"SOLDIERS! When on the banks of the Mobile, I called you to take up

arms, inviting you to partake the perils and glory of your _white

fellow-citizens, I expected much_ from you; for I was not ignorant that

you possessed qualities most formidable to an invading enemy. I knew

with what fortitude you could endure hunger and thirst, and all the

fatigues of a campaign. _I knew well how you love your native country_,

and that you, as well as ourselves, had to defend what _man_ holds most

dear--his parents, wife, children, and property. _You have done more

than I expected._ In addition to the previous qualities I before knew

you to possess, I found among you noble enthusiasm, which leads to the

performance of great things.

"Soldiers! The President of the United States shall hear how

praise-worthy was your conduct in the hour of danger; and the

representatives of the American people will give you the praise

your exploits entitle you to. The General anticipates them in

applauding your noble ardor.

"The enemy approaches; his vessels cover our lakes; our brave

citizens are united, and all contentions have ceased among them.

Their only dispute is, who shall win the prize of valor, or who the

most glory, its noblest reward.

"By order,

"THOMAS BUTLER, Aid-de-camp."

A circumstance that reflects as well upon the devisor, as upon the

commander, or the engineer of the army, is not generally known to the

American people. The redoubt of cotton bales, has ever been attributed

to the judgment, skill, quick perception, and superior tact of Major

General Andrew Jackson; than whom, a braver heart, never beat in the

breast of man. But this is a mistake. The suggestion of the cotton

bales was made by a colored man, at the instant, when the city of New

Orleans was put under martial law. The colored troops were gathering,

and their recruiting officers (being colored,) were scouring the city in

every direction, and particularly on the Levee, where the people throng

for news--to hear, see, and be seen. At such times in particular, the

blacks are found in great numbers. The cotton shipped down the

Mississippi in large quantities to the city, is landed and piled in

regular terrace walls, several thousand feet long, sometimes double

rows--and fifteen or twenty feet high. When the sun shines in winter,

the days become warm and pleasant after the morning passes off, and at

such times, there may be found many of the idle blacks, lying upon the

top, and in comfortable positions between or behind those walls of

cotton bales. On the approach of the recruiting officer, a number of

persons were found stretched out upon the bales, lying scattered upon

the ground. On addressing them, they were found to be slaves, which the

pride of the recently promoted free colored soldiers, nor the policy of

the proclamation, then, justified them in enrolling. On questioning them

respecting their fears of the approaching contest--they expressed

themselves as perfectly satisfied and _safe_, while permitted to lie

_behind_ the bales. The idea was at once impressed--Chalmet Plain, the

battle field, being entirely barren without trees, brush, or stone, and

the ingenuity of the General-in-chief and engineer of the army, having

been for several days taxed, without successful device; the officer

determined that he would muster courage, and hazard the consequences of

an approach to the General, and suggest the idea suggested to him, by

the observation of a slave, who was indifferent to the safety of others,

so that he was secure--and perhaps justly so--whether conscious or not

of the importance of its bearing. General Jackson, whatever may be said

to the contrary, though firm and determined, was pleasant, affable, and

easily approached, and always set equal estimate upon the manhood of a

colored man; believing every thing of him, that he expressed in his

proclamation to the colored freemen of Louisiana. He did not pretend to

justify the holding of slaves, especially on the assumed unjust plea of

their incapacity for self-government--he always hooted at the idea;

never would become a member of the Colonization Society, always saying

"Let the colored people be--they were quiet now, in comparative

satisfaction--let them be." But he held them as a policy, by which to

make money--and would just as readily have held a white man, had it been

the policy of the country, as a black one in slavery. The General was

approached--the suggestion made--slaves set to work--the bales conveyed

down--the breast-works raised--the Americans protected, as the musketry

and artillery proved powerless against the elastic cushion-wall of

cotton bales; the battle fought--the British vanquished--the Americans

victorious, and Major General Andrew Jackson "all covered with glory,"

as the most distinguished and skillful captain of the age. It has always

been thought by colored men familiar with this circumstance, that the

reference of the General is directed to this, when he expresses himself

in his last proclamation to them: "_You have done more than I

expected_." Doubtless this was the case. Whatever valor and capacity to

endure hardships, the General knew colored men to possess, it _was_ more

than he expected of them, to bring skill to his aid, and assist in

counseling plans for the defence of the army.

On the _Eighth_ of January, 1851, the celebration of the Battle of New

Orleans, in that city one year ago, "Ninety of the colored veterans who

bore a conspicuous part in the dangers of the day," (the day of battle,)

held "a conspicuous place in the procession," in exaltation of their

country's glory. Nor was the NAVY without the representative of colored

interest in the liberty of the country. In speaking of the war of 1812,

a colored veteran of Philadelphia, the late James Forten, who had

himself enlisted and was imprisoned on board of a British man-of-war,

the "Old Jersey Prison Ship," affirms: "The vessels of war of that

period were all, to a greater or less extent, manned with colored men."

The father-in-law of the writer, has often related to him that he saw

the three hundred and sixty colored marines, in military pomp and naval

array, when passing through Pittsburg in 1812 on their way to the

frigate Constitution, then on lake Erie under command of the gallant

Commodore Perry. And we cannot close this view of our subject, without

reference to one of the living veterans of the battle of New Orleans,

now residing where he has for many years, in the city of Pittsburg, Pa.,

to whom we are indebted for more oral information concerning that

memorable conflict, than to any other living person. MR. JOHN JULIUS,

was a member of the valiant regiment of colored soldiers, who held so

conspicuous a place in the estimation of their General, their country's

struggles for Liberty and Independence. He is a tall, good-looking,

brown skin creole of Louisiana, now about sixty-three years of age,

bearing the terrible gashes of the bayonet still conspicuously in his

neck. He was one of the few Americans who encountered the British in

single-handed charges on top of the breast-works. _Julien Bennoit_,

(pronounced _ben wah_,) for such is his name, though commonly known as

John Julius, is a man of uprightness and strict integrity of character,

having all the delicate sensibility and pride of character known to the

Frenchman; and laments more at the injustice done him, in the neglect of

the authorities to grant him his claims of money and land, according to

the promises set forth in the Proclamation, than at any reverse of

fortune with which he has ever met. He is enthusiastic on the subject of

the battle scenes of Chalmet Plains, and anxious that all who converse

with him may know that he is one of the actors. Not so much for his own

notoriety--as all soldiers have a right to--as for the purpose of making

known and exposing the wrongs done to him and hundreds of his fellows,

who fought shoulder to shoulder with him, in the conflict with Sir

Edward Packenham. Mr. Julius is the only person in whose possession we

have ever seen a complete draught of the plan of the battle fought on

the 8th of January, 1815, drawn on the field, by the U.S. Engineer.

This consists of two charts, one quite large, and the other smaller; the

larger giving the whole plan of battle, and the other being the key,

which shows the position of the different battalions and regiments of

troops, with the several officers of command, in which the Colored

Regiment is beautifully and conspicuously displayed. He sets great

estimate upon them. Col. Marshall John M. Davis, who was an officer

under General Jackson at the battle of New Orleans, now still residing

in Allegheny Co., near Pittsburg, bears testimony to the truthfulness of

Mr. Julien Bennoit having been a soldier in the Army of the Mississippi

in 1814. The deeds of these tried and faithful daring sons of Liberty,

and defenders of their country, shall live triumphantly, long after the

nation shall have repented her wrongs towards them and their

descendants, and hung her head with shame, before the gaze of manhood's

stern rebuke.

Mr. John B. Vashon, of Pittsburg, embarked in the service of the United

States, and in an engagement of the American squadron in South America,

was imprisoned, with Major Henry Bears, a respectable white citizen,

still living in that city.

FOOTNOTE:

[2] Captain Jonathan Tudas, who led the 500 brave blacks out to build

the Redoubt, is now living in Philadelphia, and since the commencement

of this publication, we learned the following particulars: When the news

arrived of the approach of the British under Major General Ross, upon

Baltimore, the expectation ran high, that the city would be taken, and

forced marches made, immediately upon Philadelphia. The whole City

consequently was thrown into great alarm, when Captain Tudas, applied to

the United States Engineer, and offered the services of colored men, who

during the week, were summoned to meet at the African Methodist

Episcopal Church, on the following Sabbath; when from the pulpit, the

Right Rev. Richard Allen, Bishop of the Connexion, made known to the

people the peril of the Country, and demands of the Commonwealth; when,

the next day, Monday, five hundred volunteered, working incessantly

during that day, and on Tuesday, six hundred more were added, swelling

the number to eleven hundred men. William Stansberry, arrested and tried

a few years ago, as a fugitive slave from Maryland, and Mr. Ignatius

Beck, an old respectable colored man, who appeared as a witness, and by

whose testimony alone, Mr. Stansberry was released from the grasp of the

oppression of his Country, and thereby saved from endless bondage, were

both under Captain Tudas, and belong to the faithful eleven hundred

Philadelphia black warriors. He farther informs us, that the Engineer

gave them credit for having thrown up superior works to any other men

employed in the service, and having done more work in the same time, and

_drank less_, by four-fifth, than twice their number of "Old

Countrymen." The relics of the breastworks, still stand on or near the

banks of the Schuylkill, as a living monument of the fidelity of the

black race to their State and Country. Mr. Stansberry, is still living,

and Captain Tudas, now quite an old man, about "turning the corner," as

he expresses it, is a very intelligent old gentleman, and a living

history of facts. There are few white men of his age and opportunities,

that equal him at all in intelligence on any subject. He is a kind of

living synoptic-historical Encyclopedia.

IX

CAPACITY OF COLORED MEN AND WOMEN AS CITIZEN MEMBERS OF COMMUNITY

The utility of men in their private capacity as citizens, is of no less

import than that of any other department of the community in which they

live; indeed, the fitness of men for positions in the body politic, can

only be justly measured by their qualification as citizens. And we may

safely venture the declaration, that in the history of the world, there

has never been a nation, that among the oppressed class of

inhabitants--a class entirely ineligible to any political position of

honor, profit or trust--wholly discarded from the recognition of

citizens' rights--not even permitted to carry the mail, nor drive a mail

coach--there never has, in the history of nations, been any people thus

situated, who has made equal progress in attainments with the colored

people of the United States. It would be as unnecessary as it is

impossible, to particularize all the individuals; we shall therefore be

satisfied, with a classification and a few individual cases. Our history

in this country is well known, and quite sufficiently treated on in

these pages already, without the necessity of repetition here; it is

enough to know that by the most cruel acts of injustice and crime, our

forefathers were forced by small numbers, and enslaved in the

country--the great body now to the number of three millions and a half,

still groaning in bondage--that the half million now free, are the

descendants of the few who by various means, are fortunate enough to

gain their liberty from Southern bondage--that no act of general

emancipation has ever taken place, and no chance as yet for a general

rebellion--we say in view of all these facts, we proceed to give a

cursory history of the attainments--the civil, social, business and

professional, and literary attainments of colored men and women, and

challenge comparison with the world--according to circumstances--in

times past and present.

Though shorn of their strength, disarmed of manhood, and stripped of

every right, encouraged by the part performed by their brethren and

fathers in the Revolutionary struggle--with no records of their deeds in

history, and no means of knowing them save orally, as overheard from the

mouths of their oppressors, and tradition as kept up among

themselves--that memorable event, had not yet ceased its thrill through

the new-born nation, until a glimmer of hope--a ray of light had beamed

forth, and enlightened minds thought to be in total darkness. Minds of

no ordinary character, but those which embraced business, professions,

and literature--minds, which at once grasped the earth, encompassed the

seas, soared into the air, and mounted the skies. And it is none the

less creditable to the colored people, that among those who have stood

the most conspicuous and shone the brightest in the earliest period of

our history, there are those of pure and unmixed African blood. A

credit--but that which is creditable to the African, cannot disgrace any

into whose veins his blood may chance to flow. The elevation of the

colored man can only be completed by the elevation of the pure

descendants of Africa; because to deny his equality, is to deny in a

like proportion, the equality of all those mixed with the African

organization; and to establish his inferiority, will be to degrade every

person related to him by consanguinity; therefore, to establish the

equality of the African with the European race, establishes the

equality of every person intermediate between the two races. This

established beyond contradiction, the general equality of men.

In the year 1773, though held in servitude, and without the advantages

or privileges of the schools of the day, accomplishing herself by her

own perseverance; Phillis Wheatley appeared in the arena, the brilliancy

of whose genius, as a poetess, delighted Europe and astonished America,

and by a special act of the British Parliament, 1773, her productions

were published for the Crown. She was an admirer of President

Washington, and addressed to him lines, which elicited from the Father

of his country, a complimentary and courteous reply. In the absence of

the poem addressed to General Washington, which was not written until

after her work was published, we insert a stanza from one addressed

(intended for the students) "To the University at Cambridge." We may

further remark, that the poems were originally written, not with the

most distant idea of publication, but simply for the amusement and

during the leisure moments of the author.

"Improve your privileges while they stay,

Ye pupils, and each hour redeem, that bears

Or good or bad report of you to heav'n.

Let sin, that baneful evil of the soul,

By you be shunn'd, nor once remit your guard;

Suppress the deadly serpent in its egg.

Ye blooming plants of human race divine,

An _Ethiop_ tells you 'tis your greatest foe;

Its transient sweetness turns to endless pain,

And in immense perdition sinks the soul."

"CAMBRIDGE, FEBRUARY 28, 1776.

"MISS PHILLIS:

"Your favor of the 26th of October, did not reach my hands till the

middle of December. Time enough, you will say, to have given an

answer ere this. Granted. But a variety of important occurrences,

continually interposing to divert the mind and withdraw the

attention, I hope will apologise for the delay, and plead my excuse

for the seeming, but not real neglect. I thank you most sincerely

for your polite notice of me, in the elegant lines you enclosed;

and however undeserving I may be of such encomium and panegyric,

the style and manner exhibit a striking proof of your poetic

talents; in honor of which, and as a tribute justly due to you, I

would have published the poem, had I not been apprehensive, that,

while I only meant to give the world this new instance of your

genius, I might have incurred the imputation of vanity. This, and

nothing else, determined me not to give it place in the public

prints.

"If you should ever come to Cambridge, or near head-quarters, I

shall be happy to see a person so favored by the Muses, and to whom

Nature has been so liberal and beneficent in her dispensations.

"I am, with great respect, your obedient servant,

"GEORGE WASHINGTON.

"Miss Phillis Wheatley."

The tenor, style, and manner of President Washington's letter to Miss

Wheatley--the publication of her works, together with an accompanying

likeness of the author, and her inscription and dedication of the volume

to the "Right Honorable the Countess of Huntingdon," show, that she,

though young, was a person of no ordinary mind, no common attainments;

but at the time, one of the brightest ornaments among the American

literati. She also was well versed in Latin, in which language she

composed several pieces. Miss Wheatley died in 1780, at the age of 26

years, being seven years of age when brought to this country in 1761.

Doctor Peter, who married Miss Wheatley, 1775, was a man of business,

tact, and talents--being first a grocer, and afterwards studied law,

which he practised with great success, becoming quite wealthy by

defending the cause of the oppressed before the different tribunals of

the country. And who shone brighter in his day, than Benjamin Bannaker,

of Baltimore county, Maryland, who by industry and force of character,

became a distinguished mathematician and astronomer,--"for many years,"

says Davenport's Biographical Dictionary, "calculated and published the

Maryland Ephemerides." He was a correspondent of the Honorable Thomas

Jefferson, Secretary of State of the United States, taking the earliest

opportunity of his acquaintanceship, to call his attention to the evils

of American slavery, and doubtless his acquaintance with the apostle of

American Democracy, had much to do with his reflections on that most

pernicious evil in this country. Mr. Bannaker was also a naturalist, and

wrote a treatise on locusts. He was invited by the Commission of United

States Civil Engineers, to assist in the survey of the Ten Miles Square,

for the District of Columbia. He assisted the Board, who, it is thought,

could not have succeeded without him. His Almanac was preferred to that

of Leadbeater, or any other calculator cotemporary with himself. He had

no family, and resided in a house alone, but principally made his home

with the Elliott family. He was upright, honorable, and virtuous;

entertaining religious scruples similar to the Friends. He died in 1807,

near Baltimore. Honorable John H.B. Latrobe, Esq., of Baltimore, is his

biographer.

In 1812, Captain Paul Cuffy was an extensive trader and mariner,

sailing out of Boston, to the West Indies and Europe, by which

enterprise, he amassed an immense fortune. He was known to the

commercial world of his day, and, if not so wealthy, stood quite as

fair, and as much respected, as Captain George Laws or Commodore

Vanderbilt, the Cunards of America. Captain Cuffy went to Africa, where

he died in a few years.

James Durham, originally of Philadelphia, in 1778, at the early age of

twenty-one, was the most learned physician in New Orleans. He spoke

English, French and Spanish, learnedly, and the great Dr. Rush said of

him, "I conversed with him on medicine, and found him very learned. I

thought I could give him information concerning the treatment of

diseases; but I learned from him more than he could expect from me." And

it must be admitted, he must have been learned in his profession, to

have elicited such an encomium from Dr. Rush, who stood then at the head

of his profession in the country.

We have designed nothing here, but merely to give an individual case of

the various developments of talents and acquirements in the several

departments of respectability, discarding generalization, and name none

but the Africo-American of unmixed extraction, who rose into note

subsequent to the American Revolution. In the persons of note and

distinction hereafter to be given, we shall not confine ourselves to any

such narrow selections, but shall name persons, male and female,

regardless of their extraction, so that they are colored persons, which

is quite enough for our purpose. And our only excuse for the policy in

the above course is, that we desire to disarm the vilifiers of our race,

who disparage us, giving themselves credit for whatever is commendable

that may emanate from us, if there be the least opportunity of claiming

it by "blood." We shall now proceed to review the attainments of colored

men and women of the present day.

X

PRACTICAL UTILITY OF COLORED PEOPLE OF THE PRESENT DAY AS MEMBERS OF

SOCIETY--BUSINESS MEN AND MECHANICS

In calling attention to the practical utility of colored people of the

present day, we shall not be general in our observations, but simply,

direct attention to a few particular instances, in which colored persons

have been responsibly engaged in extensive business, or occupying useful

positions, thus contributing to the general welfare of community at

large, filling their places in society as men and women.

It will studiously be borne in mind, that our sole object in giving

these cases publicity, is to refute the objections urged against us,

that we are not useful members of society. That we are consumers and

non-producers--that we contribute nothing to the general progress of

man. No people who have enjoyed no greater opportunity for improvement,

could possibly have made greater progress in the same length of time

than have done the colored people of the present day.

A people laboring under many disadvantages, may not be expected to

present at once, especially before they have become entirely

untrammeled, evidence of entire equality with more highly favored

people.

When Mr. Jefferson, the great American Statesman and philosopher, was

questioned by an English gentleman, on the subject of American

greatness, and referred to their literature as an evidence of

inferiority to the more highly favored and long-existing European

nations; Mr. Jefferson's reply was--"When the United States have existed

as long as a nation, as Greece before she produced her Homer and

Socrates; Rome, before she produced her Virgil, Horace, and Cicero; and

England, before she produced her Pope, Dryden, and Bacon"; then he might

consider the comparison a just one. And all we shall ask, is not to wait

so long as this, not to wait until we become a nation at all, so far as

the United States are concerned, but only to unfetter our brethren, and

give us, the freemen, an equal chance for emulation, and we will admit

any comparison you may please to make in a quarter of a century after.

For a number of years, the late James Forten, of Philadelphia, was the

proprietor of one of the principal sail manufactories, constantly

employing a large number of men, black and white, supplying a large

number of masters and owners of vessels, with full rigging for their

crafts.

On the failure of an extensive house, T. & Co., in that city, during the

pressure which followed a removal of the deposits of the United States

Treasury in 1837, Mr. Forten lost by that firm, nine thousand dollars.

Being himself in good circumstances at the time, hearing of the failure

of old constant patrons, he called at the house; one of the proprietors,

Mr. T., on his entering the warehouse door, came forward, taking him by

the hand observed, "Ah! Mr. Forten, it is useless to call on us--we are

gone--we can do nothing!" at which Mr. Forten remarked, "Sir, I hope you

think better of me than to suppose me capable of calling on a friend to

torture him in adversity! I came, sir, to express my regret at your

misfortune, and if possible, to cheer you by words of encouragement. If

your liabilities were all in my hands, you should never be under the

necessity of closing business." Mr. Forten exchanged paper and

signatures with some of the first business men in Philadelphia, and

raised and educated a large and respectable family of sons and

daughters, leaving an excellent widow.

Joseph Cassey, recently deceased, was the "architect of his own

fortune," and by industry and application to business, became a money

broker in the city of Philadelphia; who becoming indisposed from a

chronic affection, was obliged to retire from business for many years

previous to his death. Had Mr. Cassey been favored with health, he

doubtless would have become a very wealthy man. His name and paper was

good in any house in the city, and there was no banker of moderate

capital, of more benefit to the business community than was Joseph

Cassey. He also left a young and promising family of five sons, one

daughter, a most excellent widow, and a fortune of seventy-five thousand

dollars, clear of all encumbrance.

Stephen Smith, of the firm of Smith and Whipper, is a remarkable man in

many respects, and decidedly the most wealthy colored man in the United

States. Mr. Smith commenced business after he was thirty years of age,

without the advantages of a good business education, but by application,

qualified himself for the arduous duties of his vocation. For many

years, he has been known as the principal lumber merchant in Columbia,

Lancaster Co., Pa., and for several years past associated with W.

Whipper, a gentleman of great force of character, talents, and business

qualifications, Mr. Smith residing in Philadelphia. Smith and Whipper,

are very extensive business men, and very valuable members of the

community, both of Lancaster and Philadelphia counties. By the judicious

investment of their capital, they keep in constant employment a large

number of persons; purchasing many rafts at a time, and many thousand

bushels of coal. It is not only the laborer in "drawing boards," and the

coal hauler and heaver, that are here benefitted by their capital, but

the original owners of the lumber and coal purchased by them, and the

large number of boatmen and raftsmen employed in bringing these

commodities to market.

In the winter of 1849, these gentlemen had in store, several thousand

bushels of coal, two million two hundred and fifty thousand feet of

lumber; twenty-two of the finest merchantmen cars running on the railway

from Philadelphia to Baltimore; nine thousand dollars' worth of stock in

the Columbia Bridge; eighteen thousand dollars in stock in the Columbia

Bank; and besides this, Mr. Smith was then the reputed owner of

fifty-two good brick houses of various dimensions in the city of

Philadelphia, besides several in the city of Lancaster, and the town of

Columbia. Mr. Smith's paper, or the paper of the firm, is good for any

amount wherever they are known; and we have known gentlemen to present

the paper of some of the best men in the city, which was cashed by him

at sight. The principal active business attended to by Mr. S. in person,

is that of buying good negotiable and other paper, and speculating in

real estate. The business of the firm is attended to by Mr. Whipper, who

is a relative. Take Smith and Whipper from Lancaster and Philadelphia

counties, and the business community will experience a hiatus in its

connexion, that may not be easily filled.

Samuel T. Wilcox, of Cincinnati, Ohio, also stands conspicuously among

the most respectable business men of the day. Being yet a young man,

just scanning forty, he is one among the extraordinary men of the times.

Born, like the most of colored men in this country, in obscurity, of

poor parents, raised without the assistance of a father, and to a

commonplace business, without the advantages of schools, by his own

perseverance, he qualified himself to the extent that gave him an

inclination to traffic, which he did for several years on the

Mississippi and Ohio rivers, investing his gains in real estate, until

he acquired a considerable property. For the purpose of extending his

usefulness, and at the same time pursuing a vocation more in accordance

with his own desires, a few years since, he embarked in the wholesale

and retail Family Grocery business, and now has the best general

assortment and most extensive business house of the kind, in the city of

Cincinnati. The establishment is really beautiful, having the appearance

more of an apothecary store, than a Grocery House. Mr. Wilcox has a

Pickling and Preserving establishment besides, separate from his

business house, owning a great deal of first class real estate. There is

no man in the community in which he lives, that turns money to a greater

advantage than Mr. Wilcox, and none by whom the community is more

benefited for the amount of capital invested. He makes constant and

heavy bills in eastern houses, and there are doubtless now many

merchants in New York, Boston, and Baltimore cities, who have been

dealing with S.T. Wilcox, and never until the reading of this notice of

him, knew that he was a colored man. He has never yet been east after

his goods, but pursuing a policy which he has adopted, orders them; but

if deceived in an article, never deals with the same house again. He

always gets a good article. The paper of Mr. Wilcox, is good for any

amount.

Henry Boyd, is also a man of great energy of character, the proprietor

of an extensive Bedstead manufactory, with a large capital invested,

giving constant employment to eighteen or twenty-five men, black and

white. Some of the finest and handsomest articles of the bedstead in the

city, are at the establishment of Mr. Boyd. He fills orders from all

parts of the West and South, his orders from the South being very heavy.

He is the patentee, or holds the right of the Patent Bedsteads, and like

Mr. Wilcox, there are hundreds who deal with Mr. Boyd at a distance,

who do not know that he is a colored man. Mr. Boyd is a useful member of

society, and Cincinnati would not, if she could, be without him. He

fills a place that every man is not capable of supplying, of whatever

quarter of the globe his forefathers may have been denizens.

Messrs. Knight and Bell of the same place, Cincinnati, Ohio, are very

successful and excellent mechanics. In the spring of 1851, (one year

ago) they put in their "sealed proposal" for the plastering of the

public buildings of the county of Hamilton--alms-house, &c.--and got the

contract, which required ten thousand dollars' security. The work was

finished in fine artistic style, in which a large number of mechanics

and laborers were employed, while at the same time, they were carrying

on many other contracts of less extent, in the city--the public

buildings being some four miles out. They are men of stern integrity,

and highly respected in the community.

David Jenkins of Columbus, Ohio, a good mechanic, painter, glazier, and

paper-hanger by trade, also received by contract, the painting, glazing,

and papering of some of the public buildings of the State, in autumn

1847. He is much respected in the capital city of his state, being

extensively patronised, having on contract, the great "Neill House," and

many of the largest gentlemen's residences in the city and neighborhood,

to keep in finish. Mr. Jenkins is a very useful man and member of

society.

John C. Bowers, for many years, has been the proprietor of a fashionable

merchant tailor house, who has associated with him in business, his

brother Thomas Bowers, said to be one of the best, if not the very best,

mercers in the city. His style of cutting and fitting, is preferred by

the first business men, and other gentlemen of Philadelphia, in whom

their patrons principally consist.

Mr. Cordovell, for more than twenty-five years, was the leading mercer

and tailor, reporter and originator of fashions in the city of New

Orleans, Louisiana. The reported fashions of Cordovell, are said to have

frequently become the leading fashions of Paris; and the writer was

informed, by Mr. B., a leading merchant tailor in a populous city, that

many of the eastern American reports were nothing more than a copy, in

some cases modified, of those of Cordovell. Mr. Cordovell, has for the

last four or five years, been residing in France, living on a handsome

fortune, the fruits of his genius; and though "retired from business,"

it is said, that he still invents fashions for the Parisian reporters,

which yields him annually a large income.

William H. Riley, of Philadelphia, has been for years, one of the

leading fashionable gentlemen's boot-makers. Riley's style and cut of

boots, taking the preeminence in the estimation of a great many of the

most fashionable, and business men in the city. Mr. Riley is much of a

gentleman, and has acquired considerable means.

James Prosser, Sen., of Philadelphia, has long been the popular

proprietor of a fashionable restaurant in the city. The name of James

Prosser, among the merchants of Philadelphia, is inseparable with their

daily hours of recreation, and pleasure. Mr. Prosser, is withal, a most

gentlemanly man, and has the happy faculty of treating his customers in

such a manner, that those who call once, will be sure to call at his

place again. His name and paper is good among the business men of the

city.

Henry Minton also is the proprietor of a fashionable restaurant and

resort of business men and gentlemen of the city. The tables of Mr.

Henry Minton are continually laden with the most choice offerings to

epicures, and the saloon during certain hours of the day, presents the

appearance of a bee hive, such is the stir, din, and buz, among the

throng of Chesnut street gentlemen, who flock in there to pay tribute at

the shrine of bountifulness. Mr. Minton has acquired a notoriety, even

in that proud city, which makes his house one of the most popular

resorts.

Mr. Hill, of Chillicothe, Ohio, was for years, the leading tanner and

currier in that section of country, buying up the hides of the

surrounding country, and giving employment to large numbers of men. Mr.

Hill kept in constant employment, a white clerk, who once a year took

down, as was then the custom, one or more flatboats loaded with leather

and other domestic produce, by which he realised large profits,

accumulating a great deal of wealth. By endorsement, failure, and other

mistransactions, Mr. Hill became reduced in circumstances, and died in

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1845. He gave his children a liberal

business education.

Benjamin Richards, Sen., of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, forty years ago,

was one of the leading business men of the place. Being a butcher by

trade, he carried on the business extensively, employing a white clerk,

and held a heavy contract with the United States, supplying the various

military posts with provisions. Mr. Richards possessed a large property

in real estate, and was at one time reputed very wealthy, he and the

late general O'H. being considered the most wealthy individuals of the

place,--Mr. Richards taking the precedence; the estate of general O'H.

now being estimated at seven millions of dollars. Mr. Richards has been

known, to buy up a drove of cattle at one time. By mismanagement, he

lost his estate, upon which many gentlemen are now living at ease in the

city.

William H. Topp, of Albany, N.Y., has for several years been one of the

leading merchant tailors of the city. Starting in the world without aid,

he educated and qualified himself for business; and now has orders from

all parts of the state, the city of New York not excepted, for "Topp's

style of clothing." Mr. Topp stands high in his community as a business

man, and a useful and upright member of society. His paper or

endorsement is good at any time.

Henry Scott & Co., of New York city, have for many years been engaged

extensively in the pickling business, keeping constantly in warehouse, a

very heavy stock of articles in their line. He, like the most of others,

had no assistance at the commencement, but by manly determination and

perseverance, raised himself to what he is. His business is principally

confined to supplying vessels with articles and provisions in his line

of business, which in this great metropolis is very great. There have

doubtless been many a purser, who cashed and filed in his office the

bill of Henry Scott, without ever dreaming of his being a colored man.

Mr. Scott is extensively known in the great City, and respected as an

upright, prompt, energetic business man, and highly esteemed by all who

know him.

Mr. Hutson, for years, kept in New York, an intelligence office. At his

demise, he was succeeded by Philip A. Bell, who continues to keep one of

the leading offices in the city. Mr. Bell is an excellent business man,

talented, prompt, shrewd, and full of tact. And what seems to be a trait

of character, only to be found associated with talent, Mr. Bell is

highly sensitive, and very eccentric. A warm, good hearted man, he has

not only enlisted the friendship of all his patrons, but also endeared

himself to the multitude of persons who continually throng his office

seeking situations. One of his usual expressions to the young women and

men in addressing himself to them is, "My child"--this is kind, and

philanthropic, and has a tendency to make himself liked. His business is

very extensive, being sought from all parts of the city, by the first

people of the community. It is said to be not unusual, for the

peasantry of Liverpool, to speak of Mr. Bell, as a benefactor of the

emigrant domestics. Mr. Bell is extensively known in the business

community--none more so--and highly esteemed as a valuable citizen.

Thomas Downing, for thirty years, in the city of New York, has been

proprietor of one of the leading restaurants. His establishment situated

in the midst of the Wall street bankers, the business has always been of

a leading and profitable character. Mr. Downing has commanded great

influence, and much means, and it is said of him that he has made "three

fortunes." Benevolent, kind, and liberal minded, his head was always

willing, his heart ready, and his hands open to "give." Mr. Downing is

still very popular, doing a most excellent business, and highly

respected throughout New York. Indeed, you scarcely hear any other

establishment of the kind spoken of than Downing's.

Henry M. Collins, of the City of Pittsburg, stands among the men of

note; and we could not complete this list of usefulness, without the

name of Mr. Collins. Raised a poor boy, thrown upon the uncertainties of

chance, without example of precept, save such as the public at large

presents; Mr. Collins quit his former vocation of a riverman, and

without means, except one hundred and fifty dollars, and no assistance

from any quarter, commenced speculating in real estate. And though only

rising forty, has done more to improve the Sixth Ward of Pittsburg, than

any other individual, save one, Captain W., who built on Company

capital. Mr. Collins was the first person who commenced erecting an

improved style of buildings; indeed, there was little else than old

trees in that quarter of the city when Mr. Collins began. He continued

to build, and dispose of handsome dwellings, until a different class of

citizens entirely, was attracted to that quarter of the town, among

them, one of the oldest and most respectable and wealthy citizens, an

ex-Alderman. After this, the wealthy citizens turned their attention to

the District; and now, it is one of the most fashionable quarters of the

City, and bids fair to become, the preferred part for family residences.

Mr. Collins' advice and counsel was solicited by some of the first

lawyers, and land speculators, in matters of real estate. He has left or

contemplates leaving Pittsburg, in April, for California, where he

intends entering extensively into land speculation, and doubtless, with

the superior advantages of this place, if his success is but half what

it was in the former, but a few years will find him counted among the

wealthy. Mr. Collins is a highly valuable man in any community in which

he may live, and he leaves Pittsburg much to the regret of the leading

citizens. Without capital, he had established such a reputation, that

his name and paper were good in some of the first Banking houses.

Owen A. Barrett of Pittsburg, Pa., is the original proprietor of "B.A.

Fahnestock's Celebrated Vermifuge." Mr. Fahnestock raised Mr. Barrett

from childhood, instructing him in all the science of practical

pharmacy, continuing him in his employment after manhood, when Mr.

Barrett discovered the "sovereign remedy" for _lumbricalii_, and as an

act of gratitude to his benefactor, he communicated it to him, but not

until he had fully tested its efficacy. The proprietor of the house,

finding the remedy good, secured his patent, or copy right, or whatever

is secured, and never in the history of remedies in the United States,

has any equaled, at least in sale, this of "B.A. Fahnestock's

Vermifuge." Mr. Fahnestock, like a gentleman and Christian, has kept Mr.

Barrett in his extensive House, compounding this and other medicines,

for sixteen or eighteen years.

In 1840 it was estimated, that of this article alone, the concern had

realized eighty-five thousand dollars. Doubtless, this is true, and

certainly proves Mr. Barrett to be of benefit, not only in his

community, but like many others we have mentioned, to the country and

the world.

Lewis Hayden, of Boston, is well deserving a place among the examples of

character here given. But eight years ago, having emerged from bondage,

he raised by his efforts, as an act of gratitude and duty, six hundred

and fifty dollars, the amount demanded by mutual agreement, by the

authorities in Kentucky, as a ransom for Calvin Fairbanks, then in the

State Prison, at Frankfort, accused for assisting him in effecting his

escape. In 1848, he went to Boston, and having made acquaintance, and

gained confidence with several business men, Mr. Hayden opened a

fashionable Clothing House in Cambridge street, where he has within the

last year, enlarged his establishment, being patronized by some of the

most respectable citizens of that wealthy Metropolis. Mr. Hayden has

made considerable progress, considering his disadvantages, in his

educational improvements. He has great energy of character, and

extensive information. Lewis Hayden by perseverance, may yet become a

very wealthy man. He is generally esteemed by the Boston people--all

seeming to know him.

George T. Downing, a gentleman of education and fine business

attainments, is proprietor of one of the principal Public houses and

places of resort, at Newport, Rhode Island, during the watering Season.

This fashionable establishment is spoken of as among the best conducted

places in the country--the Proprietor among the most gentlemanly.

Edward V. Clark, is among the most deserving and active business men in

New York, and but a few years are required, to place Mr. Clark in point

of business importance, among the first men in the city. His stock

consists of Jewelry and Silver Wares, and consequently, are always

valuable, requiring a heavy capital to keep up business. His name and

paper, has a respectable credit, even among the urbane denizens of Wall

street.

John Julius and Lady, were for several years, the Proprietors of Concert

Hall, a _Caffé_, then the most fashionable resort for ladies and

gentlemen in Pittsburg. Mr. and Mrs. Julius, held Assemblies and Balls,

attended by the first people of the city--being himself a fine violinist

and dancing master, he superintended the music and dancing. When General

William Henry Harrison in 1840, then the President elect of the United

States, visited that city, his levee to and reception of the Ladies were

held at Concert Hall, under the superintendence of Monsieur John and

Madame Edna Julius, the colored host and hostess. No House was ever

better conducted than under their fostering care, and excellent

management, and the citizens all much regretted their retirement from

the establishment.

In Penyan, Western New York, Messrs. William Platt and Joseph C. Cassey,

are said to be the leading Lumber Merchants of the place. Situated in

the midst of a great improving country, their business extends, and

increases in importance every year. The latter gentleman was raised to

the business by Smith and Whipper, the great Lumber Merchants of

Columbia, Pa., where he was principal Book-Keeper for several years. Mr.

Cassey has the credit of being one of the best Accountants, and Business

Men in the United States of his age. Doubtless, a few years'

perseverance, and strict application to business, will find them ranked

among the most influential men of their neighborhood.

Anthony Weston, of Charleston, South Carolina, has acquired an

independent fortune, by his mechanical ingenuity, and skillful

workmanship. About the year 1831, William Thomas Catto, mentioned in

another place, commenced an improvement on a Thrashing Machine, when on

taking sick, Mr. Weston improved on it, to the extent of thrashing a

thousand bushels a day. This Thrashing Mill, was commenced by a Yankee,

by the name of Emmons, who failing to succeed, Mr. Catto, then a

Millwright--since a Minister--improved it to the extent of thrashing

five hundred bushels a day; when Mr. Weston, took it in hand, and

brought it to the perfection stated, for the use of Col. Benjamin

Franklin Hunt, a distinguished lawyer of Charleston, upon whose

plantation, the machine was built, and to whom it belonged. Anthony

Weston, is the greatest Millwright in the South, being extensively

employed far and near, and by Southern people, thought the best in the

United States.

Dereef and Howard, are very extensive Wood-Factors, keeping a large

number of men employed, a regular Clerk and Book-Keeper, supplying the

citizens, steamers, vessels, and factories of Charleston with fuel. In

this business a very heavy capital is invested: besides which, they are

the owners and proprietors of several vessels trading on the coast. They

are men of great business habits, and command a great deal of respect

and influence in the city of Charleston.

There is nothing more common in the city of New Orleans, than Colored

Clerks, Salesmen and Business men. In many stores on Chartier, Camp and

other business streets, there may always be seen colored men and women,

as salesmen, and saleswomen, behind the counter. Several of the largest

Cotton-Press houses, have colored Clerks in them; and on the arrival of

steamers at the Levees, among the first to board them, and take down the

Manifestos to make their transfers, are colored Clerks. In 1839-40, one

of the most respectable Brokers and Bankers of the City, was a black

gentleman.

Mr. William Goodrich of York, Pennsylvania, has considerable interest

in the branch of the Baltimore Railroad, from Lancaster. In 1849, he had

a warehouse in York, and owned ten first-rate merchandise cars on the

Road, doing a fine business. His son, Glenalvon G. Goodrich, a young man

of good education, is a good artist, and proprietor of a Daguerreo-type

Gallery.

Certainly, there need be no further proofs required, at least in this

department, to show the claims and practical utility of colored people

as citizen members of society. We have shown, that in proportion to

their numbers, they vie and compare favorably in point of means and

possessions, with the class of citizens who from chance of superior

advantages, have studiously contrived to oppress and deprive them of

equal rights and privileges, in common with themselves.

XI

LITERARY AND PROFESSIONAL COLORED MEN AND WOMEN

Dr. James McCune Smith, a graduate of the Scientific and Medical Schools

of the University of Glasgow, has for the last fifteen years, been a

successful practitioner of medicine and surgery in the city of New York.

Dr. Smith is a man of no ordinary talents, and stands high as a scholar

and gentleman in the city, amidst the _literati_ of a hundred seats of

learning.

In 1843, when the character of the colored race was assailed to

disparagement, by the representative of a combination of maligners, such

was the influence of the Doctor, that the citizens at once agreed to

give their presence to a fair public discussion of the subject--the

Comparative Anatomy and Physiology of the races. This discussion was

kept up for several evenings, attended by large and fashionable

assemblages of ladies and gentlemen, until it closed. Doctor Smith, in

the estimation of the audience, easily triumphed over his antagonist,

who had made this a studied subject. The Doctor is the author of several

valuable productions, and in 1846, a very valuable scientific paper,

issued from the press in pamphlet form, on the "Influence of Climate on

Longevity, with special reference to Life Insurance." This paper, we may

surmise, was produced in refutation of the attempt at a physiological

disquisition on the part of Hon. John C. Calhoun, United States Senator,

on the colored race, which met with considerable favor from some

quarters, until the appearance of Dr. Smith's pamphlet--since when, we

have heard nothing about Calhoun's learned argument. It may be well to

remark, that Senator Calhoun read medicine before he read law, and it

would have been well for him if he had left medical subjects remain

where _he left_ them, for law. We extract a simple note of explanation

without the main argument, to show with what ease the Doctor refutes an

absurd argument: "The reason why the proportion of mortality is not a

measure of longevity, is the following:--The proportion of mortality is

a statement of how many persons die in a population; this, of course,

does not state the age at which those persons die. If 1 in 45 die in

Sweden, and 1 in 22 in Grenada, the ages of the dead might be alike in

both countries; here the greater mortality might actually accompany the

greater longevity."--Note to page 6.

About three months since, at a public meeting of scientific gentlemen,

for the formation of a "Statistic Institute," Doctor Smith was nominated

as one of five gentlemen, to draught a constitution. This, of course,

anticipated his membership to the Institution. He, for a number of

years, has held the office of Physician to the Colored Orphan Asylum, an

excellent institution, at which he is the only colored officer. The

Doctor is very learned.

Rev. Samuel Ringgold Ward was, for several years, pastor of a white

congregation, in Courtlandville, N.Y., of the Congregational persuasion,

and editor of an excellent newspaper, devoted to the religious elevation

of that denomination. Mr. Ward is a man of great talents--his fame is

widespread as an orator and man of learning, and needs no encomium from

us. His name stood on nomination for two or three years, as

Liberty-party candidate for Vice President of the United States. Mr.

Ward has embraced the legal profession, and intends to practise law.

Governor Seward said of him, that he "never heard true eloquence until

he heard Samuel R. Ward speak." Mr. Ward has recently left the United

States, for Canada West, and is destined to be a great statesman.

Rev. Henry Highland Garnett, was also the pastor of a white

congregation, in Troy, N.Y. Mr. Garnett is a graduate of Oneida

Institute, a speaker of great pathetic eloquence, and has written

several valuable pamphlets. In 1844, Mr. Garnett appeared before the

Judiciary Committee of the Legislature at the capital, in behalf of the

rights of the colored citizens of the State, and in a speech of

matchless eloquence, he held them for four hours spell-bound.

He has also been co-editor of a newspaper, which was conducted with

ability. As a token of respect, the "Young Men's Literary Society of

Troy," elected him a life-member--and he was frequently solicited to

deliver lectures before different lyceums. Mr. Garnett left the United

States in the summer of 1849, and now resides in England, where he is

highly esteemed.

Rev. James William Charles Pennington, D.D., a clergyman of New York

city, was born in Maryland,--left when young--came to Brooklyn--educated

himself--studied divinity--went to Hartford, Conn.;--took charge of a

Presbyterian congregation of colored people--went to

England--returned--went to the West Indies--returned--was called to the

Shiloh Presbyterian Colored Congregation--was sent a Delegate to the

Peace Congress at Paris, in 1849, preached there, and attended the

National Levee at the mansion of the Foreign Secretary of State,

Minister De Tocqueville; and had the degree of _Doctor of Divinity_

conferred on him by the ancient time-honored University of Heidleburg,

in Germany.

Dr. Pennington is very learned in theology, has fine literacy

attainments, and has written several useful pamphlets, and contributed

to science, by the delivery of lectures before several scientific

institutions in Europe.

He has, by invitation, delivered lectures before the "Glasgow Young

Men's Christian Association"; and "St. George's Biblical, Literary, and

Scientific Institute," London. In one of the discourses, the following

extract will give an idea of the style and character of the

speaker:--"One of the chief attributes of the mind is a desire for

freedom; but it has been the great aim of slavery to extinguish that

desire."

"To extinguish this attribute would be to extinguish mind itself. Every

faculty which the master puts forth to subdue the slave, is met by a

corresponding one in the latter."... "Christianity is the highest and

most perfect form of civilization. It contains the only great standard

of the only true and perfect standard of civilization. When tried by

this standard, we are compelled to confess, that we have not on earth,

one strictly civilized nation; for so long as the sword is part of a

nation's household furniture, it cannot be called strictly civilized;

and yet there is not a nation, great or small, black or white, that has

laid aside the sword."--pp. 7-14. The Doctor has been editor of a

newspaper, which was ably conducted. He belongs to the Third Presbytery

of New York, and stands very high as a minister of the Gospel, and

gentleman.

Rev. John Francis Cook, a learned clergyman of Washington City, has

taught an academy in the District of Columbia for years, under the

subscribed sanction and patronage of many of the members of Congress,

the Mayor of Washington, and some of the first men of the nation, for

the education of colored youth of both sexes. Mr. Cook has done a great

deal of good at the Capitol; is highly esteemed, and has set as

Moderator of a body of Presbyterian Clergymen, assembled at Richmond,

Va., all white, except himself.

Charles L. Reason, Esq., a learned gentleman, for many years teacher in

one of the Public Schools in New York, in 1849, was elected by the

trustees of that institution, Professor of Mathematics and Belles

Lettres in Centre College, at McGrawville, in the State of New York.

After a short connection with the College, Professor Reason, for some

cause, retired from the Institution, much to the regret of the students,

who, though a young man, loved him as an elder brother--and contrary to

the desire of his fellow-professors.

Mr. Reason is decidedly a man of letters, a high-souled gentleman, a

most useful citizen in any community--much respected and beloved by all

who know him, and most scrupulously modest--a brilliant trait in the

character of a teacher. We learn that Professor Reason, is about to be

called to take charge of the High School for the education of colored

youth of both sexes, now in course of completion in Philadelphia. The

people of New York will regret to part with Professor Reason.

Charles Lenox Remond, Esq., of Salem, Massachusetts, is among the most

talented men of the country. Mr. Remond is a native of the town he

resides in, and at an early age, evinced more than ordinary talents. At

the age of twenty-one, at which time (1832) the cause of the colored

people had just begun to attract public attention, he began to take an

interest in public affairs, and was present for the first time, at the

great convention of colored men, of that year, at which the

distinguished colonization gentlemen named in another part of this work,

among them, Rev. R.R. Gurley, and Elliot Cresson, Esqs., were present.

At this convention, we think, Mr. Remond made his virgin speech. From

that time forth he became known as an orator, and now stands second to

no living man as a declaimer. This is his great forte, and to hear him

speak, sends a thrill through the whole system, and a tremor through the

brain.

In 1835, he went to England, making a tour of the United Kingdom, where

he remained for two years, lecturing with great success; and if we

mistake not was presented the hospitality of one of the towns of

Scotland, at which he received a token of respect, in a code of

resolutions adopted expressive of the sentiments of the people, signed

by the town officers, inscribed to "Charles Lenox Remond, Esq.," a form

of address never given in the United Kingdom, only where the person is

held in the highest esteem for their attainments; the "Mr." always being

used instead.

To C.L. Remond, are the people of Massachusetts indebted for the

abolition of the odious distinction of caste, on account of condition.

For up to this period, neither common white, nor genteel colored

persons, could ride in first class cars; since which time, all who are

able and willing to pay, go in them. In fact, there is but one class of

cars, (except the emigrant cars which are necessary for the safety and

comfort of other passengers) in Massachusetts.

Mr. Remond, appeared at one time before the legislature of

Massachusetts, in behalf of the rights of the people above named, where

with peals of startling eloquence, he moved that great body of

intelligent New Englanders, to a respectful consideration of his

subject; which eventually resulted as stated. The distinguished Judge

Kelley, of Philadelphia, an accomplished scholar and orator, in 1849, in

reply to an expression that Mr. Remond spoke like himself, observed,

that it was the greatest compliment he ever had paid to his talents.

"Proud indeed should I feel," said the learned Jurist, "were I such an

orator as Mr. Remond." Charles Lenox Remond is the soul of an honorable

gentleman.

Robert Morris, Jr., Esq., attorney and counsellor at law, is a member

of the Essex county bar in Boston. Mr. Morris has also had the

commission of magistracy conferred upon him, by his excellency George N.

Briggs, recent governor of the commonwealth of Massachusetts, a high

honor and compliment to an Attorney; the commission usually being

conferred on none but the oldest or most meritorious among the members

of the bar. He also keeps the books of one of the wealthy rail road

companies, a business almost entirely confined to lawyers in that city.

Mr. Morris is a talented gentleman, and stands very high at the Boston

bar. He sometimes holds the magistrate's court in Chelsea, where his

family resides, and is very highly esteemed by the whole community of

both cities, and has a fine practice.

Macon B. Allen, Esq., attorney and counsellor at law, is also a member

of the Essex bar. He is spoken of as a gentleman of fine education.

Robert Douglass, Jr., for many years, has kept a study and gallery of

painting and daguerreotype in the city of Philadelphia. Mr. Douglass is

an excellent artist--being a fine portrait and landscape painter, which

art he practised before the discovery of daguerreotype. He is also a

good lithographer, a gentleman of fine educational attainments, very

clever talents, and highly esteemed in that city. Mr. Douglass has been

twice to the West Indies and Europe.

J. Presley Ball is the principal daguerreotypist of Cincinnati, Ohio.

Mr. Ball commenced the practice of his art about seven years ago, being

then quite young, and inexperienced, as all young beginners are,

laboring under many difficulties. He nevertheless, persevered, until he

made a business, and established confidence in his skill; and now he

does more business than any other artist in the profession in that city.

His gallery, which is very large, finely skylighted, and handsomely

furnished, is literally crowded from morning until evening with ladies,

gentlemen, and children. He made some valuable improvements in the art,

all for his own convenience. There is none more of a gentleman than J.

Presley Ball. He has a brother, Mr. Thomas Ball, and a white gentleman

to assist him. Few go to Cincinnati, without paying the daguerrean

gallery of Mr. Ball, a visit.

The great organ of the "Liberty Party" in the United States, is now

conducted by one who requires not a notice from such an obscure

source--we mean Frederick Douglass, of Rochester, N.Y. His history is

well known--it was written by more faithful hands than ours--it was

written by himself. It stands enrolled on the reminiscences of Germany,

and France, and in full length oil, in the academy of arts, and in bust

of bronze or marble, in the museum of London. Mr. Douglass is also the

sole owner of the printing establishment from which the paper is issued,

and was promoted to this responsible position, by the power of his

talents. He is a masterly letter writer, ably edits his paper, and as a

speaker, and orator, let the scenes of a New York tabernacle, within two

years, answer instead. Mr. Douglass is highly respected as a citizen and

gentleman in Rochester.

In Syracuse, N.Y., resides George Boyer Vashon, Esq., A.M., a graduate

of Oberlin Collegiate Institute, Attorney at Law, Member of the Syracuse

Bar. Mr. Vashon, is a ripe scholar, an accomplished Essayist, and a

chaste classic Poet; his style running very much in the strain of

Byron's best efforts. He probably takes Byron as his model, and Childe

Harold, as a sample, as in his youthful days, he was a fond admirer of

GEORGE GORDON NOEL BYRON, always calling his whole name, when he named

him. His Preceptor in Law, was the Honorable Walter, Judge Forward, late

Controller, subsequently, Secretary of the Treasury of the United

States, and recently _Charge de Affaires_ to Denmark, now President of

the Bench of the District Court of the Western District of Pennsylvania.

Mr. Vashon was admitted to the Bar of the city of New York, in the fall

of 1847, to practise in all the Courts of the State. He immediately

subsequently, sailed to the West Indies, from whence he returned in the

fall of 1850. He has contributed considerably to a number of the

respectable journals of the country.

Mrs. Ann Maria Johnson, of the School of Mrs. Tillman and Mrs. Johnson,

Teachers in French Worsted Needle Work, at the Exhibition of the

Mechanics' Institute in Chicago, Ill., 1846, took the First Prize, and

got her Diploma, for the best embroidery in cloth. This was very

flattering to those ladies, especially the Diplomast, considering the

great odds they had to contend with. The ladies were very successful

teachers--their classes were always large.

In Williamsburg there is T. Joiner White, M.D.; in Brooklyn Peter Ray,

M.D.; and in the city of New York, also, John Degrass, M.D., all young

Physicians, who have time and experience yet before them, and promise

fair to be good and useful members of society.

Miss Eliza Greenfield the BLACK SWAN, is among the most extraordinary

persons of the present century. Being raised in obscurity, inured to

callings far beneath her propensity, and unsuited to her taste, she had

a desire to cultivate her talents, but no one to encourage her. Whenever

she made the effort, she was discouraged--perhaps ridiculed; and thus

discouraged, she would shrink again from her anxious task. She knew she

could sing, and knew she could sing unlike any body else; knew she sung

better than any whom she had heard of the popular singers, but could not

tell why others could not think with, and appreciate her. In this way it

seems, she was thrown about for three years, never meeting with a

person who could fully appreciate her talents; and we have it from her

own lips, that not until after the arrival of Jenny Lind and Parodi in

the country, was she aware of the high character of her own talents. She

knew she possessed them, because they were inherent, inseparable with

her being. She attended the Concerts of Mad'll. Jenny Lind, and Operas

of Parodi, and at once saw the "secret of their success"--they possessed

talents, that no other popular singers mastered.

She went home; her heart fluttered; she stole an opportunity when no one

listened, to mock or gossip; let out her voice, when _ecce!_ she found

her strains _four_ notes _above_ Sweden's favored Nightingale; she

descended when lo! she found her tones _three_ notes _below!_ she

thanked God with a "still small voice"; and now, she ranks second in

point of voice, to no vocalist in the world. Miss Greenfield, if she

only be judicious and careful, may become yet, in point of popularity,

what Miss Lind was. The Black Swan, is singing to fine fashionable

houses, and bids fair to stand unrivalled in the world of Song.

Patrick Henry Reason, a gentleman of ability and fine artist, stands

high as an Engraver in the city of New York. Mr. Reason has been in

business for years, in that city, and has sent out to the world, many

beautiful specimens of his skillful hand. He was the first artist, we

believe in the United States, who produced a plate of that beautiful

touching little picture, the Kneeling Slave; the first picture of which

represented a handsome, innocent little girl upon her knees, with hands

outstretched, leaving the manacles dangling before her, anxiously

looking and wishfully asking, "_Am I not a sister?_" It was

beautiful--sorrowfully beautiful. He has we understand, frequently done

Government engraving. Mr. P.H. is a brother of Professor Charles L.

Reason.

David Jones Peck, M.D., a graduate of Rush Medical College, a talented

young gentleman, practised Medicine for two years in Philadelphia. He

left there in 1850.

William H. Allen, Esq., A.B., successor to Professor C.L. Reason, is

Professor of Languages in Centre College, at McGrawville, N.Y. Professor

Allen, is a gentleman of fine education, a graduate of Oneida Institute,

and educated himself entirely by his own industry, having the aid of but

fifty dollars during the whole period. The Professor is a talented

Lecturer on Ancient History, and much of a gentleman.

Martin H. Freeman, A.B., a young gentleman, graduate of Rutland College,

in Vermont, is "Junior Professor," in Allegheny Institute, Allegheny

county, Pa. The Professor is a gentleman of talents, and doing much good

in his position.

Rev. Molliston Madison Clark, a gentleman of great talents, a noble

speaker, educated at Jefferson College, Pa., sailed to Europe in 1846,

and was a member of the Evangelical Alliance. Mr. Clark kept a regular

Journal of his travels through the United Kingdom of England, Scotland

and Ireland. As well as a Greek and Latin, he is also a French and

Spanish Linguist. He has all the eccentricity of Rowland Hill,

manifested only in a very different manner.

William C. Nell, of Rochester, N.Y., formerly of Boston, has long been

known as a gentleman of chaste and lofty sentiments, and a pure

philanthropist. Mr. Nell, in company with Mr. Frederick Douglass, was

present by invitation, and took his seat at table, at the celebration of

Franklin's Birth Day, by the Typographical and Editorial corps of

Rochester. In 1850, being again residing in Boston, he was nominated and

ran for the Legislature of Massachusetts, by the Free Soil party of

Essex county. Mr. Nell stood even with his party vote in the District.

He recently issued from the Boston press a Pamphlet, on the colored men

who served in the wars of the United States of 1776, and 1812. This

pamphlet is very useful as a book of reference on this subject, and Mr.

Nell, of course does not aim at a full historical view. The

circumstances under which it was got out, justify this belief. He was

collecting materials in the winter of 1850-51, when he was taken down to

his bed with a severe attack of disease of one of his lungs, with which

he lingered, unable to leave his room for weeks. In the Spring,

recovering somewhat his health, so as to go out--during this time, he

had the little pamphlet published, as a means of pecuniary aid,

promising another part to be forthcoming some subsequent period, which

the writer hopes may soon be issued. Mr. Nell, is an excellent man, and

deserves the patronage of the public.

Joseph G. Anderson, successor to Captain Frank Johnson, of Philadelphia,

is now one of the most distinguished musicians in the country. Mr.

Anderson is an artist professionally and practically, mastering various

instruments, a composer of music, and a gentleman of fine

accomplishments in other respects. His musical fame will grow with his

age, which one day must place him in the front ranks of his profession,

among the master in the world.

William Jackson, is among the leading musicians of New York city, and

ranks among the most skillful violinists of America. This gentleman is a

master of his favorite instrument, executing with ease the most

difficult and critical composition. He is generally preferred in social

and private parties, among the first families of the city, where the

amateur and gentleman is more regarded than the mere services of the

musician. Mr. Jackson is a teacher of music, and only requires a more

favorable opportunity to vie with Ole Bull or Paganini.

Rev. Daniel A. Payne, commenced his literary career in Charleston,

South Carolina, where he taught school for some time. In 1833 or 1834,

he came North, placing himself in the Lutheran Theological Seminary, at

Gettysburg, under the tutorage of the learned and distinguished Dr.

Schmucker, where he finished his education as a Lutheran clergyman. To

extend his usefulness, he joined the African Methodist Connexion, and

for several years resided in Baltimore, where he taught an Academy for

colored youth and maidens, gaining the respect and esteem of all who had

the fortune to become acquainted with him. He is now engaged travelling

and collecting information, for the publication of a history of one of

the colored Methodist denominations in the United States. Mr. Payne is a

pure and chaste poet, having published a small volume of his productions

in 1850, under the title of "Pleasures and other Miscellaneous Poems, by

Daniel A. Payne," issued from the press of Sherwood and Company,

Baltimore, Maryland.

Rev. William T. Catto, a clergyman of fine talents, finished his

education in the Theological Seminary in Charleston, South Carolina. He

was ordained by the Presbytery of Charleston, and in 1848, under the

best recommendations for piety, acquirements, and all the qualifications

necessary to his high mission as a clergyman, was sent out as a

missionary to preach the Gospel to all who needed it; but to make

himself more useful, he joined the African Methodist Episcopal Church

Connexion, and is now a useful and successful preacher in Philadelphia.

The musical profession of Philadelphia has long had a valuable votary in

the person of William Appo, an accomplished pianist. Mr. Appo has been a

teacher of the piano forte, for more than twenty years, alternately in

the cities of New York and Philadelphia, and sometimes in Baltimore.

His profession extends amongst the citizens generally, from the more

moderate in circumstances, to the ladies and daughters of the most

wealthy gentlemen in community. This gentleman is a fine scholar, and as

well as music, teaches the French language successfully. His young

daughter, Helen, a miss of fourteen years of age, inherits the musical

talents of her father, and is now organist in the central Presbyterian

Church. The name of William Appo, is generally known as a popular

teacher of music, but few who are not personally acquainted with him,

know that he is a colored gentleman.

Augustus Washington, an artist of fine taste and perception, is numbered

among the most successful Daguerreotypists in Hartford, Connecticut. His

establishment is said to be visited daily by large numbers of the

citizens of all classes; and this gallery is perhaps, the only one in

the country, that keeps a female attendant, and dressing-room for

ladies. He recommends, in his cards, black dresses to be worn for

sitting; and those who go unsuitably dressed, are supplied with drapery,

and properly enrobed.

John Newton Templeton, A.M., for fifteen years an upright, active, and

very useful citizen of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, was a graduate of Athens

College, in the State of Ohio. Mr. Templeton, after an active life of

more than twenty years, principally spent in school teaching, died in

Pittsburg, in July, 1851, leaving an amiable widow and infant son.

Thomas Paul, A.B., of Boston, a gentleman of fine talents and amiable

disposition, whose life has been mainly devoted to teaching, is a

graduate of Bowdoin College, in Maine. Mr. Paul is now the recipient of

a salary of fifteen hundred dollars a year as teacher of a school in

Boston.

Rev. Benjamin Franklin Templeton, pastor of St. Mary street Church,

Philadelphia, was educated at Hanover College, near Madison, Indiana. In

1838, Mr. Templeton was ordained a minister of the Ripley Presbytery, in

Ohio; subsequently, in 1841, established a church, the Sixth

Presbyterian, in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, from which place he was

called, in 1844, to take charge of his present pastorate. Mr. Templeton

is a beautiful speaker, and an amiable gentleman.[3]

John B. Russworm, a gentleman of splendid talents, graduated at Bowdoin

College, many years ago. Mr. Russworm was a class-mate of Honorable John

P. Hale, United States Senator, and after leaving College as his first

public act, commenced the publication of a newspaper, for the elevation

of colored Americans, called "Freedom's Journal." Subsequently to the

publication of his paper, Mr. Russworm became interested in the

Colonization scheme, then in its infancy, and went to Liberia; after

which he went to Bassa Cove, of which place he was made governor, where

he died in 1851.

Benjamin Coker, a colored Methodist clergyman, forty years ago, wrote

and issued, in the city of Baltimore, Maryland, a pamphlet, setting

forth in glowing terms, the evils of American slavery, and the wrongs

inflicted on the colored race. Rev. Daniel A. Payne, a talented

clergyman, mentioned in this work, has now in his possession a copy of

the pamphlet, and informs us, that the whole ground assumed by the

modern abolitionists, was taken and reviewed in this pamphlet, by Daniel

Coker. We may reasonably infer, that the ideas of Anti-Slavery, as

taught by the friends of the black race at the present day, were

borrowed from Mr. Coker; though, perhaps, policy forbade due credit to

the proper source. Coker, like Russworm, became interested in the cause

of African Colonization, and went to Africa; where he subsequently

became an extensive coast trader, having several vessels, one of which

he commanded in person, taking up his residence on the island of

Sherbro, where he is said to have lived in great splendor. He died in

1845 or 1846, at an advanced age, leaving a family of sons and

daughters.

Henry Bibb, an eloquent speaker, for several years, was the principal

traveling lecturer for the Liberty Party of Michigan. Mr. Bibb, with

equal advantages, would equal many of those who fill high places in the

country, and now assume superiority over him and his kindred. He fled an

exile from the United States, in 1850, to Canada, to escape the terrible

consequences of the Republican Fugitive Slave Law, which threatened him

with a total destruction of liberty. Mr. Bibb established the "Voice of

the Fugitive," a newspaper, in Sandwich, Canada West, which is managed

and conducted with credit.

Titus Basfield, graduated at Franklin College, New Athens, Ohio,

receiving his religious instruction from the late Dr. Jonathan Walker,

of that place, a physician and Covenanter clergyman. He afterwards

graduated in theology at the Theological Seminary of Cannonsburg,

Pennsylvania, was ordained, and traveled preaching and lecturing to the

people of his peculiar faith and the public, for several years. He went

to New London, Canada West, where he has charge of a Scotch congregation

of religious votaries to that ancient doctrine of salvation.

Mary Ann Shadd, a very intelligent young lady, peculiarly eccentric,

published an excellent pamphlet, issued from the press in Wilmington,

Delaware, in 1849, on the elevation of the colored people. The writer of

this work, was favored with an examination of it before publication,

which he then highly approved of, as an excellent introduction to a

great subject, fraught with so much interest. Miss Shadd has traveled

much, and now has charge of a school in Sandwich, Canada West.

James McCrummill, of Philadelphia, is a skillful surgeon-dentist, and

manufacturer of porcelain teeth, having practised the profession for

many years in that city. He is said to be equal to the best in the city,

and probably only requires an undivided attention to establish the

reality.

Joseph Wilson, Thomas Kennard, and William Nickless, are also practising

dentists in the city of Philadelphia. Mr. Kennard is said to be one of

the best _workmen_ in the manufacture of artificial teeth, and _gums_--a

new discovery, and very valuable article, in this most beautiful and

highly useful art. He devotes several hours a day, to the manufacture of

these articles for one of the principal surgeon-dentists of Arch street.

James M. Whitfield, of Buffalo, New York, though in an humble position,

(for which we think he is somewhat reprehensible), is one of the purest

poets in America. He has written much for different newspapers; and, by

industry and application--being already a good English scholar--did he

but place himself in a favorable situation in life, would not be second

to John Greenleaf Whittier, nor the late Edgar A. Poe.

Mary Elizabeth Miles, in accordance with the established rules,

graduated as a teacher, in the Normal School, at Albany, New York,

several years ago. Miss Miles (now Mrs. Bibb) was a very talented young

lady and successful teacher. She spent several years of usefulness in

Massachusetts, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, after which she went to

Cincinnati, as assistant-teacher in Gilmore's "High School for Colored

Children," which ended her public position in life. She now resides in

Sandwich, Canada West.

Lucy Stanton, of Columbus, Ohio, is a graduate of Oberlin Collegiate

Institute, in that State. She is now engaged in teaching school in that

city, in which she is reputed to be successful. She is quite a young

lady, and has her promise of life all before her, and bids fair to

become a woman of much usefulness in society.

Doctor Bias, of Philadelphia, spoken of in another place, graduated at

the close of the session of 1851-52, in the Eclectic Medical College, in

that city. The doctor is highly esteemed by the physicians of his

system, who continually interchange calls with him. He is also a

practical phrenologist,--which profession he does not now attend to,

giving his undivided attention to the practice of medicine,--and has

written a pamphlet on that subject, entitled, "Synopsis of Phrenology,

and the Phrenological Developments, as given by J.J. Gould Bias." No man

perhaps, in the community of Philadelphia, possesses more self-will, and

determination of character, than Dr. James Joshua Gould Bias. Mr.

Whipper says of him, that he is "a Napoleon in character." The sterling

trait in his character is, that he grasps after _originality_, and

grapples with every difficulty. Such a man, must and will succeed in his

undertakings.

FOOTNOTE:

[3] During the last twenty years, there have been, at different periods,

published among the colored people of the United States, twenty odd

newspapers, some of which were conducted with ability. Among them, the

"Colored American," in New York city; Samuel E. Cornish, Philip A. Bell,

and Charles B. Ray, at different times, Editors. "The Demosthenian

Shield," issued from a Literary Society of young colored men, in the

city of Philadelphia. "The Straggler," by Philip A. Bell, New York, out

of which the Colored American took its origin. The "National Reformer,"

an able monthly periodical, in pamphlet form, in Philadelphia; William

Whipper, Editor. "The Northern Star," a Temperance monthly newspaper,

published in Albany, N.Y.; Stephen Myers, Editor, still in

existence--changed to ----. "The Mystery," of Pittsburg, Pa.; Martin

Robison Delany, Editor--succeeded by a committee of colored gentlemen as

Editors. The "Palladium of Liberty," issued in Columbus, O., by a

committee of colored gentlemen; David Jenkins, Editor. "The

Disfranchised American," by a committee of colored gentlemen,

Cincinnati, O.; A.M. Sumner, Editor--succeeded by the "Colored Citizen";

Rev. Thomas Woodson, and William Henry Yancey, Editors. The "National

Watchman," Troy, N.Y.; William H. Allen and Henry Highland Garnett,

Editors. Another issued in New York city, the name of which, we cannot

now remember; James William Charles Pennington, D.D., and James McCune

Smith, M.D., Editors: the issue being alternately at Hartford, the then

residence of Dr. Pennington--and New York city, the residence of Dr.

Smith. The "Excelsior," an ephemeral issue, which appeared but once, in

Detroit, Mich.; William H. Day, Editor.

The "Christian Herald," the organ of the A.M. Episcopal Church,

published under the auspices of the General Conference of that body;

Augustus Richardson Green, Editor, and General Book Steward. This

gentleman has, also, written and published several small volumes of a

religious character; a pamphlet on the Episcopacy and Infant Baptism,

and the Lives of Reverends Fayette Davis and David Canyou. The

"Elevator," of Philadelphia; James McCrummill, Editor. The "Ram's Horn,"

New York city; Thomas Vanrensellear, Editor. There is now a little

paper, the name of which we cannot recollect, issued at Newark, N.J.,

merely a local paper, very meager in appearance. "The Farmer and

Northern Star," in Courtland, N.Y., afterwards changed to the "Impartial

Citizen," and published in Boston; Samuel Ringgold Ward, Editor. "The

North Star," published in Rochester, N.Y.; Frederick Douglass, and

Martin Robinson Delany, Editors--subsequently changed to the "Frederick

Douglass' Paper"; Frederick Douglass, Editor.

A number of gentlemen have been authors of narratives, written by

themselves, some of which are masterly efforts, manifesting great force

of talents. Of such, are those by Frederick Douglass, William Wells

Brown, and Henry Bibb.

Of the various churches and clergy we have nothing to say, as these do

not come within our province; except where individuals, from position,

come within the sphere of our arrangement.

There have been several inventors among the colored people. The youth

Henry Blair, of Maryland, some years ago, invented the Corn-Planter, and

Mr. Roberts of Philadelphia, 1842, a machine for lifting cars off the

railways.

It may be expected that we should say something about a book issued in

Boston, purporting to be a history of ancient great men of African

descent, by one Mr. Lewis, entitled "Light and Truth." This book is

nothing more than a compilation of selected portions of Rollin's,

Goldsmith's, Furguson's, Hume's, and other ancient histories; added to

which, is a tissue of historical absurdities and literary blunders,

shamefully palpable, for which the author or authors should mantle their

faces.

If viewed in the light of a "Yankee trick," simply by which to make

money, it may, peradventure, be a very clever trick; but the publisher

should have recollected, that the ostensible object of his work was, the

edification and enlightenment of the public in general and the colored

people in particular, upon a great and important subject of truth; and

that those who must be the most injured by it, will be the very class of

people, whom he professes a desire to benefit. We much regret the fact,

that there are but too many of our brethren, who undertake to dabble in

literary matters, in the shape of newspaper and book-making, who are

wholly unqualified for the important work. This, however, seems to be

called forth by the palpable neglect, and indifference of those who have

had the educational advantages, but neglected to make such use of them.

There is one redeeming quality about "Light and Truth." It is a capital

offset to the pitiable literary blunders of Professor George R. Gliddon,

late Consul to Egypt, from the United States, Lecturer on Ancient

Egyptian Literature, &c., &c., who makes all ancient black men, _white_;

and asserts the Egyptians and Ethiopians to have been of the _Caucasian_

or white race!--So, also, this colored gentleman, makes all ancient

great white men, black--as Diogenes, Socrates, Themistocles, Pompey,

Caesar, Cato, Cicero, Horace, Virgil, et cetera. Gliddon's idle nonsense

has found a capital match in the production of Mr. Lewis' "Light and

Truth," and both should be sold together. We may conclude by expressing

our thanks to our brother Lewis, as we do not think that Professor

Gliddon's learned ignorance, would have ever met an equal but for "Light

and Truth." Reverends D.A. Payne, M.M. Clark, and other learned colored

gentlemen, agree with us in the disapproval of this book.--EDITOR.

XII

STUDENTS OF VARIOUS PROFESSIONS

There are a number of young gentlemen who have finished their literary

course, who are now studying for the different learned professions, in

various parts of the country.

Jonathan Gibbs, A.B., a very talented young gentleman, and fine speaker,

is now finishing his professional studies in the Theological School at

Dartmouth University. Mr. Gibbs also studied in the Scientific

Department of the same Institution.

William H. Day, Esq., A.B., a graduate of Oberlin Collegiate Institute,

is now in Cleveland Ohio, preparing for the Bar. Mr. Day is, perhaps,

the most eloquent young gentleman of his age in the United States.

John Mercer Langston, A.B., of Chillicothe, Ohio, also a graduate of

Oberlin College, a talented young gentleman, and promising orator, is

completing a Theological course at the School of Divinity at Oberlin. It

is said, that Mr. Langston intends also to prepare for the Bar. He

commenced the study of Law previous to that of Theology, under Judge

Andrews of Cleveland.

Charles Dunbar, of New York city, a promising, very intelligent young

gentleman, is now in the office of Dr. Childs, and having attended one

course of Lectures at Bowdoin Medical School in Maine, will finish next

fall and winter, for the practice of his profession.

Isaac Humphrey Snowden, a promising young gentleman of talents, is now

reading Medicine under Dr. Clarke of Boston, and attended the session of

the Medical School of Harvard University, of 1850-51.

Daniel Laing, Jr., Esq., a fine intellectual young gentleman of Boston,

a student also of Dr. Clarke of that city, one of the Surgeons of the

Massachusetts General Hospital, who attended the course of Lectures the

session of 1850-51, at the Medical School of Harvard University, is now

in Paris, to spend two years in the hospitals, and attend the Medical

Lectures of that great seat of learning. Mr. Laing, like most medical

students, has ever been an admirer, and anxious to sit under the

teachings of that great master in Surgery, Velpeau.

Dr. James J. Gould Bias, a Botanic Physician, and talented gentleman of

Philadelphia, is a member of the class of 1851-52, of the Eclectic

Medical School of that city. Dr. Bias deserves the more credit for his

progress in life, as he is entirely self-made.

Robert B. Leach, of Cleveland, Ohio, a very intelligent young gentleman,

is a member of the medical class for 1851-52, of the Homeopathic

College, in that City. Mr. Leach, when graduated, will be the _First

Colored Homeopathic_ Physician in the United States.

Dr. John Degrass, of New York city, named in another place, spent two

years in Paris Hospitals, under the teaching of the great lecturer and

master of surgery, Velpeau, to whom he was assistant and dresser, in the

hospital--the first position--for advantages, held by a student. The

Doctor has subsequently been engaged as surgeon on a Havre packet, where

he discharged the duties of his office with credit.

Also Dr. Peter Ray, of Brooklyn, named on the same page, graduated at

Castleton Medical School, Vermont, spent some time at the Massachusetts

General Hospital, Boston, where he held the position of assistant and

dresser to Surgeon Parkman, in his ward of the hospital.

Dr. John P. Reynolds, has for a number of years been one of the most

popular and successful physicians in Vincennes, Indiana. We believe Dr.

Reynolds, was not of the "regular" system, but some twenty-three or-four

years ago, studied under an "Indian physician," after which, he

practised very successfully in Zanesville, Ohio, subsequently removing

to Vincennes, where he has for the last sixteen years, supported an

enviable reputation as a physician. We understand Doctor Reynolds has

entered into all the scientific improvements of the "eclectic school" of

medicine, which has come into being in the United States, long since his

professional career commenced. His popularity is such, that he has

frequently been entrusted, with public confidence, and on one occasion,

in 1838, was appointed by the court, sole executor of a very valuable

orphans' estate. The Doctor has grown quite wealthy it is said,

commanding a considerable influence in the community.

Dr. McDonough, a skillful young physician, graduated at the Institute,

Easton, Pennsylvania, and finished his medical education at the

University of New York. The Doctor is one of the most thorough of the

young physicians; has been attached to the greater part of the public

institutions of the city of New York, and is a good practical chemist.

Of course, there are many others, but as we have taken no measures

whatever, to collect facts or information from abroad, only getting such

as was at hand, and giving the few sketches here, according to our own

recollection of them, we close this short chapter at this point.

XIII

A SCAN AT PAST THINGS

It may not be considered in good taste to refer to those still living,

who formerly occupied prominent business positions, and by dint of

misfortune or fortune, have withdrawn. Nevertheless, we shall do so,

since our simple object in this hasty sketch of things, is to show that

the colored people of the country have not as has been charged upon

them, always been dregs on the community and excrescences on the body

politic, wherever they may have lived. We only desire to show that they

have been, all things considered, just like other people.

Several years ago, there lived in the city of St. Louis, Missouri, Mr.

Berry Mechum. This gentleman was very wealthy, and had at one time, two

fine steamers plying on the Mississippi, all under the command and

management of white men, to whom he trusted altogether. As late as 1836,

he sent two sons to the Oberlin Collegiate Institute, desiring that they

might become educated, in order to be able to manage his business; who,

although he could read and write, was not sufficiently qualified and

skilled in the arts of business to vie with the crafty whites of the

Valley. But before his sons were fitted for business though reputed very

wealthy, which there is no doubt he was, his whole property was seized

and taken: and as he informed the writer himself, he did not know what

for, as he had no debts that he knew of, until these suits were

entered. Mr. Mechum was an energetic, industrious, persevering old

gentleman--a baptist clergyman, and published a small pamphlet on the

condition of the colored race. And although, it evinces great deficiency

of literary qualifications, yet, does credit to the good old man, for

the sound thoughts therein contained.

Also in the city of St. Louis, David Desara, who was a Mississippi pilot

for many years. He made much money at his business, and owned at one

time, a steamboat, which he piloted himself. Mr. Desara also failed, in

consequence of having his business all in the hands of white men, as

most of the slave state colored people have, entrusting to them

entirely, without knowing anything of their own concerns.

Charles Moore, long and familiarly known as "Chancy Moore the Pilot,"

was for many years, one of the most popular pilots on the Ohio and

Mississippi rivers. Mr. Moore made much money, and withdrew from his old

business, purchasing a large tract of land in Mercer County, Ohio, where

he has for the last ten or twelve years been farming.

Mr. Moore was an honest man, and we believe upon him originated the

purely Western phrase, "Charley Moore the fair thing"; he always in his

dealings saying "gentlemen, do the _fair_ thing."

Abner H. Francis and James Garrett were formerly extensive clothes

dealers in Buffalo, N.Y., doing business to the amount of sixty thousand

dollars annually. They were energetic, industrious, persevering

gentlemen, commencing business under very unfavorable circumstances, in

fact, commencing on but _seventy-five_ dollars, as the writer has been

authentically informed by the parties.

They continued successfully for years, where their paper and

endorsements were good for any amount they wanted--highly respected and

esteemed; Mr. Francis sitting at one time as juryman in the court of

quarter sessions. These gentlemen failed in business in 1849, but since

then, have nearly adjusted the claims against them. Mr. Francis has

since settled in Oregon Territory, Portland City, where he is again

doing a fair mercantile business. They bid fair again to rank among the

"merchant princes" of the times.

Robert Banks was for many years, a highly esteemed and extensive clothes

dealer, on Jefferson Avenue, in Detroit, Mich. No man was more highly

respected for unswerving integrity, and uprightness of purpose, than

Robert Banks, of Detroit. Mr. Banks, had much enlarged his business,

immediately succeeding a fire in which he was burnt out two years

previous to closing, which ensued in July, 1851, being the second time

he had lost his store by fire. He might have, had he done as merchants

usually do under such circumstances, continued his business; but

instead, he made an assignment, with few preferred creditors, rather as

he expressed it, ruin his business, than wilfully wrong a creditor. What

speaks volumes in his behalf, every person, even his greatest creditors

say, "He is an honest man"; and while settling the business of the late

concern, those to whom he was indebted, offered him assistance to

commence business again. But this he thankfully declined, preferring to

take his chance with others in the land of gold, California, where he

now is, than commence again under the circumstances. Doubtless, if no

special prevention ensue, Mr. Banks will be fully able to redeem his

present obligations, and once more be found prospering and happy.

Henry Knight, of Chicago, commenced business in that city without

capital; but by industry, soon gained the esteem and confidence of the

public, making many friends. He fast rose in prosperity, until he became

the proprietor of the most extensive livery establishment in the city,

in which he had much capital invested. Determined to be equal to the

times, the growing prosperity of the city, and the demands of the

increasing pride of the place, he extended his possessions--erecting

costly buildings, besides increasing his stock and livery extensively.

He was burnt out--a pressure came upon him--he sold out his stock, staid

suits against himself; went to California, returned in a year and a

half--paid off old claims, saved his property--went back; opened a

California hotel, returned in less than one year with several thousand

dollars, and now stands entirely clear of all debt--and all this done in

the space of two and a half years. Mr. Knight is a man of business, and

will hold his position with others if he have but half a chance. With

such a man, there is "no such a thing as fail"--he could not again, if

he desired, because, his friends would not permit him.

XIV

LATE MEN OF LITERARY, PROFESSIONAL AND ARTISTIC NOTE

Late Captain Frank Johnson, of Philadelphia, the most renowned band

leader ever known in the United States, was a man of science, and master

of his profession. In 1838, Captain Johnson went to England with his

noble band of musicians, where he met with great success--played to Her

Majesty Queen Victoria and His Royal Highness Prince Albert--Captain

Johnson receiving a handsome French bugle, by order of her Majesty,

valued at five hundred dollars--returning, he held throughout the

Eastern, Northern, and Western States, grand concerts, known as "Soirees

Musicales." He was a great composer and teacher of music, and some of

the finest Marches and Cotillions now extant, have been originally

composed by Captain Frank Johnson. On his Western tour, by some

awkwardness of management, he lost at Buffalo, original music in

manuscript, which never had been published--as much of his composition

had been; valued at one thousand dollars, which, although advertised, he

never got. But his name was sufficient to give additional value to the

prize; and there is no doubt, but the world is now being benefited by

the labors of Captain Johnson, the credit being given to others than

himself. This was an unfortunate circumstance, and had his amiable and

excellent widow, Mrs. Helen Johnson of Philadelphia, now this

composition, she could support herself in ease, by the sale of the

published work. Captain Frank Johnson, died in Philadelphia in 1844,

universally respected, and regretted as an irreparable loss to society.

At his death the band divided, different members taking a leadership.

Andrew J. Conner, one of the members of Captain Johnson's band, also

became a distinguished composer and teacher of music. Mr. Conner taught

the piano forte in the best families in the city of Philadelphia--among

merchants, bankers, and professional men. He contributed to the popular

literary Magazines of the day, and very many who have read in Graham's

and other literary issues, "Music composed by A.J. Conner," did not for

a moment think that the author was a colored gentleman. Mr. Conner died

in Philadelphia in 1850.

James Ulett, formerly of New York, became quite celebrated a few years

since, as a comedian. He played several times in the old "Richmond Hill"

Theatre, and quite successfully in Europe. Mr. Ulett was not well

educated, and consequently, labored under considerable inconvenience in

reading, frequently making grammatical blunders, as the writer noticed

in a private rehearsal, in 1836, in the city of New York. He, however,

possessed great intellectual powers, and his success depended more upon

that, than his accuracy in reading. Of course, he was a great delineator

of character, which being the principal feature in a comedian, his

language was lost sight of in common conversation. Mr. Ulett died in New

York a few years ago.

Doctor Lewis G. Wells was a most talented orator and man of literary

qualifications. Residing in Baltimore, Maryland, he raised himself high

in the estimation of all who knew him. He studied medicine, and was

admitted into the Washington Medical College, attending the regular

courses, and would have graduated, but for some misunderstanding

between himself and the professors, which prevented it. He was a most

successful practitioner, and effected more cures during the prevalence

of the cholera in 1832, than any other physician in the city. Doctor

Wells was also a most successful practical phrenologist, and lectured to

large and fashionable houses of the first class ladies and gentlemen of

Baltimore, and other cities. Being a great wit, he kept his audiences in

uproars of laughter. Mr. Wells was also an ordained minister of the

Gospel, belonging to the white Methodist connexion; and was author of

several productions, among them, a large Methodist hymn book, containing

several fine original poems. Dr. Wells died the same year of cholera,

after successfully saving many others, because there was no physician at

that time who understood the treatment of the disease.

XV

FARMERS AND HERDSMEN

Little need be said about farmers; there are hundreds of them in all

parts of the country, especially in the Western States; still these may

not be considered of a conspicuous or leading character--albeit, they

are contributing largely to the wants of community, and wealth of the

country at large. Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, and

Indiana, all, are largely represented by the farming interests of

colored men. We shall name but a sufficient number to show the character

of their enterprise in this department of American industry.

Rev. William Watson, of Cincinnati, Ohio, is the owner of a fine farm in

Mercer county, and six hundred acres of additional land.

Mr. Richard Phillips, of the same city, is owner of a fine farm in the

same county, and three hundred and fifty additional acres of land.

Rev. Reuben P. Graham, of Cincinnati, owns a finely cultivated farm in

Mercer county, three hundred acres of adjoining land; and one near

Cincinnati.

Mr. John Woodson, of Jackson county, is one of the most successful

farmers in the State of Ohio. Having a large tract of land, he has one

of the best cultivated farms in the West, in a most productive state,

raising grains, fruits, and livestock. In the year 1842, his farm

produced that season, three thousand bushels of wheat, several hundred

bushels of rye, eleven hundred bushels of oats, large crops of corn,

potatoes, and other vegetables; large quantities of fruits, three

hundred stacks of hay, with a large stock of several hundred heads of

cattle on the place. Mr. Woodson has for many years, been a highly

respectable man in his neighborhood, and continues his farming interests

with unabated success.

Dr. Charles Henry Langston, of Columbus, Ohio, is also the proprietor of

a very fine farm of eleven hundred acres, in Jackson county, upon which

he has a white tenant. This gentleman is a surgeon-dentist by

profession, educated at Oberlin College, making his home in Columbus.

Robert Purvis, Esq., a gentleman of collegiate education, is proprietor

of one of the best improved farms in Philadelphia county, fifteen miles

from Philadelphia. His cattle consist of the finest English breed.

Joseph Purvis, Esq., of Bucks county, Pennsylvania, a gentleman also of

education and wealth, is an amateur stock farmer. Every animal on Mr.

Purvis' farm is of the very best breed--Godolphin horses, Durham cattle,

Leicestershire sheep, Berkshire swine, even English bull-terrier dogs,

and whatever else pertains to the blooded breeds of brutes, may be found

on the farm of Joseph Purvis. Mr. Purvis supplies a great many farmers

with choice breeds of cattle, and it is said that he spends ten thousand

dollars annually, in the improvement of his stocks.

Robert Briges Forten, also of Bucks county, Pennsylvania, is an amateur

farmer. Mr. Forten is a gentleman of fine education, a pure, chaste

poet, and attends to farming for the love of nature. He is a valuable

member of the farming enterprise in the country.

If such evidence of industry and interest, as has been exhibited in the

various chapters on the different pursuits and engagements of colored

Americans, do not entitle them to equal rights and privileges in our

common country, then indeed, is there nothing to justify the claims of

any portion of the American people to the common inheritance of Liberty.

We proceed to another view of our condition in the United States.

XVI

NATIONAL DISFRANCHISEMENT OF COLORED PEOPLE

We give below the Act of Congress, known as the "Fugitive Slave Law,"

for the benefit of the reader, as there are thousands of the American

people of all classes, who have never read the provisions of this

enactment; and consequently, have no conception of its enormity. We had

originally intended, also, to have inserted here, the Act of Congress of

1793, but since this Bill includes all the provisions of that Act, in

fact, although called a "supplement," is a substitute, _de facto_, it

would be superfluous; therefore, we insert the Bill alone, with

explanations following:--

AN ACT

TO AMEND, AND SUPPLEMENTARY TO THE ACT, ENTITLED, "AN ACT

RESPECTING FUGITIVES FROM JUSTICE, AND PERSONS ESCAPING FROM THE

SERVICE OF THEIR MASTERS," APPROVED FEBRUARY 12, 1793.

_Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the

United States of America in Congress assembled_, That the persons

who have been, or may hereafter be, appointed commissioners, in

virtue of any act of Congress, by the circuit courts of the United

States, and who, in consequence of such appointment, are authorized

to exercise the powers that any justice of the peace or other

magistrate of any of the United States may exercise in respect to

offenders for any crime or offence against the United States, by

arresting, imprisoning, or bailing the same under and by virtue of

the thirty-third section of the act of the twenty-fourth of

September, seventeen hundred and eighty-nine, entitled "An act to

establish the judicial courts of the United States," shall be, and

are hereby authorized and required to exercise and discharge all

the powers and duties conferred by this act.

SEC. 2. _And be it further enacted_, That the superior court of

each organized territory of the United States shall have the same

power to appoint commissioners to take acknowledgments of bail and

affidavit, and to take depositions of witnesses in civil causes,

which is now possessed by the circuit courts of the United States;

and all commissioners who shall hereafter be appointed for such

purposes by the superior court of any organized territory of the

United States shall possess all the powers and exercise all the

duties conferred by law upon the commissioners appointed by the

circuit courts of the United States for similar purposes, and shall

moreover exercise and discharge all the powers and duties conferred

by this act.

SEC. 3. _And be it further enacted_, That the circuit courts of the

United States, and the superior courts of each organized territory

of the United States, shall from time to time enlarge the number of

commissioners, with a view to afford reasonable facilities to

reclaim fugitives from labor, and to the prompt discharge of the

duties imposed by this act.