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The book is an autobiography of Austin Steward, a former slave who escaped to freedom in the North. The narrative begins with Steward's life as a slave on a plantation in Virginia, where he experienced harsh treatment and witnessed the cruel realities of slavery. He recounts the story of a slave named Robert, who led a group of slaves in resisting a patrol that came to arrest them, resulting in the deaths of several slaves and patrol members. Steward's life took a turn when he was taken to the "great house" to serve as an errand boy, where he was subjected to cruel treatment by his master and mistress. The author reflects on the harsh realities of slavery and the fear that slaves lived in, never knowing when they would be sold, beaten, or separated from their families. As Steward navigates his life as a slave and later as a free man, he faces numerous challenges, including racism, poverty, and personal struggles. He becomes involved in the abolitionist movement and works to help other former slaves achieve freedom and equality. Throughout the book, Steward emphasizes the importance of education, industry, and prudence for African Americans, and encourages them to stand up for their rights and demand equality. The narrative concludes with Steward's reflections on the state of the United States and the institution of slavery, arguing that the country is morally corrupt and that slavery is a stain on its conscience. Ultimately, the book is a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of African Americans in the face of oppression, and a call to action for unity and determination in the pursuit of freedom and equality.
The chapter describes the life of slaves on a plantation in Virginia, where the author was born and raised. The slaves lived in small, rough cabins with minimal furniture and were provided with a weekly allowance of corn or meal, salt, and sometimes meat. They worked long hours in the fields, with men and women working side by side, and were punished severely for any infractions, including being whipped with a cowhide. The author recounts the story of a slave named Robert, who led a group of slaves in resisting a patrol that came to arrest them, resulting in the deaths of several slaves and patrol members. The chapter also describes the author's life as a slave, including being taken to the "great house" to serve as an errand boy, and the cruel treatment he received from his master and mistress. The author reflects on the harsh realities of slavery and the fear that slaves lived in, never knowing when they would be sold, beaten, or separated from their families.
The chapter describes the author's life at the "great house" of his master, Capt. Helm, where he served as an errand boy. The author recounts the cruel treatment he received from his master and mistress, including being whipped and forced to sleep on the floor without a blanket. He also describes the lavish lifestyle of his master's family, including their expensive clothes and jewelry. The author notes that the slaves were never allowed to sit in the presence of their master or mistress and had to stand behind their chair at all times. He also describes the patrol system, where slaves were required to carry a written pass to leave the plantation, and the severe punishment they received if caught without one. The chapter also tells the story of a slave named Robert, who led a group of slaves in resisting a patrol that came to arrest them, resulting in the deaths of several slaves and patrol members. The author reflects on the harsh realities of slavery and the fear that slaves lived in, never knowing when they would be sold, beaten, or separated from their families.
The chapter describes the life of slaves on a plantation in Virginia and their experiences when they were moved to New York. The slaves were forced to work long hours and were punished severely for any infractions. The chapter also describes the lavish lifestyle of the plantation owner's family and the harsh treatment of the slaves. The slaves were eventually moved to New York, where they experienced a different way of life and were treated slightly better. However, they still faced many challenges and hardships, including poverty, hunger, and physical abuse. The chapter highlights the cruelty and brutality of the slave system and the ways in which it dehumanized and exploited enslaved people.
The chapter describes the journey of the author and his fellow slaves from Virginia to their new home in New York. They traveled through Maryland, Pennsylvania, and a portion of New York, taking about twenty days to reach Sodus Bay. Along the way, they camped out every night and had to cook their own food. The overseer would call the roll every morning, and anyone who failed to answer would be flogged. The slaves were excited to start their new life in New York but were also anxious about the unknown. When they arrived at Sodus Bay, they found it to be a beautiful but almost unbroken wilderness. Their master, Capt. Helm, bought a large tract of land and put the slaves to work clearing it. The slaves had to learn how to clear land, fell trees, and chop wood, which was a difficult task. They also had to contend with wild animals, including bears and snakes. Despite the challenges, the slaves were determined to make a new life for themselves in New York.
The chapter describes the experiences of the author and his fellow slaves at Sodus Bay, where they were taken by their master, Capt. Helm. The slaves faced many challenges, including getting lost in the forest, encountering wild animals, and being beaten by their overseer. Two slaves, Benjamin Bristol and Edmund Watkins, got lost in the forest for eight days and had to survive on roots and bark before finding their way back. Another slave, Williams, was threatened with a flogging by the overseer, but resisted and ended up flogging the overseer instead. The overseer eventually left, and the slaves were relieved. The chapter also describes the author's own experiences, including being hired out to a man named Henry Tower, who treated him relatively well, and later being hired out to a cruel man named Joseph Robinson, who beat him frequently. The author reflects on the harsh realities of slavery and the ways in which it dehumanized and exploited enslaved people.
The chapter describes the author's life after being moved from Sodus to Bath, New York. Capt. Helm, the author's master, purchased a large tract of land, a grist mill, and two saw mills, and the author was put to work on the new property. The author's master also got married to a widow, Madam Thornton, after his first wife's death. The author was hired out to a man named Joseph Robinson, who was cruel and beat him frequently. The author's sister was also hired out to a man who beat her brutally on a Sunday morning, and the author was unable to intervene. The chapter highlights the cruel treatment of slaves and the author's desire for freedom. The author also describes the village of Bath, where they lived, and its warlike appearance during the last war with Great Britain.
The chapter describes the author's experiences with dueling, a practice that was prevalent in the South during the time of slavery. The author recounts the story of a duel between General Mason and Mr. M'Carter, which resulted in the death of General Mason. The author also describes the story of Frank Helm, the brother of his master, who was involved in a duel and was disabled for life. The chapter also touches on the author's own experiences with violence and abuse, including being hired out to a cruel master named Joseph Robinson, who beat him mercilessly. The author's sister was also abused by her master, and the author was unable to intervene. The chapter highlights the brutality and violence that was inherent in the institution of slavery, and the ways in which it dehumanized and exploited enslaved people.
The chapter describes the author's experiences with horse racing and general training in New York. After Captain Helm's daughter's wedding, the author was hired out to a man named Henry Tower, who treated him relatively well and provided him with comfortable living conditions. The author was tasked with helping the women with cooking and housework and was even allowed to attend a horse race, where he had a frightening experience riding a fast horse. The author also witnessed a grand military training exercise, which sparked his desire for freedom and a life beyond slavery. Meanwhile, Captain Helm's fortunes began to decline, and he started selling off his slaves, including the author's aunt and her children. The author's sister was hired out to a cruel master who brutally beat her, and the author was unable to intervene. Despite the hardships, the author continued to learn and grow, teaching himself to read and write in secret.
The chapter describes the death of Mrs. Helm, the captain's wife, and the subsequent remarriage of Captain Helm to a widow, Madam Thornton. The author reflects on the transitory nature of life and the importance of living a virtuous life. He also recounts the story of a young physician, Dr. Henry, who was called to attend a patient on a cold winter night and was thrown from his horse, resulting in the amputation of both his legs. The author notes that the cause of this calamity was intoxicating wine, and warns against the dangers of excessive drinking. Additionally, the author describes his own illness and recovery, and the kindness of a woman, Mrs. H.A. Townsend, who sent him delicacies and cooling drinks to aid in his recovery. The chapter also touches on the author's hiring out to a new master, Joseph Robinson, who was cruel and beat him frequently, and the author's desire to learn to read and write, despite the obstacles and punishments he faced.
The author is hired out to a new master, Joseph Robinson, who is cruel and beats him frequently. The author is tasked with driving a team and is beaten by Robinson for not completing his tasks quickly enough. He is also beaten for being frightened by a rattle-snake while working. The author's sister is hired out to a man in Bath who beats her brutally on a Sunday morning, and the author is unable to intervene. The author reflects on the harsh realities of slavery and the fear that slaves lived in, never knowing when they would be sold, beaten, or separated from their families. Despite the hardships, the author continues to learn and grow, teaching himself to read and write in secret.
The chapter describes the author's thoughts on freedom and his desire to become a free man. He meets with a lawyer, Mr. D. Cruger, who tells him that he is not free, but later directs him to the Manumission Society, which can help him gain his freedom. The author learns that he can become free by hiring out to a new master, and he begins to make plans to do so. He also meets with James Moore, a director of the Manumission Society, who advises him to return to his work as usual until March, when he will help him gain his freedom. The author reflects on the harsh realities of slavery and the fear that slaves live in, never knowing when they will be sold, beaten, or separated from their families. He also thinks about the patrol system and the severe punishment that slaves receive if caught without a pass. The author's desire for freedom and his determination to achieve it drive the plot of the chapter.
The chapter describes the life of the author after being freed from slavery. He begins to build a new life in Rochester, New York, where he starts a business and becomes a respected member of the community. He also gets married and starts a family. However, he faces many challenges, including racism and prejudice, which make it difficult for him to succeed. Despite these obstacles, he perseveres and continues to work towards a better life for himself and his family. The author also reflects on the injustices of slavery and the importance of education and self-improvement for African Americans. He becomes involved in the abolitionist movement and works to help other former slaves achieve freedom and equality. The chapter also describes the author's experiences with racism and prejudice in Rochester, including being refused service at a hotel and being subjected to violent attacks. Despite these challenges, the author remains committed to his goals and continues to work towards a better future for himself and his community.
The chapter describes the author's life after moving to Rochester, New York. He starts a business and becomes a respected member of the community, but faces challenges such as racism and prejudice. He also gets married and starts a family. The author reflects on the injustices of slavery and the importance of education and self-improvement for African Americans. He becomes involved in the abolitionist movement and works to help other former slaves achieve freedom and equality. The chapter also describes the author's experiences with racism and prejudice in Rochester, including being refused service at a hotel and being subjected to violent attacks. Despite these challenges, the author remains committed to his goals and continues to work towards a better future for himself and his community.
The chapter describes the author's life in Rochester, New York, and the experiences of the African American community in the city. The author recounts the story of a colored woman named Ellen, who was arrested and tried for escaping from her master in the South, and the efforts of the African American community to support her. The chapter also describes the author's decision to give up the sale of liquor in his store, due to his growing awareness of the evils of intemperance. Additionally, the chapter touches on the story of a fugitive slave named Davis, who was arrested and tried in Rochester, and the author's reflections on the injustices of slavery and the need for African Americans to work together to achieve freedom and equality. The author also describes his involvement in the temperance movement and his efforts to promote education and self-improvement among African Americans.
The chapter tells the story of Captain Helm's downfall and the author's continued efforts to build a new life in Rochester, New York. Captain Helm, who had once been a wealthy and respected man, had become poor and was living off public charity. He attempted to collect money from the author, who had saved some money through his industry, but the author refused to pay. Captain Helm then died, and the author was relieved that the lawsuit against him had died with his former master. The author also discusses the British Emancipation of Slavery and the celebration of freedom by the colored people in Rochester. He delivers an oration on the occasion, emphasizing the importance of education, industry, and prudence for the colored people to improve their condition. The chapter also mentions the author's decision to give up the sale of liquor in his store and his involvement in the temperance movement.
The chapter describes the author's life in Canada, where he had moved to help establish a colony for African Americans. He discusses the challenges faced by the colonists, including poverty, hunger, and difficulty in clearing the land. The author also shares stories of individual colonists, including a couple who escaped from slavery in Virginia and made their way to Canada. He reflects on the importance of education, industry, and prudence for the African American community, and emphasizes the need for them to work together to achieve freedom and equality. The author also mentions the British Emancipation of Slavery, which had recently taken place, and the celebration of freedom by the colored people in Rochester, New York.
The chapter provides an oration delivered by the author on the occasion of the termination of slavery, celebrating the freedom of African Americans in New York State. The author reflects on the progress of humanity towards perfection and happiness, and expresses gratitude for the freedom and privileges awarded to African Americans. He emphasizes the importance of industry, prudence, and economy in achieving respectability and happiness, and encourages his fellow African Americans to strive for these values. The author also discusses the challenges faced by African Americans, including prejudice and oppression, and calls for mutual assistance and support in overcoming these obstacles. He concludes by expressing his commitment to the cause of freedom and equality, and his determination to work towards a better future for himself and his community.
The chapter discusses the condition of free colored people, highlighting their struggles and challenges in a society dominated by white people. The author recounts their personal experiences, including being forced to ride on the outside of a stagecoach and facing prejudice in various forms. The chapter also touches on the theme of education and its importance for the colored people, emphasizing the need for them to acquire knowledge and skills to improve their condition. Additionally, the author mentions the British Emancipation of Slavery and its impact on the colored people, as well as their own involvement in the temperance movement and efforts to assist fugitive slaves. The chapter concludes with the author's reflections on the importance of industry, prudence, and economy for the colored people to achieve respectability and happiness.
The chapter discusses the persecution of colored people, particularly in Ohio, where they were subjected to violence and forced to flee their homes. The author describes the events in Cincinnati, where a mob attacked the colored population, and many were forced to leave the city. The author also mentions the "black laws" of Ohio, which were enacted to restrict the rights of colored people. The chapter also talks about the author's decision to move to Canada and establish a colony for African Americans, where they could live freely and safely. The author describes the difficulties faced by the colonists, including poverty, hunger, and the challenge of clearing the land. Despite these challenges, the author remains committed to the cause of freedom and equality for African Americans.
The chapter describes the author's decision to leave Rochester, New York, and move to Canada to help establish a colony for African Americans. The author had been living in Rochester for some time, where he had established a successful business and become a respected member of the community. However, he felt a sense of duty to help his fellow African Americans who were struggling to establish a new life in Canada. The author sold his business and property in Rochester and traveled to Canada, where he joined a group of African American settlers in the Wilberforce colony. The colony was established by a group of African Americans from Cincinnati, Ohio, who had fled to Canada to escape persecution and slavery. The author describes the challenges faced by the colonists, including poverty, hunger, and difficulty in clearing the land. Despite these challenges, the author was determined to make a new life for himself in Canada and to help his fellow colonists establish a thriving community. The author also describes his own personal struggles, including his decision to give up his business in Rochester and start anew in Canada. He reflects on the sacrifices he made for the sake of his fellow African Americans and expresses his commitment to the cause of freedom and equality.
The chapter describes the author's experiences in the Wilberforce settlement in Canada, where he had moved to help establish a colony for African Americans. The author recounts the challenges faced by the colonists, including poverty, hunger, and difficulty in clearing the land. He also describes his own struggles, including his decision to open a tavern to entertain travelers and strangers. The author tells the story of a smuggler named Cannouse, who sought refuge at his tavern and was able to evade capture by the authorities. The chapter also includes a narrative of two fugitive slaves from Virginia, who escaped from their plantation and made their way to the Wilberforce settlement. The author reflects on the hardships and dangers faced by fugitive slaves and the importance of providing them with a safe haven.
The chapter tells the story of a smuggler named Cannouse who sought refuge at the author's tavern in Wilberforce, Canada. Cannouse was being pursued by constables for smuggling goods and had a reward offered for his arrest. He arrived at the tavern in a state of excitement and hid his horses in a cowshed. The author and his family helped Cannouse to evade capture, and he stayed with them for a week, during which time the house and barn were searched several times by the constables. Cannouse eventually escaped and made his way to Michigan, where he was able to start a new life. The author reflects on the experience and notes that he would never have betrayed Cannouse, but was happy to have been able to help him. The chapter also includes a narrative of two fugitive slaves from Virginia, who escaped from their plantation and made their way to the Wilberforce settlement in Canada. The slaves, Joe and Rosa, faced many hardships on their journey, including hunger, thirst, and the risk of being recaptured. However, they were aided by a kind-hearted gentleman who provided them with food and shelter, and they were eventually able to settle in the Wilberforce community.
The chapter tells the story of two fugitive slaves from Virginia, Joe and Rosa, who escaped from their plantation and made their way to the Wilberforce settlement in Canada. They faced many hardships on their journey, including hunger, thirst, and the risk of being recaptured. However, they were aided by a kind-hearted gentleman who provided them with food and shelter, and they were eventually able to settle in the Wilberforce community. The story highlights the difficulties and dangers faced by fugitive slaves, as well as the kindness and generosity of those who helped them on their journey to freedom.
The chapter describes the author's life in Wilberforce, Canada, and his interactions with various individuals, including Indians, fugitive slaves, and other settlers. The author recounts a story about a bear that was causing trouble in the settlement and how he and others finally killed it. He also tells the story of a group of men who pretended to be Indians but were actually from Canandaigua, and how they were revealed to be impostors. The author meets Benjamin Lundy, a champion of humanity, and hears his story about accompanying a group of emancipated slaves to Haiti. The chapter also discusses the author's difficulties with Israel Lewis, who was accused of abusing his position as an agent for the Wilberforce settlement and misusing funds meant for the colony. The author describes how he was sued by Lewis for defamation of character and how he was eventually vindicated. The chapter concludes with the author's reflections on the importance of honesty, integrity, and doing what is right, even in the face of adversity.
The chapter describes the author's life in Wilberforce, Canada, and the various challenges he faced while living there. The author recounts his experiences with horses, including the death of one of his horses and the subsequent loss of another. He also describes his interactions with Israel Lewis, who was a troublemaker in the community, and the difficulties he faced in collecting money from Lewis. The author mentions the visit of Reverend Nathaniel Paul and his wife to Wilberforce, and the controversy surrounding Paul's handling of funds collected for the colony. The author also describes his decision to leave Wilberforce and return to Rochester, New York, and the emotional goodbye he had with the colonists. The chapter also touches on the author's reflections on the character of Israel Lewis, who was born a slave and rose to a position of power, but ultimately fell due to his own selfishness and greed.
The chapter describes the author's interactions with the Indians in Canada, including a visit from a group of Indians who were pretending to be savages but were actually from Canandaigua. The author also shares the story of an old Indian brave who was a great warrior and had fought alongside Tecumseh, but was later persecuted and forced to flee his home. The author reflects on the injustices faced by the Indians and the colored people, and how they are often treated unfairly and with prejudice. The chapter also mentions the author's difficulties with Israel Lewis, who was accused of abusing his position as an agent for the Wilberforce settlement and misusing funds meant for the colony. The author describes how Lewis was eventually exposed and lost his influence, and how the author was vindicated after being falsely accused of theft and forgery.
The author describes his life in the Wilberforce colony in Canada, where he faced many challenges, including financial difficulties, conflicts with other colonists, and personal struggles. He recounts his experiences with Israel Lewis, a corrupt and dishonest individual who was appointed as an agent for the colony, and how Lewis's actions led to the author's indictment for theft and forgery. The author also describes his interactions with various individuals, including Benjamin Lundy, a champion of humanity, and the Rev. Nathaniel Paul, who was sent to England to collect funds for the colony. The author expresses his gratitude for the support of his friends and family, and reflects on the lessons he has learned from his experiences, including the importance of honesty, integrity, and doing what is right, even in the face of adversity.
The chapter describes the desperation of a fugitive slave who was being taken back to his master in Maryland. The slave, who had escaped and was living in freedom, was caught and was being transported back to slavery when he attempted to take his own life by cutting his throat. The author witnessed the scene on a steamboat and was deeply affected by it. The chapter also describes the author's own experiences, including his travels to New York City and his efforts to raise money for the Wilberforce colony. Additionally, the chapter mentions the controversy surrounding Israel Lewis, an agent for the colony who was accused of misusing funds and deceiving the colonists.
The chapter describes the author's narrow escape from his enemies, who had attempted to take his life. The author was traveling through a swamp when he was shot at and his horse was frightened, causing him to lose control. He eventually regained control of the horse and escaped, but not before his enemies had fired several shots at him. The author believes that his life was spared due to the goodness of God. He also reflects on the difficulties he faced in the Wilberforce colony, including the actions of Israel Lewis, who had been accused of abusing his position as an agent for the colony. The author notes that Lewis's actions had caused harm to the colony and its people, and that he had been held accountable for his actions. The chapter also mentions the death of Benjamin Paul, a minister who had been involved in the colony, and the return of his brother, Nathaniel Paul, who had been in England. Nathaniel Paul had collected funds for the colony, but had not accounted for them properly, leading to controversy and distrust among the colonists.
The chapter describes the death of Benjamin Paul, a minister and brother of Nathaniel Paul, who was an agent for the Wilberforce colony. Benjamin Paul's death is seen as a tragic event, and his last moments are marked by regret and remorse for his past actions. The chapter also mentions the return of Nathaniel Paul to the colony, who is met with excitement and anticipation by the colonists. However, it is soon discovered that Nathaniel Paul has not brought back the expected funds, and instead has spent most of the money collected for the colony on his own expenses. The colonists are disappointed and outraged, and some even consider taking violent action against Nathaniel Paul. The chapter also touches on the theme of prejudice and racism, highlighting the difficulties faced by the colonists in their daily lives.
The author's family returns to Rochester, New York, after living in Canada for five years. The author had gone to Canada to help establish a colony for African Americans, but the venture was unsuccessful due to various challenges and conflicts. The author's family is happy to return to Rochester, but they face financial difficulties and the author must work hard to rebuild his business and provide for his family. The author reflects on the lessons he learned from his experiences in Canada and the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.
The chapter describes the author's experiences in the Wilberforce settlement in Canada, where he had moved to help establish a colony for African Americans. The author recounts the challenges faced by the colonists, including poverty, hunger, and difficulty in clearing the land. He also describes his own struggles, including his decision to open a tavern to entertain travelers and strangers. The chapter includes a narrative of a smuggler named Cannouse, who sought refuge at the author's tavern and was able to evade capture by the authorities. Additionally, the chapter touches on the story of two fugitive slaves from Virginia, who escaped from their plantation and made their way to the Wilberforce settlement. The author reflects on the hardships and dangers faced by fugitive slaves and the importance of providing them with a safe haven.
The chapter tells the story of Israel Lewis, a man who was born a slave but rose to a position of power and influence. However, he used his position to exploit and deceive others, including the colonists of Wilberforce, a settlement in Canada established for African Americans. Lewis's actions ultimately led to his downfall, and he died alone and unattended in a hospital in Montreal. The chapter also reflects on the lessons that can be learned from Lewis's life, including the importance of honesty, integrity, and doing what is right, even in the face of adversity.
The author, Austin Steward, returns to Rochester, New York, after spending five years in the Wilberforce colony in Canada. He is welcomed back by his friends, including Everard Peck, who helps him establish a new business. Steward's family had accompanied him to Canada, but they returned to Rochester earlier, and he is reunited with them. However, his oldest daughter is ill and eventually passes away, which is a significant loss for the family. Steward is grateful for the support of his friends and community during this difficult time. He also reflects on the lessons he learned from his experiences in Canada and the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. The author's business prospers, and he becomes involved in the temperance movement, providing dinner for a large crowd of people celebrating the anniversary of the West India emancipation. The celebration features speeches by prominent abolitionists, including Frederick Douglass and Rev. H.H. Garnet, and is a significant event for the African American community in Canandaigua.
The chapter describes the author's life after the death of his daughter, Patience Jane Steward, who passed away at the age of 18. The author reflects on her death and the lessons she taught him about living a life of patience and submission to God's will. He also describes his work as an agent for the "Anti-Slavery Standard" and his travels throughout the country to advance the interests of the paper. Additionally, the chapter mentions the author's visit to New York City, where he joined the African Methodist Episcopal Conference and met with Bishop Brown and other prominent figures in the African American community. The author also describes his visit to Hamilton, Canada, where he attended a conference and was impressed by the prosperity and progress of the African American community there. Finally, the chapter describes the author's return to Canandaigua and his continued work as an agent for the "Anti-Slavery Standard".
The chapter describes the celebration of the anniversary of the West India emancipation in Canandaigua, where the author resides. The celebration features speeches by prominent abolitionists, including Frederick Douglass and Rev. H.H. Garnet, as well as music and a fair. The author reflects on the significance of the event and the progress made towards emancipation, while also acknowledging the ongoing struggles of African Americans in the United States. The chapter also includes a tribute to a white clergyman, Mr. Van Loon, who has been a strong advocate for the abolitionist cause, and notes the opposition he has faced from some members of the community.
The chapter concludes the author's narrative, reflecting on the state of the United States and the institution of slavery. The author argues that the country is morally corrupt and that slavery is a stain on its conscience. The author also discusses the colonization movement, which aims to send freed slaves back to Africa, and criticizes it as a hypocritical and ineffective solution to the problem of slavery. The author emphasizes the importance of education, industry, and prudence for the African American community and encourages them to stand up for their rights and demand equality. The chapter also includes a series of letters and correspondence between the author and various individuals, including William Lloyd Garrison, Lyman A. Spalding, and Benjamin Lundy, which provide additional context and insights into the author's life and experiences. Ultimately, the author expresses hope for a better future for African Americans and calls for unity and determination in the face of oppression.