Rev. David, Colored Baptist minister, 476.
Norfolk, Va., military savings-bank for Negroes established, 403.
North Carolina, slave population, 1800, 2, 1810, 9, 1820, 22, 1830,
99, 1840, 1850, 100;
Colored schools abolished, education of Negroes prohibited, 170;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 300;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392, 393;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Northup, Solomon, narrative of, mentioned, 59.
Noxon, Thomas, teaches Negro slaves in New York, 165.
Oberlin College, Colored students admitted to, 172.
O'Connell, Daniel, extract of speech against slavery, 43.
Ohio, constitution adopted, 3;
Negroes leave for Canada, 71;
laws against free Negroes and Mulattoes, in, 112;
fugitive-slave law recognized, 112;
law to prevent kidnapping of free Negroes, 113;
first constitution, 113, 114;
free Negroes denied the right to vote, excluded from the militia
service, separate schools, 119;
Colored schools established, 170-172;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 300;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422;
Negroes, members of the Legislature, 447.
Ohio Anti-Slavery Society, report on the condition of the people
of color, 1835, 136-138.
Owen, Richard, first native Methodist preacher in America, 465.
Paducah, Ky., fort at, garrisoned by Negro troops, 345.
Park, Benjamin, report in favor of the modification of the ordinance
of 1787, in Indiana Territory, 6.
Parker, Mary S., President of the Anti-Slavery Women of
America, 80.
Parker, Theodore, favors the extinction of slavery, 48.
Paul, William, his connection with the Negro plot in Charleston,
S. C., 1822, 85.
Payne, Daniel A., bishop of the African M. E. Church, 464.
Peck, Maj.-Gen. John J., letter to Gen. Pickett, relative to killing
of Negro soldier after surrendering, 356.
Pemberton, John, bequest for the education of Colored people, 175.
Pennsylvania, slave population, 1800, 2, 1810, 9;
resolutions against the extension of slavery, 16;
anti-slavery society, 20;
slave population, 1820, 22;
Quakers emancipate their slaves, 38;
slave population, 1840, 100;
Colored schools established, 172-178;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Pennsylvania Abolition Society, establish Colored schools, 175, 176.
Perry, Capt. Oliver Hazard, letter to Commodore Chauncey,
complaining of the Negro sailors sent him, 28;
commends bravery of the Negro sailors at Lake Erie, 29.
Petersburg, Va., Negro troops engaged in the siege of, 335-337;
lead the charge on the advance works, 338, 339.
Phelps, Brig.-Gen. J. W., report in favor of enlisting Negroes, 285;
applies for arms and clothing for Negro regiments, his policy in
regard to the employment of Negroes as soldiers, 286;
resigns from the army, 287.
Philadelphia, Colored citizens of, send memorial to Congress,
against the slave-trade, 2;
anti-slavery newspaper, published, 38;
national anti-slavery convention, 44;
conventions of the people of color, 61, 68;
prominent Colored men, 134;
amount paid for their freedom, 134;
churches, 135;
first Colored school established, 172;
Quakers establish school, 174;
number of public schools, condition and population of the Colored
people, 175;
Negro troops recruited, 293;
free military school for Negroes established, 295-298;
first American Methodist conference, 465.
"Philanthropist" (The), office destroyed by a mob, 51.
Phoebe _vs._ Jay, case of, mentioned, 120.
Pickett, Maj.-Gen. J. E., letter to Gen. Peck, relative to killing
of Negro soldier after surrender, 357.
Pierce, Rev. Charles, minister of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Pierce, Franklin, nominated for President of the United States, 106;
elected, in favor of slavery, 107.
Pillsbury, Parker, member of the heterodox anti-slavery party, 48.
Pilmoor, Joseph, member of the first American Methodist
conference, 466.
Planciancois, Anselmas, color-sergeant of the First Louisiana
Regiment of Colored Troops, his reply on receiving the colors
of the regiment, 316, 319;
bravery and death, 319.
Poindexter, Rev. James, Colored Baptist minister, 476, 503.
Port Hudson, La., bravery of the Negro troops at the battle
of, 308, 313, 317, 318, 322, 345.
Port Royal, S. C., first regiment of loyal Negroes, organized, 278.
Porter, Henry, his connection with the Negro insurrection in
Southampton Co., Va., 87.
Potter, Henry, establishes school for Colored children, 183.
Poyas, Peter, his connection with the Negro plot in Charleston,
S.C., 1822, 22.
Presbyterian church, the first Colored, Washington, D. C.,
organized, 189.
Prout, John W., establishes school for Colored children, 185, 186;
opposed to the emigration of Negroes to Liberia, 185.
Providence, R. I., Colored school abolished, 178.
Quakers, emancipate their slaves, 35, 38;
establish school for Negroes, 174;
contribute money for the education of the latter, 198, 199.
Quincy, Ill., the Free Mission Institute destroyed by a mob, 159.
Quincy, Josiah, signs memorial against the increase of slavery, 16.
Quinn, Rev. William Paul, minister of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Randolph, John, report in Congress, against the modification of the
ordinance of 1787, in Indiana Territory, 4.
Randolph, Thomas Jefferson, speech against slavery in the
Legislature of Virginia, 33.
Rankin, Thomas, president of the first American Methodist
conference, 466.
Rankin _vs._ Lydia, case of, mentioned, 120.
Ray, John F., his testimony in regard to the Fort Pillow
massacre, 373.
Reconstruction, 1865-1875, 377-383.
Reeder, Gov. Andrew II., threatened by mob, leaves Kansas, 216.
Rees, Sergt. Henry, fires the mine at the siege of Petersburg,
Va., 341.
Republican party, decline of the, 518;
the presidential campaign of 1876, 519, 520.
Revels, Hiram R., succeeds Jefferson Davis in the U. S. Senate, 423.
Rhode Island, slave population, 1800, 2,
1810, 9,
1820, 22;
grants equal privileges to Negroes, 178;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Richardson, Mrs. Henry, raises money for the purchase of the
freedom of Frederick Douglass, 431.
Richmond, Va., Negro plot, 1800, 83;
Negroes armed for the defence of, 278;
schools for the education of Negroes, 394-396.
"Richmond Enquirer" (The), mentioned, 89;
on the Negro insurrection of 1831, 90, 92.
"Richmond Examiner" (The), on the treatment of captured Negro
soldiers, 354, 355.
Roberts, Thomas Wright, bishop of the M. E. Church, 469.
Rodney, Cæsar, report in favor of the modification of the ordinance
of 1787 in Indiana Territory, 4.
Roman Catholic school for Colored people, 194, 212.
Ruffner, W. H., superintendent of public instruction,
commended, 393;
his report, 395.
Ruiz, Jose, passenger on the Spanish slaver "Amistad," 93;
charged with piracy, 94.
Russell, Pero, free Negro, petitions for relief from taxation in
Mass., 1780, 126.
Russworm, John B., teacher in the African school, Boston, Governor
of Cape Palmas, Liberia, 162.
St. Frances Academy for Colored girls, founded, 160.
St. Mary's, Md., slaves imported to, 10.
Satchell, Rev. Charles, Colored Baptist minister, 476.
Saunders, George Nicholas, his connection with the proposed
steam-ship line to Africa, 53.
Savannah, Ga., education of Negroes prohibited, 158.
Saxton, Brig.-Gen. Rufus, authorized to enlist Negroes, 283;
establishes military savings-bank for Negroes, 403.
Scott, Dred, Negro slave, 114;
his marriage, children of, 115;
sues for his freedom, 114-118.
Scott, Lieut.-Gen. Winfield, Gen. Butler's letter to, declaring
slaves contraband of war, 250;
nominated for President, 106;
defeated, 107.
Seward, William H., in favor of Union of the States, 230;
speeches against slavery, 230, 231;
letter to Gen. McClellan relative to fugitive slaves, 263.
Seymour, Horatio, opinion in regard to raising Negro troops, 292;
addresses the draft rioters at New York, 328.
Shadford, George, member of the first American Methodist
conference, 466.
Shaler, Capt. Nathaniel, letter commending the bravery of Negro
sailors under his command, 30.
Shaw, Col. Robert Gould, commander of the 54th Mass. Regiment of
Colored Troops, leads the assault on Fort Wagner, 329, 333;
his death, 330, 333.
Shelton, Rev. Wallace, Colored Baptist minister, 503.
Sherman, Brig.-Gen. T. W., proclamation protecting slave
property, 246;
ordered to accept the services of all loyal persons to suppress
the war, 278, 281.
Sherwood, Gen. Isaac R., his account of an attempt to secure a
fugitive slave in his charge, 245, 246.
Shirley, Thomas, donates money for Colored school-house, 174.
Shorter, Rev. James, establishes Colored school, 213.
Shorter, James A., bishop of the African M. E. Church, 464.
Shurtleff, Capt. G. W., refuses to arrest fugitive slaves, 245.
Simpson, Rev. H. L., Colored Baptist minister, 476.
Slave-trade, on the coast of Guinea, secretly carried on in the
United States, 2;
American ships prohibited from supplying slaves from United
States to foreign markets, 3;
Jefferson recommends the abolishing of the, 8;
Act of Congress in regard to persons engaged in the, 9;
memorials against the, 10;
illegal at St. Mary's, 10;
vessels engaged in the, to be seized, 13;
ship "Francis Todd," from Newburyport, Mass, engaged in the, 40;
bill for the suppression of the, 53;
Spanish slaver "Amistad," 93;
number of slaves imported for the, from the year 1500 to 1860, 544.
Slavery, restriction and extension, 1800-1825, 1-22;
increase of, 1800, 1;
slave population in United States, 1800, 1, 2;
the fugitive-slave law of 1793, source of persecution to the
free Colored people, 2;
growth of, in United States, 1810, 9;
President Monroe's message to Congress on the question of, 12;
resolutions in favor of restriction of, in the new States, 16;
anti-slavery societies formed, Act for the gradual abolition of,
in New Jersey, 20;
attitude of the Northern press on the question of, 21;
anti-slavery sentiments of the North, 22;
retrospection and reflection, 1825-1850, 31-36;
secured at the South, 31;
Jefferson predicts the abolition of, 33;
increase of, 33;
speeches against, in the Legislature of Virginia, 33-35;
evil effect upon society, 35;
the South in favor of, 36;
anti-slavery methods, 37-60;
anti-slavery newspapers established, 38, 39;
Buchanan's oration against, 1791, 38;
first anti-slavery society established in United States, 43;
O'Connell's speech against, 43;
Sumner's speech, 46;
the South entertains hope that, will become national, 98;
increase in the United States, 99, 100;
Congress has no authority to prohibit, Henry Clay's resolutions
in Congress for the adjustment of, does not exist by law in
the United States, 101;
Senator Bell's resolutions, Jefferson Davis's speech in
favor of, 102;
Calhoun's speech, 103-105;
President Pierce in favor of, 107;
ignorance favorable to, 148;
John Brown's speech against, 215;
speeches of William H. Seward against, 230, 231;
Lincoln's speech against, 230;
Alexander H. Stephens's speech in favor of, 235;
the extension of, the issue between the North and South, 236, 240;
Lincoln's views on, 237-239;
Rev. Justin D. Fulton's views on, 242, 243;
Gen. McClellan's views on, 249;
Greeley's letter to Lincoln, 253;
Lincoln's reply, 254;
struggle for the supremacy between the Union and, 259;
Lincoln's views on, 264-266;
resolutions of the Confederate Congress, 350, 351;
abolished in the U. S., 377;
the legal destruction of, and a constitutional prohibition, 419.
Slaves, number of, in the United States, 1800, 1, 2;
free Colored men sold as, fugitive-slave law of 1793, cause of
persecution to the Colored people, 2;
American ships prohibited from supplying, from United States to
foreign markets, 3;
importation of, prohibited, 8;
illegally imported to be forfeited, 8;
number of, in United States, 1810, 9;
circular-letter of the United States Navy Department in regard
to the importation of, premium to informer for imported,
seized in United States, 10;
number of, in United States, 1820, 22;
the right to hold, questioned, 32;
increase of, 33;
Quakers of Maryland and Delaware, emancipate their, 35;
in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, 38;
from Baltimore, sent to New Orleans to be sold, 40;
Washington emancipates, 43;
insurrections of, 82-92;
why kept in bondage, 82;
plot of the, in Virginia, 1800, 83;
insurrection in Southampton County, Va., 1831, 87-89;
the "Amistad" captives, 93-96;
number of, in United States, 1830, 1840, 99;
Jefferson Davis's speech on the right to hold, 102;
the "Dred Scott" case, 114-119;
law in regard to executions against the time of service
of, 119, 121;
Act for the introduction of, into Indiana, 120;
persons emancipating, in Ill. required to give bonds, 122;
fugitive, seek refuge in Canada, 125;
rendition of fugitive, by the army, 244;
failure of attempts to secure fugitive, from the army, 245, 246;
orders in regard to harboring fugitive, in the army, 248, 249;
contraband of war, 250;
Gen. Fremont's proclamation emancipating, in Missouri, 255;
disapproved by President Lincoln, 256;
Gen. Hunter's proclamation, 257;
rescinded, 258;
order to impress, to build fortifications for Confederate
States, 261;
emancipation proclamations, 261-275;
Secretary Seward's letter in regard to, 263;
President Lincoln's proclamation, 267-269;
second proclamation, 272;
enlist in the service of the Union, 281;
fugitive, offer their services in the army, 285, 287;
Judge Advocate Holt's letter on the enlistment of, 307;
the U. S. Government justified in the employment of, as
soldiers, 310;
at the battle of Port Hudson, 316, Milliken's Bend, 326;
bravery at battle of Nashville, Tenn., 342;
resolutions of the Confederate Congress against the military
employment of, by the U. S. Government, 350, 351;
Confederate army refuse to exchange captured, 357, 358;
results of emancipation, 384-418;
character of the Southern, 414;
contributors to the erection of the first M. E. chapel in
N. Y., 465;
number of, imported from Africa, from the year 1500 to 1860, 544;
number of fugitive and manumitted, in United States, 1850, 146;
education of prohibited, 148, 158, 178-181;
the tax on, in Delaware, added to the school fund for the
education of white children only, 157;
proceeds of the sale of, in Florida, added to the school fund, 158;
conduct regulated, and preaching of the Gospel by, declared
unlawful in Miss., 163;
school for, at N. Y., 1704, 164;
Society for Promoting the Manumission of, organized, 165;
meetings of, forbidden, 180;
fugitive-slave bill passed, 215;
aid for the relief of, in Kansas, 216;
John Brown's plan for freeing, 219;
increase of, 228;
number in the United States, 1860, 229;
value of labor products of, 1850, 229;
number of owners of, 230;
Constitution of the Confederate States, 233;
Lincoln favors the gradual emancipation of, 239.
Smith, Abiel, founds school-house for Colored children, 162.
Smith, Elizabeth, establishes school for Colored children, 212.
Smith, James M., pupil of the N. Y. African free school, his
address to Gen. Lafayette, 167.
Smith, Rev., John C., organizes the First Colored Presbyterian
Church of Washington, D. C., 190.
Smith, Melancthon, mentioned, 166.
Smith, Maj.-Gen., W. F., marches on Petersburg, 336;
commends the bravery of the Negro troops, 338, 340, 346.
Smothers, Henry, establishes school for Colored children, 185.
Snow, Benjamin, cause of the Snow riot at Washington, D. C.,
leaves for Canada, 188.
South Carolina, slave population, 1800, 2,
1810, 9,
1820, 22;
Negro plot, 1822, 83;
slave population, 1830, 99,
1840, 1850, 100;
education of Negroes prohibited, 178-180;
secedes from the Union, 232;
Gen. Hunter's proclamation emancipating slaves, 257,
rescinded, 258;
regiment of loyal Negroes organized, 278;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 300;
exploits of the first volunteers, Negro regiment, 314;
represented in Congress by Negroes, 382;
Negro population in excess of the white, 386;
school population, 387;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
South Carolina Volunteers, First Regiment of Colored Troops, 304, 306.
Southampton County, Va., Negro insurrection, 1831, 87-89;
militia ordered out, 89;
number of killed, 91.
Southern States, churches, libraries, and newspapers in the, 230;
number of troops furnished by, 300.
Spencer, Peter, representative of Wilmington, in the first
conference of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Stafford, Col., Spencer H., speech to the 1st La. Regiment of
Colored Troops before the battle of Port Hudson, 316.
Stanton, Edwin M., Secretary of War, revokes order for the return
of fugitive slaves, 246;
correspondence with Gen. Hunter relative to Negro troops, 279, 280;
endorses the free military school for Negroes, 295;
commends the bravery of the Negro troops, 338;
his treatment of prisoners, in retaliation for cruel treatment
of captured Negroes, 354.
Stearns, Maj. George L., secures aid for the relief of Kansas, 216;
his connection with John Brown to free the slaves, 216-219;
superintends the recruiting of Negro troops, 294.
Stearns, Mrs. George L., personal recollections of John
Brown, 215-221.
Steedman, Col. James B., refuses to have his camp searched for
fugitive slaves, 246;
employs Negroes as teamsters, 260;
commends the bravery of Negro troops, 342.
Stephens, Alexander H., delegate from Georgia, to the convention
of the Confederate States, 232;
chosen Vice-President of the Confederate States, 233;
in favor of State rights, 230;
speech in favor of slavery, 235.
Stewart, Rev. Austin, his book "Twenty-two Years a Slave and Forty
Years a Freeman," mentioned, 59.
Still, William, founder of the underground railroad organization, 58.
Stokes, Richard, establishes school for Colored children, 209.
Stowe, Harriet Beecher, her book "Uncle Tom's Cabin," published
in different languages, 60;
errors in her book, 546, 547.
Strawbridge, Robert, founder of Methodism in Baltimore, 465.
Strong, Brig.-Gen. George C., commands brigade at the assault on
Fort Wagner, 329, 330;
character of, 334.
Strong, Henry, counsel for Prudence Crandall, 156.
Summer, Charles, speech on "The Anti-Slavery Duties of the Whig
Party," 44;
leader of the political abolition party, 45;
his reasons for not supporting Robert C. Winthrop, for Congress,
organizes the Free Soil party, speech in Congress on
"Freedom National, Slavery Sectional," 46;
views on slavery, 433.
Sylvester, Elisha, teacher of the first school for Colored
children, 162.
Syphax, William, establishes school for Colored children, 206.
Tabbs, Michael, establishes school for Colored children, 210.
Tallmadge, James, Jr., introduces bill in Congress against the
introduction of slavery in Missouri, 14.
Talmadge, Capt. Grier, first to decide slaves contraband of war, 252.
Taney, Roger B., decides that the Negro is not a citizen, 114;
opinion in the Dred Scott case, 116.
Tanner, Alethia, purchases freedom of John F. Cook, 187.
Tapsico, Jacob, representative of Phila., in the first conference
of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Tappan, Arthur, secures the release of William Lloyd Garrison, 41;
mentioned, 63, 64.
Tappan, Lewis, takes charge of the "Amistad" captives, 94.
Taylor, John W., introduces bill in Congress prohibiting slavery
in Arkansas, 18;
in favor of the admission of Missouri, 20.
Taylor, Rev. Marshall W., his ancestors, early life and struggles
for an education, 469-471;
teaches school in Kentucky, his experiences as a teacher, 472;
ordained, becomes a preacher and missionary teacher in Indiana
and Ohio, receives the title of Doctor of Divinity, his
influence and standing, 473, 474;
opposed to Colored conferences, 474.
Tennessee, slave population, 1800, 2,
1810, 9,
1820, 22,
1830, 99,
1840, 1850, 100;
no discrimination in school law against color, 180;
order for the enlistment of Negroes, 290;
Negro troops recruited, 294;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 300;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392, 393.
Texas, slave population, 1850, 100;
exiles free Negroes, treatment of slaves, no legislation in regard
to educating the Negro, 180;
number of Negro troops furnished by, 300;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for the instruction of Negroes, 392;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Thomas, Alexander S., sketch of, 141-143.
Thomas, Maj.-Gen. George H., approves the employment of Negroes
as teamsters in the army, 260.
Thomas, Jesse B., in favor of excluding slavery north and west
of Missouri, 17.
Thomas, Lorenzo, Adjt.-Gen., U. S. Army, speech in favor of
enlisting Negroes, 289;
order for the enlistment of Negro troops, 290;
letter to Henry Wilson on the efficiency of Negro soldiers, 344.
Thomas, Brig.-Gen. Samuel, report on the freedmen, 400, 401.
Thompson, Jacob, his testimony in regard to the Fort Pillow
massacre, 364.
Thompson, Margaret, establishes school for Colored children, 206, 207.
Townsend, E. D., Assistant Adj.-Gen., U. S. Army, order for the
enlistment of Negro troops, 291;
in reference to applicants for admission to the free military
school, 296.
Travis, Hark, his connection with the Negro insurrection in
Southampton County, Va., 87, 88.
Trenton, N. J., opposed to the increase of slavery, 16;
anti-slavery society formed, 20.
Trinity Church, New York City, Negro slaves, communicants of, 164.
Turner, Benjamin, mentioned, 85;
killed by Negro mob, 88, 89.
Turner, H. M., bishop of the African M. E. Church, 464.
Turner, Nathaniel, Negro prophet, his birth and parentage, becomes
preacher, description of his person, 85;
mode of life, believes he is a prophet, his superstition,
denounces conjuring and fortune-telling, regarded with
reverence by the Negroes, acknowledged leader among the
slaves, hired out as a slave, 86;
claims to have seen visions, organizes plot for the uprising of
the slaves, address to his fellow-conspirators, 87;
leads the attack in Southampton County, Va., his confession of
the plot, 88;
trial and execution, remarkable prophecy of, 90;
his character, 91.
Tyler, Col. Erastus B., address to the people of Virginia,
promising the return of fugitive slaves, 244.
Underground Railroad Organization, the, 58;
its efficiency in freeing slaves, 59;
mentioned, 82.
Underwood, J. R., Gen. Buell's letter to, on the return of fugitive
slaves to their masters, 248.
Union League Club, N. Y. City, raise Negro regiments, 292.
Union Seminary, Washington, D. C., 189.
United States, slave population, 1800, 1, 2;
increase of slavery, 1;
slave-trade secretly carried on, 2;
American ships prohibited from supplying slaves from, to foreign
markets, 3;
importation of slaves prohibited, 8;
slaves illegally imported to be forfeited, 8;
slave population, 1810, 9;
premium offered to informers of illegally imported Africans
seized within the, circular-letter of the Navy Department
to naval officers in regard to the importation of slaves, 10;
President Monroe's message to Congress on the question of
slavery, 12;
appoint agents to direct the return of slaves to Africa, 13;
resolutions in favor of restriction of slavery in the new
States, 16;
slave population, 1820, 22;
Negroes serve in the War of 1812, 23-27;
Gen. Jackson's proclamation calling for Negro troops, 25;
terms of peace by the Commissioners of Ghent, 27;
increase of the slave population, 33;
first anti-slavery society established, 43;
number of anti-slavery societies in, 1836, 44;
Free Soil party organized, 46;
comments of the press on the proposed steam-ship line between
Africa and, 55-58;
condition of the free Negroes in, 62, 67;
slave population, 1830, 1840, 99,
1850, 100;
Franklin Pierce elected President, 107;
number of fugitive and manumitted slaves, 1850, 146;
increase of slaves, 228;
slave population, 1860, value of slave labor products, 229;
six States secede from, 232;
Abraham Lincoln elected President, 239;
slavery abolished, 377;
Negro population, 1790-1880, 417;
the thirteenth amendment to the Constitution, 419;
ratification of the fifteenth amendment, 420-422;
Southern election methods and Northern sympathy, 517;
decline of the Republican party, 518;
Southern war claims, 519;
the presidential campaign of 1876, 519, 520;
the electoral count in Congress, 521;
President Hayes's Southern policy, a failure, 522-524.
United States Army, Negro troops serve in the War of 1812, 23-27;
Negroes arrested, 244;
orders in regard to fugitive slaves in, 245, 248, 249;
Negroes ordered from, 250;
Gen. Fremont's proclamation emancipating slaves, 255;
Gen. Hunter's proclamation, 257;
fortifications and earthworks built by Negroes, 262;
condition of, 1862, 264;
opposed to President Lincoln's proclamation, 269;
Negroes as soldiers, 276-309;
first regiment of Negroes organized, 278;
Negro troops organized, fugitive slaves offer their
services, 285, 287;
order for the enlistment of Negro troops, 290;
number of Negroes in, 297, 299-301;
services of Negroes in the Army of the Potomac, 335.
United States Congress, proceedings on the memorial of Colored
citizens of Philadelphia, against the slave-trade on the coast
of Guinea, 2;
American ships prohibited from supplying slaves from the United
States to foreign markets, 3;
action on the memorial of Indiana Territory for a modification of
the ordinance of 1787, 4-8;
importation of slaves prohibited, 8;
slaves illegally imported, to be forfeited, 8;
Act in regard to persons engaged in the slave-trade, 9;
memorials against the slave-trade, fugitive-slave act amended,
premium to informer for imported slaves seized within the
United States, 10;
President Monroe's message to, on the question of slavery, 12;
debate on the bill to admit Missouri, 14;
the Missouri controversy, 16-20;
Garrison petitions, for the abolition of slavery in the District
of Columbia, 39;
Sumner's speech on slavery, 46;
bill establishing a line of war-steamers to the coast of Africa,
suppression of the slave-trade, promotion of commerce, and the
colonization of free Negroes, 53-55;
organization of the 31st, 100;
motion for the admission of California and New Mexico, 100, 101;
has no authority to prohibit slavery, resolutions of Henry Clay
for the adjustment of slavery, 101, of Senator Bell, 102;
speech of Jefferson Davis in favor of slavery, 102;
John C. Calhoun's speech, 103-105;
fugitive-slave law, 1850, 106;
bill to organize Nebraska Territory, 107;
to repeal the Missouri compromise, speech of Stephen A.
Douglass, 108;
reply of Salmon P. Chase, 109;
Act to organize the territories of Kansas and Nebraska, 110;
opposed to civil and military interference with slaves, 244;
conservative policy of, 252;
passes Act to confiscate property used for insurrectionary
purposes, 263;
Act to make an additional Article of War, 267;
of 1860, 1862, 269;
resolution in regard to the enlistment of Negroes, 279;
action on the proposed amendment of the army appropriation
bill to prohibit the enlistment of Negroes, 288;
investigates the Fort Pillow massacre, 361-375;
Act to establish a bureau for the relief of freedmen and
refugees, 379;
methods of, for reconstructing the South, 381;
Negroes in, 382;
Act to incorporate the Freedman's Savings Bank and Trust
Company, 403, amended, 407;
appoint commissioners to close up the affairs of the bank, 411;
authorized to enforce the thirteenth amendment, 419;
recommends the ratification of the fifteenth amendment, 420;
action on the electoral count of 1876, 521.
United States Navy, Negroes serve in the, 28-30; captures the
Spanish slaver "Amistad," 64.
Utah, slave population in the territory of, 100.
Vallandingham, C. C., speech on the character of John Brown, 225.
Vanlomen, Rev. Father, preceptor of Catholic seminary for Colored
girls, 194.
Vermont, number of Negro troops furnished by, 299;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
United States, 422.
Vesey, Denmark, leader of the Negro plot in Charleston, S. C.,
1822, 84.
Vesey, Rev. William, rector of Trinity Church, New York, 164;
his death, 165.
Vicksburg, Miss., fortifications built by Negroes, 262;
fort at, garrisoned by Negro troops, 345.
Virginia, slave population, 1800, 2, 1810, 9, 1820, 22;
increased, anti-slavery speeches in the Legislature, 33-35;
Negro plot, 1800, 83;
insurrection, 1831, 87-89;
slave population, 1830, 99, 1840, 1850, 100;
education of Negroes prohibited, 180, 181;
Negro school population, 387;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for instruction of Negroes, 392, 394, 395;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Wade, Benjamin F., one of the committee of investigation of the
Fort Pillow massacre, 361.
Walls, James, his testimony in regard to the Fort Pillow
massacre, 366.
War of 1812, Negro troops serve in the, 23-27.
War of 1861, definition of the war issue, 228;
States secede from the Union, 232;
organization and Constitution of the Confederate States, 232, 233;
extension of slavery the issue, 240;
a white man's war, first call for troops, 241;
rendition of fugitive slaves by the army, 244;
order for the return of fugitive slaves revoked, proclamations
protecting slave property, 246-248;
orders in regard to harboring fugitive slaves in the army, 248, 249;
slaves contraband of war, 250;
Gen. Fremont's proclamation emancipating slaves in Missouri, 255;
President Lincoln's emancipation proclamation, 267-269;
called the war for the Negro, 269;
President Lincoln's second emancipation proclamation, 272;
employment of Negroes as soldiers, 276-309;
President Lincoln's call for more troops, 287;
order for the enlistment of Negro troops, 290;
number of Negroes in the army, 297, 299-301;
expedition of the First S. C. Volunteers, Negro Regiment,
into Ga. and Fla., 314;
battle of Port Hudson, 320-323;
Milliken's Bend, 326, 327;
memorable events of July, 1863, 328;
attack on Fort Wagner, 329;
battles fought by Negroes, in the Army of the Potomac, 335;
their services at the siege of Petersburg, Va., 336-342;
number of, engaged in the battles around Nashville, Tenn., 342;
capture and treatment of Negro soldiers, 350-376;
the Fort Pillow massacre, 360-376;
reconstruction of the Confederate States, 377-383;
end of the war, 377;
provisional military government established, bureau for the
relief of freedmen and refugees, 379.
Ward, Rev. Samuel Ringgold, his book, "Autobiography of a Fugitive
Negro," 59;
mentioned, 79;
anti-slavery orator, 434.
Ward, T. M. D., bishop of the African M. E. Church, 464.
Washington, D. C., first Colored school established, 1807;
population of free persons, 182;
Colored schools, 182-213;
the Snow riot, 188;
Colored church organized, 190.
Washington, Annie E., school for the education of Colored people, 209.
Washington, George, emancipates his slaves, 43; called the
illustrious Southerner, 105.
Waugh, Nannie, establishes school for Colored children, destroyed
by mob, 192.
Wayman, A. W., bishop of the African M. E. Church, 464.
Wears, I. C., delivers address on the ratification of the fifteenth
amendment, 422.
Webb, Capt., Thomas, one of the founders of the M. E. Church in
New York, 465, 466.
Webster, Daniel, author of memorial against the increase of
slavery, 16.
Webster, Thomas, representative of Phila. in the first conference
of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Welch, Jonathan A., counsel for the prosecution in the trial of
Prudence Crandall, 156.
Wells, Nelson, establishes school for free children of color, 161.
Wesley, John, founder of Methodism, 465, 466;
opposed to slavery, 467.
Wesleyan Seminary, Washington, D. C., 194.
West Virginia, number of Negro troops furnished by, 300;
comparative statistics of education, 388;
institutions for the education of Negroes, 392;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Wetmore, Rev. James, teaches Negro slaves in New York, 165.
Whig party, opposed to slavery, 44;
Sumner's speech before the, 44;
convention of 1852, nominates Gen. Scott for the Presidency, 106;
defines its position on the slavery question, 107.
White, Rev. Sampson, Colored Baptist minister, 476.
Whiteworth, Abraham, member of the first American Methodist
conference, 466.
Whitfield, Rev. James, favors the education of Negroes, 160.
Wilberforce University, report for 1876, 455, 456;
list of the faculty, 460;
report and general statement, 462-464.
Wilcox, Samuel T., sketch of, 140.
Williams, Major, his testimony in regard to the Fort Pillow
massacre, 362.
Williams, Nelson, his connection with the Negro insurrection in
Southampton County, Va., 87.
Williams, Richard, representative of Baltimore in the first
conference of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Williams, Brig.-Gen. Thomas, order in regard to harboring fugitive
slaves in the army, 249.
Wilmington, Del., African School Association established, 157.
Wilson, Henry, introduces bill in Congress for the employment of
Negroes as soldiers, 287;
Gen. Thomas's letter to, on the efficiency of Negro soldiers, 344.
Wilson's Wharf, Negro troops defeat Gen. Fitz-Hugh Lee at the
battle of, 335.
Williamson, Edward, representative of Baltimore in the first
conference of the African M. E. Church, 452.
Wisconsin, number of Negro troops furnished by, 300;
ratifies the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the
U. S., 422.
Wool, Maj.-Gen. John E., orders the employment of Negroes in the
army, 260;
in command of troops during the draft riot at N. Y., 328.
Wormley, Mary, establishes school for Colored children, 205.
Wormley, William, erects school-house for Colored children, 205;
threatened by mob, his death, 206.
Wright, Richard, member of the first American Methodist
conference, 466.
Yearbry, Joseph, member of the first American Methodist
conference, 466.
Zane, Jonathan, bequest for the education of Colored people, 177.
* * * * *
[Transcriber's Notes:
Every effort has been made to replicate this text as faithfully as
possible, including obsolete and variant spellings and other
inconsistencies. The transcriber made the following changes to the
text to correct obvious errors:
1. p. vi, colonizeon -> colonize on
2. p. 11, juisdictional --> jurisdictional
3. p. 21, enitled --> entitled
4. p. 39, Genuis --> Genius
5. p. 42, spoilations --> spoliations
6. p. 59, Autobiograph of a Fugitive Negro" -->
"Autobiograph of a Fugitive Negro" (Add leading ")
7. p. 60, wierd --> weird
8. p. 75, docrines --> doctrines
9. p. 78, elightened --> enlightened
10. p. 113, warrrant --> warrant
11. p. 131, persecucution --> persecution
12. p. 149, acount --> account
13. p. 170, mangement --> management
14. p. 177, Pennyslvania --> Pennsylvania
15. p. 221, litttle --> little
16. p. 235, equlity --> equality
17. p. 269, Diving --> Divine
18. p. 314, sugggstion --> suggestion
19. p. 344, surpressing --> suppressing
20. p. 347, imperrilled --> imperilled
21. p. 356, Register" --> "Register" (Add leading ")
22. p. 358, 'Mercury --> 'Mercury' (Add ending ')
23. p. 412, commisioners --> commissioners
24. p. 417, contary --> contrary
25. p. 420, withold --> withhold
26. p. 581, posession --> possession
27. p. 593, petititions --> petitions
28. p. 597, auxliary --> auxiliary
29. p. 601, Port Pillow --> Fort Pillow
Also, several occurrences of mismatched single and double quotes
remain as published.
End of Transcriber's Notes]
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