DEMOSTHENIAN SHIELD - We have received the first number of a neat little sheet
with the above quaint cognomen. It is published every Tuesday, by the Demosthenian
Institute of Philadelphia, a literary society of colored young men, to whom
great praise is due.
The appearance of the Shield is alike creditable to the conductors and printers. Its literary contents evince considerable talent; the editorials are respectable; the selections are amusing and well arranged; the scissors have been used with judgment. The mechanical execution is very handsome, and the paper shows great tact on the part of all concerned.
The Demosthenians keep a poet, who discourses in sweet melodious numbers.
The feature of the paper is "Sketches of Eminent Colored Man in Philadelphia." No. 1 is a short characteristic notice of the venerable patriot, James Foster.
We have looked in vain for the leading principles which are to govern the editors of the Shield in their public career. They profess to be "spirited and independent." Those words convey either too much or too little meaning.
Notwithstanding that omission, we wish the Shield every success, and hope they will be more particular in future, in explaining the principles on which they will act - what oppose, and what advocate; in the mean-while, our prayer shall be that they may increase in size, as they advance in age, and that their subscription list may never be less!
We have not received No. 2.* How's that, Messrs. Editors? Don't forget your seniors. As the elder brother, the boys must not neglect us. A friend has lent us the paper, however, and we copy the leading article on our first page. This number contains a sketch of << Robert Douglass>> , sen., and from our limited acquaintance with the gentleman, we should judge it to be a good portrait.
*We have received No. 2, we presume, from the New York agent, Mr. Gibbons,
No. 108 West Broadway, from whom our city subscribers can obtain their papers.
Terms $1 per year.
At a public meeting of the Colored Citizens of Philadelphia, held in the basement
story of St. Thomas' Church, on Thursday, March 10th, on motion, << Robert
Douglass>> was called to the Chair, and J. Lewis appointed Secretary.
The object of the meeting being stated by the chairman in a feeling and impressive
manner, on motion it was
Resolved, That John C. Bowers, Robert Purvis and John Lewis, be a committee
to draft suitable resolutions, expressive of our feelings.
The committee having reported, submitted the following preamble and resolutions
which were adopted.
Whereas we have learned, with deep regret, the demise of our late and esteemed friend, Joseph Parrish, M.D., whose kindness and untiring zeal in our behalf, has endeared him to each and everyone of us. And whereas we are aware that in his death we have lost a sincere friend and firm advocate; one whose worth was highly appreciated by us, from the many acts of benevolence and humanity tendered to our people; and conceiving it due by us to make some public demonstration of our poignant feelings in regard to this melancholy bereavement: therefore be it
Resolved, That in the demise of Dr. Parrish, we have lost a long-tried friend; one who stood forth in the hour of danger in our behalf, nor was ever deterred from his course by denunciations or dangers whatever; and consequently has left an impression upon the hearts of our people which can never be obliterated.
Resolved, That we view with profound regret, the loss which "colored" people of this State and country have sustained by the death of our noble and ingenious friend and benefactor.
Resolved, That in those rare qualities of Christian virtue, which never failed to be practically recognized by the deceased, by "remembering those in bonds as bound with them," and of "doing unto others, as he would have others do unto him," we have an example worthy of all imitation.
Resolved, That a committee of two be appointed to convey these resolutions to the family of the deceased, and to offer in behalf of the meeting our unfeigned condolence on this, their afflicting bereavement.
Resolved, That the foregoing resolutions be published in the papers of the city.
<< ROBERT DOUGLASS>> , Chairman.
John Lewis, Secretary.
Our Friends in Hayti.
We are happy to find from the "National Inquirer," that our good brethren,
Burleigh and Gunn, who are in Hayti, are in an improved state of health. They
are also pleased with the country, and speak of the hospitality and improvement
of the citizens, as being worthy and enlightened and noble people.
These brethren intend traveling over the Island, collecting and imparting such
information as may be alike, useful to the natives, and to the friends of humanity
in this country. Our friend << Robert Douglass>> Junr., is also
with them, we insert in another column, a very talented and interesting letter
from his pen.
May the father of all mercy take care of these brethren, and return them in
good time, renewed in health, and renewedly furnished to combat the slavery
and prejudice, of their native land.
<< ROBERT DOUGLASS>> , JR.
This young man, the son of a very respectable colored gentleman, in Philadelphia, has, for several years, carried on the business of sign and ornamental painting. His establishment is located at the corner of Arch and Front streets. Few persons in our country, if any, have made greater proficiency in this line, than he has done for the time he has been engaged in the business. If some of our southern sham philanthropists, who insist on a transportation to Africa, to develop the faculties of genius in a colored man, will visit the 'city of brotherly love'— where true merit is recognised, whatever may be the garb it wears— and examine his performances, they may profit by the information they can thus obtain. If they are unwilling to go in his 'shop,' they can see a specimen of his workmanship on a tavern sign, with a portrait of Napoleon, opposite thereto; and in many other parts of the city they may, upon inquiry, see the evidence of his skill.
He has latterly turned his attention to portrait painting, in addition to his other employment. In this, too, he has been eminently successful. We have seen several of his paintings, that would scarcely suffer in comparison with those of many who are considered among the first artists of our country.
If genius and merit are deserving of reward, we trust we shall be held excused
for asking the public attention to the performance of this worthy and skilful
young artist.— Genius of Universal Emancipation.
AN APPEAL TO THE BENEVOLENT.
The undersigned committee appointed by a general convention held in this city, to direct and assist the conventional agent, the Rev. Samuel E. Cornish, in soliciting funds for the establishing of a COLLEGIATE SCHOOL, on the Manual Labor system, beg leave to call the attention of the enlightened and benevolent citizens of Philadelphia and its vicinity to the important subject. In doing which, they deem it unnecessary in this enlightened country, and at this enterprising era, to adduce arguments or multiply words by way of appeal. The contrast between enlightened and barbarous nations— between the educated and the vulgar, is the plainest demonstration of the utility of their plan, and importance of their appeal. The colored citizens of the United States, assembled by delegation in this city, June last, alive to the interests of their brethren and community generally, resolved at whatever labor or expense to establish and maintain an institution, in which the sons of the present and future generation may obtain a classical education and the mechanic arts in general.
Believing that all who know the difficult admission of our youths into seminaries of learning, and establishments of mechanism— all who know the efficient influence of education in cultivating the heart, restraining the passions, and improving the manners— all who wish to see our colored population more prudent, virtuous, and useful, will lend us their patronage, both in money and prayers. The committee, in conclusion, would respectfully state, that the amount of money required to erect buildings, secure apparatus and mechanical instruments, is $20,000; of this sum the colored people intend to contribute as largely as God has given them ability, and for the residue they look to the christian community, who know their wants, their oppression and wrongs— and more particularly to the inhabitants of this city, celebrated for its benevolence, and in which so many preceding steps, taken for the advancement of our oppressed people, have had their origin. They would further state, that all monies collected by the principal agent, Rev. Samuel E. Cornish, who is now in this city, and whom they recommend to the confidence of all to whom he may appeal, will be deposited in the United States Bank, subject to the order of Arthur Tappan, Esq. of New-York, their generous patron and friend; and in the event of the institution not going into operation, to be faithfully returned to the several donors. The contemplated Seminary will be located at New-Haven, Conn., and established on the self-supporting system, so that the student may cultivate habits of industry, and obtain useful mechanical or agricultural profession while pursuing classical studies.
Signed in behalf of the Convention, by
JAMES FORTEN,
JOSEPH CASSEY,
<< ROBERT DOUGLASS>> ,
ROBERT PURVIS,
FREDERICK A. HINTON,
Provisional Committee of Philadelphia.
Philadelphia, September 5, 1831.
Personal.
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- The Pope is unwilling to receive a visit from the Emperor of Austria at the
Vatican if the Emperor pays a visit to Humbert in the Quirinal palace.
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- There are in North Carolina six colored lawyers (one of them a Solicitor),
who make a living at the law, and seven licensed doctors, who have taken a regular
course in medicine.
- Goldsboro Star.
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- The Emperor William shed many tears at the funeral mass held in Berlin the
other day on the anniversary of the Czar's assassination. He sat throughout
with bowed head, and when all were gone lingered to pray alone in the chapel.
-----
- A colored orange grower named Homer Ward, of Crescent city, Florida, is worth
fifty thousand dollars. He sold one of his groves recently for $10,000. A colored
family named Williams owned one near Gainesville, Florida, worth $35,000.
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- “Logan's Lament”. This beautiful poem, by Chas. West Thompson,
a member of the Society of Friends, was recited in the pulpit of the Green street
M.E. Church to an immense audience (on the occasion of their “Silver Offering,”
March 23d.), by Prof. << Robert Douglass>> .
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- Hon. W.M. Davis, of Monrovia, an ex-Attorney General of Liberia, was recently
joined in matrimony to Miss E.J.E. Seton, a highly cultivated native African
lady, of the Grebo tribe. This is said to be the first marriage of a prominent
American-Liberian with one of the aborigines.
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- The Church will regret to hear of the illness of Rev. W.W. Grimes, of Christiana.
For three weeks past he has been confined to the house. Brother G. is one of
the old men of the Church and in other days held not his life dear to him if
only he could preach Christ to the poor of Delaware.
-----
- Mr. O.B. Frothingham is said by the Boston correspondent of The Hartford Courant
to have renewed his connection with his father's church, which is Orthodox Unitarian.
The correspondent says: “The pastor of this church is the Rev. Rufus Ellis,
and he is one of the most orthodox in his tendencies of any of our Unitarian
preachers. Mr. Frothingham is a constant attendant on his ministry. He takes
part in the social meetings of the church also, and frequently addresses them.
-----
- The Hon. Andrew D. White refuses to sign a petition for Sergeant Mason's pardon
on the ground that the crime for which he was convicted “is one of the
most dangerous known, either from a civilized or military point of view; and
it is rendered infinitely more dangerous, by the proposed glorification of it.”
Mr. White adds: “The readiness of individuals to take life on the slightest
pretext is one of the most serious symptoms in this country. There is no civilized
land in which murders are committed with such impunity.”
-----
- Senator Hoar, in his great speech against the Anti-Chinese Bill in the quotation
below, doubtless refers to how Bishop Cain, when he was Congressman from South
Carolina, un-horsed a member from North Carolina: “I have served with
them for twelve years in both branches. Can you find an equal number, chosen
on any principle of selection, whose conduct has been marked by more uniform
good sense and propriety? I have seen most accomplished debaters unhorsed with
as great dexterity as courtesy by one of the despised race.
-----
LOCAL NEWS.
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Spring.
March First.
As Vennor predicted, it comes as a lion.
The number of deaths in the city that week, up to Saturday noon, was 369, a
decrease of 42 on the previous week.
Prof. J.P. Leslie lectured at the Working Man's Club on the 19th. Subject, “How
to Read and what to Read.”
Captain A. Oscar Jones, Commander of the Gray Invincibles, died at his residence,
1520 Stone St., last Wednesday. 23d. His body was interred in Lebanon Cemetary
last Sunday.
The Tassonian Literary Association gave an entertainment on Tuesday evening
last, at the residence of Mr. Samuel Adger, 831 South Street, which was quite
an enjoyable affair.
Dr. Caroline V. Anderson delivered the third lecture in the Berean Course at
Milton Hall last Thursday night. Her subject was “Facts and Fancies.”
Exactly where the “Fancies” came in was not clear; but the most
wholesome Hygienic “Facts” abounded. Mr. N. Mossell lectures tonight.
At the regular meeting of the Bethel Literary Society on Tuesday night, 22,
the subject, “What are the best means to Elevate the Race?” was
ably discussed by a few of the members. On the second Tuesday in March the gentlemen
will tender the ladies a reception.
The Board of Health have directed public attention to the following regulations:
When death has resulted from a contagious disease, the Board of Health requires
that the cause shall be mentioned in the public death notice. The public should
avoid unnecessary attendance upon the funerals of those dead from contagious
diseases. Among the diseases especially calling for this caution are scarlet
fever, measles, whooping cough, diphtheria, and small pox varioloid. Whenever
possible air tight cases shall be used, and if such cannot be obtained the funeral
shall be strictly private.
PHONOGRAPHIC LECTURE.- A large concourse of persons, compassed of the employees
of Stetson Hat Factory and general public assembled in the hall of the John
B. Stetson Literary Institute, 14th street above Columbia avenue, on Thursday
evening last, to hear Prof. << Robert Douglass>> , of the city,
who gave a lecture upon the subject of “Phonography,” in which he
gave the origin and history of the art and the advantages resulting from a practical
knowledge thereof. A demonstrative audience greeted the appearance of the veteran
phonographer, and a well pleased one left him.
A meeting of Friends, Thursday. Feb. 24, took measure for the relief of the
suffering colored persons in Kansas. Addresses were made by Dillwyn Parish,
Joseph Truman, Henry M. Laing, and Dr. R.T. Child. On motion of Dillwyn Parrish,
it was agreed that $100 should be expanded in the purchase of flannels and blankets
for the suffering, and D. Parrish, Wm. Hawkins, Susan W. Scull and Elizabeth
Hallowell were appointed a committee to purchase the goods. Henry M. Laing was
appointed Treasurer, to whom goods or money in behalf of the suffering can be
sent. Dr. H.T. Child signified his willingness to call for parcels donated.
It was stated that about 25 packages had already been received.
The Phonetic Shorthand Section of the Franklin Institute gave an entertainment
on Wednesday evening, September 22nd, in the hall of the institute. Mr. D.S
Holman, the actuary, gave a short diadetic lecture explaining the theory, philosophy
and uses of phonetic shorthand. The following elocutionary program was presented:
Schiller's “Diver,” by Chas. W. Finck: “Lay of the Madman,”
in three languages, by Professor << Robert Douglass>> ; “Defense
of Plants,” Ida Chaddock; “Tom's Little Star,” Miss Kephart.
Two selections were read by Miss Alice Rutter.
To << Robert Douglass>> , Esq., artist, of our city, we are indebted
for a pound or more of the best Haytian coffee, which we shall not fail to enjoy.
Mr. Douglass Is a great admirer of the Haytian people, having spent some years
among them, and knowing possibly more of them, than any colored American in
the land. We could wish that Mr. Douglass would overcome somewhat of his native
modesty and come more within reach of the powers that be. A master of the French
and Spanish, he would make a capital consul for some South American post.
IN REGARD TO HAITI.
Since our last issue, we received the following:
NEW YORK, January 29, 1877.
I have before me your edition of January 23, and have read an article headed
“Information Wanted.” I strongly agree with the ideas advanced in
the last part of this article. For the mission in Haiti to be of any success,
the person placed in charge, must not only be a perfect gentleman in every sense
of the word, but a thorough scholar as a Theologian, and in his knowledge of
the French language in its purity. But very few of the persons who left this
country for Haiti, when under the government of President Boyer, remained there,
the Haitians not receiving them on an equality, but desired to have them as
laborers in the different mechanical arts. If the advice given as to sending
aid to our own, when referring to the burning of the Lewis High School and Church,
is followed out, to my mind the gain reaped, would be ten fold, for as regards
the cultivated and highly polished citizens of Haiti, it is a well fixed fact,
that to succeed in any scheme of their improvement, you must act on the fact,
that you have to deal with persons, of as polished and dignified manners, as
are to be found in the capitals of Europe.
W.K. VAN BOKKELEN,
Late in charge of the Haitian Consulate.
We cheerfully give place to the above; as we did to the article from <<
Robert Douglass>> Esq. The mistake made by both these contributors, especially
Mr. Van Bokkelen – is, that in Haiti, there are none but the technical
“perfect gentleman;” that all are “thorough scholars and theologians,”
and that nothing but the purest French is spoken.
Our Church, however, has the idea that in Haiti, as in other countries, there are those having souls to save, who have not the polish, the culture and the sweet rounding off, so lavishly credited to them by our two correspondents. We have the opinion that it is possible, there, as elsewhere to stumble across a sinner in the rough; and as Methodism has chiefly concerned herself about such, wherever it has gone, is proposes doing the same in Haiti. We go, not to call the socially righteous but sinners to repentance; and we believe we shall find them. To Bishop Holly, we turn over the Haitian elite, and for the present at least, go straight for the bottom strata of society which we feel sure of finding. Having saved the bottom, we will be sure of the top. Treading thus in the footsteps of Wesley in England, and of Asbury in America, as well as in the footsteps of the fathers of our own church, we hope to win.
BY virtue of a writ of Venditioni Exponas to me directed, on Monday, the 9th
day of May next, that one oin the afternoon, on the premises, will be sold by
vendue, a tract or parcel of land, with the appurtenances, situate between BlackbirdBridge
and Duck Creek, in Appocquinimink Hundred, in the county of New Castle, containing
about 375 acres, through which the county road, leading from New Castle to Duck
Creek, runs, being bounded by lands late of Edward Richardson, Gyles Borross,
<< Robert Douglass>> , and others; late the estate of John [ ].
August 24, 1849
THE NORTH STAR
Rochester, New York
BOSTON, July 15, 1849.
The fourth of July passed over with (if possible) more than its accustomed animation
and patriotism. Among the incidents deserving a North Star notice were first
the anti-slavery celebration at Abington under auspices of the Massachusetts
Society. The Pic-Nic was held in Island Grove, a well adapted spot. The number
in attendance was more numerous than on any previous similar occasion. Appropriate
speeches and singing was the order of the day; and when the names of William
Lloyd Garrison, Wendell Phillips, Edmund Quincy, Caleb Stetson and William W.
Brown, a constellation of freedom's Orators - are mentioned, as participating,
the adjectives eloquent and impressive are superfluous.
Henry Box Brown narrated his hazardous escape from slavery in a box as merchandise
marked "This side up." The appeal seemed to reach every heart, even
those who had not before been moved by a recital of suffering and perils peculiar
to American Slavery. William Crafts, whose romantic exodus from the Southern
prison house (with his wife Ellen in man's attire) mingled in the crowd, holding
groups in close attention while he detailed the evils of the Patriarchal Institution.
He engaged in controversy with one pro-slavery specimen of humanity (characteristic
of himself as a volunteer in the Mexican War) who rashly ventured to defend
Slavery, reiterating the threadbare assertion that slaves were better off as
such than when freemen. It was cheering to notice the fact, that not one person
present manifested the least affinity with his sentiments, while on the contrary
they lavished expressions of sympathy and approbation on the slave arguing for
freedom. Mr. Crafts is now endeavoring to do what slaveholders affirm their
property unqualified for - that is "taking care of himself," having
recently opened a furniture establishment; and as he is reputed to be au fait
with his fools, it may be fairly inferred that his handicraft will yield him
a good support. I remember having heard Joseph C. Hathaway, at a western New
York Anti-Slavery meeting make an eloquent and happy allusion to the fact that
slaves at the South not only took care of themselves, but of their masters also,
who, but for their labor and skill, would evidently become paupers, adding that
he once had his heart made glad by beholding a fugitive just redeemed from chattelism
to manhood, in the spirit of independence; making his own bargains, uncontrolled
by the presence of an overseer, unawed by whips and chains.
Mr. Garrison referred to the change of public opinion relative to colorphobia,
citing in illustration, that a few years since a distinguished Haytien gentleman,
whose reputation and learning were those of a merchant and scholar, could not
succeed in obtaining accommodation in either a public or private boarding house
in Boston; but that within the past few days a Haytien of equal standing with
the former and whose complexion was not of an Anglo Saxon stamp, was admitted
to first class fare at one of our most popular city Hotels.
Second. This year for the first time the children of the Smith School united
with the white pupils of the various public schools, in the procession and festival
in honor of the day. They would have been colonized or excluded had not Rev.
J.T. Sargent, whose heart beats right for humanity, demanded through the public
press, the why and wherefore; and thus a good word spoken at the right time
secured a triumph of justice to a much injured portion of God's heritage. The
colored citizens are again agitating for equality of school privileges, and
victory is destined ere long to reward their persevering efforts - their motto
is: We know our rights and knowing dare maintain them."
Among the various sects in this city, the Wesleyans present perhaps the boldest
front to pro-slavery. It is rare indeed to find an American religious organization
ready to extend the hand of impartial recognition to a colored brother or sister;
but the pastor and members of this branch, preach, pray and practise antislavery.
Their Treasurer is a colored man and is in all respects regarded as a brother
beloved.
The presentation and farewell meeting to Mr. Garrison, and of William W. Brown,
was a most auspicious occasion, of which I would forward a special outline,
but presume the Liberator report will occupy a place in the North Star columns.
William W. Brown sailed on the 18th in the noble steamer Canada, in company
with President Mahan of Oberlin Institution, and other delegates to the Peace
Convention in Paris. Of course no manifestation of Colorphobia is looked for,
but should the evil genius show its forked tongue, Captain Judkins will again
prove himself a man with a soul, as he did when commander of the Cambria, and
Frederick Douglass's presence waked up the wrath of American Republican slaveholders.
This prejudice against color is a great torment to these who cherish it. A Parisian
correspondent gives the following recent testimony, that Americans are sadly
scandalized to find negroes in National Assembly, at Balls and private parties,
while their portraits look down on the visitors from the walls of the palace
of Versailles, or from those of the Tuilleries. Poor fellows! - there is no
help for them! the day will certainly dawn even in the United States when the
color of a man's skin will be no barrier to his ingress to stations of honor
and emolument. But a few years since, that gifted philanthropist Prudence Crandall
was mobbed by the populace and indicted by the legal authority of Connecticut
for the heinous crime of teaching colored girls in her own school on the same
terms as white ones, and now in a sister State, Vermont - colored young men
share the honors at College and seminaries with white fellow students; and astonishing
to tell, no one is injured, and the sun moon and stars perform their revolutions
as regularly as if no such innovation upon a people's prejudice had ever been
made. A colored young man belonging to Ruttland, Vermont, graduated recently
at the Middleton College. A class mate speaks of him as being one of the best
speakers and writers of any graduating class in New England. As a tribute of
kind feeling and respect, he was assigned the salutatory address. He appeared
the second time in an English oration, which for force of thought, terseness
of expression, and high tone of moral sentiment, as well as for the propriety
and grace of its delivery, has rarely been excelled. Shades of Calhoun and Clay!
what is the world coming to?
The civil dissensions on the ill fated island of Hayti have scattered many of
its inhabitants to seek refuge in other climes. A Bostonian recently visited
Philadelphia, and became acquainted with one of whom he thus narrates through
the Atlas. "He has been here about two months and speaks the English language
very correctly, though a little broken. He told me that he is a Haytien refugee.
He was concerned in the late revolution in Hayti, and the tide of war having
gone against him and his party, he fled to the States. He is a very intelligent
man, and speaks and writes the French and Spanish languages with great facility.
He was an officer in the Haytien Customs, and is evidently a person of education
and refinement. In our free and happy republic he sinks to the level of a bootblack
and lacquey. He appeared contented, and consoles himself with the reflection
that Louis Philippe was once an outcast, and wandered like himself. The former,
said he, 'taught a private school in this city for a livelihood, and I am waiter
at the hotel for a like purpose.'
Father Matthew has performed wonders here in securing thousands to the Temperance
pledge; for which good, work, he has the thanks of all Christendom. At home
he was conspicious in his efforts not only to break the chain of king Alcohol,
but also labored to undo the heavier burdens of the slave of American avarice
and wickedness, the victims of southern whips and fetters; and with Daniel O'Connell
signed the memorable Irish Petition (containing sixty thousand names) - to their
brethren in the United States, urging them to co-operation with the cause of
anti-slavery; and to manifest his interest for the colored man, tendered a reception
to Frederick Douglass. It is to be hoped that some of his influence so potent
in behalf of temperance may be put forth while in this country, to redeem the
American slave. W.C.N.
-------
P.S. In my last - your types made me say elegant instead of eloquent speech
of << Robert Douglass>> , Jr. - W.C.N.
Items from a Spectator's Journal.
During a recent visit to Philadelphia, I was much interested with the several
colored Schools, public and private, as also various Institutions where indigent
and children are charitably provided with the means of mental, moral and physical
comfort. So much has lately been transmitted through the North Star of the progress
and resources of our brethren in the city of Brotherly Love, that I feel justified
in reserving the major part of my own lucubrations as a spectator. I cannot
forbear however an allusion to the North Star association, a circle of devoted
anti-slavery friends who manifest a readiness in and out of season to enlarge
the circulation of the paper regarded by them as an efficient auxiliary in a
good cause, and this too as I am happy to learn without lessening their hearty
good will and patronage of the other prominent anti-slavery periodicals. A meeting
was held under their auspices in Wesley Church, which was addressed by <<
Robert Douglass>> , Jr., among others, in an elegant and pertinent manner,
setting forth the claims of the paper, and urging a generous support. I trust
the Philadelphia North Star Association will be successful in their effort,
and that other cities will follow the example, thus creating a wide spread impetus
in its behalf. The paper has successfully redeemed the pledges given at the
outset; the favorable testimony of the Press generally to the ability displayed
in its columns - the position it has already won as a faithful exponent of the
colored American - the channel through which his wants can be manifested - his
incentives for improvement encouraged - his faults rebuked, and his virtues
exalted, are among the reasons why the hand and heart of himself and his friends
should be zealous in its support; its watchfulness of the schemes of our common
enemy, Slavery, and its twin ally the American Colonization Society; its bold
tones in denouncing the former, and the skill in which it implies the scalping
knife of truth to the latter, alike commend it to patronage. As a class the
colored people have not yet done their duty in sustaining an Anti-Slavery Press.
A few days since I heard an intelligent colored man rebuking another for not
having subscribed for the Liberator, adding that as long as he lived, the old
pioneer sheet should be found on his table. Did but a similar spirit animate
the nominally free colored people, their cause would progress with most rapid
strides.
WILLIAM P. POWELL, of New-York city, with a determination of keeping up to the
times, has recently removed his colored Sailor's Home, to 330 Pearl-street.
A more favorable location could hardly be selected; the house is peculiarly
adapted to his plan, and can accommodate seventy persons. Spacious drawing and
dining rooms, and private ones when desired by families. Library facilities,
sleeping and bathing departments, are all arranged in the most unique order;
though termed the Seamen's Home it is not exclusively such, and any who feel
disposed to award their patronage will in the language of "mine host,"
"find every attention paid to their comfort."
JOSEPH C. HOLLEY, recently an anti-slavery lecturer, though not now contributing
as often as formerly to your columns is yet helping the cause along at Brooklyn,
precept and example, Like Roger Sherman of Revolutionary fame, when not directly
engaged in devising ways and means for the people's enlargement, employs his
time at his shoemaking bench; his customers are no less satisfied with his work
on account of a complexion unlike their own. May he, like the above named patriot,
be not a peg behind his contemparies in Freedom's cause.
A visit to the Northampton Water Cure, and its enterprising proprietor David
Ruggles, is at all times and particularly the present, very gratifying, the
success thus far attending his persevering efforts has warranted the erection
of an additional house, which is now about finished and ready for patients.
The Water Cure is pleasantly situated near Bensonville, on the west bank of
Mill river, about two miles from Northampton Centre - the scenery around the
building is a feast to the lover of the picturesque and romantic, and invalids
can enjoy their retired walls ad libitum. The house is arranged with separate
parlors, bathing and dressing rooms for ladies and gentlemen, and the water
applied for baths is unrivalled for its peculiar properties - the sick have
only to accept the invitation, "come wash and be healed." David Ruggles
is not merely a cold water theorist, but fortunately for him and the long list
of his cured patients has been practical - himself restored to health and usefulness
by the cure, is enabled more confidently to commend the system to others than
if he had acquired his gift only from books and observation; his skill in detecting
disease by sense of touch (and which is enhanced rather than impaired by his
partial lack of vision) would be deemed miraculous were it not in accordance
with the scientific demonstrations of several eminent medical scholars. Let
then, those afflicted with any of the "ills flesh is heir to," haste
to obtain ablution at this justly famed Fountain of Health.
Within a few years past, Boston has received quite an accession of colored citizens,
a large majority hailing from the Southern States, and who now rank among the
most industrious classes, many quietly pursuing the even tenor of their way,
securing the means of comfort and elevation. There never was a greater libel
uttered than charging the colored people with laziness. Indolent ones of course
there are whose presence and evil influences are a continual eye-sore to the
better portion; but the masses whether claiming a Northern or Southern origin
as far as circumstances allow, honorably emulate the examples of enterprising
white men. Of this there are abundant facts in confirmation.
Boston and New Bedford, have each contributed their quota of colored adventurers
in the California gold hunting expedition, many of them have sacrificed long
established business and fair prospects, investing much capital with the hope
of realising a fortune. As with the whites so with them, their mission is condemned
by some and approved by others. In business relations a colored man may now
succeed if perseverance and patience be among his virtues. Daniel Laing is a
co-proprietor of a Power Printing Press, has now a fair share of patronage,
as have also several journeymen compositors - more facts of this kind could
be mentioned. Colorphobia does not now seem as rampant as in days gone by. There
are but few if any Omnibuses from which a colored passenger is colonized. In
Eating Saloons and Soda Refectories they are generally treated as others, and
in places of popular amusement, where the "upper ten" mostly do congregate,
colored persons find ready access to seats of their choice - and as an encouraging
fact it may be mentioned, that in several instances this equality is practised
where a few years since the very shadowing forth of such an advance would have
given altogether too much color to the idea.
WM. W. BROWN, who soon leaves for Europe, is an accredited delegate to the Peace
Convention about to assemble in Paris and to be presided over by Lamartine.
How would American Republicans here at home reciprocate, if a colored delegate
was sent from Paris? We cannot answer - perhaps with fraternity and equality.
WILLIAM G. ALLEN former editor of the Troy National Watchman, is now lecturing
in this vicinity on the history, literature, and destiny of the colored race,
and with gratifying acceptance. One individual who had never been known to express
any favorable feeling for the colored man and his cause, on leaving the lecture
room the other evening confessed that the impression made on him by the subject
as presented had given him new and exalted opinions of the class hitherto deemed
so inferior. - Thus a chord had been struck in his breast never before vibrating
to such sentiments. On Saturday evening June 2d, by invitation of WILLIAM J.
BOWDITCH, Esq., a large delegation of colored school children partook of picnic
festivities in his beautiful grove at Brookline about five miles from the city.
The weather during the week had been extremely unpropitous, but on this day
as if by benevolent design, a bland atmosphere, and cloudless sky greeted the
merry-hearted children, their friends and benefactors; a variety of innocent
recreations were indulged in, and not only by the juveniles, but by those of
a larger growth, and that too most heartily. Several distinguished friends of
the anti-slavery cause were present, who consistently appreciated such an opportunity.
On separating, rounds of happy cheers were given in grateful testimony to the
Proprietor and his lady, both of whom always appear most pleased when contributing
to the happiness of others. W.C.N.
Boston, June 1849.
Selections.
LETTER FROM << ROBERT DOUGLASS>> .
Our friends in Easter Pennsylvania will be glad to see the letter from Mr. Douglass,
late of Philadelphia. It will interest our readers generally to know that <<
Robert Douglass>> generally to know that << Robert Douglass>>
is an artist of skill and promise, who, in this country, was unable to gain
a livelihood by his profession, though he added to it that of a Daguerreotypist;
and has therefore emigrated to a country where he hopes the colors he uses,
and the way he uses them, will be the test of his merit, rather than that upon
his own body, which he neither put on nor can rub off. - National Anti-Slavery
Standard.
WHERE ARE WE DRIFTING?
-----
MR. EDITOR: -We constitute a portion of American Citizens, who like the mariner
after having been shipwrecked on a boisterous sea, and the storm subsides, and
the log disperses, gathers up his compass and takes fresh soundings for the
purpose of ascertaining whether he is not nearing some rock-bound coast.
The recent attempt to galvanize the discussion on “African colonization”
reminds me that we ought to inquire where we are, and to what point we are verging,
and to what point is our future destination. The time was when the institution
of American slavery and the American Colonization Society and its branches held
such almost undisputed sway over the minds, and religion of the American people,
that our future prospect of citizenship was shrouded in gloom, and a popular
prejudice threatened our expulsion from our native soil. Thank God! Their charm
is broken, and although they once inhaled a giant's strength, and wielded colossal
power, they are now like a dead corpse, riven in twain by the august spirit
of the age.
Our Christian fathers, the recent victims of the slave code being imbued with
the natural spirit of freedom, and guided by the spirit of inspiration, perceived
the objects and designs of the American Colonization Society, assailed it by
creating a public sentiment against it which has proved invincible.
They held a public meeting in this city in the month of January 1817, immediately
after the Society was organized, and passed the following among other resolutions:
“Resolved, That we NEVER will separate ourselves voluntarily from the
slave population in this country; they are OUR brethren by the ties of consanguinity,
of suffering and of wrong, and we feel that there is more virtue in suffering
privations with them than in fancied enjoyments for a season.”
Among the members of the meeting that adopted the noble resolution, we find
the distinguished and historical names of the Rev. Richard Allen, Rev. Absalom
Jones, Rev. John Gloucester, << Robert Douglass>> , Robert Gordon,
James Johnson, Quomany Clarkson, John Sommersett, and Randall Shepperd, and
it was signed by James Forten, President, and Russell Parrott, Secretary. On
the 10th day of the ensuing August, they again assembled in a school house in
Green's Court, and adopted an address setting forth their principles in such
an able and dignified manner, that it deserves to be recorded in letters of
living light. Such was the inauguration of the noblest secular effort ever made
by our people, and it was received in the broadest sense and adopted by universal
acclamations.
In the year 1831 and 32, similar meetings were held in Maryland, the middle
and Eastern states all protesting in the same spirit and manner against the
measures of the A.C. Society, with a degree of unanimity never before equaled.
In the year 1832, Wm. Lloyd Garrison published a formidable pamphlet entitled
“Thoughts on Colonization,” fully exposing its dangerous influence
on the rights, interests and privileges of the “free people of color.”
He arraigned the American Colonization Society before the bar of the civilized
world in ten distinct and specific charges as follows, viz.: The American Colonization
Society No. 1. Is pledged not to oppose slavery; 2. Apologizes for slaveholders;
3. Recognizes slaves as property; 4. Increases the value of slaves; 5. Is the
enemy of immediate emancipation; 6. Is nourished by selfishness; 7. Aims at
the expulsion of the blacks; 8. Is the despiser of the free blacks; 9. Denies
the possibility of elevating the free blacks in this country; 10. Misleads and
deceives the nation.
It is not for me to repeat what is universally acknowledged, that he so powerfully
sustained these allegations against the Society by an array of facts and arguments
taken from its acknowledged organs and the public speeches of its distinguished
members, that he successfully convicted it before the tribunal of the American
people. Now, it is important here to remark that he did not utter a single anathema
against poor pillaged, bleeding African, nor against the introduction of science,
art, commerce, religion, or civilization into that benighted continent. But
on the contrary he says “Let the colony continue to receive the aid, and
elicit the prayers of the good and benevolent. Still let it remain within the
pale of Christian sympathy. Blot it not out of existence.”
My object in arranging these facts and testimonies is to show that our fathers
in 1817, their successors in 1831 and '32, and Mr. Garrison founded their objections
to the A.C. Society, because of its complicity with American slavery, and not
as a missionary movement for the civilization of Africa.
In contrasting that period with the present, we find that the primary objections
against the Society have been removed. The declaration of our fathers that they
would not “separate from their brethren in bondage,” does not now
hold good, as they are all now freemen. The first five charges of Mr. Garrison
relating to slavery have been swept away by the events of the war, and the Proclamation
of President Lincoln. The seventh, eighth, ninth and tenth, relating to the
“free people of color” have met with a similar fate by their being
translated into citizenship. For be it remembered, when the Colonization Society
was formed, there were three distinct classes of persons recognized by law in
our national and State codes, “citizens, slaves and free blacks.”
Now all have been absorbed into the term American citizen, and all these invidious
distinctions are being removed from our civil codes. The class termed “free
people of color” who were the class the Society designed to remove, no
longer exists, and no fears need be entertained against the exercise of the
legitimate functions of the Society, when our national legislation and laws
have wrested from the Society the avowed objects of its sympathy. It appears
to me that any colored man who has any claim to intelligence, and been an observer
of the events, that form the history of the last thirty years, and has not realized
that the A.C. Society has not been shorn of its obnoxious features, must be
incorrigibly blinded by prejudice, stupefied by ignorance, and incurably insane.
The Society exists today simply as a missionary and educational enterprise for
the purpose of civilizing and evangelizing Africa. Whoever objects to this let
him speak! A Republic has been born on the Western coast of Africa and been
acknowledged by the civilized governments throughout Europe, and is lighting
up the dark chasms of barbarism on its own continent. Does any lover of freedom
humanity and Christian progress regret this? If so let him disgorge the inmost
sentiments of his soul. Let us hear what Mr. Garrison said on this subject in
1831 while attempting to overthrow the Society: “If white missionaries
cannot, black ones can, survive in Africa. What then is our duty? Obviously
to educate colored men of genius, enterprise and piety expressly to carry the
“glad tidings of great joy” to her shores. Enough, I venture to
affirm, stand ready to be sent if they can first be qualified for the mission.
If our free colored population were brought into our schools, and raised from
their present low estate, I am confident an army of Christian volunteers would
go out from their ranks by a divine impales, and under the guidance of the Holy
Spirit to redeem their African brethren from the bondage of idolatry and spiritual
death.”
Does any descendant of poor, pillaged, bleeding African, with the blood of consanguinity flowing in his veins, and who professes to have received the baptism of the “Holy Spirit” object to this? If so let him speak while the “demons in pandemonium” shout for joy. And is not this noble, work being actively prosecuted by men and women who are believers in African colonization, as one of the great measures in the hand of Divine Providence, for enlightening, civilizing and Christianizing that ancient abode of idolatry, heathenism and superstition? Is every man who has the moral boldness to speak out his conviction on this subject to be anathematized as a traitor to his race in this country, because there is a moral obtuseness of intellect in many persons who are so blind as not to discover the broad difference between the past and the present? In reply I will state it as my firm conviction that no man should fear any amount of odium that may be cast upon him for denouncing the intolerance and despotism that would ostracize any man or set of men for opinion's sake, who are arduously laboring for the welfare of our race in this country and Africa, and who are spending their thousands and tens of thousands of dollars endowing colleges and institutions of learning, that our children may receive the benefits of education, knowledge and Christian civilization. It is to be regretted that there are colored men distinguished for intelligence, and whose oratorical powers give bias to the popular mind, whose prejudices against Africa and everything African, would, by their denunciations, aid in obstructing the blessings of civilization in Africa. Let them beware of the decision of posterity, as the future historian may place them side by side with the original despoilers of Africa.
WM. WHIPPER.
SLAVERY.
(From the New-England Spectator.)
IMPORTANT TESTIMONY. Did the Blacks ever desire a Society to be formed to transport them to Africa with their own consent? If not, can the Colonization Society be a Benevolent Institution?
During the late discussion in this city between George Thompson and Mr. Gurley, the former stated that the colored people were, as a body, opposed to colonization. When the colonization scheme was first promulged, Mr. T. said, three thousand colored people assembled in Philadelphia, to discuss the question, whether it was desirable to avail themselves of the offers made, and emigrate to Africa. When the question was stated,— 'As many as are in favor of going to Africa, as proposed by the Colonization Society, will signify it by saying— Aye.' A universal silence prevailed. 'As many as are of the contrary opinion, will say— No.' The house rang with one universal shout. Such a fact, added Mr. Thompson, ought forever to silence every advocate of colonization.
Mr. Gurley, in his reply, said he never had heard of such a meeting in Philadelphia. Although the fact of such a meeting has, from the first, been the subject of public notoriety, yet to get testimony on the point from one present on the occasion, whom no one acquainted with him would doubt, I immediately wrote to James Forten, one of the most respectable and wealthiest business men in Philadelphia, though a gentleman of color, stating to him what Mr. Thompson had said, and Mr. Gurley's reply, and requested him to give me the facts in the case. In answer to this letter, I have received the following:—
Philadelphia, June 10th, 1835.
Rev. W.S. PORTER,— Dear Sir,— I cheerfully comply with the request contained in your note of the 3d inst., to give you a brief statement of a meeting held in 1817, by the people of color in this city, to express their opinion on the Liberia project. It was the largest meeting of colored persons ever convened in Philadelphia, I will say 3000, though I might safely add 500 more. To show you the deep interest evinced, this large assemblage remained in almost breathless and fixed attention, during the reading of the resolutions and other business of the meeting; and when the question was put in the affirmative, you night have heard a pin drop, so profound was the silence. But when in the negative, one long, loud, aye, TREMENDOUS NO, from this vast audience, seemed as if it would bring down the walls of the building. Never did there appear a more unanimous opinion. Every heart seemed to feel that it was a life and death question. Yes, even then, at the very onset, when the monster came in a guise to deceive some of our firmest friends, who [ ]ailed it as the dawning of a brighter day for our oppressed race,— even then, we penetrated through its thickly-laid covering, and beheld it prospectively as the scourge which in after years was to grind us to the earth, and by a series of unrelenting persecution, force us into involuntary exile.
I was not a little surprised to learn that Mr. Gurley professed to be ignorant of this fact; for in the African repository, be reviewed Mr. Garrison's Thoughts on African Colonization; and a whole chapter of the work, if I mistake not, is taken up with the sentiments of the people of color on colonization, commencing with the Philadelphia meeting. Perhaps Mr. Gurley did not read that chapter. But if his memory is not very treacherous, he ought to have known the circumstance, for I related it to him myself in a conversation which I had with him at my house one evening in company with the Rev. Robert Breckenridge and our beloved friend, William Lloyd Garrison. The subject of colonization was warmly discussed; and I well recollect bringing our meeting of 1817 forward as a proof of our early and decided opposition to the measure. No doubt Mr. Garrison also remembers it.
Three meetings were held by us in 1817. The two first you will find in the 'Thoughts on Colonization,' part 2d, page 9. Of the protest and remonstrance adopted at the third meeting, I send you an exact copy.* It is in answer to an address to the citizens of New York and Philadelphia, calling upon them to aid a number of persons of color, whom they said were anxious to join the projected colony in Africa. Those persons were mostly from the south, and it was to disabuse the public mind on this subject, that our meeting was held.
I remain, with great respect.
Yours,
JAMES FORTON.
P.S. The following are the names of the committee appointed at the meeting in 1817, with power to call a general meeting whenever they thought it requisite, viz:
Rev. Absalom Jones— deceased, Rev. Richard Allen— deceased, James Forten, << Robert Douglass>> , Francis Perkins, Rev. John Gloucester— deceased, Robert Gordon, James Johnson, Quamoney Clarkson— deceased, John Sommerset— deceased, Randall Shepherd.
JAMES FORTEN, Chairman. Russell Parrott, Secretary, deceased.
* Protest and Remonstrance of the People of Color of the City and County of
Philadelphia against the Plan of Colonizing the Free People of Color of the
United States, on the coast of Africa, At a very numerous meeting of persons
of color on the 16th instant the following resolutions were unanimously adopted.
Whereas, an address to the citizens of Philadelphia and New York having been
made through the medium of the public papers, by the agent of the American society
for colonizing the free people of color on the coast of Africa, which address
is made, it is said, in behalf of a number of people who are desirous of joining
the projected colony in Africa, and who have made application to the American
Colonization Society, for permission to be amongst its first colonists: But
as a full and explicit expression of our sentiments and feelings, relative to
the proposed plan of colonization, has already been submitted to the public,
and as the views therein taken of the subject, were the result of cool and deliberate
investigation, and as no circumstance has occurred since their adoption, to
alter our opinion, but on the contrary, the reiterated expressions of some of
the advocates of the measure, that it was foreign to their intentions, to interfere
with a species of property which they hold sacred; and by the recent attempt
to introduce slavery in all its objectionable features into the new states,
and which has only been prevented by a small majority in the national legislature,
confirms us in the belief that any plan of colonization without the American
continent or islands, will completely and permanently fix slavery in our common
country. It is, therefore,
Resolved, That how clamorous soever a few obscure and dissatisfied strangers among us, may be in favor of being made presidents, governors, and principals, in Africa, there is but one sentiment among the respectable inhabitants of color in this city and county, which is, that it meets their unanimous and decided disapprobation.
Resolved, That we are determined to have neither lot nor portion in a plan which we believe to be intended to perpetuate slavery in the United States. And it is, moreover,
Resolved, That the people of color of Philadelphia, now enter and proclaim their solemn protest against the contemplated colony on the shores of Africa, and against every measure that may have a tendency to convey an idea that they give the project a single particle of countenance or encouragement.
JAMES FORTEN, Chairman.
RUSSELL. PARROTT, Secretary.
Adopted in 1819.
It should be remembered that all this was done eleven years before Garrison
took up the cause of emancipation. In 1829, Garrison delivered a 4th of July
oration in this city, before the Colonization Society. Thus we see what influence
he could thus early have had in persuading the blacks to oppose the Colonization
Society.
Philadelphia Matters.
By our own reporters.
-Go to Wallace for groceries.
-General Wagner for Recorder.
-If you have any law matters in Camden and need a Justice of the Peace call
on our friend Purnell.
-You should give your orders for flour and the like to Boling on Lombard Street,
or Masten on Bainbridge St.
-Wanted.-An educated lady to go to Florida to take charge of a school. One qualified
to teach music preferred.
-Our musical critic feels pretty much “squelched” after his effort
in last week's Recorder concerning Bethel Literary. So he ought.
-The Dean of the venerable Westminster Abbey of England requested a seat in
the gallery of Bethel Church last Sunday night.
-Linwood Station is just a little way out of town, but Father Henderson Davis,
Sr., still uses the old hymn book at the little church there.
-Captain Henry Denby of the sloop “Georgiana” of Chester, was drowned
on last Thursday night, 25th ult. His remains were buried at Chester last Sunday.
-Trotter's book, “Music and some Highly Musical People,” is a splendid
book. Come and see it. The price has been reduced to $1.50. The book will grave
anybody's library.
-Bishop J. Theodore Holly of Hayti, well known to a large number in this city,
preached a few Sundays ago in that historic priory, Westminster Abbey. He is
the first black man who has ever preached in that ancient structure.
-Thirty-six employees-twenty-six men and ten women-were discharged from the
Mint in this city last Saturday. Neither of the two colored men employed there
were discharged. It is the first discharge of the kind there for six years.
-Wm. Still, Esq., is prepared to sell you coal in any quantity and of all the
very best kinds. His office and coal yards are well known. His horses and coal
carts look well. Take notice of his advertisement in another column and order
your coal from him.
-Nice books, elegant paper and envelopes, ladies visiting cards, pencils leads,
canvass framed “Victor” slates, the “Underground Railroad,”
schoolbooks, Bibles and Testaments, reward cards for Sunday schools, Sunday
School Libraries, jugs for “jug-breakings,” &c., can be had
at our book store; call in and look at them.
-Chosen Friends Lodge no 606, I. O. G. T., was instituted last Saturday night
in West Philadelphia by District Deputy Pinkerton, assisted by Bros. Steward,
Snyder, Wilkens, Hauch and Hill an Slater Welchman. It meets in Mansell Hall
at 63rd and Vine Sts., which is a very pretty hall. There was a large attendance
of visiting Good Templars and the Lodge was instituted with twenty members.
-No longer can Elder Chambers stand peacefully on Plagah's top. So said the
Incorporation leaders at a meeting held in Mount Plagah A. M. E. Church on Monday
evening. It was resolved to ask Bishop Payne to remove Bre. Chambers and appoint
a new pastor. All this because Bro. Chambers sought to have the “charter”
revised and in accord with the Discipline, and the spirit of African Methodism.
We shall see what the harvest shall be.
-At the meeting of the Joint Stock Co., of Philadelphia held on Monday evening
last, a committee of three was appointed to ( ) a store which had been offered
the agents of the company. The committee on Incorporation reported program,
and a resolution was adopted requesting subscribers to pay the balance due on
stock on or before Monday, Oct. 14th. The store alluded to above is well located
in a good business neighborhood. The oar value of shares is fifteen dollars.
A few more slates remain to be disposed. This will afford to heads of families
and others an excellent investment and further the business development of our
people.
-The combination Concert at Horticultural Hall on last Tuesday night, could
scarcely be called a success. The children sang very creditably, but the audiences
was small, there not being more than 350 persons in it. The exercises were as
follows after being opened by prayer by Robt. Jones: First on the programme
was 1st Presbyterian Sunday School; second was Zoar M. E. Sunday School and
choir, Prof. Bowers conducting; third was Allen Chapel choir, W. Mitchell leader;
fifth was Bethel Sabbath School all children; sixth was Union A. M. E. choir,
Mr. Randolph leader-all adults; seventh was Scott Baptist Sabbath School without
say leader but did remarkably well; eigth was John Wanamaker Mission, Mrs. Bond
conductor. Mr E. ( ) Baxter was the manager.
-A St. Louis journal advises young men to choose a wife by the music she plays
and the way she plays it. If she maniffest's predflection for Strauss, she is
frivolous; for Beethoven, she is unpractical; for Beethoven, she is unpractical;
for Liest, she is too ambitious; for Verdi, she is sentimental; for Offenback,
she is giddy; for Guonod, she is ( ); for Gottachalk, she is superficial; for
Mozart, she is prudish; for Flotow, she is commonplace; for Wagner, she is idiotic.
The girl who hammers away at the “Maiden's Prayer.” “The Anvil
Chorus, “ and “Silvery Waves,” may be depended upon as a good
cook, and also as being healthful; and if she includes “The Battle of
Prague,” and “The White Cockade,” in her repertory, you ought
to know that she has been thoughtfully, religiously, and strictly nurtured.
But last of all, pin your faith upon the calico dress of the girl who can play,
“Home Sweet Home.”
To Philadelphia.-Three months ago, on nice little circulars, we promised to
give our local columns more prominence, and to spare no pains to bring the Christian
Recorder up to the wants and requirements of our people of the city. That we
should number among our special city contributors such names as “Catharine
Casey,” the distinguished reader, Miss Carrie R. Lecount, the vivacious
Miss Gertrude Bustill, whose poems have already attracted attention; Mrs. Sarah
M. Douglass, whose “conversations with children,” are such pleasant
readings; Miss E. Ramsey, Mrs. Henrietta Jones, of Camden, Mr. J. C. White,
the polished teacher, I. C. Wears, Esq., well known to all, Prof. << Robert
Douglass>> , the artist, Wm. C. Banton and others; and among the clergy
we should have contributions from Doctor J. B. Reeve, Rev. T. G. Steward, Doctor
T. Doughty Miller, Rev. H. A. Knight, Rev. G. C. Whitfield, &c., and that
we should also publish a new and original story, “John Blye,” for
which we bespoke a favorable reception. We said our city contributors would
give us stories, sketches, poems and news items, both of a secular and religious
character. We call attention to the “Philadelphia Matters” and reports
from “Among the Churches,” as published from week to week for attestation
of the fulfillment of our promises. We want to say that our city circulation
has largely increased during this time, and we cordially invite contributions
form persons who use their eyes and ears, write what you see and hear-a person's
thoughts belong to himself, and everybody may not care to read his opinions-but
what he sees and hears will interest somebody. The Christian Recorder does not
belong entirely to preachers, and its columns are free to the pens of others.
We ask our city subscribers to please pay up and help us to make a still better
paper. We ask our friends to buy it, to subscribe for it, to write for it, to
advertise in it, and help us to make a larger paper.
SYMPATHY FOR CUBA IN PHILADELPHIA.
Our Colored citizens aroused Meeting Monday evening in Bethel, A.M.E. Church Stirring resolutions adopted A petition to President Grant circulated for signature.
A large meeting of the colored citizens of Philadelphia was held last evening, in our Church, to sympathize with the patriots of Cuba in their struggle for independence, and longing to see the freedom of their five-hundred thousand fellow men now held as slaves in that island.
The meeting was called to order at 8 o'clock by Rev. W.H. Hunter, and the following
named gentlemen were elected as officers: President, Rev. H.J. Young; vice-presidents
Rev. Wm. F. Carr, Isaiah Wears, Jos. C. Bostill, Henry Gordon, Robert Jones,
and U.B. Vidal: secretaries, Parker T. Smith and Wm. C. Banton.
After introductory religious services, conducted by the president, Rev. B>T>
Tanner offered the following resolutions:
Whereas, In the Declaration of American Independence the truth of man's freedom and equality first received the endorsement of a nation, and like the mustard seed of which the Master spoke this truth has been gradually leavening the hearts of all people, and as its silent yet potent workings in the past brought freedom and enfranchisement to the four millions of our own country, so by its equally potent workings in the future, we may reasonably assure the oppressed of all lands that it will sooner or later bring to them a morn that shall be made effulgent with the rays of the son of liberty, and
Whereas, We, the colored citizens of Philadelphia, having met in mass meeting
to consider the condition of Cuba, do.
Resolved, That the oppressed of Cuba we have the warmest sympathy; for the patriots
now in arms we have admiration, and for the rulers of Spain we have only indignation.
Resolved, That the old cohorts of Abolitionists, who made common cause with
us in our contentions for liberty, be urged to make the same glorious common
cause, with the oppressed of the Spanish dependencies.
Resolved, That for these oppressed thousands we likewise ask the sympathy of
all who hope to see the well nigh prophetic utterances fo the Revolutionary
Fathers have a world-wide fulfillment.
Resolved, That President Grant be requested to reconsider his policy toward
the Cuban revolutionist, and to back up strongly and well the note of October
20, sent by Secretary Fish to the Spanish Cortes; and that to Cazstelar and
the whole band of Spanish republicans we reach out the right hand of fellowship,
and pray that as a reward for the physical freedom they would give the oppressed
abroad, an ever balancing Providence may give them political liberty at home.
Rev. Dr. Henry Highland Garnett, of New York, seconded the resolutions in a
lengthy speech. The Dr. seemed to be in excellent trim, for the speech he made
reminded those who heard him, of some of his best efforts in the old Anti-slavery
warfare in our own country. HE was followed by Mr. Isaiah Wears, who made a
very effective speech. After addresses form several other gentlemen, aong them
Prof. Gailliard of Cal., the audience were invited to sign the following petition;
To General Ulysses S. Grant, President of the United States,
We, the petitioners, citizens fo the United States, duly grateful for our own
disenthrallment and enfranchisement, fully comprehending the genius of free
government, and heartily sympathizing with the oppressed in every land, have
the honor to call your attention to the existence of slavery in the island of
Cuba, and the suffering condition of more than five hundred thousand of our
race in consequences thereof. THE repeated and flagrant violations of the most
sacred treaty obligations and broken faith of the Spanish government in regard
to slavery in Cuba, ruining through a period fo more than twenty years, is sufficient
evidence that slavery and the slave trade will be forever continued in event
of the triumph of the Spanish arms in the war now going on in that island. We
respectfully submit that we have the fullest assurances that in event of the
triumph of the Cuban patriots, the benefit of freedom will be secured to our
enslaved brethren. We would therefore pray that the Government of the United
States accord to the Cuban patriots that favorable recognition which a four
years' gallant struggle in the interest of freedom justly entitles them.
As might be supposed, the feelings of the meeting ran high, and concluding, that if one series of Resolutions were good, two would be better, they proceeded to adopt with much enthusiasm - the additional ones, drawn up by Wm. Whipper, Esq.
Whereas: We the colored citizens fo Philadelphia is public meeting assembled
do most solemnly invoke the spirit of our Christian Fathers, the Reverends RICHARD
ALLEN, ARSALOM JONES, JOHN GLOUCESTER, JAMES FORTEN, ROBERT GORDON, <<
ROBERT DOUGLASS>> , RUSSELL PARBOTT, JOSEPH CASSEY, SOLOMON CLARKSON,
JOHN BOWERS, SR., and their compatriots, who fifty-six years ago met on this
sacred spot, that has been twice dedicated to God, to liberty, and the universal
freedom of “our Race,” to inspire us with the power to protest against
“American Slavery” on the 17th day of January 1817, when they declared
that “the slaves of the South were their brethren in bonds” by the
ties of blood, consanguinity, “suffering and wrong,” and they would
never separate their interests from theirs, no matter what evil consequences
might surround their future lives.
And Whereas: The instinctive love of liberty and of race, are elements of “human
nature,” born in the morning of time, nursed in the lap fo ages, clothed
with immortality, older than all civilization, overleaping all geographical
boundaries, and “national domains” they throb form bosom to bosom
with more than telegraphic speed; - outstripping a ray of light from heaven,
they reach the “Throne of God,” by a single pulsation of the human
heart.
And Whereas: “Cuban Slavery,” like chattel slavery everywhere is
the enemy of God and man, the special enemy of our race, which in the language
of John Wesley, is the “sum of all villalutes,” and was pronounced
by Wilberforce “to stand on its own detestible eminence.” IT is
therefore our duty as men, and lovers of our race to labor for its extinction,
and as American Citizens to petition our government to go to the utmost verge
of Constitutional power, consistent with the “law of nations,” and
the solemn obligations of Treaties to banish it from our borders. Therefore
be it
Resolved: That we forward petitions to the President of the United States asking him to take such immediate action on this subject as his wisdom may dictate.
After listening to the following letter from John C. Bowers Esq., the meeting adjourned.
To the President of the Cuban Meeting.
GENTLEMEN: -
I regret exceedingly that on account of sickness which has confined me to the
house for the last three months and more, I shall be unable to participate with
you in your deliberations this evening. Though absent in person, my heart is
with you, and the glorious cause in which you have embarked the great subject
of Human Liberty.
The Emancipation of more than five hundred thousand of our brethren held as
slaves in the island of Cuba under a Spanish despotism.
For four long years the Cuban Patriots have waged a war for freedom and independence
against their oppressors but so far have not succeeded, but there is not a shadow
of doubt with the same patience perseverance and heroism already displayed their
efforts must be crowned with success, the Spanish power annihilated, and Cuba
stand forth a free republic. We of the United States have suffered long in slavery
for two hundred and sixty years, suffering the most cruel torture; our ancestors
and ourselves and our friends have been praying and putting forth every effort
for its total overthrow and a list our efforts have been crowned with success,
and today we live in the freest country in the world, and we are about to receive
al the rights of the most favored citizen. May Cuba speedily go and do likewise.
Yours,
JOHN C. BOWERS.
(For the Liberator.)
A VOICE FROM PHILADELPHIA.
Pursuant to notice, a large and respectable meeting of the colored citizens of Philadelphia convened in the first colored Presbyterian Meeting-house, April 1st, 1833. James Forten was appointed President, << Robert Douglass>> and Joseph Cassey, Vice Presidents, Robert Purvis and James McCrummel, Secretaries.
The President having stated the object of the meeting, the following Preamble and Resolutions were submitted by Mr. Douglass for the consideration of the house, and unanimously adopted.
PREAMBLE.
Whereas, it has long been the opinion of the members of this Meeting, that the many efforts now making in these United States for the elevation of the colored population to those rights, privileges and enjoyments which God, in his wisdom, has ordained for man, have not been commensurate with the magnitude of the cause, under which the many benevolent philanthropists of our country are laboring, and our long neglected race still bleeding.
And whereas, their want of success has arisen from having to contend with the evils of Slavery, Ignorance, and Prejudice:— They therefore rejoice, that the New-England Anti-Slavery Society was formed for the express purpose of blasting these rocks of misfortune and misery; and they most ardently desire that that Institution, founded as it is on the pillars of everlasting truth and justice, may grow and spread its moral light to the most distant shores, and gather from the four winds of heaven, the means necessary to complete its great and laudable purposes, until it shall be able, under the blessings of Providence, to present to the 'man of color,' the glorious path of civilization, untrammelled by any of those concomitant evils, which have hitherto destroyed millions of our race, by depriving us of the light of religion, the blessings of education, and the enjoyment of universal liberty.
And whereas, the Board of Managers of said Society, have officially announced the appointment of WM. LLOYD GARRISON ESQ. (that able and efficient advocate of the 'Rights of Man;') as their Agent, and that he will proceed to England, for the purpose of procuring funds, to aid in the establishment of a Manual Labor School for Colored Youth, and of disseminating in that country the truth in relation to American Slavery and its ally, the American Colonization Society:
And whereas, it becomes us, as freeman, to express our approbation, or disapprobation, of all measures, that affect our interests, we therefore publish to the world, that the appointment of Wm. Lloyd Garrison as Agent of the New-England Anti-Slavery Society, under the auspices and instructions given by that Board, receives our decided approbation, and should be a theme of rejoicing to philanthropists and lovers of freedom, no matter where situated. Mr. Garrison, wherever known, is recognized as the friend of the colored population. The objects of his mission, have long since been the pride of his heart, viz. to expand the mind, unrivet the fetter, and dissolve prejudice and his ability to execute the present undertaking can better be described by pointing to the 'Liberator,' and his excellent work entitled 'Thoughts on African Colonization,' than by any feeble eulogy of ours; it is sufficient when we assert, that in all these he has spoken our sentiments; and therefore be it
Resolved, That this meeting most respectfully solicit the good people of England, to contribute to the proposed object, with that spirit of liberality which has uniformly characterized the benevolent acts of the English Nation; and that we, as humble suppliants, do most affectionately pray, that the beneficent smiles of kind Providence, together with the good wishes of our oppressed people, may crown the donors with eternal blessings, for having contributed of their substance to aid in confering upon the colored race the inestimable privileges of civilization and liberty.
Resolved, That we consider education the only effectual mode of elevating our general character, as it is capable of removing the most powerful impediments from the path of our improvement, viz. the effects of Slavery and the influence of the American Colonization Society; therefore we desire that our brethren and friends will aid in promoting every object, that promises the dissemination of useful knowledge.
Resolved, That it is the universal opinion of the people of color, in these United States, that Slavery, though one of the worst evils that ever infested the moral government of man, would necessarily be of short duration, were it not aided by the American Colonization Society, which has been created, supported and perpetuated, for the avowed purpose of protecting it from the innovations of light and reason, by removing from that immoral vineyard every thing obnoxious to its existence.
Resolved, That the members of this meeting, being actuated by the most pure and patriotic motives, and guided by philanthropic feelings, do most heartily desire and pray for the total and immediate annihilation of Slavery, and the American Colonization Society; as they are fully satisfied, that their annihilation would prove a national blessing to the United States; for their very existence is a foul stain on the character of a christian community, brings contempt on religion, is destructive to the morals, and at enmity with the form and principles of a republican government.
Resolved, That we return our thanks to WM. L. GARRISON, ESQ. for his untiring and philanthropic exertions in our behalf; and that, while we rejoice at his departure for England, we implore the blessings of Heaven for his safe and speedy return amongst us.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to remit to Mr. Garrison, the proceedings of this meeting, together with such other information, with regard to said Mission as they may deem proper.
Resolved, That a collection be taken up at this meeting, and that a committee of five persons be appointed to solicit subscriptions, to aid in defraying Mr. Garrison's expenses in England.
In support of the above resolutions, Mr. F.A. Hinton addressed the house in a spirited and feeling manner. The following resolutions were then offered and adopted.
Resolved, That while our hearts are filled with gratitude to the Philanthropists in this country, for the great exertions they are making in our behalf, we are not unmindful of the efforts of the advocates of human freedom in England, in behalf of the welfare of the descendants of Africa.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to prepare an address, expressive of our sentiments of gratitude to the Philanthropists in Great Britain, and that the same be presented to JAS. GROPPER, of Liverpool; by our sterling friend and advocate, William Lloyd Garrison, Esq.
In support of the foregoing resolutions, Mr. -----, addressed the house as follows:
MR. PRESIDENT:
If there was ever a time, or an occasion, when the highest, noblest and best feelings of the human heart should be called into full life and vigor, it is at this time— it is on this occasion. We come, Mr. President, to join in one sentiment, to pour forth in one common strain, the feelings and gratitude of our people. We are about to perform an act which opens one of the brightest epochs in the history of our character. We are about to present to the noble, fearless and unwearied combattants against tyranny and oppression, the pure and unmixed tribute of gratitude, from the alter of our hearts, and may I not say in the prayers and blessings of our people, upon the heads of a Clarkson, a Wilberforce, a Stuart, Cropper, a Buxton, a Brougham, a Thompson, a Lushington, and others eminent for their good works, not forgetting, (though I mention him last, I do not mean him least,) an O'Connel. On what page, Mr. President, in the history of nations, can be found men more illustrious? Was there ever more virtue or honor embodied in more noble, more generous, more undaunted men? The eloquence of a Demosthenes, or a Cicero, never can produce that harmony and sweetness, which delights and gratifies the soul, like the eloquence of those who plead the cause of suffering humanity. The exploits of an Alexander, a Caesar, or a Napoleon, are trivial, when brought to bear against the achievements of the living philanthropists of the day. So fearless are they, Sir, in the prosecution of their work of benevolence and humanity, and so hallowed are the purposes of their hearts, that the threats of Nero cannot intimidate them; the riches of a Croesus cannot affect the honor and integrity of such men; their deeds and their names are but one, for neither can recur to the mind without associating the other;— every act of their lives proves they virtue and philanthropy;— in fine, Sir, they are destined to receive the admiration of the World, so long as they are votaries to religion and virtue; for says the Poet,
'They never fail, who die in a great cause;
The block may soak their gore;
Their heads may sodden in the sun;
Their limbs be strung to city gates, and castle walls;
But still their spirit walks abroad!—
But, Mr. President, shall we say nothing of those in our own country? Have
we Sir, no spotless flag of philanthropy, floating in the pure air of Heaven?
Have we no Stars shining thereon, as brilliant as those across the mighty Atlantic?
Can we register no names, as being synonymous with virtue and philanthropy?
We can, Sir. Ours is the joy and the satisfaction to know, and to say, that
there is amongst us a veteran, a pioneer in the glorious cause of Abolition.
We have, Sir, the Clarkson of America— we have a Lundy. We have the
fire and zeal of an O'Connell, in our worthy and beloved Garrison. We have the
cool, deliberative, logical powers of a Wilberforce, as represented in a Buffum.
And the aptness, wit and burning sarcasm of a Snelling, bear no bad resemblance
to the bitter distillations of a Thompson. But where, Sir, can be found an American
Stuart? In whom may be found those virtues which live within and nourish the
soul of that philanthropist? Why, Sir, the same virtuous light, the same holy
spirit glows within and animates a man, who, like Stuart, (in regard to his
piety,) possesses the faith of an Abraham, the meekness of a Moses, the patience
of a Job, and the zeal of a Paul. He is no other than Simeon S. Jocelyn. We
have others, who, like the rest, must forever be embedded in the warm affections
of the heart of every man of color, who is alive to his interest, a friend to
his cause, and true to himself. Turn our attention to New-England, and we behold
a picture indeed cheering. See the benevolence and the philanthropy, that have
been there awakened. See, Sir, the mighty success that has followed the efforts
of those whose sympathies are enlisted in our behalf. See, Sir, that firmament—
I mean a moral, civil and political firmament— which, but as yesterday,
presented the terrific and awful aspect of despair and
dessolation— upon which there could not be descried one Star of light,
to cheer, to guide, or console the heart of the man of color— now exhibiting
a thousand, all verging to one point, and which will at no distant period form
one bright and glorious Sun of Righteousness and Truth, whose beams will illumine
the minds of our people, and create within them a spirit and a desire which
will be the sure and successful adversary of tyranny and its evil attendants.
Are we not emboldened, Mr. President, from the present blessed reality of things,
to tear the veil from futurity, and behold with rapturous delight that ascension,
which, although we may not be permitted to enjoy it,— although our vision
may not behold that glorious and blessed sight— although our bodies
may then be mingled with the clod from which we sprang,— and our souls,
I hope, enjoying the sweet and everlasting light of Heaven— yet, Sir,
assuredly, most assuredly, those who come after us, and of us, shall have the
full enjoyment.
JAMES FORTEN, President.
<< ROBERT DOUGLASS>> ,Vice Presidents.
JOSEPH CASSEY,
ROBERT PURVIS,Secretaries.
JAMES McCRUMMEL,
Local Column.
REPORTED BY ROBERT J. HOLLAND, FOR THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER.
FREE ice-water in Independence Square.
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HON. JOHN SMYTHE, Minister to Liberia, was in our city last week.
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THE HUNTER trail is the all-absorbing topic among the Camdenites.
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BETHEL LITERARY has a large committee out soliciting books for its library. This is a worthy cause- help it.
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GOOD TEMPLARISM meets with general satisfaction and hearty endorsement among the friends of temperance in this city, among our people.
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THE ladies who held the Strawberry Festival in Allen Chapel recently, released $50, for the benefit of that church.
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THE boys who started to sell single copies of the CHRISTIAN RECORDER last week did well. This being Deputy Manager Gould's plan to increase our local circulation, the public should encourage these boys.
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SARAH M. DOUGLAS for years teacher of Physiology and Reading in the High School Department of the Institute for Colored Youth, (Bainbridge St. west of Ninth St.) lectured on Thursday afternoon June 18th (in her parlor) to a highly intelligent and appreciative audience of ladies. The lecture, illustrated with drawings and an admirable French Menakin, was exceedingly interesting and instructive.
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<< ROBERT DOUGLASS>> the Artist, delivered his second lecture on Phonography, in the Hall of the Medical College, 200 N. Tenth St., on Wednesday Evening, June 12th. The audience paid earnest attention and much interest was exhibited in the lucid demonstration of the principles of this beautiful and very useful art. Mr. D. illustrated upon the blackboard and with an explanatory chart painted by himself.
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THE INDEPENDENT Grand Lodge of A. Y. M., for the State of Pennsylvania, propose giving a grand excursion on Monday June 24th, to Delaware City, on the floating palace, “Creedmoor Cutter.” Which will leave Lombard St. wharf at 8 1/2 A.M. The committee, headed by their worthy chairman, J. D. Kelly have considered all the wants of their excursionists, as well as the hardness of the times, and, as well be seen, have governed themselves accordingly. For more information see circular.
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REV. RICHARD SPIROT of Virginia, spoke at Allen Chapel on Sunday Evening last from Daniel 2:35. The speaker gave a historical sketch of Nebuchadnezzar's dream, the prayers of Daniel and his three faithful companions, and of the stone cut off the mountain. He compared the stone to the Gospel, whose spread in every land broke down and destroyed every opposition. He went on to describe in a very spirited manner the progress of the Gospel and urged a willing assent to its requirements.
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A PUBLIC MEETING to consider the present aspects of a Sabbath question will be held in this city on Monday evening, the 24th inst., in the Arch St. Methodist Church, at the corner of Broad and Arch Streets. Bishop Simpson has consented to preside, and addresses will be deliver4ed by George Junkin, Esq., and Rev. C. G. Curris, D. D. A review of the present condition of the Sabbath cause in this city and State, will be presented by the Executive Committee of the Philadelphia Sabbath Alliance. Former meetings in behalf of this cause have been notably successful. We hope that no less interest will be manifested on this occasion.
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A GOOD TEMPLAR LODGE ORGANIZED.- On Wednesday Evening June 12, at 631 Pine St., Publication Department of A. M. E. Church, Mr. Joseph Malins, R. W. G. S. of England, and W. W. Turnbull, R. W. G. S. of Scotland, Mrs. Brown and Miss Impey, associate delegates from the mother country, and Mr. Phillips, State Deputy of Penn., and members of subordinate Lodges of Philadelphia, organized a Good Templar Lodge to be known as the “Fraternity” Lodge, No. 4. The following persons were installed as charter officers: H. H. Gilbert, P. W. C. T.; Robert J. Holland, W. C. T.; Mary E. Hill, W. V. T.; Lorenzo E. Portela, W. S.; J. W. Burrell, W. F. S. I. Cropper, W. T.; Rev. Theo. Gould, W. C.; Joseph Gonzales, W. M.; Jan. A. Williams, W. I. G.; Nicholas Escuders, W. O. G. Appointed N. S. Burrell, W. R. H. S.; Rachel Neal, W. L. H. S.; T. W. Stewart, W. A. S.; Elizabeth Escuders, W. D. M.
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THE HOME FOR AGED AND INFIRM COLORED PERSONS Held their annual meeting of the contributors at the Institution, corner Girard and Belmont Avenues on Thursday afternoon. Mr. Dillwyn, President of the Home, presided and Geo. W. Hancock acted as Secretary. In the Annual report the managers state that they have been depressed on account of the smallness of the funds in their possession, but generally when aid has been asked it has been furnished. The health of the inmates has been very good. Deaths have results from old age. Phillis Haywood celebrated her 109th birthday on April 11th; she continues in good health and spirits. Several bequests have been made to the Home and a number of entertainments have been held which afforded much amusement to the aged inmates. Speeches were made by Rev. Dr. Peddle, Hon. Daniel M. Fox, Sarah P. Goodwin, Judge Pierce, Mrs. W. L. Bladen, Miss F. M. Jackson, and Lawyer J. D. Lewis. The following officers were chosen for the year: President, Dillyn Parrish; Vice President, Wm. Still; Treasurer, Israel H. Johnson; Secretary, Geo. W. Hancock. Board of Managers, Joseph M. Truman, Jr., Henry M. Laing, Rev. Jabex P. Campbell, John W. Price, Wm. C. Smyth, Matthias Shoemaker, Thomas H. McCollin, Thomas H. Davis, Sarah Parrish, Ann Jess, Mary A. Campbell, Sarah Lewis, Sarah Gordon, Sarah Pennock, Emily B. Smyth, Lavinia S. Harvey, Margaret Jones, Sarah K. Gillingham, Catherine M. Phillips, and Hans Shadd. Co-operative Committee, Harriet Smith, Ann T. Laing, Elizabeth M. Cooper, Sarrh D. Barnard, Lydia E. Pennock, Auditors, Joseph Bacon, Alfred H. Love.
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SUNDAY MORNING, June 16th, Elder Whitfield spoke from John 5: 39, “Search the Scriptures,” etc. He defined the Scripture as meaning the Old and New Testaments, prophetical writings, the gospels and epistles. They should be searched with the sole object of finding Christ; for they only can bring us to him and give us eternal life. It is possible to understand the Scriptures and yet not know Christ. The Jews searched the Scriptures with a view of sitting on the seat of Moses and to be called learned so as to rule the people. People searched the Scriptures so as to justify their sins, and some for self-aggrandizement; to such they were terrible condemnation. Men have translated the Scriptures from the two dead languages and yet know not Christ. This, the speaker claimed, has caused so many denominations in the world. He spoke of the good results of Bible reading in our church and school. It is a good thing to be a Bible reader, but it is a better thing to find Christ. They should be searched for they are the only infallible guides to bring us to Christ. It is wonderful how they adapt themselves to everything in life. At this point the speaker spoke against the use of tobacco and segars and against the playing of dominoes, chess and croquet. Tobacco and whiskey were the giant evils of this age. The latter occupies the front rank and the former backs it up. Those who sold whiskey sold tobacco also. He spoke at length on these evils, claiming to be an old tobacco raiser and distiller, He gave descriptions of the process through which they passed before they were ready for use. He said God did not create them, but man has transformed them into evils. He closed by urging all to search the Scriptures.
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GOOD TEMPLARS FROM ABROAD.- Tuesday Evening, June 11, a very interesting and enthusiastic meeting was held at Bethel A. M. E. Church, under the auspices of Bethel Literary Association by representatives of the R. W. G. Lodge of I. O. Good Templars of the World. W. W. Turnbull, G. W. T. of Scotland, was introduced by Editor Tanner, who by request of the President also stated the object of the visitors in this country. The speaker gave an account of the origin and progress of the Order of Good Templars in this country and in every part of the world. He spoke in severe terms against the proscription, on account of color, which had crept into the Order among the Southern whites, who were encouraged in their work of hate by many of the Northern white lodges. Mr. Turnbull next referred to the disruption in the Order which took place because free and fair admission was denied to the colored people of the Southern State of American by the American Good Templars who thereby thwarted the purpose for which the Order was organized, and supported by the English Good Templars. Mr. Joseph Malins, R. W. G. S. of England, was the next speaker and pursued the same line of argument of the previous speaker, but dwelt to some extent upon his personal combat with Col. Hickman, Hon. S. D. Hastings and others, who were foremost in excluding colored people from the R. W. G. Lodge of America. The speaker spoke to a great extent upon his persistent and determined opposition to the color line drawn in the Order by the Southern whites. Among these present were Hon. Joseph E. Lee, delegate from Good Templars G. L. of -----, and Mr. Phillips, State Deputy of Penn., and many others more or less prominent in the Order, in this country and abroad.
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WE watch, with considerable interest, the fate of the applications of the colored
pupils for admission to the Central High School and the Girls' Normal School
of this city. We hope they will pass the examinations and be admitted, a visit
to the public school on Ohio street, Miss Carrie M. LeCount, principal, with
Misses Miles, Miller and Samsey as assistants, disclosed a sad want of proper
accommodations for those of our children who are graciously allowed to attend
that public school. Push is looking among parents who will so tamely content
themselves with the meager accommodations allowed. Why should the little colored
children be crowded into the little, black post up boxes called school houses,
such as that in Ohio street, and the one at 7th and Dickerson street. And why
should all the teachers in the 6th street school be white?
PITTSBURG, Feb. 24, 1849.
FREDERICK DOUGLASS: - I arrived in Pittsburg on Wednesday, the 14th inst., having crossed the mountains in perhaps as cold weather as was experienced on the mountain tops. These mountains, though common to every traveller from eastern to western Pennsylvania, and familiar to all who have studied geography; yet they are so novel and romantic in their appearance and arrangement, and withal to tedious to travel, that a cursory description of them here may not be amiss, though I have crossed them frequently in the course of seventeen years, and the fourth and last time in the last five months.
The Alleghany Mountains, on this portion of the Pennsylvania improvements, the Pennsylvania Turnpike, consist of a continuous and contiguous range of seven mountains and thirteen summits in a distance of eighty-six miles, commencing at London, fourteen miles west of Chambersburg, the terminus of the Philadelphia railroad, and half way between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.
First and second in rank of elevation, is the Cove mountain, seven miles from foot to foot: second, the Scrub Ridge, composed of six summits, or elevated points, and ten miles across; third, Sidling Hill, three and a half miles from foot to foot; fourth, Ray's Hill, two and a half miles; fifth, the Alleghany Mountain, fourteen miles across, the greatest and first in rank of elevation and vastness; sixth, Laurel Hill, the third in rank; six miles across; and seventh and last, Chestnut Ridge, the most westerly, five miles from foot to foot, and forty-five miles east of Pittsburgh.
In some cases the foot of one mountain commences immediately at the foot of the other, as is the case with the cove Mountain and Scrub Ridge; Scrub Ridge and Sidling Hill; Sidling and Ray's Hill; but a very narrow valley between them, and where this is not the case, there are many little prominences and rugged hills coursing along between the mountains, in the valleys, so that the plains are broken and undulated, making the travel one continuous ascension and descension from the time you strike the foot of the first mountain until you leave the base of the last. Many are the scenes throughout the whole course of these vast mountains and valleys - beautiful, picturesque, grand and sublime, well worthy the pencil of the most accomplished artist. In summer, when clothed with foliage and verdure, the scenery is beyond the most graphic description. It is worth the trip to those who have the means to travel, as the tediousness is lost in contemplation of the scenery around. The soul may here expand in the magnitude of its nature, and soar to the extent of human susceptibility. Indeed, it is only in the mountains that I can fully appreciate my existence as a man in America, my own native land. It is there and there my soul is lifted up, my bosom caused to swell with emotion, and I am lost in wonder at the dignity of my own nature. I see in the works of nature around me, the wisdom and goodness of God. I contemplate them, and conscious that he has endowed me with faculties to comprehend them, I then perceive the likeness I bear to him. What a being is man! - of how much importance - created in the impress image of his Maker and how debased is God, and outraged his divinity in the person of the oppressed colored people of America! The thunders of his mighty wrath must sooner or later break forth, with all of its terrible consequences and scourge this guilty nation, for the endless outrages and cruelty committed upon an innocent and unoffending people. I invoke the aid of Jehovah, in this mighty work of chastisement. If two she bears were sent forth from the mountain to slay forty or more children, who in all probability were taught no better, for mocking Jehovah, in the person of the good old "bald-headed" prophet Elijah, then should there, for mocking Him in the person of three millions of his black children, be let loose the fiery dragons of heaven, bearing with their approach the vengeance of an angry God!
I left I Philadelphia on the 5th inst., our admirable, sterling and noble co-laborer in reform and the cause of his oppressed fellow-countrymen, Charles Lenox Remond, Esq., to whom I am much indebted for the continued and untiring assistance rendered me, and the enterprise in which I was engaged during my stay in Philadelphia. Mr. Remond has few equals among our people in this country or elsewhere - indeed, as an orator, a gentleman and true man, I think his superior is not to be found in the councils of this nation. - This I assert without the fear of successful contradiction. He possesses a soul of the largest magnitude, and that alone which makes the true man, fidelity to principle. Mr. Remond is doing a good work in Philadelphia, and to him are our people and the cause much indebted for the progress made during the current winter. It is expected he will spend the remainder of the winter season in that city.
Philadelphia is a very important point and field of labor, there being an interesting population of some twenty-five thousand of our people in that city and its environs, whose character as a whole has a very important bearing upon the character and destiny of the whole colored people of the country. There is much work to be done among the people of this great city. There are never-ending fields, the harvests of which "are ripe, but the laborers are few." Here is an arena for the young people, women and men, the moral and intelligent of whom could not better do the will of God, and subserve the cause of suffering humanity, than give a portion of their spare time, and there are those who have much time to dispose of in visiting, advising, distributing tracts, and otherwise administering to the necessities of the numerous needy of that extensive city.
The subject of TRACTS I introduced three years ago in Philadelphia, and again recently which I am in hopes may arrest the attention of our people. A tract association, as soon as possible, should be formed, and subjects adapted to our condition and wants treated upon. The self elevation of our people should be made the leading topic of their contents. Of this, however, I shall have much to say hereafter in another position.
There are several good select schools in this city for colored youth, among which that of Sarah M. Daughter of the late << Robert Douglass>> , Sen., stands foremost; also several public schools, exclusively for colored children, the best and largest of which stand at the angle of South-sixth and Little Pittle streets. The teachers of all the public schools, though exclusively for colored children, I am informed, are white, no colored person, however competent, placing none but whites over the children, if not the better to raise them subservient to pro-slavery will, at least to enable the salary to go into the pockets of pro-slavery men and women. Nearly all of the churches have a Sabbath-school, several of which I visited, and found them quite interesting.
Of Benevolent Institutions, there is the Shelter, established by the Friends, the Moral Reform Retreat, in Lombard street, established by the colored people for the purpose of reforming illicit females in which there is an excellent school, taught by Mrs. West, the Matron and Superintendent of which is Mrs. Hetty Reckless, an untiring, amiable and most excellent colored lady, to whom the philanthropists, both white and colored, are much indebted for services and untiring assiduity to business. Lastly, is the Moyamensing Alms-House, for colored and white, superintended by Mr. Mullen, to whom the inmates and philanthropists should be indebted for its existence, as it met with much opposition during the progress of its erection. The contemptible Commissioners, as in the case of Smith's Hall, ordered the work of the building to be stopped, after having presented it as a nuisance, but Mr. M., being an old resident and man of means, despised their authority, and defied their power. He succeeded, fully opening this winter, to the gratification of a large number of indigent people of both sexes and colors. I have much to say about Philadelphia, her people and resources, but shall forbear at this time, and conclude this notice of that city by simply saying, that the work in Philadelphia, among our people, as well as everywhere else where there is any considerable number of them, in order to be successful, must be done by themselves. This is imperative - our friends may and should help, but we must do THE WORK. "First set our own shoulders to the wheel, then call upon Hercules."
To Mr. George W. and Mrs. Elizabeth Bolivar (as well as many other kind families of Philadelphia) am I especially indebted for kind favors during a residence of two months in their family. The pilgrim and traveller should never forget the hand that succors him. The eminent Apostle was wont to remember the kindness of those among whom he sojourned, especially Aquila and Priscilla, and surely one so humble as myself should not forget the disinterested kindness of George and Elizabeth.
I held a meeting on the evening of Monday the fourth, previous to leaving - a meeting replete with interest and full gratitude. On Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, the fifth and sixth, I again held meetings in Columbia assisted by our able and noble-hearted friend W. Whipper, Esq., and Rev. Mr. Williams, both of that place.
Thursday and Friday evenings, the seventh and eighth, I held meetings in York, endeavoring to awaken an interest among the quite interesting people of that place. I am sorry to see that a party spirit has crept even into that little place among our brethren, and would advise them as soon as possible to do in away, as it has, as heretofore, been the very curse of all our moral efforts. It is of infernal [?] origin - its father is Beelzebub, the prince of devils. I left York on Monday, the 12th passing on to Pittsburgh, without making any other stay on the way.
On Thursday, the 15th inst., it was rumored that Gen. Taylor, of Florida-war, Indian-murder, bloodhound, and Mexican-slaughter, notoriety, President of the United States, was to be in the city, whose approach was to be announced by the thunders of a great cannon, placed upon Coal Hill, overlooking the whole neighborhood, as a signal-gun. The firing commenced about 8 o'clock at night, continuing at intervals for several hours. In the morning, however, it was ascertained that his bloody excellency had not arrived, but had telegraphed that he could not make it convenient to come by this way, then being at Wheeling, Va. This appeared to be glory enough for the people of the Smoky City - even that he had condescended to notice them; hence, the firing of cannon in honor of his refusal! The force of his non-compliance may be the better realized, when it is known that on his way up the river he was particular to stop at all slaveholding intermediate ports, going out of his way several hundred miles, up the Cumberland River to Nashville, and down again. Cincinnati, I believe, was the only "free town" he honored with a visit on his way up!
Such was the infatuation and enthusiasm said to have been manifested on the occasion of his approach, that at Memphis, Tenn., one man had his arm shot off; at Louisville, Ky., one man lost his life; at Cincinnati, there was one wounded; at Covington, Ky., one had an arm shot off; at Nashville, Ky., another lost an arm. On arriving at Captina, Va., the ice not permitting the steamer to ascend further up, a sleigh was appropriated for his special use. When passing along, although four men held, two on each side, to prevent accident, such was the wish to see him that the sleigh was upset, and the General tumbled heels-over-head down a precipice of a few feet, not sufficient to do serious injury, but enough to frighten the brave old hero of three hundred slaves and a Mississippi cotton plantation, and make the whole thing ridiculous, and slightly injure him. - Hence; his letter to Hon. Walter Forward, that night sent to Wheeling, that in consequence of an "accident and injury received," he was "unable to visit Pittsburgh at present." I suppose at the moment when the old non-surrender was tumbling over the declivity, he felt more like going to ____! than "giving the Mexicans hell!" It is also said that such was the crowd upon the boat in which he came passenger to Captina, that the provisions were all consumed, actually depriving the President of three meals. Thus did they not only show their high regard and love for the general, by killing several persons, but were well nigh killing him by starvation and dashing him to pieces.
The extent to which the American people carry this glorification of military crusaders, is beyond, a parallel, except in the days of Roman extravaganza, which was but a foreboding of the end of her glory and speedy downfall of that haughty, insolent empire and commonwealth. The extent to which this homage is carried, ceases to be respectful, since it is neither kind nor complimentary, but like the homage of the serf to the noble, or the vassal to his lord, it is ludicrous. It is unfit for freemen, and only worthy of slaves - it is a flagrant outrage upon common sense and propriety.
I intend to hold a series of meetings among the colored citizens here, and shall write once more previous to my setting out for Rochester; when I shall give you an account of the state and condition of people and things about Pittsburgh.
Yours, for God and Humanity,
M.R.D.
From Poulson's American Daily Advertiser.
DEATH OF CITIZEN JONATHAN GRANVILLE, Ex-Director of the National Lyceum, at
Port au Prince, translated from the "Feuille du Commerce" of Port
au Prince, by << Robert Douglass>> , Jr.
The citizen Jonathan Granville was born in December, 1787, as near as we can recollect, at Port du Paix. Sent to France the 7 Floreal, year 7 of the French Republic in the French frigate Vestal, Capt. Gaspard; he landed at St. Sebastian, in Spain, the 12th Prarial following, entered college "de la Marche," or National Institution of the Colonies, street and mountain St. Genevieve, No. 19, the 7 Messidor, of the same year; M. Coisnon, director of the Institution. J. Granville distinguished himself highly in the different branches of instructions that were there taught at the expense of the French Government, under the directory of glorious memory for its enlightened liberality. J. Granville obtained in College the first prizes in the first classes the most distinguished for the Latin, Greek, English languages, &c., under the celebrated Professor Belin de Balu, for French and Latin literature; l'Abbe Gosee for Eloquence, Latin and French literature; Prieur for English Literature; Goffaux Moiry Romelet for Latin and Greek literature; Lefebre L'homandie and his wife, for the English, Ancient and Modern Greek, Latin, Spanish, German, Italian, Fencing, Dancing, &c. - extraordinary man, he has translated Horace in verse; Vergani for the English, Italian and German; Lemarre, famous head Professor of Latin and French, Gail, the famous He'eniste; for Mathematics (the higher branches ) Duhamal, Derquy, Lecroix, Capuron, &c.; for Chemistry and Experimental Physics under the Professors Bouillon, Lagrange, Granger, Fourcroy, having under him some distinguished professors, Dergeux, &c.; in the art of Navigation, for which we had the model of a vessel at College, and an ancient rear Admiral of France for Professor; he was one of the first pupils; - in the agreeable arts Music, Fencing, Dancing, &c., under L'homandie, Fabien, Lebrun, Fontaine; Violon, Garniet, Flute de l'opera, Labossiere, father and son; Granville was one of the most distinguished pupils - in a word, in all his course he was always first or second. As his school mate, I rejoice to render him this brilliant testimony, that he had surpassed in two years the students who had been eight years in the classes. The quickness of his perception was so prodigious, that it excited the astonishment of the Professors in all these different branches, and the admiration of his school fellows, more by his extraordinary success, and his natural disposition, than by his real application to study, for Granville was prompt and ardent, and amused himself with all his heart and strength during the sports; and even in those, Nature showed herself prodigal in his behalf - in the race, the bar, tennis, the cords, wrestling, he showed address and dexterity in all, and in all he promised much.
He followed some time the courses of surgery and medicine, at the school of medicine principally under the orders of the celebrated Doctor Capuron, conjointly with Dupuytren, our school fellow also, became so celebrated throughout the world - Granville made greater progress in six months than others in two years. By a fatality which cannot be conceived, Jonathan Granville, who would have been an excellent surgeon, a good and learned physician, abandoned all at once the profound and useful art of Esculapius, in which he had made such rapid progress, to follow the horrible career of Mars. But he was not fortunate in this honorable profession, then all powerful in France, fighting against the Germans, the Russians, &c., he was so unfortunate as to receive several serious wounds, and left among the dead, he fell in the power of the enemy. Jonathan Granville, Lieutenant of Artillery, was decorated with the cross of the legion of honor,* gained in the brilliant affairs of Lutzen and of Baulzen; he was brave in presence of the enemy, upon the field of battle, and brave, very brave in single combat - he was a perfect swordsman. What a pity that such a man here! - but I forbear. Alas, this comrade, worthy of a better destiny, this ancient school fellow, who leaves so many regrets among those that he saw not, for his own reasons, leaves us all so many glorious remembrances of his infancy and manhood, that we lament the sorrowful event, in whatever manner it has arrived, which has torn him from us. He died, we are told, at Cape Haitien, Wednesday, 6th of March last - it is all that we know of it, in reality, up to the present. It has a mysterious air, at least, for the inhabitants of Port au Prince. The future will tell us, perhaps, the malady, and its duration, which terminated the life of Granville. Here is the funeral panegyric, delivered over his remains by one of our most worthy compatriots, the honorable and distinguished lawyer citizen Poutonnier, of Cape Haitien - and a piece of poetry, which a foreign lady has written to his memory.
Funeral Eulogy of the Citizen Jonathan Granville.
I am here, gentlemen, but to shed the tears of friendship over the inanimate
remains of the deceased Jonathan Granville, ex-director of the National Lyceum.
It is the smallest tribute that I can pay to the ashes of the great man, who
in his brilliant career, has enlightened the pupils of the nation, and whose
august image they will preserve as long as their regrets. Is it not exercising
in a manner the functions of the Deity, to initiate his creatures in the most
occult mysteries of nature? And this phenomenon, who possessed at once the idiom
of old Homer, the language of Virgil, the dialects of Tasso, the words of Milton;
this man who was, if I may use this expression, Castilian in Spain, Frenchman,
in France, and eminently Haitien in the land of his birth. Orator, Legislature
[sic], Geometrician, Physician, does he not deserve statues among the Haitiens,
of whom he has been for a long time the Rollin?
And if we search the records of his life, what sublime picture would be discovered at once, to the eyes of humanity. I regret infinitely not having been able to enrich this sketch with striking features of the profound philosophy which "engraved kindness upon marble and injuries upon sand" but I and his Literary Companions will not spare their endeavors to retrace the living portrait of him whose forehead is now mutilated by the hand of destiny. But leaving a moment the beautiful intellectual qualities, of which he possessed the treasures and which encircled him with an immortal glory, my mind is pleased to enumerate the social virtues which distinguished him from the vulgar. Truly gentlemen, the simplicity and the modesty of his disposition would easily cause him to be mistaken for a common man, in the eyes of the vulgar, little accustomed to discover genius in its exterior and corporeal relations, and who imagine it should blaze in the world, like the divine rays which vivify his writings, eternal monuments of human intelligence. However it is under this modest exterior these simple and natural manners, this self-abandonment but to occupy himself with his fellow men, that was found the energetic genius whose light is extinguished like a torch, exposed to the breath of the storm; far from a virtuous and adored wife, who each day questions the road where she had seen him disappear and returns each time with the hope of very soon seeing him again. Alas she thought not that death had placed between them a barrier of brass, and at this moment perhaps she knows it not. What thunderbolt could equal the poignant sorrow with which she will be stricken on receiving the news of the death of her beloved husband. - Already I imagine the affliction of his children, with their eyes turned towards the horizon of the north, lifting their hands towards the vault of the firmament demand of heaven the tenderest of fathers.
They are not the only orphans, there are many others every where. Where there are Haitiens, Mr. J. Granville had children: - witness the tears with which the youth of the Cape water his tomb and the flower, which I endeavor to spread there in spite of the grief that oppresses my heart. These sentiments of friendships and gratitude, which the illustrious Mr. J. Granville every where inspired, had their sources in the principles of humanity and benevolence, which he ceased not to practice until the moment of his death. Every one knows of his philanthropy, of which he gave such brilliant proofs in the noble mission to which he was called, to withdraw a part of our brethren of the United States of North America, from the oppressive acts with which they were threatened. Everyone admires his labors undertaken for the welfare of humanity - but everyone does not know how much he practiced the virtue, the most rare among men, that of sacrificing his own comfort to the wants of the necessitous poor. He carried this virtue so far, as often to deprive himself of his purse and his jewels to soften the fate of the unfortunate, who lose in him a liberator, a tutelary angel. He sought them in prisons, in hospitals, and wherever he met them, he was prodigal with consolations and pecuniary assistance. He opened the dungeons of prisoners, for whom he obtained pardon. He reconciled families embroiled by interest, in stifling those lawsuits, which threatened to divide them forever. He defended the cause of innocence in the courts of justice, and carried their justification to the foot of power. Sometimes he gathered the fruit of his benevolence, in seeing it happily successful.
Behold the man, gentlemen, whom I endeavor to eulogize. Let others undertake to seek him upon the Continent of Europe, to follow him in the memorable campaigns of Prussia, of Germany, of Russia, and in other places, scenes of French valor. Let others enumerate his exploits, count his wounds, and his laurels, and show the cross of the brave with which he was decorated; my task is not to boast of ranks, of honor, of dignities, and of valor, titles less estimable than those which attach themselves to the Christian virtues, which the holiness of this place, permits me alone to praise. Yes, gentleman, we should not lose sight of the object of this mournful ceremony, prostrate at the foot of the alter, we elevate our voices to ask the eternal rest of the just, benevolent, religious man, the object of our regrets, of our lamentations. His religion consisted, not in vain forms of devotions, inspired more by terror than the true love of God, but in works pure and praiseworthy. All his doctrine was included in this sublime precept "Love thy neighbor as thyself" a precept which is the basis of love for the Creator of all things. Thus the Goodman who suffered for the salvation of mankind, has revealed to us the merit of Christian charity, which alone can open to us the doors of the Celestial Jerusalem - and he who practices it so zealously and so conscientiously should, without doubt, obtain of the Most High, the pardon of the sins which he committed in the course of his life - Oh! Great God. which of us can boast himself spotless in this world of misery and corruption? But thy infinite mercy measures not vengeance to the offense and the arrows of thy power are blunted by the prayers of the sinner. Thou hearest us, Oh! Lord, and our voices, like the smoke of a pure incense, rise to the foot of thy eternal throne. We ask, on our knees, in this funeral place, the remission of the sins of thy servant, whom we weep for, he has walked in thy ways, and if he has sometimes deviated from them, pardon him, Lord, and may thy clemency in the end, make him to participate in the banquet of the elect.
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* And I also have gained this sign of valor and of military merit on many occasions
in the brilliant career during the empire - at the siege of Dantzic, in 1807,
under Marshal Lefebre; at Friedland, the 14th of June, the same year; in Spain,
at the 'Pont d'Alcolea, the 7th of June, 1808, and at Baylen the 19th of July,
where French valor yielded to numbers under General Dupont. But I made but little
effort, on my entrance into France, from captivity in Spain and England, to
obtain the visible sign of military honor, always caring but little for these
species of hauchets to which most men attach such importance. I have always
thought, with the great and wise Solomon, that all in this world "is vanity,
nothing but vanity." - Honor should be in sentiments and actions of man.
Woe to him who thinks it necessary, in any case to wear an exterior and apparent
sign to announce to men that he also makes one of the honorable. I have been
content in having merited, on many occasions, the reward of the brave, to wear
the marks that bear witness to it without being obliged to decorate myself with
ribands, no matter of what shade.
- Editor of the Feuille du Commerce.