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Limerick, York County, Maine
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John W. Lewis recounts his July 1840 anti-slavery lecture tour in Grafton County, New Hampshire, including visits to Dartmouth College in Hanover, Lyme, and Lebanon, where he found growing support among students, faculty, clergy, and locals for the abolition cause.
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For the Morning Star.
Concord, N. H., July 5, 1840.
Brother Burr:
I have just returned from a visit to the county of Grafton. Most of my time was spent at Hanover, which I visited in answer to an invitation. I found a noble host of philanthropists among the literary corps of old Dartmouth, and was welcomed as a representative of the oppressed bondman of the South. I had the privilege of giving two lectures at the college, and two at the west parish, Rev. Mr. Ellis' church. At the college the attendance was great. The presence of President Lord and some of the professors, with a large body of the students, was evidence that the flame of philanthropy is rising there. Though the minds of the Faculty and students are engrossed with literary duties, there is a deep Christian sympathy for the oppressed among them. There is a large anti-slavery society there, which contains some noble hearted young men. The influence they possess, if turned right, may be of the greatest importance to the glorious cause of freedom. I felt happy in meeting our dear Bro. Fullonton, and to find him with others sympathizing with the slave, and engaged in the cause of freedom. There is not that aristocratic spirit prevailing at Hanover that some might expect. Freedom of thought and freedom of action are characteristic of the place, and I am sure the slave has many friends among the people. Though not a time of high religious interest, yet there is a general steadfastness among Christians, of all sects.
On Monday, 29th ult. I rode to Lyme, and lectured at the Baptist meeting house, Rev. Mr. Buel's, formerly professor in New Hampton Institution. He is a good abolitionist, and his aid gave much spirit to the meeting. There was quite a full house and great solemnity. There are a great many abolitionists in Lyme and some opposers. The cause is gaining ground in old Grafton, and the signs of the times indicate that entire freedom will yet echo round her hills. I met with great hospitality among the people, especially in the family of Mr. Southard, father of Nathaniel Southard, editor of the Youth's Cabinet, a firm abolitionist.
On the morning of the 28th, I started for Lebanon, where I had an appointment at the Congregational meeting house. I found some warm and true abolitionists. At 5 P. M. gave a discourse from Jer. 21:12. As the notice of the meeting was rather limited the congregation was small but attentive, and there was a good feeling. The numerous invitations which I received to lecture in other towns, convinced me that there is a growing interest in the cause of freedom all through this part of the state. Glory to God for the truth, for it will free the people from all prejudice and the spirit of slavery, if they will listen to it and be led by it.
I find the Morning Star is reflecting light on the abominable system, and aiding mightily in advancing the cause of liberty. Wherever it is read, it carries conviction, and is admired for its noble stand by all denominations.
Yours truly for Liberty,
John W. Lewis.
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Letter to Editor Details
Author
John W. Lewis
Recipient
Brother Burr
Main Argument
the anti-slavery cause is gaining strong support in grafton county, new hampshire, particularly at dartmouth college and among local clergy and residents, with lectures drawing attentive audiences and fostering sympathy for the oppressed.
Notable Details