Bibb is
acquainted
with him.
Narrative of the Life and Adventures of Henry Bibb, an American Slave, Written
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Title: Narrative of the Life and Adventures of Henry Bibb, an American Slave, Written by Himself
Author: Henry Bibb
Release Date: March 17, 2005 [EBook #15398]
Language: English
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NARRATIVE
OF THE
LIFE AND ADVENTURES
OF
HENRY BIBB,
AN AMERICAN SLAVE,
WRITTEN BY HIMSELF.
WITH
AN INTRODUCTION
BY LUCIUS C. MATLACK.
NEW YORK:
PUBLISHED BY THE AUTHOR; 5 SPRUCE STREET.
1849
INTRODUCTION.
From the most obnoxious substances we often see spring forth,
beautiful and fragrant, flowers of every hue, to regale the eye, and
perfume the air. Thus, frequently, are results originated which are
wholly unlike the cause that gave them birth. An illustration of this
truth is afforded by the history of American Slavery.
Naturally and necessarily, the enemy of literature, it has become the
prolific theme of much that is profound in argument, sublime in
poetry, and thrilling in narrative. From the soil of slavery itself
have sprung forth some of the most brilliant productions, whose
logical levers will ultimately upheave and overthrow the system.
Gushing fountains of poetic thought, have started from beneath the rod
of violence, that will long continue to slake the feverish thirst of
humanity outraged, until swelling to a flood it shall rush with
wasting violence over the ill-gotten heritage of the oppressor.
Startling incidents authenticated, far excelling fiction in their
touching pathos, from the pen of self-emancipated slaves, do now
exhibit slavery in such revolting aspects, as to secure the
execrations of all good men, and become a monument more enduring than
marble, in testimony strong as sacred writ against it.
Of the class last named, is the narrative of the life of Henry Bibb,
which is equally distinguished as a revolting portrait of the hideous
slave system, a thrilling narrative of individual suffering, and a
triumphant vindication of the slave's manhood and mental dignity. And
all this is associated with unmistakable traces of originality and
truthfulness.
To many, the elevated style, purity of diction, and easy flow of
language, frequently exhibited, will appear unaccountable and
contradictory, in view of his want of early mental culture. But to the
thousands who have listened with delight to his speeches on
anniversary and other occasions, these same traits will be noted as
unequivocal evidence of originality. Very few men present in their
written composition, so perfect a transcript of their style as is
exhibited by Mr. Bibb.
Moreover, the writer of this introduction is well acquainted with his
handwriting and style. The entire manuscript I have examined and
prepared for the press. Many of the closing pages of it were written
by Mr. Bibb in my office. And the whole is preserved for inspection
now. An examination of it will show that no alteration of sentiment,
language or style, was necessary to make it what it now is, in the
hands of the reader. The work of preparation for the press was that of
orthography and punctuation merely, an arrangement of the chapters,
and a table of contents--little more than falls to the lot of
publishers generally.
The fidelity of the narrative is sustained by the most satisfactory
and ample testimony. Time has proved its claims to truth. Thorough
investigation has sifted and analysed every essential fact alleged,
and demonstrated clearly that this thrilling and eloquent narrative,
though stranger than fiction, is undoubtedly true.
It is only necessary to present the following documents to the reader,
to sustain this declaration. For convenience of reference, and that
they may be more easily understood, the letters will be inserted
consecutively, with explanations following the last.
The best preface to these letters, is the report of a committee
appointed to investigate the truth of Mr. Bibb's narrative as he has
delivered it in public for years past.
REPORT
OF THE UNDERSIGNED, COMMITTEE APPOINTED BY THE DETROIT
LIBERTY ASSOCIATION TO INVESTIGATE THE TRUTH OF THE
NARRATIVE OF HENRY BIBB, A FUGITIVE FROM SLAVERY, AND REPORT
THEREON:
Mr. Bibb has addressed several assemblies in Michigan, and
his narrative is generally known. Some of his hearers, among
whom were Liberty men, felt doubt as to the truth of his
statements. Respect for their scruples and the obligation of
duty to the public induced the formation of the present
Committee.
The Committee entered on the duty confided to them, resolved
on a searching scrutiny, and an unreserved publication of
its result. Mr. Bibb acquiesced in the inquiry with a
praiseworthy spirit. He attended before the Committee and
gave willing aid to its object. He was subjected to a
rigorous examination. Facts--dates--persons--and localities
were demanded and cheerfully furnished. Proper
inquiry--either by letter, or personally, or through the
medium of friends was then made from _every_ person, and in
_every_ quarter likely to elucidate the truth. In fact no
test for its ascertainment, known to the sense or experience
of the Committee, was omitted. The result was the collection
of a large body of testimony from very diversified quarters.
Slave owners, slave dealers, fugitives from slavery,
political friends and political foes contributed to a mass
of testimony, every part of which pointed to a common
conclusion--the undoubted truth of Mr. Bibb's statements.
In the Committee's opinion no individual can substantiate
the events of his life by testimony more conclusive and
harmonious than is now before them in confirmation of Mr.
Bibb. The main facts of his narrative, and many of the minor
ones are corroborated beyond all question. No inconsistency
has been disclosed nor anything revealed to create
suspicion. The Committee have no hesitation in declaring
their conviction that Mr. Bibb is amply sustained, and is
entitled to public confidence and high esteem.
The bulk of testimony precludes its publication, but it is
in the Committee's hands for the inspection of any
applicant.
A. L. PORTER,
C. H. STEWART,
SILAS M. HOLMES.
Committee.
DETROIT, _April 22, 1845_.
* * * * *
From the bulk of testimony obtained, a part only is here introduced.
The remainder fully corroborates and strengthens that.
[No. 1. An Extract] DAWN MILLS, FEB. 19th, 1845.
CHARLES H. STEWART, ESQ.
MY DEAR BROTHER:
Your kind communication of the 13th came to hand yesterday.
I have made inquiries respecting Henry Bibb which may be of
service to you. Mr. Wm. Harrison, to whom you alluded in
your letter, is here. He is a respectable and worthy man--a
man of piety. I have just had an interview with him this
evening. He testifies, that he was well acquainted with
Henry Bibb in Trimble County, Ky. , and that he sent a letter
to him by Thomas Henson, and got one in return from him. He
says that Bibb came out to Canada some three years ago, and
went back to get his wife up, but was betrayed at Cincinnati
by a colored man--that he was taken to Louisville but got
away--was taken again and lodged in jail, and sold off to
New Orleans, or he, (Harrison,) understood that he was taken
to New Orleans. He testifies that Bibb is a Methodist man,
and says that two persons who came on with him last Summer,
knew Bibb. One of these, Simpson Young, is now at Malden.
* * *
Very respectfully, thy friend,
HIRAM WILSON.
* * * * *
[No. 2. ] BEDFORD, TRIMBLE CO. , KENTUCKY.
_March 4, 1845_.
SIR:--Your letter under date of the 13th ult. , is now before
me, making some inquiry about a person supposed to be a
fugitive from the South, "who is lecturing to your religious
community on Slavery and the South. "
I am pleased to inform you that I have it in my power to
give you the information you desire. The person spoken of by
you I have no doubt is Walton, a yellow man, who once
belonged to my father, William Gatewood. He was purchased by
him from John Sibly, and by John Sibly of his brother Albert
G. Sibly, and Albert G. Sibly became possessed of him by his
marriage with Judge David White's daughter, he being born
Judge White's slave.
The boy Walton at the time he belonged to John Sibly,
married a slave of my father's, a mulatto girl, and sometime
afterwards solicited him to buy him; the old man after much
importuning from Walton, consented to do so, and accordingly
paid Sibly eight hundred and fifty dollars. He did not buy
him because he needed him, but from the fact that he had a
wife there, and Walton on his part promising every thing
that my father could desire.
It was not long, however, before Walton became indolent and
neglectful of his duty; and in addition to this, he was
guilty, as the old man thought, of worse offences. He
watched his conduct more strictly, and found he was guilty
of disposing of articles from the farm for his own use, and
pocketing the money.
He actually caught him one day stealing wheat--he had
conveyed one sack full to a neighbor and whilst he was
delivering the other my father caught him in the very act.
He confessed his guilt and promised to do better for the
future--and on his making promises of this kind my father
was disposed to keep him still, not wishing to part him from
his wife, for whom he professed to entertain the strongest
affection. When the Christmas Holidays came on, the old man,
as is usual in this country, gave his negroes a week
Holiday. Walton, instead of regaling himself by going about
visiting his colored friends, took up his line of march for
her Britanic Majesty's dominions.
He was gone about two years I think, when I heard of him in
Cincinnati; I repaired thither, with some few friends to aid
me, and succeeded in securing him.
He was taken to Louisville, and on the next morning after
our arrival there, he escaped, almost from before our face,
while we were on the street before the Tavern. He succeeded
in eluding our pursuit, and again reached Canada in safety.
Nothing daunted he returned, after a lapse of some twelve or
eighteen months, with the intention, as I have since
learned, of conducting off his wife and eight or ten more
slaves to Canada.
I got news of his whereabouts, and succeeded in recapturing
him. I took him to Louisville and together with his wife and
child, (she going along with him at her owner's request,)
sold him. He was taken from thence to New Orleans--and from
hence to Red River, Arkansas--and the next news I had of him
he was again wending his way to Canada, and I suppose now is
at or near Detroit.
In relation to his character, it was the general opinion
here that he was a notorious liar, and a rogue. These
things I can procure any number of respectable witnesses to
prove.
In proof of it, he says his mother belonged to James Bibb,
which is a lie, there not having been such a man about here,
much less brother of Secretary Bibb. He says that Bibb's
daughter married A. G. Sibly, when the fact is Sibly married
Judge David White's daughter, and his mother belonged to
White also and is now here, free.
So you will perceive he is guilty of lying for no effect,
and what might it not be supposed he would do where he could
effect anything by it.
I have been more tedious than I should have been, but being
anxious to give you his rascally conduct in full, must be my
apology. You are at liberty to publish this letter, or make
any use you see proper of it. If you do publish it, let me
have a paper containing the publication--at any rate let me
hear from you again.
Respectfully yours, &c,
SILAS GATEWOOD.
TO C. H. STEWART, ESQ.
* * * * *
[No. 3. An Extract. ] CINCINNATI, _March 10, 1845_.
MY DEAR SIR:--Mrs. Path, Nickens and Woodson did not see
Bibb on his first visit, in 1837, when he staid with Job
Dundy, but were subsequently told of it by Bibb. They first
saw him in May, 1838. Mrs. Path remembers this date because
it was the month in which she removed from Broadway to
Harrison street, and Bibb assisted her to remove. Mrs.
Path's garden adjoined Dundy's back yard. While engaged in
digging up flowers, she was addressed by Bibb, who was
staying with Dundy, and who offered to dig them up for her.
She hired him to do it. Mrs. Dundy shortly after called over
and told Mrs. Path that he was a slave. After that Mrs. Path
took him into her house and concealed him. While concealed,
he astonished his good protectress by his ingenuity in
bottoming chairs with cane. When the furniture was removed,
Bibb insisted on helping, and was, after some remonstrances,
permitted. At the house on Harrison street, he was employed
for several days in digging a cellar, and was so employed
when seized on Saturday afternoon by the constables. He
held frequent conversations with Mrs. Path and others, in
which he gave them the same account which he has given you.
On Saturday afternoon, two noted slave-catching constables,
E. V. Brooks and O'Neil, surprised Bibb as he was digging in
the cellar. Bibb sprang for the fence and gained the top of
it, where he was seized and dragged back. They took him
immediately before William Doty, a Justice of infamous
notoriety as an accomplice of kidnappers, proved property,
paid charges and took him away.
His distressed friends were surprised by his re-appearance
in a few days after, the Wednesday following, as they think.
He reached the house of Dr. Woods, (a colored man since
deceased,) before day-break, and staid until dusk. Mrs.
Path, John Woodson and others made up about twelve dollars
for him. Woodson accompanied him out of town a mile and bid
him "God speed. " He has never been here since. Woodson and
Clark saw him at Detroit two years ago.
Yours truly,
WILLIAM BIRNEY.
* * * * *
[No. 4. ] LOUISVILLE, _March 14, 1845_.
MR. STEWART. --Yours of the 1st came to hand on the 13th
inst. You wished me to inform you what became of a boy that
was in the work-house in the fall of '39. The boy you allude
to went by the name of Walton; he had ran away from Kentucky
some time before, and returned for his wife--was caught and
sold to Garrison; he was taken to Louisiana, I think--he was
sold on Red River to a planter. As Garrison is absent in the
City of New Orleans at this time, I cannot inform you who he
was sold to. Garrison will be in Louisville some time this
Spring; if you wish me, I will inquire of Garrison and
inform you to whom he was sold, and where his master lives
at this time.
Yours,
W. PORTER.
* * * * *
[No. 5. ] BEDFORD, TRIMBLE COUNTY, KY.
C. H. STEWART, ESQ. ,
SIR. --I received your note on the 16th inst. , and in
accordance with it I write you these lines. You stated that
you would wish to know something about Walton H. Bibb, and
whether he had a wife and child, and whether they were sold
to New Orleans. Sir, before I answer these inquiries, I
should like to know who Charles H. Stewart is, and why you
should make these inquiries of me, and how you knew who I
was, as you are a stranger to me and I must be to you. In
your next if you will tell me the intention of your
inquiries, I will give you a full history of the whole case.
I have a boy in your county by the name of King, a large man
and very black; if you are acquainted with him, give him my
compliments, and tell him I am well, and all of his friends.
W. H. Bibb is acquainted with him.
I wait your answer.
Your most obedient,
W. H. GATEWOOD.
Bibb is acquainted with him.
I wait your answer.
Your most obedient,
W. H. GATEWOOD.
_March 17, 1845_.
* * * * *
[No. 6. ] BEDFORD, KENTUCKY, _April 6th, 1845_.
MR. CHARLES H. STEWART.
SIR:--Yours of the 1st March is before me, inquiring if one
Walton Bibb, a colored man, escaped from me at Louisville,
Ky. , in the Spring of 1839. To that inquiry I answer, he
did. The particulars are these: He ran off from William
Gatewood some time in 1838 I think, and was heard of in
Cincinnati. Myself and some others went there and took him,
and took him to Louisville for sale, by the directions of
his master. While there he made his escape and was gone some
time, I think about one year or longer. He came back it was
said, to get his wife and child, so report says. He was
again taken by his owner; he together with his wife and
child was taken to Louisville and sold to a man who traded
in negroes, and was taken by him to New Orleans and sold
with his wife and child to some man up Red River, so I was
informed by the man who sold him. He then ran off and left
his wife and child and got back, it seems, to your country.
I can say for Gatewood he was a good master, and treated him
well. Gatewood bought him from a Mr. Sibly, who was going
to send him down the river. Walton, to my knowledge,
influenced Gatewood to buy him, and promised if he would,
never to disobey him or run off. Who he belongs to now, I do
not know. I know Gatewood sold his wife and child at a great
sacrifice, to satisfy him. If any other information is
necessary I will give it, if required. You will please write
me again what he is trying to do in your country, or what he
wishes the inquiry from me for.
Yours, truly,
DANIEL S. LANE.
* * * * *
These letters need little comment. Their testimony combined is most
harmonious and conclusive. Look at the points established.
1. Hiram Wilson gives the testimony of reputable men now in Canada,
who knew Henry Bibb as a slave in Kentucky.
2. Silas Gatewood, with a peculiar relish, fills three pages of
foolscap, "being anxious to give his rascally conduct in full," as he
says. But he vaults over the saddle and lands on the other side. His
testimony is invaluable as an endorsement of Mr. Bibb's truthfulness.
He illustrates all the essential facts of this narrative. He also
labors to prove him deceitful and a liar.
Deceit in a slave, is only a slight reflex of the stupendous fraud
practised by his master. And its indulgence has far more logic in its
favor, than the ablest plea ever written for slave holding, under ever
such peculiar circumstances. The attempt to prove Mr. Bibb in the lie,
is a signal failure, as he never affirmed what Gatewood denies. With
this offset, the letter under notice is a triumphant vindication of
one, whom he thought there by to injure sadly. As Mr. Bibb has most
happily acknowledged the wheat, (see page 130,) I pass the charge of
stealing by referring to the logic there used, which will be deemed
convincing.
3. William Birney, Esq. , attests the facts of Mr. Bibb's arrest in
Cincinnati, and the subsequent escape, as narrated by him, from the
declaration of eye witnesses.
4. W. Porter, Jailor, states that Bibb was in the work-house at
Louisville, held and sold afterwards to the persons and at the places
named in this volume.
5. W. H. Gatewood, with much Southern dignity, will answer no
questions, but shows his relation to these matters by naming
"King"--saying, "W. H. Bibb is acquainted with him," and promising "a
full history of the case. "
6. Daniel S. Lane, with remarkable straight-forwardness and stupidity,
tells all he knows, and then wants to know what they ask him for. The
writer will answer that question. He wanted to prove by two or more
witnesses, the truth of his own statements; which has most surely been
accomplished.
Having thus presented an array of testimony sustaining the facts
alleged in this narrative, the introduction will be concluded by
introducing a letter signed by respectable men of Detroit, and
endorsed by Judge Wilkins, showing the high esteem in which Mr. Bibb
is held by those who know him well where he makes his home. Their
testimony expresses their present regard as well as an opinion of his
past character. It is introduced here with the greatest satisfaction,
as the writer is assured, from an intimate acquaintance with Henry
Bibb, that all who know him hereafter will entertain the same
sentiments toward him:
* * * * *
DETROIT, _March 10, 1845_.
The undersigned have pleasure in recommending Henry Bibb to
the kindness and confidence of Anti-slavery friends in every
State. He has resided among us for some years. His
deportment, his conduct, and his Christian course have won
our esteem and affection. The narrative of his sufferings
and more early life has been thoroughly investigated by a
Committee appointed for the purpose. They sought evidence
respecting it in every proper quarter, and their report
attested its undoubted truth. In this conclusion we all
cordially unite.
H. Bibb has for some years publicly made this narrative to
assemblies, whose number cannot be told; it has commanded
public attention in this State, and provoked inquiry.
Occasionally too we see persons from the South, who knew him
in early years, yet not a word or fact worthy of impairing
its truth has reached us; but on the contrary, every thing
tended to its corroboration.
Mr. Bibb's Anti-slavery efforts in this State have produced
incalculable benefit. The Lord has blessed him into an
instrument of great power. He has labored much, and for very
inadequate compensation. Lucrative offers for other quarters
did not tempt him to a more profitable field. His sincerity
and disinterestedness are therefore beyond suspicion.
We bid him "God-speed," on his route. We bespeak for him
every kind consideration. * * * *
H. HALLOCK,
President of the Detroit Lib. Association.
CULLEN BROWN, _VICE-PRESIDENT_.
S. M. HOLMES, _SECRETARY_.
J. D. BALDWIN,
CHARLES H. STEWART,
MARTIN WILSON,
WILLIAM BARNUM.
DETROIT, Nov. 11, 1845.
The undersigned, cheerfully concurs with Mr. Hallock and
others in their friendly recommendation of Mr. Henry Bibb.
The undersigned has known him for many months in the Sabbath
School in this City, partly under his charge, and can
certify to his correct deportment, and commend him to the
sympathies of Christian benevolence.
ROSS WILKINS.
* * * * *
The task now performed, in preparing for the press and
introducing to the public the narrative of Henry Bibb, has
been one of the most pleasant ever required at my hands. And
I conclude it with an expression of the hope that it may
afford interest to the reader, support to the author in his
efforts against slavery, and be instrumental in advancing
the great work of emancipation in this country.
LUCIUS C. MATLACK.
NEW YORK CITY, _July 1st, 1849_.
AUTHOR'S PREFACE.
This work has been written during irregular intervals, while I have
been travelling and laboring for the emancipation of my enslaved
countrymen. The reader will remember that I make no pretension to
literature; for I can truly say, that I have been educated in the
school of adversity, whips, and chains. Experience and observation
have been my principal teachers, with the exception of three weeks
schooling which I have had the good fortune to receive since my escape
from the "grave yard of the mind," or the dark prison of human
bondage. And nothing but untiring perseverance has enabled me to
prepare this volume for the public eye; and I trust by the aid of
Divine Providence to be able to make it intelligible and instructive.
I thank God for the blessings of Liberty--the contrast is truly great
between freedom and slavery. To be changed from a chattel to a human
being, is no light matter, though the process with myself practically
was very simple. And if I could reach the ears of every slave to-day,
throughout the whole continent of America, I would teach the same
lesson, I would sound it in the ears of every hereditary bondman,
"break your chains and fly for freedom! "
It may be asked why I have written this work, when there has been so
much already written and published of the same character from other
fugitives? And, why publish it after having told it publicly all
through New England and the Western States to multiplied thousands?
My answer is, that in no place have I given orally the detail of my
narrative; and some of the most interesting events of my life have
never reached the public ear. Moreover, it was at the request of many
friends of down-trodden humanity, that I have undertaken to write the
following sketch, that light and truth might be spread on the sin and
evils of slavery as far as possible. I also wanted to leave my humble
testimony on record against this man-destroying system, to be read by
succeeding generations when my body shall lie mouldering in the dust.
But I would not attempt by any sophistry to misrepresent slavery in
order to prove its dreadful wickedness. For, I presume there are none
who may read this narrative through, whether Christians or
slaveholders, males or females, but what will admit it to be a system
of the most high-handed oppression and tyranny that ever was tolerated
by an enlightened nation.
HENRY BIBB
NARRATIVE
OF THE
LIFE OF HENRY BIBB
CHAPTER I.
_Sketch of my Parentage. --Early separation from my Mother. --Hard
Fare. --First Experiments at running away. --Earnest longing for
Freedom. --Abhorrent nature of Slavery. _
I was born May 1815, of a slave mother, in Shelby County, Kentucky,
and was claimed as the property of David White Esq. He came into
possession of my mother long before I was born. I was brought up in
the Counties of Shelby, Henry, Oldham, and Trimble. Or, more correctly
speaking, in the above counties, I may safely say, I was _flogged up_;
for where I should have received moral, mental, and religious
instruction, I received stripes without number, the object of which
was to degrade and keep me in subordination. I can truly say, that I
drank deeply of the bitter cup of suffering and woe. I have been
dragged down to the lowest depths of human degradation and
wretchedness, by Slaveholders.
My mother was known by the name of Milldred Jackson. She is the mother
of seven slaves only, all being sons, of whom I am the eldest. She was
also so fortunate or unfortunate, as to have some of what is called
the slaveholding blood flowing in her veins. I know not how much; but
not enough to prevent her children though fathered by slaveholders,
from being bought and sold in the slave markets of the South. It is
almost impossible for slaves to give a correct account of their male
parentage. All that I know about it is, that my mother informed me
that my fathers name was JAMES BIBB. He was doubtless one of the
present Bibb family of Kentucky; but I have no personal knowledge of
him at all, for he died before my recollection.
The first time I was separated from my mother, I was young and small.
I knew nothing of my condition then as a slave. I was living with Mr.
White, whose wife died and left him a widower with one little girl,
who was said to be the legitimate owner of my mother, and all her
children. This girl was also my playmate when we were children.
I was taken away from my mother, and hired out to labor for various
persons, eight or ten years in succession; and all my wages were
expended for the education of Harriet White, my playmate. It was then
my sorrows and sufferings commenced. It was then I first commenced
seeing and feeling that I was a wretched slave, compelled to work
under the lash without wages, and often without clothes enough to hide
my nakedness. I have often worked without half enough to eat, both
late and early, by day and by night. I have often laid my wearied
limbs down at night to rest upon a dirt floor, or a bench, without any
covering at all, because I had no where else to rest my wearied body,
after having worked hard all the day. I have also been compelled in
early life, to go at the bidding of a tyrant, through all kinds of
weather, hot or cold, wet or dry, and without shoes frequently, until
the month of December, with my bare feet on the cold frosty ground,
cracked open and bleeding as I walked. Reader, believe me when I say,
that no tongue, nor pen ever has or can express the horrors of
American Slavery. Consequently I despair in finding language to
express adequately the deep feeling of my soul, as I contemplate the
past history of my life. But although I have suffered much from the
lash, and for want of food and raiment; I confess that it was no
disadvantage to be passed through the hands of so many families, as
the only source of information that I had to enlighten my mind,
consisted in what I could see and hear from others. Slaves were not
allowed books, pen, ink, nor paper, to improve their minds. But it
seems to me now, that I was particularly observing, and apt to retain
what came under my observation. But more especially, all that I heard
about liberty and freedom to the slaves, I never forgot. Among other
good trades I learned the art of running away to perfection. I made a
regular business of it, and never gave it up, until I had broken the
bands of slavery, and landed myself safely in Canada, where I was
regarded as a man, and not as a thing.
The first time in my life that I ran away, was for ill treatment, in
1835. I was living with a Mr. Vires, in the village of Newcastle. His
wife was a very cross woman. She was every day flogging me, boxing,
pulling my ears, and scolding, so that I dreaded to enter the room
where she was. This first started me to running away from them. I was
often gone several days before I was caught. They would abuse me for
going off, but it did no good. The next time they flogged me, I was
off again; but after awhile they got sick of their bargain, and
returned me back into the hands of my owners. By this time Mr. White
had married his second wife. She was what I call a tyrant. I lived
with her several months, but she kept me almost half of my time in the
woods, running from under the bloody lash. While I was at home she
kept me all the time rubbing furniture, washing, scrubbing the floors;
and when I was not doing this, she would often seat herself in a large
rocking chair, with two pillows about her, and would make me rock her,
and keep off the flies. She was too lazy to scratch her own head, and
would often make me scratch and comb it for her. She would at other
times lie on her bed, in warm weather, and make me fan her while she
slept, scratch and rub her feet; but after awhile she got sick of me,
and preferred a maiden servant to do such business. I was then hired
out again; but by this time I had become much better skilled in
running away, and would make calculation to avoid detection, by taking
with me a bridle. If any body should see me in the woods, as they
have, and asked "what are you doing here sir! you are a runaway! "--I
said, "no, sir, I am looking for our old mare;" at other times,
"looking for our cows. " For such excuses I was let pass. In fact, the
only weapon of self defence that I could use successfully, was that of
deception. It is useless for a poor helpless slave, to resist a white
man in a slaveholding State. Public opinion and the law is against
him; and resistance in many cases is death to the slave, while the law
declares, that he shall submit or die.
The circumstances in which I was then placed, gave me a longing desire
to be free. It kindled a fire of liberty within my breast which has
never yet been quenched. This seemed to be a part of my nature; it was
first revealed to me by the inevitable laws of nature's God. I could
see that the All-wise Creator, had made man a free, moral, intelligent
and accountable being; capable of knowing good and evil. And I
believed then, as I believe now, that every man has a right to wages
for his labor; a right to his own wife and children; a right to
liberty and the pursuit of happiness; and a right to worship God
according to the dictates of his own conscience. But here, in the
light of these truths, I was a slave, a prisoner for life; I could
possess nothing, nor acquire anything but what must belong to my
keeper. No one can imagine my feelings in my reflecting moments, but
he who has himself been a slave. Oh! I have often wept over my
condition, while sauntering through the forest, to escape cruel
punishment.
"No arm to protect me from tyrants aggression;
No parents to cheer me when laden with grief.
Man may picture the bounds of the rocks and the rivers,
The hills and the valleys, the lakes and the ocean,
But the horrors of slavery, he never can trace.
Henry Bibb, an American Slave, Written by Himself, by Henry Bibb
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Title: Narrative of the Life and Adventures of Henry Bibb, an American Slave, Written by Himself
Author: Henry Bibb
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NARRATIVE
OF THE
LIFE AND ADVENTURES
OF
HENRY BIBB,
AN AMERICAN SLAVE,
WRITTEN BY HIMSELF.
WITH
AN INTRODUCTION
BY LUCIUS C. MATLACK.
NEW YORK:
PUBLISHED BY THE AUTHOR; 5 SPRUCE STREET.
1849
INTRODUCTION.
From the most obnoxious substances we often see spring forth,
beautiful and fragrant, flowers of every hue, to regale the eye, and
perfume the air. Thus, frequently, are results originated which are
wholly unlike the cause that gave them birth. An illustration of this
truth is afforded by the history of American Slavery.
Naturally and necessarily, the enemy of literature, it has become the
prolific theme of much that is profound in argument, sublime in
poetry, and thrilling in narrative. From the soil of slavery itself
have sprung forth some of the most brilliant productions, whose
logical levers will ultimately upheave and overthrow the system.
Gushing fountains of poetic thought, have started from beneath the rod
of violence, that will long continue to slake the feverish thirst of
humanity outraged, until swelling to a flood it shall rush with
wasting violence over the ill-gotten heritage of the oppressor.
Startling incidents authenticated, far excelling fiction in their
touching pathos, from the pen of self-emancipated slaves, do now
exhibit slavery in such revolting aspects, as to secure the
execrations of all good men, and become a monument more enduring than
marble, in testimony strong as sacred writ against it.
Of the class last named, is the narrative of the life of Henry Bibb,
which is equally distinguished as a revolting portrait of the hideous
slave system, a thrilling narrative of individual suffering, and a
triumphant vindication of the slave's manhood and mental dignity. And
all this is associated with unmistakable traces of originality and
truthfulness.
To many, the elevated style, purity of diction, and easy flow of
language, frequently exhibited, will appear unaccountable and
contradictory, in view of his want of early mental culture. But to the
thousands who have listened with delight to his speeches on
anniversary and other occasions, these same traits will be noted as
unequivocal evidence of originality. Very few men present in their
written composition, so perfect a transcript of their style as is
exhibited by Mr. Bibb.
Moreover, the writer of this introduction is well acquainted with his
handwriting and style. The entire manuscript I have examined and
prepared for the press. Many of the closing pages of it were written
by Mr. Bibb in my office. And the whole is preserved for inspection
now. An examination of it will show that no alteration of sentiment,
language or style, was necessary to make it what it now is, in the
hands of the reader. The work of preparation for the press was that of
orthography and punctuation merely, an arrangement of the chapters,
and a table of contents--little more than falls to the lot of
publishers generally.
The fidelity of the narrative is sustained by the most satisfactory
and ample testimony. Time has proved its claims to truth. Thorough
investigation has sifted and analysed every essential fact alleged,
and demonstrated clearly that this thrilling and eloquent narrative,
though stranger than fiction, is undoubtedly true.
It is only necessary to present the following documents to the reader,
to sustain this declaration. For convenience of reference, and that
they may be more easily understood, the letters will be inserted
consecutively, with explanations following the last.
The best preface to these letters, is the report of a committee
appointed to investigate the truth of Mr. Bibb's narrative as he has
delivered it in public for years past.
REPORT
OF THE UNDERSIGNED, COMMITTEE APPOINTED BY THE DETROIT
LIBERTY ASSOCIATION TO INVESTIGATE THE TRUTH OF THE
NARRATIVE OF HENRY BIBB, A FUGITIVE FROM SLAVERY, AND REPORT
THEREON:
Mr. Bibb has addressed several assemblies in Michigan, and
his narrative is generally known. Some of his hearers, among
whom were Liberty men, felt doubt as to the truth of his
statements. Respect for their scruples and the obligation of
duty to the public induced the formation of the present
Committee.
The Committee entered on the duty confided to them, resolved
on a searching scrutiny, and an unreserved publication of
its result. Mr. Bibb acquiesced in the inquiry with a
praiseworthy spirit. He attended before the Committee and
gave willing aid to its object. He was subjected to a
rigorous examination. Facts--dates--persons--and localities
were demanded and cheerfully furnished. Proper
inquiry--either by letter, or personally, or through the
medium of friends was then made from _every_ person, and in
_every_ quarter likely to elucidate the truth. In fact no
test for its ascertainment, known to the sense or experience
of the Committee, was omitted. The result was the collection
of a large body of testimony from very diversified quarters.
Slave owners, slave dealers, fugitives from slavery,
political friends and political foes contributed to a mass
of testimony, every part of which pointed to a common
conclusion--the undoubted truth of Mr. Bibb's statements.
In the Committee's opinion no individual can substantiate
the events of his life by testimony more conclusive and
harmonious than is now before them in confirmation of Mr.
Bibb. The main facts of his narrative, and many of the minor
ones are corroborated beyond all question. No inconsistency
has been disclosed nor anything revealed to create
suspicion. The Committee have no hesitation in declaring
their conviction that Mr. Bibb is amply sustained, and is
entitled to public confidence and high esteem.
The bulk of testimony precludes its publication, but it is
in the Committee's hands for the inspection of any
applicant.
A. L. PORTER,
C. H. STEWART,
SILAS M. HOLMES.
Committee.
DETROIT, _April 22, 1845_.
* * * * *
From the bulk of testimony obtained, a part only is here introduced.
The remainder fully corroborates and strengthens that.
[No. 1. An Extract] DAWN MILLS, FEB. 19th, 1845.
CHARLES H. STEWART, ESQ.
MY DEAR BROTHER:
Your kind communication of the 13th came to hand yesterday.
I have made inquiries respecting Henry Bibb which may be of
service to you. Mr. Wm. Harrison, to whom you alluded in
your letter, is here. He is a respectable and worthy man--a
man of piety. I have just had an interview with him this
evening. He testifies, that he was well acquainted with
Henry Bibb in Trimble County, Ky. , and that he sent a letter
to him by Thomas Henson, and got one in return from him. He
says that Bibb came out to Canada some three years ago, and
went back to get his wife up, but was betrayed at Cincinnati
by a colored man--that he was taken to Louisville but got
away--was taken again and lodged in jail, and sold off to
New Orleans, or he, (Harrison,) understood that he was taken
to New Orleans. He testifies that Bibb is a Methodist man,
and says that two persons who came on with him last Summer,
knew Bibb. One of these, Simpson Young, is now at Malden.
* * *
Very respectfully, thy friend,
HIRAM WILSON.
* * * * *
[No. 2. ] BEDFORD, TRIMBLE CO. , KENTUCKY.
_March 4, 1845_.
SIR:--Your letter under date of the 13th ult. , is now before
me, making some inquiry about a person supposed to be a
fugitive from the South, "who is lecturing to your religious
community on Slavery and the South. "
I am pleased to inform you that I have it in my power to
give you the information you desire. The person spoken of by
you I have no doubt is Walton, a yellow man, who once
belonged to my father, William Gatewood. He was purchased by
him from John Sibly, and by John Sibly of his brother Albert
G. Sibly, and Albert G. Sibly became possessed of him by his
marriage with Judge David White's daughter, he being born
Judge White's slave.
The boy Walton at the time he belonged to John Sibly,
married a slave of my father's, a mulatto girl, and sometime
afterwards solicited him to buy him; the old man after much
importuning from Walton, consented to do so, and accordingly
paid Sibly eight hundred and fifty dollars. He did not buy
him because he needed him, but from the fact that he had a
wife there, and Walton on his part promising every thing
that my father could desire.
It was not long, however, before Walton became indolent and
neglectful of his duty; and in addition to this, he was
guilty, as the old man thought, of worse offences. He
watched his conduct more strictly, and found he was guilty
of disposing of articles from the farm for his own use, and
pocketing the money.
He actually caught him one day stealing wheat--he had
conveyed one sack full to a neighbor and whilst he was
delivering the other my father caught him in the very act.
He confessed his guilt and promised to do better for the
future--and on his making promises of this kind my father
was disposed to keep him still, not wishing to part him from
his wife, for whom he professed to entertain the strongest
affection. When the Christmas Holidays came on, the old man,
as is usual in this country, gave his negroes a week
Holiday. Walton, instead of regaling himself by going about
visiting his colored friends, took up his line of march for
her Britanic Majesty's dominions.
He was gone about two years I think, when I heard of him in
Cincinnati; I repaired thither, with some few friends to aid
me, and succeeded in securing him.
He was taken to Louisville, and on the next morning after
our arrival there, he escaped, almost from before our face,
while we were on the street before the Tavern. He succeeded
in eluding our pursuit, and again reached Canada in safety.
Nothing daunted he returned, after a lapse of some twelve or
eighteen months, with the intention, as I have since
learned, of conducting off his wife and eight or ten more
slaves to Canada.
I got news of his whereabouts, and succeeded in recapturing
him. I took him to Louisville and together with his wife and
child, (she going along with him at her owner's request,)
sold him. He was taken from thence to New Orleans--and from
hence to Red River, Arkansas--and the next news I had of him
he was again wending his way to Canada, and I suppose now is
at or near Detroit.
In relation to his character, it was the general opinion
here that he was a notorious liar, and a rogue. These
things I can procure any number of respectable witnesses to
prove.
In proof of it, he says his mother belonged to James Bibb,
which is a lie, there not having been such a man about here,
much less brother of Secretary Bibb. He says that Bibb's
daughter married A. G. Sibly, when the fact is Sibly married
Judge David White's daughter, and his mother belonged to
White also and is now here, free.
So you will perceive he is guilty of lying for no effect,
and what might it not be supposed he would do where he could
effect anything by it.
I have been more tedious than I should have been, but being
anxious to give you his rascally conduct in full, must be my
apology. You are at liberty to publish this letter, or make
any use you see proper of it. If you do publish it, let me
have a paper containing the publication--at any rate let me
hear from you again.
Respectfully yours, &c,
SILAS GATEWOOD.
TO C. H. STEWART, ESQ.
* * * * *
[No. 3. An Extract. ] CINCINNATI, _March 10, 1845_.
MY DEAR SIR:--Mrs. Path, Nickens and Woodson did not see
Bibb on his first visit, in 1837, when he staid with Job
Dundy, but were subsequently told of it by Bibb. They first
saw him in May, 1838. Mrs. Path remembers this date because
it was the month in which she removed from Broadway to
Harrison street, and Bibb assisted her to remove. Mrs.
Path's garden adjoined Dundy's back yard. While engaged in
digging up flowers, she was addressed by Bibb, who was
staying with Dundy, and who offered to dig them up for her.
She hired him to do it. Mrs. Dundy shortly after called over
and told Mrs. Path that he was a slave. After that Mrs. Path
took him into her house and concealed him. While concealed,
he astonished his good protectress by his ingenuity in
bottoming chairs with cane. When the furniture was removed,
Bibb insisted on helping, and was, after some remonstrances,
permitted. At the house on Harrison street, he was employed
for several days in digging a cellar, and was so employed
when seized on Saturday afternoon by the constables. He
held frequent conversations with Mrs. Path and others, in
which he gave them the same account which he has given you.
On Saturday afternoon, two noted slave-catching constables,
E. V. Brooks and O'Neil, surprised Bibb as he was digging in
the cellar. Bibb sprang for the fence and gained the top of
it, where he was seized and dragged back. They took him
immediately before William Doty, a Justice of infamous
notoriety as an accomplice of kidnappers, proved property,
paid charges and took him away.
His distressed friends were surprised by his re-appearance
in a few days after, the Wednesday following, as they think.
He reached the house of Dr. Woods, (a colored man since
deceased,) before day-break, and staid until dusk. Mrs.
Path, John Woodson and others made up about twelve dollars
for him. Woodson accompanied him out of town a mile and bid
him "God speed. " He has never been here since. Woodson and
Clark saw him at Detroit two years ago.
Yours truly,
WILLIAM BIRNEY.
* * * * *
[No. 4. ] LOUISVILLE, _March 14, 1845_.
MR. STEWART. --Yours of the 1st came to hand on the 13th
inst. You wished me to inform you what became of a boy that
was in the work-house in the fall of '39. The boy you allude
to went by the name of Walton; he had ran away from Kentucky
some time before, and returned for his wife--was caught and
sold to Garrison; he was taken to Louisiana, I think--he was
sold on Red River to a planter. As Garrison is absent in the
City of New Orleans at this time, I cannot inform you who he
was sold to. Garrison will be in Louisville some time this
Spring; if you wish me, I will inquire of Garrison and
inform you to whom he was sold, and where his master lives
at this time.
Yours,
W. PORTER.
* * * * *
[No. 5. ] BEDFORD, TRIMBLE COUNTY, KY.
C. H. STEWART, ESQ. ,
SIR. --I received your note on the 16th inst. , and in
accordance with it I write you these lines. You stated that
you would wish to know something about Walton H. Bibb, and
whether he had a wife and child, and whether they were sold
to New Orleans. Sir, before I answer these inquiries, I
should like to know who Charles H. Stewart is, and why you
should make these inquiries of me, and how you knew who I
was, as you are a stranger to me and I must be to you. In
your next if you will tell me the intention of your
inquiries, I will give you a full history of the whole case.
I have a boy in your county by the name of King, a large man
and very black; if you are acquainted with him, give him my
compliments, and tell him I am well, and all of his friends.
W. H. Bibb is acquainted with him.
I wait your answer.
Your most obedient,
W. H. GATEWOOD.
Bibb is acquainted with him.
I wait your answer.
Your most obedient,
W. H. GATEWOOD.
_March 17, 1845_.
* * * * *
[No. 6. ] BEDFORD, KENTUCKY, _April 6th, 1845_.
MR. CHARLES H. STEWART.
SIR:--Yours of the 1st March is before me, inquiring if one
Walton Bibb, a colored man, escaped from me at Louisville,
Ky. , in the Spring of 1839. To that inquiry I answer, he
did. The particulars are these: He ran off from William
Gatewood some time in 1838 I think, and was heard of in
Cincinnati. Myself and some others went there and took him,
and took him to Louisville for sale, by the directions of
his master. While there he made his escape and was gone some
time, I think about one year or longer. He came back it was
said, to get his wife and child, so report says. He was
again taken by his owner; he together with his wife and
child was taken to Louisville and sold to a man who traded
in negroes, and was taken by him to New Orleans and sold
with his wife and child to some man up Red River, so I was
informed by the man who sold him. He then ran off and left
his wife and child and got back, it seems, to your country.
I can say for Gatewood he was a good master, and treated him
well. Gatewood bought him from a Mr. Sibly, who was going
to send him down the river. Walton, to my knowledge,
influenced Gatewood to buy him, and promised if he would,
never to disobey him or run off. Who he belongs to now, I do
not know. I know Gatewood sold his wife and child at a great
sacrifice, to satisfy him. If any other information is
necessary I will give it, if required. You will please write
me again what he is trying to do in your country, or what he
wishes the inquiry from me for.
Yours, truly,
DANIEL S. LANE.
* * * * *
These letters need little comment. Their testimony combined is most
harmonious and conclusive. Look at the points established.
1. Hiram Wilson gives the testimony of reputable men now in Canada,
who knew Henry Bibb as a slave in Kentucky.
2. Silas Gatewood, with a peculiar relish, fills three pages of
foolscap, "being anxious to give his rascally conduct in full," as he
says. But he vaults over the saddle and lands on the other side. His
testimony is invaluable as an endorsement of Mr. Bibb's truthfulness.
He illustrates all the essential facts of this narrative. He also
labors to prove him deceitful and a liar.
Deceit in a slave, is only a slight reflex of the stupendous fraud
practised by his master. And its indulgence has far more logic in its
favor, than the ablest plea ever written for slave holding, under ever
such peculiar circumstances. The attempt to prove Mr. Bibb in the lie,
is a signal failure, as he never affirmed what Gatewood denies. With
this offset, the letter under notice is a triumphant vindication of
one, whom he thought there by to injure sadly. As Mr. Bibb has most
happily acknowledged the wheat, (see page 130,) I pass the charge of
stealing by referring to the logic there used, which will be deemed
convincing.
3. William Birney, Esq. , attests the facts of Mr. Bibb's arrest in
Cincinnati, and the subsequent escape, as narrated by him, from the
declaration of eye witnesses.
4. W. Porter, Jailor, states that Bibb was in the work-house at
Louisville, held and sold afterwards to the persons and at the places
named in this volume.
5. W. H. Gatewood, with much Southern dignity, will answer no
questions, but shows his relation to these matters by naming
"King"--saying, "W. H. Bibb is acquainted with him," and promising "a
full history of the case. "
6. Daniel S. Lane, with remarkable straight-forwardness and stupidity,
tells all he knows, and then wants to know what they ask him for. The
writer will answer that question. He wanted to prove by two or more
witnesses, the truth of his own statements; which has most surely been
accomplished.
Having thus presented an array of testimony sustaining the facts
alleged in this narrative, the introduction will be concluded by
introducing a letter signed by respectable men of Detroit, and
endorsed by Judge Wilkins, showing the high esteem in which Mr. Bibb
is held by those who know him well where he makes his home. Their
testimony expresses their present regard as well as an opinion of his
past character. It is introduced here with the greatest satisfaction,
as the writer is assured, from an intimate acquaintance with Henry
Bibb, that all who know him hereafter will entertain the same
sentiments toward him:
* * * * *
DETROIT, _March 10, 1845_.
The undersigned have pleasure in recommending Henry Bibb to
the kindness and confidence of Anti-slavery friends in every
State. He has resided among us for some years. His
deportment, his conduct, and his Christian course have won
our esteem and affection. The narrative of his sufferings
and more early life has been thoroughly investigated by a
Committee appointed for the purpose. They sought evidence
respecting it in every proper quarter, and their report
attested its undoubted truth. In this conclusion we all
cordially unite.
H. Bibb has for some years publicly made this narrative to
assemblies, whose number cannot be told; it has commanded
public attention in this State, and provoked inquiry.
Occasionally too we see persons from the South, who knew him
in early years, yet not a word or fact worthy of impairing
its truth has reached us; but on the contrary, every thing
tended to its corroboration.
Mr. Bibb's Anti-slavery efforts in this State have produced
incalculable benefit. The Lord has blessed him into an
instrument of great power. He has labored much, and for very
inadequate compensation. Lucrative offers for other quarters
did not tempt him to a more profitable field. His sincerity
and disinterestedness are therefore beyond suspicion.
We bid him "God-speed," on his route. We bespeak for him
every kind consideration. * * * *
H. HALLOCK,
President of the Detroit Lib. Association.
CULLEN BROWN, _VICE-PRESIDENT_.
S. M. HOLMES, _SECRETARY_.
J. D. BALDWIN,
CHARLES H. STEWART,
MARTIN WILSON,
WILLIAM BARNUM.
DETROIT, Nov. 11, 1845.
The undersigned, cheerfully concurs with Mr. Hallock and
others in their friendly recommendation of Mr. Henry Bibb.
The undersigned has known him for many months in the Sabbath
School in this City, partly under his charge, and can
certify to his correct deportment, and commend him to the
sympathies of Christian benevolence.
ROSS WILKINS.
* * * * *
The task now performed, in preparing for the press and
introducing to the public the narrative of Henry Bibb, has
been one of the most pleasant ever required at my hands. And
I conclude it with an expression of the hope that it may
afford interest to the reader, support to the author in his
efforts against slavery, and be instrumental in advancing
the great work of emancipation in this country.
LUCIUS C. MATLACK.
NEW YORK CITY, _July 1st, 1849_.
AUTHOR'S PREFACE.
This work has been written during irregular intervals, while I have
been travelling and laboring for the emancipation of my enslaved
countrymen. The reader will remember that I make no pretension to
literature; for I can truly say, that I have been educated in the
school of adversity, whips, and chains. Experience and observation
have been my principal teachers, with the exception of three weeks
schooling which I have had the good fortune to receive since my escape
from the "grave yard of the mind," or the dark prison of human
bondage. And nothing but untiring perseverance has enabled me to
prepare this volume for the public eye; and I trust by the aid of
Divine Providence to be able to make it intelligible and instructive.
I thank God for the blessings of Liberty--the contrast is truly great
between freedom and slavery. To be changed from a chattel to a human
being, is no light matter, though the process with myself practically
was very simple. And if I could reach the ears of every slave to-day,
throughout the whole continent of America, I would teach the same
lesson, I would sound it in the ears of every hereditary bondman,
"break your chains and fly for freedom! "
It may be asked why I have written this work, when there has been so
much already written and published of the same character from other
fugitives? And, why publish it after having told it publicly all
through New England and the Western States to multiplied thousands?
My answer is, that in no place have I given orally the detail of my
narrative; and some of the most interesting events of my life have
never reached the public ear. Moreover, it was at the request of many
friends of down-trodden humanity, that I have undertaken to write the
following sketch, that light and truth might be spread on the sin and
evils of slavery as far as possible. I also wanted to leave my humble
testimony on record against this man-destroying system, to be read by
succeeding generations when my body shall lie mouldering in the dust.
But I would not attempt by any sophistry to misrepresent slavery in
order to prove its dreadful wickedness. For, I presume there are none
who may read this narrative through, whether Christians or
slaveholders, males or females, but what will admit it to be a system
of the most high-handed oppression and tyranny that ever was tolerated
by an enlightened nation.
HENRY BIBB
NARRATIVE
OF THE
LIFE OF HENRY BIBB
CHAPTER I.
_Sketch of my Parentage. --Early separation from my Mother. --Hard
Fare. --First Experiments at running away. --Earnest longing for
Freedom. --Abhorrent nature of Slavery. _
I was born May 1815, of a slave mother, in Shelby County, Kentucky,
and was claimed as the property of David White Esq. He came into
possession of my mother long before I was born. I was brought up in
the Counties of Shelby, Henry, Oldham, and Trimble. Or, more correctly
speaking, in the above counties, I may safely say, I was _flogged up_;
for where I should have received moral, mental, and religious
instruction, I received stripes without number, the object of which
was to degrade and keep me in subordination. I can truly say, that I
drank deeply of the bitter cup of suffering and woe. I have been
dragged down to the lowest depths of human degradation and
wretchedness, by Slaveholders.
My mother was known by the name of Milldred Jackson. She is the mother
of seven slaves only, all being sons, of whom I am the eldest. She was
also so fortunate or unfortunate, as to have some of what is called
the slaveholding blood flowing in her veins. I know not how much; but
not enough to prevent her children though fathered by slaveholders,
from being bought and sold in the slave markets of the South. It is
almost impossible for slaves to give a correct account of their male
parentage. All that I know about it is, that my mother informed me
that my fathers name was JAMES BIBB. He was doubtless one of the
present Bibb family of Kentucky; but I have no personal knowledge of
him at all, for he died before my recollection.
The first time I was separated from my mother, I was young and small.
I knew nothing of my condition then as a slave. I was living with Mr.
White, whose wife died and left him a widower with one little girl,
who was said to be the legitimate owner of my mother, and all her
children. This girl was also my playmate when we were children.
I was taken away from my mother, and hired out to labor for various
persons, eight or ten years in succession; and all my wages were
expended for the education of Harriet White, my playmate. It was then
my sorrows and sufferings commenced. It was then I first commenced
seeing and feeling that I was a wretched slave, compelled to work
under the lash without wages, and often without clothes enough to hide
my nakedness. I have often worked without half enough to eat, both
late and early, by day and by night. I have often laid my wearied
limbs down at night to rest upon a dirt floor, or a bench, without any
covering at all, because I had no where else to rest my wearied body,
after having worked hard all the day. I have also been compelled in
early life, to go at the bidding of a tyrant, through all kinds of
weather, hot or cold, wet or dry, and without shoes frequently, until
the month of December, with my bare feet on the cold frosty ground,
cracked open and bleeding as I walked. Reader, believe me when I say,
that no tongue, nor pen ever has or can express the horrors of
American Slavery. Consequently I despair in finding language to
express adequately the deep feeling of my soul, as I contemplate the
past history of my life. But although I have suffered much from the
lash, and for want of food and raiment; I confess that it was no
disadvantage to be passed through the hands of so many families, as
the only source of information that I had to enlighten my mind,
consisted in what I could see and hear from others. Slaves were not
allowed books, pen, ink, nor paper, to improve their minds. But it
seems to me now, that I was particularly observing, and apt to retain
what came under my observation. But more especially, all that I heard
about liberty and freedom to the slaves, I never forgot. Among other
good trades I learned the art of running away to perfection. I made a
regular business of it, and never gave it up, until I had broken the
bands of slavery, and landed myself safely in Canada, where I was
regarded as a man, and not as a thing.
The first time in my life that I ran away, was for ill treatment, in
1835. I was living with a Mr. Vires, in the village of Newcastle. His
wife was a very cross woman. She was every day flogging me, boxing,
pulling my ears, and scolding, so that I dreaded to enter the room
where she was. This first started me to running away from them. I was
often gone several days before I was caught. They would abuse me for
going off, but it did no good. The next time they flogged me, I was
off again; but after awhile they got sick of their bargain, and
returned me back into the hands of my owners. By this time Mr. White
had married his second wife. She was what I call a tyrant. I lived
with her several months, but she kept me almost half of my time in the
woods, running from under the bloody lash. While I was at home she
kept me all the time rubbing furniture, washing, scrubbing the floors;
and when I was not doing this, she would often seat herself in a large
rocking chair, with two pillows about her, and would make me rock her,
and keep off the flies. She was too lazy to scratch her own head, and
would often make me scratch and comb it for her. She would at other
times lie on her bed, in warm weather, and make me fan her while she
slept, scratch and rub her feet; but after awhile she got sick of me,
and preferred a maiden servant to do such business. I was then hired
out again; but by this time I had become much better skilled in
running away, and would make calculation to avoid detection, by taking
with me a bridle. If any body should see me in the woods, as they
have, and asked "what are you doing here sir! you are a runaway! "--I
said, "no, sir, I am looking for our old mare;" at other times,
"looking for our cows. " For such excuses I was let pass. In fact, the
only weapon of self defence that I could use successfully, was that of
deception. It is useless for a poor helpless slave, to resist a white
man in a slaveholding State. Public opinion and the law is against
him; and resistance in many cases is death to the slave, while the law
declares, that he shall submit or die.
The circumstances in which I was then placed, gave me a longing desire
to be free. It kindled a fire of liberty within my breast which has
never yet been quenched. This seemed to be a part of my nature; it was
first revealed to me by the inevitable laws of nature's God. I could
see that the All-wise Creator, had made man a free, moral, intelligent
and accountable being; capable of knowing good and evil. And I
believed then, as I believe now, that every man has a right to wages
for his labor; a right to his own wife and children; a right to
liberty and the pursuit of happiness; and a right to worship God
according to the dictates of his own conscience. But here, in the
light of these truths, I was a slave, a prisoner for life; I could
possess nothing, nor acquire anything but what must belong to my
keeper. No one can imagine my feelings in my reflecting moments, but
he who has himself been a slave. Oh! I have often wept over my
condition, while sauntering through the forest, to escape cruel
punishment.
"No arm to protect me from tyrants aggression;
No parents to cheer me when laden with grief.
Man may picture the bounds of the rocks and the rivers,
The hills and the valleys, the lakes and the ocean,
But the horrors of slavery, he never can trace.
