Record #163 from Abstracts from William Still's Underground Railroad

Traveler's Names	Arthur Fowler
Age	30
Description	medium size, and of a dark color
Alias	Benjamin Johnson
Origin- Town/City	Spring Hill, Maryland
Origin- County	Somerset
Origin- State	Maryland
Destination	Canada
Birthplace	–
Slaveowner's Name	Edward Fowler
Chapter Title	Arthur Fowler, Alias Benjamin Johnson
Page Number	305
Other Travelers	–
Other Conductors	–
Additional Names	–
Method of Travel	Foot
Additional Resources	–
Items in Possession	–
Full Narrative	Arthur came from Spring Hill, Maryland. Edward Fowler held Arthur in fetters and usurped authority over him as his lord and master. Arthur saw certain signs connected with his master's family which presaged to him that the day was not far distant, when somebody would have to be sold to raise money to pamper the appetites of some of the superior members of the patriarchal institution. Among these provocations were indulgence in a great deal of extravagance, and the growing up of a number of young masters and mistresses. Arthur would often look at the heirs, and the very thought of their coming into possession, would make him tremble. Nothing so affected Arthur's mind so much in moving him to make a bold stroke for freedom as these heirs. Under his old master, the usage had been bad enough, but he feared that it would be a great deal worse under the sons and daughters. He therefore wisely concluded to avoid the impending danger by availing himself of the Underground Rail Road. After completing such arrangements as he deemed necessary, he started, making his way along pretty successfully, with the exception of a severe encounter with Jack Frost, by which his feet were badly bitten. He was not discouraged, however, but was joyful over his victory and hopeful in view of his prospects in Canada. Arthur was about thirty years of age, medium size, and of a dark color. The committee afforded him needed assistance, and sent him off.

If you are citing this record, please use the following format:

[Author (if known)], Abstracts from William Still's Underground Railroad, 1855, Enduring Connections: Exploring Delmarva’s Black History, Nabb Research Center, Salisbury University.

Prev. Record in Source

Next Record in Source

About Abstracts from William Still's Underground Railroad

Print Record

Original Unavailable