Reading Garrison’s Letters

Nov. 1, 1859

“What Capt. Brown expected to accomplish with only a score of abettors is to me, up to this hour, quite enigmatical.  Upon the face of it, his raid into Virginia looks utterly lacking in common sense  — a desperate self-sacrifice for the purpose of giving an earthquake shock to the slave system, and thus hastening the day for a universal catastrophe.  But, whatever may have been his errors of judgement or calculation, his bearing since his capture and during his trial has been truly sublime, and challenges for him all of human sympathy and respect.  O course, he will be hung, and quite as speedily as decency will allow.  In Boston  we have thought it would be a master-stroke of policy to urge  the day of his execution as the day for  a general public expression of sentiment with reference to the guilt and danger of slavery… “  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

May 26, 1858

“Dear Mr. Parker:  I was so interrupted by company to a late hour last night, that I have found it impossible to look over your manuscript, though I tried to do  my best.  You say it is written so plain that he who runs may read it –’if he can’.  I can say, on an examination of it, that its chirography is such as to furnish a very strong inducement for any man to run who attempts to read it! ..”    ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

March 5, 1858

This is a petition to the Joint Special Committee of the Legislature,  asking for the removal of Loring as Judge of Probate for Suffolk County.   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Oct. 3, 1857

Garrison writes to Theodore Parker, asking that he assist at the funeral of his mother’s sister.  Also in the same time period there are notices of the death to several family members.   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

July 8, 1857

“If the Republican party told the truth, last November, the Presidential election transferred the balance of power,  more than ever, to the side of slavery.  It has four years of corruption, conquest and annexation before it, and it remains to be proved that any merely political combination can defeat it. On the other hand, the attitude of the Republican leaders is now, as always, one of timidity and compromise …”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Nov. 12,1855

Garrison writes to a committee of people who have scheduled a series of  lectures on slavery, to be given at Tremont Temple; he has been invited to speak, but because there are several lectures scheduled by defenders of slavery, he declines.  Garrison notes the names of some of the speakers, and variously characterizes them as “lawless ruffian”, “leader of bandits”, “desperate demagogue”, “unmitigated blackguard”, “shameless bully”, “monster in human form”.  “All these stand committed before the world as the most malignant enemies of the anti-slavery cause, the most bitter contemners of the North, most ferocious defenders of the accursed slave system to the end of time.”   While he often includes in the Liberator the words of defenders of slavery, this step taken by the committee, “is but one step from the sublime to the ridiculous”… “What is particularly surprising is, that you should have selected from among the slaveholders, and defenders of slavery, the most insolent, depraved, and desperate of them all…”  Garrison concludes his letter:  “..believing you have acted from the best motives, though unwisely … the most effective lecture I can deliver is to record this frank and honest testimony, I remain, gentlemen Yours, for no union with slaveholders..”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

June 19, 1855

Writing to William Lloyd Garrison, Jr.,  who is in Lynn, living with the Buffums.  “I hope you will strive in every way to make as little trouble as possible.  Every new addition to a family adds to the care thereof.  Be faithful in the discharge of your duties.  Punctuality, order, dispatch, accuracy — these are the qualities to be cultivated by every one engaging in active business.  Perform every task with cheerfulness and alacrity, and remember the Golden Rule constantly — ‘Do as you would be done by.’ … Be careful with whom you associate, and shun evil company as you would flee from the cholera.  Indulge in no vicious habit, and look well after your health and morals, in order that you might be happy, and set an example worthy of imitation.  Whenever or wherever you can be useful, be prompt to assist, even though at some inconvenience and trouble…”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

March 22, 1855

“Please do not forget that the final hearing before the Committee on Capital Punishment will be had this afternoon, (probably at 3 o’clock,) in the Hall of the House of Representatives.  Pray, be ‘in at the death,’ if you can.  Yours, to hang the gallows. “  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Feb. 23, 1855

Writing to Oliver Johnson, Garrison mentions a lecture by Gen. Samuel Houston, from Texas.  “Last evening, Gen. Houston gave his lecture on slavery, to a crowded auditory.  In every point of view, it was a feeble effort, and went for slavery eternally, by a law of ‘necessity’.  He has furnished me with some nuts to crack in my lecture at the Tabernacle on Tuesday evening…”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Sept. 23, 1853

To Samuel J. May:  a single sentence refers to the division with Douglass:  “With Douglass, the die seems to be cast.  I lament the schism, but it is unavoidable.”    ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

June 17, 1852

To son George:  “Today is the anniversary of he Bunker Hill battle.  From our house, (far as we are off,) I can see the flags waving from the Monument in Charlestown, in honor of that event, notwithstanding the shocking fact that we have more than three million of chattel slaves in this boasted land of freedom, and are more eager to extend and support the slave system than all the interest of freedom put together!  As a nation we are the vilest of hypocrites, as well as the worst of oprressors….”    ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

February, 1852

Kossuth, leader of a Hungarian revolution, has been in the United States, invited by the Congress.  He has spoken in many places, but never mentioned slavery.  Garrison writes extensively of his disappointment.  Here is an excerpt from a letter to Kossuth:  “Less than a month has elapsed since your arrival; but, during that brief period, you have made more addresses, and received more delegations, — representing various professions, societies, and corporations, — than any other man living.  Your addresses have been characterized by astonishing versatility and copiousness, as well as charged with the electric flame of an oriental eloquence; you have discussed a wide range of topics; you have marked out your own course, and been left unembarrassed by any distinct presentations of a mooted question; you have shown yourself no stranger to the history, growth and power of this nation; and you seem to have found among us, as a people, every thing to admire and extol, in strains of loftiest panegyric.  But there is one topic that you have shunned, as though to name it would be a crime, — and that is, SLAVERY!  There is one stain on our national escutcheon that your vision has failed to detect, — and that is, the blood of the almost exterminated Indian tribes, and of millions of the descendants of Africa! ..”     ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Feb. 15, 1851

Writing to George, now fourteen:  “I wish you to say to your teacher, Miss Ballou, that I intended to converse with her particularly with regard to your studies; but our time was so limited, and so much occupied, while we were at Hopedale, that no convenient opportunity presented itself…. she may have thought it strange that I made no inquiries of her respecting your progress in learning.  I think you are very fortunate in having so amiable and excellent a teacher, and trust you will feel more and more resolved to improve the present opportunity to the utmost of your power…”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Jan. 13, 1850

Writing to Samuel J. May:  “There must be no union with slaveholders, religiously or politically.  It seems to me impossible to utter a plainer proposition.  On the part of the South, the condition of union has been, and is, that we of the North shall give absolute protection and encouragement to the slave system; to this hour, that condition has been complied with; a refusal to comply with it dissolves the union inevitably and necessarily.  The time has come to preach disunion on the highest moral and religious grounds.  The Constitution of the United States is ‘a covenant with death and an agreement with hell’.  … It remains to be see  how the people of the North will meet this issue… “   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Sept. 28, 1849

Writing to the Financial Committee of the Liberator:  “I find it necessary to state that, during the present quarter ending on Sunday next, (always the most barren of receipts of the whole four,) the whole amount received by the General Agent has only been sufficient to cover the expenses of the paper, exclusive of my own salary for three months, of which I  have received but $32.00 –leaving a balance due of $268, reckoning in the usual manner, which sum I am owing for rent, fuel, groceries, medical attendance, clothing, &c. &c. and must look in the face the first of the week, with an empty purse and pocket….”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Mar. 16, 1849

“You say that ‘a vast majority of the people of the United States deplore the necessity of the continuance of slavery in the United States’.  This assertion is not true; a ‘vast majority of the people’ really care nothing about it; they are agreed  in nothing so well as in despising and proscribing the colored race, whether bond or free.  Besides, if the immediate abolition of slavery would prove disastrous, then why should its continuance be deplored?  To deplore that which is essential to good order, the public safety, and the welfare of all classes, pro tempore,  is not to talk sensibly.  Sir, slavery is ‘the sum of all villanies’ — it is pollution, concubinage, adultery — it is theft, robbery, kidnapping — it is ignorance, degradation, and woe — it is suffering, cruelty, and horrid injustice — it is the exaltation of master above all that is called God — it smites the most fertile soil with barrenness, and depraves the manners and morals of all who are infected by it!  This you know; and yet you dare to affirm that its continuance is a matter of necessity!  Ah! this is ever ‘the tyrant’s plea’, and  you are a tyrant…”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Oct. 29, 1848

“Heigh-ho!  The boys have it, out of all proportion — five to one!  Should they all  “live to grow up” the Garrison will at last be strongly manned.   This morning, about 2 o’clock,  Helen presented me with another son…”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Aug. 10, 1848

“Well, here I am, giving myself to the work of physical regeneration, by being packed, showered, drenched,plunged, douched, &c with the utmost zeal and fidelity..but very little time either for reading or writing … “¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

April 20, 1848

“For a month past, our house has been little better than a hospital.  We have all been down with the influenza, and the attack has been of a violent character.  I have been severely affected, with considerable fever and great pressure upon the brain, as well as a hard cough upon the lungs; and also with an erysipelas swelling and eruption in the face, besides being daily tormented with the St. Anthony’s fire in my hands and feet, causing them to itch and swell very much… Dear Helen has had a severe time of it.  Her cold has been exceedingly troublesome, and constantly renewing; and having had so much anxiety of mind in regard to our suffering babe, and been departed so long of her regular sleep, she is quite worn down…”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Dec. 8, 1847

“I have received a letter from David Ruggles, at Northampton, in which he says  — ‘From what I can learn of your symptoms, you need to restore an equilibrium of circulation, and brace the nervous and muscular systems. Why can’t you spend five or six weeks at a Water Cure, and accomplish it by a very moderate course of treatment? …’”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Oct. 20, 1847

Writing to Helen, from Cleveland, severely ill, Garrison wonders about Douglass.  “Is it not strange that Douglass has not written a single line to me, or to any one, in this place, inquiring after my health, since he left me on a bed of illness?  It will also greatly surprise our friends in Boston to hear, that, in regard to his project for establishing a paper here, to be called ‘The North Star’, he never opened to me his lips on the subject, nor asked my advice in any particular whatever.  Such conduct grieves me to the heart. …”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Aug. 9, 1847

Garrison writes to Helen, from Harrisburg, where he and Douglass spoke at the Court House.  “I first addressed the meeting, and was listened to, not only without molestation, but with marked attention and respect … as Douglass rose to speak, the spirit of rowdyism began to show itself outside of the building, around the door and windows.  It was the first time that a ‘nigger’ had attempted to address the people in Harrisburg in public, and it was regarded by the mob as an act of unparalleled audacity.  They knew nothing at all of Douglass, except that he was a nigger.  They came equipped with rotten eggs and brickbats, fire-crackers and other missiles, and made use of them somewhat freely — breaking panes of glass, and soiling the clothes of some who were struck by the eggs. …I was enabled to obtain a silent hearing for a few moments, when I told the meeting that if this was a specimen of Harrisburg decorum and love of liberty, instead of wasting our breath upon the place, we should turn our back upon it, shaking off the dust of our feet — &c. &c    ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

July 30, 1847

Garrison thanks the Lorings for paying a tax which had been exacted from him at the Custom House, on account of a tea service which had been presented to him in Scotland, and which he brought back into the country.   “Next to a fort, arsenal, naval vessel, and military array, I hate a Custom House — not because of the tax it imposed on the friendly Scottish gift, but as a matter of principle.  I go for free trade and free inter-communication the world over, and deny the right of any body of men to erect geographical or national barriers in opposition to these natural, essential and sacred rights.  Every government must be regarded as a tyranny, and unworthy of approbation, that erects or maintains such barriers.  It also is controlled by a very short-sighted policy. — But this is not the place for a treatise on political economy.”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

July 1, 1847

Acknowledging the death of O’Connell, Garrison writes to Richard Webb.   “Well, O’Connell has left his wide field of popular agitation, and removed to a new and mysterious sphere of existence.  Though he had many faults and failings, (Heaven be merciful to us all!) I honor his memory, and regard him with feelings of gratitude and respect.  His death, at such a time, in the awful state into which his suffering country is plunged, is truly affecting.  Of course, the Repeal movement may be regarded a virtually at an end, I suppose.”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

June 15, 1847

Writing to Heman Humphrey, retired President of Amherst College, who has been “in Boston and its vicinity, lecturing in various pulpits in behalf of a scheme of expatriation, which, in view of its origin, design, principles, measures, and tendencies, stands without a rival on the score of hypocrisy, villany, and impiety.” …. He warns Humphrey that the  idea is mostly dead, and that his speeches “can do nothing more than to give to the dead carcass spasmodic action…”   Garrison then notes his own much-quoted denunciations of colonization.     ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

March 1, 1847

“We are making decided progress in our Disunion movement.  Our Legislature, now in session, has before it many petitions, numerously signed by legal voters, asking that body to take measures for the peaceable secession of Massachusetts from the Union.  We are surprised to find how many are prepared for this measure.”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

March 1, 1847

“The  horrid particulars of the famine in Ireland have made a wide and profound sensation in this country.  Contributions are pouring in from every quarter and the amount of food, money and clothing that will be contributed, will be very considerable; yet not a fiftieth part that ought to be done.  But we must recollect that the idea human brotherhood is as yet but very imperfectly developed in the world, and that, hitherto, each nation has left other nations to take care of themselves, without being specially concerned for their welfare…”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Dec. 11, 1846

“The Garrison ranks are filling up.  This morning, dear Helen presented me with  a new  comer into this breathing world, — a daughter . — and the finest babe ever yet born in Boston.  Both mother and child are doing well.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Sept. 17, 1846

Garrison writes to Helen, in part describing a meeting in Exeter Hall, London, where he, Thompson, and Douglass spoke.  Generally applauded, his speech was ”frequently interrupted by a certain portion of the audience, in a rowdyish manner, something after the pattern we occasionally exhibit in Boston and elsewhere.”  Further, he comments: “My manner of expressing my thoughts and feelings is somewhat novel, and not always palatable, in this country, on account of its plainness and directness; but it will do more good, in the end, than a smoother mode.  At least, I think so, and will ‘bide my time’.  I am led to be more plain-spoken, because almost every one here deals in circumlocution, and to offend nobody seems to be the aim of the speaker.  If I chose, I could be as smooth and politic as any other, but I do not so choose, and much prefer nature to art.”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Aug. 19, 1846

Writing to Clarkson, from London.  Garrison informs Clarkson that he, Thompson, and Douglass hope to visit in Ipswich.  “We trust the state of your health will be such as to permit you to see us, at least for a few moments … no name is more highly venerated by the truly good and philanthropic in America, than your own — and trusting that a gracious Providence will permit you to see the entire overthrow of American slavery, before you are called to your heavenly home — I remain, with profound esteem, Your humble coadjutor.    ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

July 26, 1846

Writing while at sea, on his way to England, here is a taste of his love for Helen.  “The world is wide, and it has many places of attraction, and there are many good people in it; but, to me, there is no place so dear as my own cherished home, no one who has so large a share of my love as yourself, no objects so attractive as our beloved children… Situated as you are, with no mother or sister or friends with you — with five young children, needing continual guidance and watchfulness …I feel that you are signally manifesting the spirit of self-sacrifice in being willing to have me undertake my present mission.  It is not until I go far from you, that I begin to realize how essential is your presence to my happiness, and that I am aware of the measure of my love…”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Mar 31, 1846

“Lewis Hayden has just informed me that he intends leaving for Detroit this afternoon… Lewis Hayen has won the esteem and friendship of all with whom he has become acquainted, and is a rare young man.  Should he conclude to return, and take up his abide in New Bedford, I think he can be made very serviceable to our cause.  He needs to be more with us, fully to understand the position that we occupy, in regard to Church and State; but he is an apt scholar, and has made very good progress in a very short time.  I have not had a good opportunity to hear him speak in public; but I believe he has generally acquitted himself to good acceptance.  His chief embarrassment seems to be, to find language to express the facts of his history, and the thoughts and emotions of his mind. “    ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Aug. 23, 1845

Garrison writes to praise Sumner for his “The True Grandeur of Nations” address, his first public appearance in Boston, in which he said there is no justifiable war and no dishonorable peace.   He promises Sumner that he will “receive the fervent benedictions of all the true friends of the human race.  In view of the war clouds which now hang over our guilty country, your oration is singularly timely…”     ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Mar. 14, 1845

“… I shall tell you what I think of your political character, in plain language and with great brevity.  You are one of those political demagogues, who are more injurious to a nation than pestilence or famine; whose selfishness is the only god whom they recognize or adore; whose ambition must be gratified, at whatever sacrifice of moral principle, and though hecatombs of innocent victims perish to effect its object.  You profess to be a democrat — Then is Satan, when disguised as an angel of light, no devil!    ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Oct 1, 1844

Responding to Gerrit Smith and John Greenleaf Whittier, and  their assertions that the Constitution is an antislavery document:   “Even Gerrit Smith has stultified himself so far as to have written a long letter to John G. Whittier, maintaining the same absurd doctrine.  Nay, he has gone so far as to eulogize those diabolical provisions respecting the prosecution of slave trade for twenty years — the putting down of slave insurrections by the government — the three-fifths representation of the slaves through their masters –as decidedly anti-slavery in their character and tendency! He is now completely absorbed in electioneering in behalf of James G. Birney and the Liberty party…  Still, I mean to let charity and patience have their perfect work in regard to him; for, after all, he seems to be a noble-hearted and benevolent man, but his head is often sadly at fault…   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Aug 26, 1844

Writing to George Benson:  “Your letter of last night, announcing the death of our beloved mother, has just come to hand. It is an event for which we have been endeavoring to prepare our minds … She was truly ‘one of the excellent of the earth’, worthy of all praise and admiration …  Helen is in tears, and will miss mother exceedingly…”    ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Jan 8, 1844

To the Liberator,  “Morally speaking, I am more and more convinced, by inquiry and observation, that the Liberty Party, as such, in New England, is utterly unprincipled, and the most insidious, and therefore the most dangerous foe with which genuine anti-slavery has to contend. … its leaders are not trustworthy, and that a large majority of it supporters are making use of it as substitute for moral action, and as  a foil to ward off the blows which are aimed at a pro-slavery church and priesthood… If they must vote, they can testify against all these parties by scattering their votes on those in whom they can confide.  But I think duty requires them, as abolitionists, not to vote at all, but to ‘let the dead bury their dead’, to refuse to sustain the present Constitution of the United States, and to demand, in the name of God and humanity, a dissolution of our blood-cemented, atheistical Union. “  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Dec. 8, 1843

Here Garrison recalls his good experiences with O’Connell, and the importance of O’Connell  being clear as an abolitionist.  “But I have regretted to perceive in you, within a few months past, for reasons which, to me, are perfectly inexplicable, a disposition to travel widely and frequently out of your path, to attack me personally in the most contemptuous manner… You have seized the most extraordinary occasions to hold me up to derision and odiuim in Ireland — by stigmatizing me, while denouncing American slavery, as a ‘maniac in religion’, and referring to me as ‘a man called Lloyd Garrison,’ whose company as an abolitionist you rejected, and also that of all his anti-slavery associates!..”    He asks why O’Connell has “attempted to stain my religious character, and to cripple my labors in the abolition of slavery, by pointing a finger of reproach at me as a heretic? … Surely, I do not err,  when I hazard the assertion, that you have not been self-moved in this matter!”  Garrison goes on to claim that if he had spoken against the cause of Irish Repeal, then, criticism of him would have been justified, or if he had abandoned the anti-slavery cause, such rejection by O’Connell would “have been to the point”…”I think you have erred in attacking me as you have done in so gratuitous and offensive a manner.  Am I not right in this view of the case? … Hoping you will mightily foil all the machinations of your wily enemies, and be triumphant in your peaceful efforts for Repeal, and wishing a long life for yourself, and freedom and prosperity for oppressed and suffering Ireland, I remain, Yours, in every conflict for the right.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

October 13,  1843

Remembering the time, when two months ago, Helen had been injured in a fall from a carriage,  here is a long account, to the Liberator,  telling of the attention she  has received from a “natural bone-setter” Doctor.   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Sept 17, 1843

Though not a member of the Garrison family, here was a close companion, and early co-editor of the Liberator, and one with whom, from boyhood, Garrison “had been in terms of the closest intimacy”.   “In an evil hour he was led by adversity and business management, to put the cup of intoxication to his lips; and for the last three or four years sustained a wretched existence, though he made several attempts (alas! how ineffectual!) to return to the path of rectitude… Dropping a tear over his sad fate, let us ever associate his name with those who never turned their backs upon a great and good cause, because it was unpopular.”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

July 14, 1843

This longer account of the rejection at Northampton, to the Liberator, tells of a speaker who rose at the meeting, critical of Garrison.  He claims that Garrison cannot tell how to abolish slavery. The speaker abhorred slavery too, but it was supported by the Constitution, and could not be ended until the Constitution was amended.  Since Garrison was opposed to political action,  Garrison was unable to say how slavery should be abolished!  Garrison, in response, claims to have answered the criticism to the satisfaction of most in the audience.   The article then includes comments on the Northampton papers. “There are three newspapers here — two whig, and one democratic.  The Courier and Gazette (both whig) took no notice of the meeting — whether from motives of policy,or in the spirit of contempt, I do not know… their silence in regard to a meeting held under such peculiar circumstances, in so public a manner, and with such a noble object in view, is certainly not creditable to their humanity or courtesy… In the Democrat appeared an editorial sketch of the meeting, which was chiefly confined to a personal attack upon myself, and to a broad caricature of what was said of the lowest black-guardism… ”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

July 6, 1843

 Here is an account, written to Edmund Quincy, of an attempt to hold a fourth of July meeting in the Town Hall, “in defence of our enslaved countrymen”.  The Town Hall was closed to the meeting, and the meeting was held opposite the Hall, “under the protecting shadows of two umbrageous trees”.   “So much for our first reception in Northampton.” A much longer account is in the July 14 letter sent to the Liberator.   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

April 4, 1843

Writing to Elizabeth Pease, he wonders if she will attend the London Anti-Slavery Convention.  If women are not admitted as delegates, he reminds her that the gallery is a good place from which to observe !   “Can any thing be more contemptible than this exclusive spirit toward women?  ..A woman now sits on the throne of England. I am not aware that such a position is deemed incompatible with her sex…”

On capital punishment:  “Petitions have recently been presented to the Legislature of Massachusetts, praying for the abolition of capital punishment; and, in case this prayer should not be granted, requesting that such clergymen as advocate judicial homicide should be appointed hangmen!  This has caused much fluttering among the clergy and their friends, who affect to regard these petitions as most insulting to their cloth, and as an outrage on thier holy profession.  … why should they object “to inflicting the penalty  by their own hands?…”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

March 1, 1843

“The subject of capital punishment, within a few months past. has been widely discussed in the land, and is fast increasing in public interest. ”   Garrison makes clear his position in opposition.

“… the intermarriage law has passed through both houses of our Legislature, and only needs the Governor’s signature (which will undoubtedly be affixed to it) to be complete.  Thus has another tremendous blow been given to the monster prejudice. We have not been equally successful in regard to the rail-road question and shall therefore ‘try again’.  Never were the aspects of the anti-slavery cause so auspicious as at the present time.  In this Commonwealth abolitionism is now scarcely able to find one public opponent.  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Feb. 28, 1843

To Elizabeth Pease, after “cheering news” that she is in better health, after illness:  “I, too, have been ill, severely so, and know experimentally how to sympathize with those who are prostrated on beds of sickness… My dear Helen was called to summon all her fortitude and devotedness as a wife and a mother, and faithfully did she perform her part.  With a babe at her breast, a husband sick almost unto death, and three children lying ill at the same time  of that dreadful disorder scarlatina, she nobly passed through the ordeal; and it was not until we were all convalescent, that her exhausted frame gave out, when she was brought down by a slow, intermittent fever, from which she has since happily recovered.  Truly, we have been afflicted as a household, but the wings of divine love and mercy have overshadowed us all the while.”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

October 14, 1842

“The sufferer is at rest from his bodily pains.  My poor afflicted brother James threw off his mortal habiliments this morning, at 3 o’clock, but death had no power over his spirit.  Till within half an hour of his departure, his sufferings were very great; but he finally died so quietly, that I supposed he had fallen asleep, and did not discover my error until at least half an hour after the event had transpired.  As his case had long been hopeless his release from the flesh is cause of consolation, rather than sorrow.  He retained his senses to the last, and died with all possible fortitude and resignation, being perfectly aware that his end was approaching.”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

October 11, 1842

“My expenses, this year in consequence of James’s illness, and in other ways, have been very considerable; so that I now stand in debt, over my salary, $150; and should James be taken away, the funeral expenses would probably amount to $50 or more.  What is  worse, the receipts of the Liberator up to the lst inst. have fallen short of the expenses nearly $200 –so that I have not been able to get the $100 due me for my last month’s services.   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Oct. 1, 1842

In a letter to Henry Wright:  ” Three weeks ago, my dear Helen presented me with a fourth son, whose name we shall call Charles Follen.  The mother and child are both doing remarkably well.  Thus, it is undeniable that, in spite of all opposition, ‘Garrisonism’ is on the increase!”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

June 7, 1842

Here is the story of a “young lad”, a “fugitive” from slavery, who has appeared in Concord, New Hampshire (the letter is written to Nathaniel P. Rogers).  A strange, involved, story; and so far as known, the lad was never identified.  According to this letter, Garrison says, “this unfortunate lad will remain with us…”    ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

March 22, 1842

Garrison responds to news that slaveholders are sending money to Ireland to support the struggle against Britain, and thus Irish here may be obliged to support slaveholders.  “How marvelously Providence works!  The Irish Address, I trust is to be the means of breaking up a stupendous conspiracy, which I believe is going on between the leading Irish demagogues, the leading pseudo democrats, and the southern slaveholders.  Mark three things.  First, the Irish population among us is nearly all ‘democratic’.  Second — The democratic party is openly and avowedly the defender and upholder of the ‘peculiar institution’ of slavery.   Third — The cry in favor of Irish Repeal is now raised against the anti-slavery enterprise!   Also, if possible, by sending over donations to Ireland, to stop O’Connell’s mouth on the subject of slavery, and to prevent any more ‘interference’ on that point, from that side of the Atlantic!  Hence, I observe, at the Repeal meetings in various parts of the country, resolutions and declarations which amount to sacred pledges, that those ‘repealers’ will stand by southern institutions, at all hazards!  Now, by the Address, which will cause every toad to start up into a devil as soon as he is touched, we shall be able to probe this matter to the bottom.  If O’Connell and our friends in Ireland remain true to us, and renew their spirited attacks upon American slavery, …then it will put down at the South this pretended sympathy for Ireland, and be the means of advancing our movement more rapidly. “   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

March 18, 1842

Here Garrison expresses confidence that the great number of Irish fellow-citizens in the United States will support abolition.   “Until I am compelled to believe otherwise by evidence which it would be folly to dispute, I shall cling to the opinion that the great body of our Irish fellow-citizens mean to be found on the side of the oppressed (for is not Ireland oppressed? ) the world over.  But it must be remembered that they are liable to be led astray by unprincipled politicians, by time-serving leaders, and by designing priests.  We must be more active to disseminate light and truth among them, and to let them have a copy of the Address, every man for himself. They have come to this fair land to escape from the chains of British byranny; and now, will they, dare they, in their turn become the worst of oppressors, by helping to prop up the diabolical system of American slavery?  Such apostasy is not to be tolerated as possible, even in imagination, for one moment.  Let no Irishman claim to be a friend of O’Connell or of Ireland who is not an abolitionist.  If such there be, Ireland and O’Connell will indignantly disown him. …”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Jan. 7, 1841

“We have lost since last January, nearly 500 subscribers, over and above all additions; besides cutting off two or three hundred delinquent subscribers.  Several of those who have  hitherto stood firmly by the paper, have ordered their subscriptions to be stopped.  The Sabbath Convention has been more than they could tolerate; and to save the formal observance of the first day of the week, they are willing that slavery should be perpetuated.”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Jan 4, 1841

Garrison writes to his brother, still in Connecticut.  “As for what I have done for you, let it not be named.  You are welcome to it all, and to as much more as I may from time to time, be able to do for you; and the only remuneration that I want is, to see you leading a sober and virtuous life. … you have an excellent opportunity to recover yourself in every particular, and to begin the world anew. … So long as you have any appetite for ardent spirit — so long as you are not sure that you can resist its sorcery power — take the advice of a brother who loves you he does himself, and remain where you will be the least exposed to be tempted and overcome.  Liquor has been your worst foe. It has made you die a thousand deaths …”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Sept. 17,  1840

Garrison confides to George Benson, his hope that James will stay in Brooklyn during the winter.  His health is not sufficient for a voyage, and “He could not be in Boston, or Cambridgeport, without being in the way of strong temptation, which would be difficult, if not impossible, for him to resist.  This is not to be regarded in him as a fault, but as a misfortune… “  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

August 19, 1840

Writing to James Barbadoes, Thomas Cole, and J. T. Hilton, Garrison acknowledges receipt of an “affectionate and heart-melting letter congratulating me on my return in safety to the land of my nativity, and inviting me, in behalf of the colored citizens of Boston, to attend a public-meeting tomorrow evening, for the purpose of receiving their hearty welcome, and the assurance of their continued attachment and unshaken confidence…. there are none among the whole human race so dear to me as my colored friends in this city; because they were the first to give me the right hand of fellowship, and to bid me God speed in my warfare against the monster of monsters, American slavery…”

¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

August 3, 1840

From Liverpool, Garrison writes to Joseph Pease,   In commenting on the status of the abolition movement, he contends  “That if England would supply herself with free trade cotton from some other part of the world, to the exclusion of all slave grown cotton, it is quite certain that, within seven years, American slavery would be peaceably abolished, from absolute necessity, as well as from the moral change which will by that time have been wrought in the free States of America…. it now seems to be placed beyond all doubt, that cotton can be grown by free labor at a much less expense, and in far greater abundance, in British India, than it is now done by slave labor in the United States; hence, that England, as a matter of self-interest, as well as on the score of humanity, should without delay redress the wrongs of India, give protection and encouragement to its oppressed and suffering population, and thus obtain a  cheap, permanent and abundant supply of free cotton from her own vast and fertile possessions in the East…”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

July 3, 1840

Garrison has received word of the birth of a son.  “Every thing appears to have transpired in the best possible manner.  The relief which has been given to my anxious mind is more than words can express.  Most sincere and heart-felt is my gratitude to the Giver of every good and perfect gift … The lock of hair delivered…I gaze upon with rapturous delight.  The babe is a boy — ah! you are disappointed, and so am I; for we had both fondly hoped that it would be prove to be a girl.  But the gift is none the less precious, and I am thankful, for it.  Bro. J.  (Oliver Johnson), intimates that the lad has uncommonly good lungs, and thinks that be may heard almost across the Atlantic.  He begins early to make a noise in the world…”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

June 29, 1840

From London, Garrison writes to Helen, with news of the Convention.  He indicates that, by the time of his late arrival, the Convention had voted not at admit the women delegates from the United States.  He recounts the attempt of Wendell Phillips to move the question during the Convention,  his disappointment with George Thompson’s weak response, and tells of the decision which he, Remond, Rogers, and Wm Adams  made, refusing to take seats in the Convention.   “I am quite certain, from all that has transpired, that, had we arrived a few days before the opening of the Convention, we could have carried out our point triumphantly.  As it is, we have not visited this country in vain.  The ‘woman question’ has been fairly started, and will be canvassed from the Land’s End to John O’Groat’s house.  Already, many excellent and noble minds are highly displeased at the decision of the Convention, and denounce it strongly…”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

May 28, 1840

On board ship, Garrison writes to Helen. At the conclusion:  “I think a great deal of my dear children, and long to hear their pleasant voices — more vocal to my spirit than the melody of birds.  But I must leave you all in the hands of Him who is infinitely wise and good, trusting that we shall all meet around the family board again, before the month of September shall have entirely passed away.  Distribute my affectionate remembrances among all at home, and all inquiring friends, and never for a moment doubt the fidelity and affection of Your faithful and loving husband…”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

May 22, 1840

In a letter to Oliver Johnson,  at last on ship bound for England, after delays, Garrison is concerned about the role of women.   “The object of the Convention is to promote the interest of Humanity.  It is, then, a common object, in which all who wear the human form have a right to participate, without regard to color, sex, or clime. With a young woman placed on the throne of Great Britain, will the philanthropists of that country presume to object to the female delegates from the United States, as members of the Convention, on the ground of their sex? … I cannot consent to have one human being excluded from the  World’s Platform, even for the sake of peace…”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

May 15, 1840

Telling Helen of the election of Abby Kelley to the Business Committee of the AASS, and the subsequent creation of the American and Foreign Anti-Slavery Society, Garrison says:  “The spirit of mobocracy has been roused, in consequence of so many of the ‘Garrison Party’ having come from Massachusetts; and our delegation have been driven out of the halls we had engaged, and had to go from pillar to post to find a place where to lay their heads. … What particularly excited these ‘lewd fellows of the baser sort’ was, the mixing of our white and colored friends on terms of equality…. it has not amounted to anything like a popular tumult.”    ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

April 14, 1840

Writing to “Abolitionists of the United States”, Garrison warns that, at the upcoming annual meeting, there will be an attempt “to excite division among us”, and, if those attempts fail, there will be an attempt to “disband our forces … Be not deceived by any of their expedients.  They will endeavor –…”  Then he lists ten policies which will be brought before the group, and which he regards as divisive.   ” We call upon you, brethren, to frown indignantly upon each and every attempt thus to dissolve our noble organization …  put down all machinations for the dissolution of an organization, which is the terror of the oppressor and bigot alike, and upon the existence of which depends, under God, in all probability, the peaceful abolition of slavery in the Republic.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

March 27, 1840

Garrison continues to argue against any membership standard which insists that an abolitionist must vote.  He insists that the only obligation upon an abolitionist is to do only what supports abolition and which avoids action which supports “a friend of the slave”.  The decision about how/when to use or not use the voting franchise is up to each individual abolitionist.   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Feb. 28, 1840

Writing to the “Abolitionists of the United States”, Garrison comments again on some of the issues “calculated to divide our ranks”. 

    One of the issues involves an attempt to make it obligatory upon members to “participate directly in the politics of the country, by using the elective franchise. … such a test, it is obvious, is contrary to the genius and scope of abolitionism, and would exclude from our platform some of the earliest and most efficient friends of our cause…” 

   Another issue ” comes in the form of a proposition to organize a distinct political party…”  By his own comments, and quotes from abolitionist sources, Garrison contends against this effort.   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Feb. 10, 1840

“I will not stop to say what I think of the barbarism and tyranny of Connecticut, in trampling upon the rights of conscience, and consigning to prison such of her citizens as believe that they are forbidden by the gospel to do military duty.  After ages will look upon this matter with astonishment.  It is the opprobrium of the nineteenth century.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Dec. 14, 1839

Garrison writes to the Secretary of the Navy, asking for his brother’s discharge, because of illness.  James is living with the Garrisons.  “His disease is a difficult one to eradicate from the system, if it be not immedicable; and must, for an indefinite period, render him of little or no value to the navy.  It is a fistulous abscess, of a cancerous nature, situated at the base of the back bone, and badly affecting the spine, and shattering the constitution.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Aug   5, 1839

Writing to Oliver Johnson, Garrison reports on the National Convention of Abolitionists, called by the AASS.    “A few individuals in the Convention argued in favor of organizing a distinct political party; but, I am happy to say, the suggestion met with no respoonse whatever from the great body of members present. … So long as the abolitionists refuse to step into the political arena, as a distinct party, so long their cause will prosper, their integrity be revered, and their influence over all other contending parties be irresistible.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

July 17, 1839

Writing to “the Abolitionists of Massachusetts”,  Garrison responds to the recent creation of a second Society in the state.   “Of the causes which had led to this unhappy state of things, we shall speak hereafter.  According to the spirit of our anti-slavery league, and the arrangements which have been mutually agreed upon between the parent, state, and local societies, the formation of a new State Society in any State where one is already in existence, is a virtual declaration of war upon the whole anti-slavery organization.  It is a precedent, which, if widely imitated, would turn the weapons of abolitionists against each other instead of the common enemy…” 

   Then in a comment on policies by which certain views become “ obligatory upon all its members” such a society ”violates the spirit of its own constitution; or, if not, then it is not true that it welcomes to its aid all men, of whatever creed or party, and hence does not stand upon a ’broad ground of a common humanity’.  This distinction between the liberty of an individual, and of an associaton composed of many elements, is important, and essential as much to the harmony of the whole body as it is to personal free agency … 

   In what is a comment on the recent “Clerical Appeal”, Garrison writes:  “Neither the management of the anti-slavery cause, nor that cause itself, belongs to any professional body.  If the new society is not schismatical — it is commends itself to the good sense and sober judgment of abolitionists — if it stands upon the old platform — if it is not a sectarian and professional affair in its spirit — how does it happen that all its prominent advocates are of the clerical order?”

    In regard to the charge at the State Society “repudiates of looks coldly upon political action”, he refutes the charge as “utterly groundless”.  He argues that no member should be morally bound to vote…  “It is certainly true, that the Anti-Slavery Society has always contemplated the use of POLITICAL as well as MORAL action for the abolition of slavery, because the moral and political action of the nation is enlisted in support of that dreadful system… “it enjoined upon them the duty of carrying their abolition principles to the ballot-box, instead of allowing themselves to be made the tools of party and the instruments of oppression.”

    Garrison comments also on the constitution of the new body which speak of “GENTLEMEN” as delegates, negating, he believes, participation by women.  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

June 4, 1839

Wendell Phillips is to go to England “as the representative of the abolitionists of Massachusetts and of New England.”  Garrison writes well wishes to him.  He provides some facts in regard to progress in the struggle here, to “encourage our abolition brethren abroad”.   Some of those are quoted here:

     “In 1829, not an anti-slavery society, of a genuine stamp, was in existence.  In 1839  there are nearly two thousand societies, swarming and multiplying in all parts of the free States.  In 1829, there was but one anti-slavery periodical in the land. Now there are not less than fourteen.  In 1829, scarcely a newspaper, of any religious sect or political party, was willing to disturb the ‘delicate’ question of slavery.  In 1839, there are multitudes of journals that either openly advocate the doctrine of immediate emancipation, or permit its free discussion in their columns.  In 1829, scarcely one tract or pamphlet, in opposition to slavery, could be readily found. In 1839, it is impossible to circulate the whole number ….In 1829, not an anti-slavery agent was in the field; now there are scores …  In 1829, scarcely one, if any petition, was sent to Congress, … now in one day, a single member of the House of Representatives, (John Quincy Adams),  has presented one hundred and seventy-six in detail… In 1829, where ten slaves escaped from their prison-house, now a hundred find their way to the north, and are safely landed in Canada…”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Feb. 8, 1839

“There are two parties in this country, who are equally puzzled to reconcile your abhorrence of slavery, with your determination not to vote for its abolition in the District of Columbia — the slaveholders of the South, and the abolitionists of the North.  In your theory of human rights, the former understand that you agree in principle with those, who, by the help of God, are resolved upon subverting a foul and bloody system.  In your unwillingness to carry that theory into practice, the latter perceive that you are acting in concert with all that is despotic and inhuman in the land.   You are claimed and rejected by  both, at the same moment.  If you would abandon your theory, the slaveholders would cease to be alarmed; and by giving it a practical application, you would insure for yourself the entire confidence of the abolitionists.  Resolving to do neither, you serve but to awaken suspicion on the one hand, and to give annoyance on the other.”  

 Continuing, to Adams, Garrison urges his adoption of an immediatist position.  “That you can suffer yourself, in the year 1839, to be deluded into the belief, that the gradual emancipation of our slaves is compatible with the claims of humanity, and the dictates of reason,  is matter of grief and surprise.”    ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Dec. 23, 1838

Writing to Mary Benson, Garrison urges her attendance at the coming State Anti-Slavery Society annual meeting.  “I anticipate an animated, almost a stormy scene.  Facts are daily coming to my ears, which show that the spirit of sectarianism is busy at its old game of division — working in darkness, and secretly endeavoring to transfer our sacred cause to other hands. The leaders in this work of mischief are clerical abolitionists. … I understand the plan is, to rally at our annual meeting, elect a different board of managers, start a new anti-slavery paper, to be the organ of the Society   ….The ‘woman question’ is also to be met and settled so as to suit the priesthood, or the probability is, there will be a division. Here, then, are materials for an exciting anniversary….”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

June 18, 1838

“I hold to the sanctification of seven days in a week,  instead of one day in seven, as under the Jewish institution.  I discard all human creeds, and all ecclesiastical combinations, and all observances of times and seasons, and all rites, ceremonies, forms and ordinances, as constituting no part of christianity, and as being contrary to that liberty wherewith Christ makes his people free….”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

May 25, 1838

Marlboro Chapel has just been completed; it “is an object of pro-slavery malevolence.”  Garrison writes that ” threats have been given out that the Chapel should share the fate of the Hall. Last evening was the time for its dedication; and so threatening was the aspect of things, four companies of light infantry were ordered to be in readiness… During the day, placards were posted at the corners of streets, denouncing the abolitionists, and calling upon the citizens to rally at the Chapel in the evening, in order to put them down.  An immense concourse of people assembled, a large proportion doubtless from motives of curiosity, and not a few of them with evil designs; but, owing to the strong military preparations, the multitude refrained entirely from any overt acts of violence…”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 
 

May 19, 1838

“The meeting broke up about 10 o’clock, and we all got safely home.  The next day, the street was thronged with profane ruffians and curious spectators — the women, however, holding their meetings in the hall all day, till towards evening. It was given out by the mob, that the hall would be burnt to the ground that night. … that night the mob “had increased to several thousands, and soon got into the hall by dashing open the doors with their axes.  They then set fire to this huge building, and in the course of an hour it was a solid mass of flames.  The bells of the city were rung, and several engines rallied, but no water was permitted to be thrown upon the building …”Awful as is this occurrence in Philadelphia, it will do incalculable good to our cause; for the wrath of man worketh out the righteousness of God….”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 
 
“

May 8, 1838

Garrison writes to Isaac Knapp, and includes some figures about numbers of abolitionists and abolition societies.  The American Anti-Slavery Society had in the past year receipts totaling forty-three thousand dollars, but expenditures of more than forty-five thousand,  “leaving the Society somewhat in debt”.  Total number of publications, printed during the same time, came to 646,000!  Thirty-eight travelling agents had been in the field.  Signatures forwarded to the House of Representatives at Washington, regarding the abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia, included 213,394 men and 201,077 women, and nearly as many to the Senate!

Jan. 30, 1838

The second child, a son, has been born.  “What name shall be given to our baby?  Ichabod, Abijah, Jonah, Aminidab, are all good scriptural names, but they are not “popular” — and as these are the days of expediency, we ought to be very “judicious”, “prudent”, “moderate”, and “careful”, you know, in bestowing a name, so as not to offend.  Now, so reckless of consequences is my wife, — so anxious to show her contempt of public opinion, — so determined that he shall bear an odious name, - that she says it is her wish to call him — William Lloyd Garrison.”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 
 

Nov. 21, 1837

“The martyred Lovejoy! almost the last to come into our ranks, and the first to fall as a victim!  He has perished in the cause of God and of bleeding humanity; but I am shocked and filled with sorrow to learn, that he first took life before he lost his own, and that his reliance for victory in the darkest hour of the conflict was upon powder and ball..”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 
 

Nov 6, 1837

In his letter to Elizabeth Pease:  “As in England, so in this country — the women have done and are doing more for the extirpation of slavery than the other sex.  In their petitions to Congress the outnumber us at least three , perhaps five to one.  At the recent session of that body, a million of names were sent in, in the course of a month, remonstrating against the annexation of Texas to the United States.  Of that immense number, a very large proportion were females.”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 
 

Nov. 6, 1837

Writing to his English friend, Elizabeth Pease, Garrison comments on the “present state of anti-slavery” in the United States.  “Upon the slaveholding States, we make no perceptible impression.  No opponent of slavery can tread upon their soil, as an abolitionist, without the risk of martyrdom.  I have relinquished the expectation, that they will ever, by mere moral suasion, consent to emancipate their victims. I believe that nothing but the exterminating judgments of heaven can shatter the chain of the slave, and destroy the power of the oppressor. … Repentance, if it come at all, will come too late. Our sins have gone up over our heads, and our iniquities unto the clouds, and a just God means to dash us in pieces as a potter’s vessel is broken…  my hope of the peaceful and voluntary overthrow of slavery in the southern states of this nation is very feeble, my faith in the promises of God, that he will maintain the cause of the afflicted and the right of the poor, and he will deliver the oppressed out of the hand of the spoiler, is unfaltering, invincible. ”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 
 

Oct. 20, 1837

In a long letter to the New England Spectator,  Garrison responds to comments made about churches in the black community.  “..Nothing can be more unfair than your reference to the Belknap-street church.  When the eloquent Thomas Paul acted as pastor, it was the chief, I believe the only place provided exclusively for the worship of the colored population in this city: of course (and particularly on account of his extraordinary powers as a preacher), it was well attended.” Garrison then recognizes that disputes in that congregation have resulted in poor attendance, then proceeds.  “..Why are you so disingenuous as to hide the fact that, instead of one house, as formerly, there are now several houses exclusively appropriated to their religious worship — and all, more or less, numerously attended? Especially, why do you wilfully refuse to state, that the building so long, ably and successfully occupied by my beloved colored brother Samuel Snowden has been constantly thronged to such excess by our colored friends, that its dimensions have been enlarged to twice its original size?  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 
 

Aug 28, 1837

Responding to public criticism, Garrison refers to an abolitionist who says that he never ’swallowed William Lloyd Garrison, and I never tried to swallow him’.  Garrison responds:  “For myself, I feel within me the instinct of self-preservation too strongly to be willing to allow either man or beast to swallow me, either in a figuratrive or literal sense.  I desire to remain uneaten; my earnest entreaty is, that no man will think of making a meal of me, either in the gross, or in choice proportions….”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 
 

Aug 26, 1837

Amidst a growing controversy over the question about the role of the newspaper in relation to issues other than abolition, Garrison writes: “I feel somewhat at a loss to know what to do - whether to go into all the principles of holy reform, and make the abolition cause subordinate, or whether still to persevere in the one beaten track as hitherto.  Circumstances hereafter must determine this matter.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 
 

Aug 16, 1837

In a letter to delegates about to assemble in a Young Men’s Anti-Slavery Convention, in New Hampshire:  “Young men of New-Hampshire! Remember the guilt of your country!  For two hundred years her soil has been stained with human blood — blood warm and fresh, — the blood of innocence!  She is now engaged in completing the extinction of the red men of the forest, once the occupants and owners of her soil, once multitudinous and powerful!…”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Juy 1, 1837

“I have often thought that a man must feel queerly, who has had a leg amputated; but what is the subtraction of a leg, compared to the loss of his ‘better half’?  If we twain are one, (as I have been imagining ever since S. J. May bound us together,)  how is it that you are in Providence, and I am in Brooklyn, at the same instant?  … Ah! the solution of the enigma is easy — our hearts are one, not our bodies, so that we can be in full communion with each other at a distance of thirty miles.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

June 14, 1837

“There was a tremendous riot in this city on Sunday afternoon last — exceeding in violence any that has ever gone before it. It took place between the Irish and some engine companies — the latter being chiefly to blame.  Many of the former got most dreadfully bruised — their houses were sacked, and the most dastardly outrages perpetrated upon their property — yet they were the only individuals arrested as offenders, and dragged off to jail. The spirit felt toward the poor Irish is almost as ferocious as toward the colored race.   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

June 6, 1837

Here Garrison suggests an urgent agenda item to those who are preparing for an annual meeting of the New Hampshire Anti-Slavery Society.   “… never have I regarded the anti-slavery cause to be in such peril — never have I had so little hope of the peaceful overthrow of slavery in our midst — never have I regarded the existence of this nation in so much jeopardy, as at the present time. There is every probabilty that we are speedily to be involved in a war with Mexico, ostensibly to redress injuries, but really to extend slavery and the slave trade…. But the crowning calamity which threatens us, is the annexation of Texas to our Union, at the session of Congress in September.  Should this awful event happen, I do not see any hope for the slaves of the south — for the freemen of the North — or for our guilty, though still beloved country….”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 
 

April 11, 1837

At a Quarterly Meeting of the MASS, held in Lynn, Wendell Phillips makes his first antislavery speech, and offers a resolution which is voted by the meeting. and sent to Garrison.  “Resolved, that the exertions of John Quincy Adams, and the rest of the Massachusetts delegation who sustained him in his defence of the citizens’ right of petition, deserve the deepest gratitude and the warmest admiration of every American.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Mar 4, 1837

This letter to the Editor of the Boston Courier should be read with other letters to the Courier, which follow soon after this.  The content is not easily summarized, and quotations from parts of the argument which Garrison makes are subject to misrepresenting his view toward violence, when it is or is not justified.  He sites instances in the history of the United States, words from national constitutional documents, words from slaveholders, quotes from slaveholding state constitutions, which justify the use of violence by the oppressed.  That right is unalienable.  He maintains that Abolitionists are the only party who “deny to the oppressed the right of redressing their wrongs, by a bloody process”.  These letters and arguments will need to be read finally in the context of later periods in Garrison’s life.   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Feb. 21, 1837

Here Garrison refers to a hearing to be held at the State House, in which abolitionists will protest against a resolution of Congress to lay on the table their petitions “unread and unreferred”.   He will not speak because he has not time to prepare, and cannot do so without preparation.  He names some who will speak at the hearing.  The hearing will also provide an opportunity to say why the Legislature should itself call for the abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia.  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Jan 12, 1837

Writing to Caleb Cushing, former Congressman from Massachusetts, he thanks him for helping to file petitions relative to the slave trade in the District of Columbia, and also indicates that he is sending him another petition from the town of Attleborough, obtained chiefly by the Charles Sumner.   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Dec. 17, 1836

“I have received a letter from Gerrit Smith, enclosing a check of $50 … a donation to help sustain the Liberator, which paper, he says, “is, and ever should be, dearer to the heart of the thorough American abolitionist, than any other anti-slavery periodical.”  Garrison comments,  “After the difference which has existed between us, and the many severe things I have written in reference to his colonization conduct, is not the donation generous, and the panegyric still more liberal?  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 
 

Nov. 22, 1836

In a letter to Helen, Garrison refers to the fact that the Grimkes, Angelina and Sarah, had been invited to speak whenever they think it proper, “and to state such facts respecting slavery as they may choose.” … “Sarah has just said, that, although brought up in the midst of slavery, and having conversed with hundreds of well-treated slaves, she has never found one who did not long to be free.”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Nov. 4, 1836

In a letter of this date, Garrison refers to a Board meeting action, and lists people who will, each assume the duty of securing signatures to the petitions.  Garrison is assigned to work in Ward ll.   “If we get one thousand names altogether, we shall do pretty well.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 
 

Sept 28, 1836

“The abolition men in this city are somewhat drowsy, but the women are, as usual, wide awake, and the life of the cause.  I must put some goads into the former, and spur them up.”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

July 30, 1836

Writing to the New England Spectator, Garrison complains that he has been misrepresented as being “against the Sabbath”.    He explains his position.  “The Christian Sabbath is not one of time; it is not dependent upon the recurrence of one day in seven; it sanctifies every moment, and, being wholly spiritual, comes not by observation.  Is it not our daily prayer – ’Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven?’  If that kingdom be within us, if that will be truly obeyed by us, we enjoy, as to times and seasons, a liberty in Christ Jesus, unknown to those under the first covenant. It may no longer be imposed upon us  …..Am I opposed to the religious observance and bodily rest of one day in seven?  No –But provided it be voluntary.  But when men attempt to make this strict outward observance a test of Christian character, and to decide for me how far I may walk or ride on that day, and to brand innocent and useful acts as damning crimes, I must resist the attempt as pernicious and unauthorized by the gospel of Christ…”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

July 16, 1836

Writing to Knapp:  “I am really in miserable health. Mine is a bilious and liver complaint. For three or four weeks past, I have had a slow fever hanging upon me, and am now taking medicine in good earnest.  I am losing flesh gradually, but constantly …”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

July 5, 1836

Garrison tells of his effigy erected in Fall River.  “… some unknown but patriotic artist, (rejoicing in his liberty,) with considerable labor, but not much skill, made an effigy of straw, and suspended it upon a post in Main Street, to which was fastened a label containing these condemnatory words — ‘Garrison, the abolitionist;  fit subject for the gallows.’  The man of straw proved better than a town crier to urge all good citizens to attend our meeting in the afternoon.. He brought many to hear and see, who else might have remained at home.  I am much obliged to him, for he enabled me to put up the celestial goddess of Liberty in his stead, in the presence of the people. “  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

July 5,  1836

“Yesterday, (for the sixtieth time!) the people of this vain and vaunting country perjured themselves afresh, in the presence of the world, by calling God to witness that they are a free people, that they abhor tyranny, and that they hold it to be a self-evident truth, that all men are created equal, and possess an inalienable right to liberty. O, the solemn farce, the comic tragedy! What a mingling of spurious patriotism and brazen hypocrisy, of glaring falsehood and open blasphemy! What ringing of bells, what waving of banners, what thundering of cannon, what blazing of bonfires, what long processions, what loud huzzas, what swaggering speeches, what sumptuous dinners, what alcoholic toasts, what drunken revels!  All in grateful and honorable observance of the Fourth of July!  A free country — and every sixth man on the soil a slave!”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

May 25, 1836

Garrison, writing to Helen, tells of a letter from George Thompson.  “T. says…that our dear babe, with such a name as he has got, must really be a double dipped fanatic — George Thompson GARRISON !!”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

April 18, 1836

“Unless the most strenuous exertions are instantly made by the people of the free States, another slaveholding State will be added to the Union…. Already the Senate of the United States, with only six dissenting votes, has voted to admit Arkansas as a slaveholding State!…Our only hope of effectual resistance lies in the House of Representatives .. Rouse up the inhabitants of your town — circulate petitions — call a public meeting, if practicable — send exploratory letters to northern members in Congress … stir for the bleeding slave, the honor and salvation of our country, and the approbation of Heaven!  Immediate is the watchword. ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

April 18, 1836

Garrison has had to delay leaving Boston to be with Helen in Connecticut.  “Do you begin to distrust me?  Do I begin to slight you?  Nay — you think all the better of me –I love you the more dearly: — you, because I am intent upon discharging the duties which I owe to God and man — I, because your acquiescence is so cheerfully and sweetly given, painful though a separation is to us both.  “  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

April 10, 1836

Garrison writes about Martin Van Buren.  “Political abolitionists are now placed in an awkward predicament.  What an outrageous letter Martin Van Buren has written to certain political rascals in North Carolina, respecting slavery in the District of Columbia!  No consistent abolitionist can now vote for him.  It seems that our alternative must now be between Webster or Harrison. I should prefer the former…”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

March 7,  1836

In a letter to Helen, still in Connecticut, he tells her that George Thompson has arrived back in England.  “His letter is principally occupied with sharp criticisms upon Dr. Channing’s book, which he seems to regard pretty much as I regard it — that is, a mixture of good and evil, light and darkness, energy and weakness.”  He indicates that he has met twice with Harriet Martineau. “She is plain and frank in her manners, and not less so in her conversation.  I can assure you, that we abolitionists need not fear that she will ever print any thing, either in this country or in England, inimical to us, or in favor of the Colonization Society.  She is now abiding under the roof of Dr. Channing, and no doubt will do him much good.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 
 

Feb. 3, 1836

Writing from Providence, to Isacc Knapp,  Garrison mentions a letter from Bourne, “it is characteristic of that early pioneer in the cause of immediate emancipation, and worthy of lasting record.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Jan. 30, 1836

Garrison writes to the President of the Anti-Slavery Convention to be held in Providence, in February.  He congratulates the people of Rhode Island, (and comments that Connecticut is the only New England state presently where there is no such Society), but notes the existence of other state societies.  He mentions Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, New York, Ohio, Kentucky.  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Jan 17, 1836

Garrison is in Connecticut, and writes to Samuel J. May, indicating that he cannot attend the fourth annual meeting of the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society. Here are a few sentences of his letter.  “Let me say to the brethren who shall assemble together — Be Bold For God.  These are times in which we are specially called upon not to count our lives dear unto  us — if, living, we are to be slaves ourselves, or to work at the enslavement of others.  Nay, we shall be unworthy of an existence, if we suffer ourselves to be awed into silence by the threats of oppressors.  The cause which we advocate is not ours, but God’s; and therefore I renew the charge — Be Bold For God.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Jan 16, 1836

In a letter to Helen, Garrison is grateful that there has been a meeting of the Boston Female Anti-Slavery Society, without the mob of last October.   “So doth moral courage triumph over brute force!”  He speaks about the need to liquidate the debt of the newspaper, now at $2500.   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Nov 27, 1835

In a letter to Mary Benson, Garrison comments on two principal abolitionists.  “Harriet Martineau, the distinguished authoress from England, has also shown true moral courage in attending the meeting of the Boston Female Anti-Slavery Society, and avowing her approval of its principles.” …. Also, Garrison asks that Mary convey to Brown “the expression of my sincere affection and high respect… I hope that he might be permitted to live to see the year of jubilee in this country, for the whole slave population, which, I trust, is not far distant.”     ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Nov 7, 1835

Garrison writes to Helen, who is safely with her family in Connecticut, but he has returned to Boston. He tells of being in the Anti-Slavery office, when a “procession marched by the office, with a band of music in full blast, and followed by a squad of spectators; and what do you think they had with them?  It was a large board, on which were drawn two figures, quite conspicuously — George Thompson and a black woman.  Over the head of Thompson were the words, ‘The Foreign Emissary’ –and the black woman asking him, ‘When are we going to have another meeting, brother Thompson?’  It is fortunate, perhaps, that this company did not know that I was then in the Anti-Slavery office  — else they might have excited another uproar  … city authorities made not the slightest attempt to interfere …. Mr. Thompson will probably sail for England in the course of a fortnight — but this must be kept private…”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Oct 24, 1835

To Samuel E. Sewall, Garrison sends thanks for Sewall’s  part in rescuing him from the mob of the previous day.  “It seems to me that we ought to resolve that the Liberator, despite all opposition, shall continue to be printed — and printed, too, in Boston. Whether it is necessary for me to abide in the city, is a question of lawful expediency…”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Sept 12, 1835

In a letter to George W. Benson, Garrison summarizes some recent evidence of hatred against abolitionists.  He mentions that Benson himself has been put in a Providence jail “for safe keeping from your enemies”.  George Thompson is in Pittsburgh, fearful to come back to Boston.  A meeting in Haverhill was broken up by a “shower of brickbats”.  Thompson and Whittier have been pelted with mud and stones, in Concord.  “That some of us will be assassinated or abducted, seems more than probable — but there is much apparent, without any real danger.”  Garrison then quotes a note which has come to him from Angelina Grimke:  “with a spirit worthy of the best days of martyrdom, she says — ‘A hope gleams across my mind, that our blood will be spilt, instead of the slaveholders:  our lives will be taken, and theirs spared.’  Is this not Christ-like?”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 ¹

Sept 5, 1835

Garrison writes to Otis, responding with a strong attack against him for his Faneuil Hall speech.   He includes a mock gravestone for Otis’s grave, including in part:  “Reader, weep at human inconsistency and frailty!  The last public act of his life, A life conspicuous for many honorable traits,Was an earnest defence of THE RIGHTS OF TYRANTS AND SLAVE-MONGERS to hold in bondage, as their property, The bodies and souls of millions of his own countrymen!  This was made in ‘THE OLD CRADLE OF LIBERTY’ ….He has gone to the judgment set of Christ! ”    ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Sept 4, 1835

Writing to George W. Benson, Garrison comments on current threats to abolitionists. “…those religious persons and papers that denounce our brother George Thompson as a foreigner, are virtually rebuking every foreign missionary who has been sent from our shores to evangelize a rebellious world, and they will find, ere long, that infidelity will meet and vanquish them with their own weapons. … I am not prepared fully to decide as to the expediency of calling a National Convention, but am rather inclined to think it inexpedient. Before the feverish excitement that now reigns in the public mind will have subsided, winter will be upon us. … Perhaps we better work quietly, but industriously, until spring — but I am not sure.   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Feb 7, 1835

In this letter to Smith, Garrison utilizes a favored method of placing in two parallel columns words of the person addressed, pointing out what Garrison believes to be glaring inconsistencies.  Here the columns are titled,  “Gerrit Smith vs. Gerrit Smith,  Hard Language vs. Soft and Hard Language”.   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

Jan 31, 1835

“I have not the honor to be personally acquainted with you; but, in despite of your silence on the subject of slavery, and your advocacy of the Colonization Society, I have for many years entertained an exalted opinion of your character as a philanthropist and a christian.”  Then Garrison goes on to tell Smith that he has, unwittingly, “done immense injury to the colored population” by his support of colonization.  This remonstrance continues through several following letters.   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

December 18, 1834

In a letter addressed to “the Colored Inhabitants of Boston”, Garrison writes against advertisements he had seen which urged them to “rally on the side of the Whigs”.  He notes that prior to the election “fully attended meetings” among colored voters passed resolutions in favor of Whigs.  He is confident that when they voted for Whigs, their motives were better than those actuated by white Whig supporters.  “..you meant to act wisely for yourselves, and indirectly at least, to advance that sacred cause which we deem to be paramount to all others … I think you committed an error — I think you were misled, unintentionally, by those who you have every reason to believe are truly your well-wishers…”   He then indicates that he voted for Amasa Walker “on the ground of humanity, justice, benevolence and religion; and I think, as you valued your welfare, he ought to have received your votes…”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI
 

June 19, 1834

In a letter to the Boston Courier, Garrison notes an article which he deems “worthy of animadversion”.  The article is about someone who claims that the idea of remuneration to slave owners who liberate their slaves, is popular among members of the Anti-Slavery cause.   Garrison says this “is wholly erroneous.  I repel it as an aspersion.”   His animadversion  continues at some length in this response.   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

May 20, 1834

Writing to Robert Purvis, apologizes that he has not sent to him “half as many letters to my dear friends in England, as I contemplated when I saw you, but I dare not delay any longer.”  Then Garrison lists the names of people in England to whom he sends letters of introduction for Purvis to deliver.  The names include James Ryley and Dr. Hancock, in Liverpool; Joseph Sturge, Birmingham; Arthur West, Bath; Elizabeth and Mary Dudley; Peckham, London; William Allen, Richard Barrett, Joseph Phillips, Danl. O’Connell, Dr. Lushington, Geroge Stephen, Joseph and Emmanuel Cooper, John Scoble, and others.  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

May 1, 1834

“Gentle One:  Do I love you too much?  Do I think of you too often?   Do I devote too much time in writing to you? This I know — that our separation is truly painful to my heart; that you occupy my thoughts more than any other human being; that in addressing myself to you so often, I am not only permitted to cherish the pleasing assurance that I am contributing to your happiness, but enabled to pour out the tender emotions of my breast; and that I might as well attempt to forget my own unworthiness, as one so dear and meritorious as my own sweet Helen…”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

April 25, 1834

Writing to Helen:  “The deeper I get in my moral researches, the more does my soul sicken at the depravity of the times.  As a nation, we are ‘full of wounds, and bruises, and putrefying sores’.  Men are profane — impure –vicious –rebellious. The leprosy of corruption covers society, and the cancer of selfishness is preying upon its vitals. As a people, we are by no means backward in our professions of christianity and republicanism; but it is certain that we draw nigh unto God with our lips, while our hearts are far from  him –else we should bring forth the peaceable fruits of righteousness.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

April 25, 1834

Writing to Helen:  “It is truly delightful to know that we possess each other’s affections, in all their purity and strength  — but, oh! how incomparably more precious is that assurance, which I trust we both cherish, leading us to believe that we are loved by our heavenly Father, and that we love Him supremely!  — Dear Helen, in our morning and evening devotions, when bowing in our hearts at the mercy-seat, let us pray that we may be kept from all sin — from the temptations and snares of an evil world — from idolatry — from slothfulness and folly — and that we may be continually replenished with heavenly wisdom… “  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

April  24 1834

About five months before their wedding, here is a flavor of Garrison’s feelings.  Writing to Helen he says, “I am no longer William Lloyd Garrison, but Helen Eliza Benson. There is such a fine and perfect affinity of souls between us, that I have lost my identity, and now completely engrossed in your person.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

March 22, 1834

Garrison writes to  Vashon, black abolitionist leader in Pittsburgh.  He comments on the recent action in Parliament.  “It is delightful to hear that the British Colonies are giving complete freedom to their slaves.  Now we shall see whether the emancipated will destroy their masters, or do any acts of violence, in return for their enfranchisement.  Only give the slaveholders guineas enough for their victims, and they are perfectly willing to risk being slaughtered, or robbed of their goods.  “   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

March 18, 1834

In this letter Garrison urges Follen to accept an invitation to be present at the annual meeting of the Salem Anti-Slavery Society.   “I have no language to express my admiration of the moral courage which you have displayed, in thus connecting yourself with a cause which is at present so unpopular.  May an infinite reward be yours! 

 ¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Jan 20, 1834

In this letter to Garrison urges to Channing, that be take a stronger, more vocal public presence in behalf of abolition.   “In a cause  like this, there are two thing to be remembered — lst, that a tremendous responsibility rests upon him who perverts his influence; and 2nd, that an equally fearful responsibility rests upon him who withholds his influence…”  

 ¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

October 11, 1833

“My interviews with Wilberforce and Clarkson were full of interest and satisfaction. … In another column (in the Liberator)  will be found the signature of the former, appended to a strong and unequivocal ‘Protest’ against the Colonization Society, in which it is declared ‘that the professions made by the Society of promoting the abolition of slavery are altogether delusive’  — that ‘to the destruction of slavery throughout the world, the Society is believed to be an ostruction’ — and that the Society is ‘not deserving of the countenance of the British public.’    Clarkson’s name is not affixed to the ‘Protest’, not because, having many months since resolved that he would henceforth occupy neutral ground, he thought a departure from the course he had marked out would be a just impeachment of his integrity.”   ¹

Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

August 17, 1833

“If there be any Settlement, at the present time, which is peculiarly interesting in its origin and progress, or in its relation to Slavery in the United States … it is the Wilberforce Colony in Upper Canada — it is the little band of sufferers who constitute its population, of whom you are the faithful and worthy representative…”  ¹

Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

July 13, 1833

Garrison writes to the Duke of Sussex, son of King George, who is sponsoring Cresson in his tour in England on behalf of Colonization.  Garrison’s effort is to undermine that sponsorship.  In following letters Garrison writes to London papers, in criticism of Colonization.   Letters go to the London Patriot, and the London Christian Advocate.  ¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

June 20, 1833

“I have seen Mr. Wilberforce.  He has repudiated his views of the Colonization Society, and regards its principles and purposes with disapprobation.  This fact you may publish to the country.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

June 20, 1833

Garrison writes to the Board of Managers of the New England Anti-Slavery Society, commenting on attempts in the Parliament to include in the Emancipation Bill a period of “apprenticeship”, which would effectively delay emancipation.  “It is generally believed that the plan of apprenticeship (which gives great offence) will not work a single year; indeed, many of the West Indians themselves declare, that there must be complete and instantaneous freedom given both to the masters and the slaves…”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

June 4, 1833

While in England, Garrison sends this challenge to Elliott Cresson, American agent of the American Colonization Society, who is raising support in England.  The challenge includes seven statements which Garrison believes summarize his criticism of the ACS.  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

May 24, 1833

“Petitions are crowding into Parliament by thousands from every part of the United Kingdom, praying for the abolition of slavery — Lord Suffield alone presented 201 on Tuesday in the House of Lords — one of ‘which was of amazing size, which, closely packed as it was, seemed to rival the woolsack itself in its dimensions.’  It was signed by EIGHT HUNDRED THOUSAND ladies !!!  Its presentation excited considerable sensation and some merriment … In the House of Commons, Mr. Buxton presented 300 petitions, among them one containing 187,000 female signatures, which required four members to lay it on the table…”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

May 24, 1833

Writing from Liverpool, Garrison comments on the debate about abolitionists regard the question of compensation to the planters.  “My indignation kindles at such a base proposition — I will not listen to it for a moment. For those who have been, for a long course of years, whipping, starving, plundering, brutalizing and trafficking their own species, to come forward and demand a handsome remueration if they cease from these atrocious practices, argues a hardihood of mind unsurpassed in the annals of villany… ” ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

May 23, 1833

Garrison writes to the Liberator, from Liverpool, in reference to the Emancipation Bill. “There is a report that it has passed to a third reading, one feature of which is the unconditional emancipation of all children who may hereafter be born of slave parents, and also of those who are now under six years of age.  This is an approximation to justice, but it will not suffice. … Be sure to apprise me early, and minutely, of all the anti-slavery and pro-slavery movements in the United States … Starve not your epithets against slavery, through fear or parsimony: let them be heavy, robust and powerful.  It is a wast of politeness to be courteous to the devil; and to think of beating down his strongholds with straws is sheer insanity.  The language of reform is always severe…” ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

April 4, 1833

Garrison writes to members of a Committee of Boston’s colored community, thanking them for a silver cup presented to him at the home of George Putnam.  It was presented on the occasion of a farewell interview, as Garrison prepared for his first trip to England.  “I thank you for this liberal expression of your sentiments.  It was not needed to convince me of your friendship for my person … Gratitude shall engrave your names upon the tablet of my memory, more deeply than they are engraved upon this cup. … I will endeavor to be more worthy of your regard. ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Dec. 10, 1832

Garrison refers to a letter from the ”distinguished Friend in Liverpool, James Cropper, in which he denounces the Colonization Society as a ‘diabolical scheme to perpetuate slavery’”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Dec. 4, 1832

Here is an illustration of Garrison’s early connection with abolitionists in England.  “Our coadjutors in England are fighting most manfully, with spiritual weapons against sin and cruelty. I have just received from them a large bundle of anti-slavery pamphlets, tracts, circulars … The British abolitionits waste no ammunition  –  every shot tells — they write in earnest — they call, as did old John Knox,  fig a fig, and a spade a spade…”   ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Dec. 4, 1832

Garrison’s attempt to influence the Legislature is illustrated in this letter. “At the time of our annual meeting, there will be in this city at least six hundred members of the Legislature, a large portion of whom we shall probably secure as auditors: hence it is highly important that we should make a demonstration of strength and talent on that occasion.”    ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Sept 13, 1832

Writing from Providence, Garrison records his visit with abolitionist Moses Brown.  “As I came through this city in June, I made a sort visit to the venerable Moses Brown, (the patriarch of Friends,) who is now in his ninety-fifth year.  I have just returned from a second visit, highly gratified to find that his health continues good and his intellect clear.  He is certainly an extraordinary man, and sustains the heavy weight of almost a century in an extraordinary manner.  His interest in all the great philanthropic movements of the age rather increases than suffers diminution  — especially in the abolition cause. “  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Sept 7, 1832

Writing to the Liberator, Garrison emphasizes the need to organize abolitonists. “It is time for the friends of bleeding humanity to make a demonstation of their strength. It is idle for them to sigh over the degradation and misery of the slaves, while they neglect to coalesce. To effect this union, agents are indispensable….. it is much easier to convince a hundred men in a large audience, than half a dozen by detail. In this manner I may be able to disarm whole communities of their antipathies, and rally them around the standard which has been lifted up in Boston…” ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

July 7, 1832

Viewers may be interested to note in the letter a reference to a pro-Colonization speaker at Lyman Beecher’s church.  It is a reminder of Garrison’s early acquaintance with Beecher, prior to his ascendancy as President of Lane Seminary, and conflict over abolition.  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

May 30, 1832

Garrison tells Robert Purvis, in this letter, that his Thoughts on African Colonization “will be ready for sale in this city to-morrow.  I make no calculation with regard to their effect upon the public mind; but, hastily as they have been put together, I believe they are calculated to make a salutary impression.”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

March 13, 1832

Garrison notes his thanks to Buffum, first President of the NE Anti-Slavery Society,  for a late “interesting and valuable Address”. ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

January 21, 1832

Garrison criticizes Adams, because in his early year in Congress, he has not presented to Congress petitions from Quakers in Pennsylvania, relative to the abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia. “The nature of my enterprise unavoidably brings me into a collision with you, as painful as it is unexpected. … Another week, perhaps, may give to the public your ‘reasons why you could give no countenance or support’ to these petitions: these reasons may be so conclusive as to establish the propriety of ten millions of freemen holding six thousand human beings in abject bondage, and to render unnecessary a second letter from my pen. ”  ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Sept 8, 1831

Here Garrison asserts a view established at the beginning of his witness.  “I do not justify the slaves in their rebellion: yet I do not condemn them, and applaud similar conduct in white men.  I deny the right of any people to fight for liberty, and so far am a Quaker in principle.  Of all men living, however, our slaves have the best reason to assert their rights by violent measures, inasmuch as they are more oppressed than others.”¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

August 13, 1831

Writing to a committee of men in Boston, (including J. Telemachus Hilton), acknowledges their support.  “Nothing encourages me more, than to witness the singular unanimity which every where exists among my colored brethren, and to know that they look up to the press as the great instrument under the blessing of God, for accomplishing their restoration.  The liberal donation which they have made… for the support of the Liberator, is the best proof of the deep interrest which is felt on this subject.” ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

July 30, 1831

“The colored people in Hartford, (only 500 in number,) have already subscribed for 50 copies! I am sure that your colored citizens, on learning the design of the paper — that it is to defend their rights and to liberate the slaves — and that it opposes their removal to Africa, will not be outdone in their zeal by those of any other place.”¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

Sept 13, 1830

“At the present day, American slavery is unequalled for cruelty: — antiquity cannot produce its parallel.  And yet it is boastingly proclaimed to the world, that this is the land of the free, and the asylum of the oppressed!  Was liberty ever so degraded in the eyes of mankind, or justice mocked with such impunity?  … I hold no fellowship with slaveowners.  I will not make a truce with them even for a single hour.  I blush for them as countrymen –I know that they are not christians; and the  higher they raise their professions of patriotism or piety, the stronger is my detestation of their hypocrisy… they are without excuse…”

My 13, 1830

Garrison writes to his prosecutor. “Your presumptuous, feeble, ridiculous remarks upon the subject of slavery, and the rights of slaveholders, exhausted my patience. A buzzing fly may disturb the equanimity of a sage; but if a pin be stuck through its wings, the insect, Sir, is harmless . Beware of my pen!”¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

May 13, 1830

Convicted of libel after publishing a charge that Francis Todd was involved in the slave trade, Garrison writes from jail. He writes in a partly playful mood. “… I am in prison, as snug as a robin in his cage, but I sing as often, and quite as well, as I did before my wings were clipped “… He claims a number of visitors … so that, “between the labors of my brain, the conversations of my friends, and the ever-changing curiousities of this huge menagerie, time flies away astonishingly swift … this is a capital place to sketch the lights and shadows of human nature…”¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

July 9, 1829

Garrison comments that it is common on the Fourth of July to praise the Declaration of Independence “to set forth the tyranny of the mother country, and to challenge the admiration of the world. But what a pitiful detail of grievances does this document present, in comparison with the wrongs which our slaves endure! In the one case, it is hardly the plucking of a hair from the head; in the other, it is the crushing of a live body on the wheel” … “Before God I must say, that such a glaring contradiction, as exists between our creed and practice, the annals of five thousand years cannot parallel. In view of it, I am ashamed of my country…”¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

July 9,1829

Commenting on newspaper reports of his first public speech (July 4, 1829), Garrison denies that he advocates “a union of Church and State”… “I wish to see a full ballot-box of unbought, intelligent votes, on every, the most trivial election. I wish a good moral character to be an indispensable qualification in the selection of candidates for office, from a Town Clerk to a President of the United States. I wish the “voice of the people” to mean something more than the echo of an evening caucus or a petty committee…”¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

August 15, 1828

Writing to the Yankee and the Boston Literary Gazette, Garrison asserts “that, if my life be spared, my name shall one day be known so extensively as to render private enquiry unecessary, and known, too, in a praiseworthy manner. I speak in the spirit of prophecy, not of vainglory — with a strong pulse, a flashing eye, and a glow of the heart.”¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI

July 7, 1823

Garrison visits his Mother, in Baltimore, seeing her for the first time in seven years. A letter to a friend describes her condition. “… so emaciated, that I should never have recognized her … bolstered up in bed, being incompetent to lie down….” Then he comments on the operation she is to undergo… “and from the known skill of the physician in surgery, it is believed it will result happily.” ¹

¹ Letters of William Lloyd Garrison - Volumes I - VI