The Under-Ground Railroad/Chapter 2
CONDITION OF THE FUGITIVE SLAVES IN CANADA.
CHAPTER II.
As misrepresentations, in some instances, have prevailed respecting the true condition of the Coloured Population of Canada, I have been induced to make the following statements, which are derived from personal knowledge. If these promiscuous suggestions will in any way gratify the friends of the Slave, and serve the cause of freedom,—strengthen the hearts and hands of British christians in the glorious work of amancipation, my highest expectations will be fully realised, and my soul will rejoice in the Lord.
Perhaps you, who have been cradled in a land of liberty, cannot altogether enter into the feelings of those who breathe the air of freedom for the first time. The Slaves, upon their arrival in Canada, gaze with delight upon a land of freedom. Would you believe it, tears often flow to their eyes,—they lift their voices and weep aloud. It is a glorious thing to gaze for the first time upon a land, where a poor Slave, flying from a so-called land of liberty, would in a moment find his fetters broken, his shackles loosed, and whatever he was in the land of Washington, beneath the shadow of Bunker's Hill, or even Plymouth Rock, here he becomes a man and a brother. But even here, it is too true, they find they have only changed the yoke of oppression for the galling fetters of a vitiated public opinion. True, they come to Canada exceedingly ignorant, but who can wonder at it, born as they are to an inheritance of misery, nurtured in degradation, and cradled in oppression. With the scorn of the white man upon their souls. His fetters upon their limbs. His scourge upon their flesh. What can be expected from their offspring but a mournful reaction of that cursed system which spreads its baneful influence over both body and soul. Which dwarfs the intellect, stunts its developement, and debases the soul.
If you look upon your map, you will obviously see how Canada is divided from the United States: in some parts only by a narrow boundary. Some of the States just over the boundary are free States, yet if a fugitive Slave be found there, he is taken back to his former owner, and his bondage made still harder.
But let them be once within the Canada boundary, they are free,—they are safe,—for they are then under the protection of our gracious Queen. The population of Upper Canada is nearly 1,000,000. The most densely populated portion is from the extreme south-west, in a straight line along the Great Western Railway as low down as Toronto, on Lake Ontario, a distance of 250 miles. This embraces a large scope of country, from the south-west of Lake Erie, along Lake Huron west, as far north as Lake Simcoe. This is considered, not without good reason, the best farming region of Upper Cannda. Of this population 60,000 are coloured people, who are almost entirely in Upper Canada, because of its close connection with the States, 15,000 of whom are supposed to be free born, and at vaious times to have removed from the free States of America into Canada, to enjoy equal rights and privileges with the white citizens, which they could not do in any portion of the United States. Making due allowances for the Canadian coloured people we still have a population of 45,000 Fugitive Slaves from the United States, and this number is augmented yearly at the rate of 1200. These are as it were only a drop taken from the ocean of 4,000,000 now in that Republic which boasts so much of its freedom,—liberty for the white man and slavery for the black man. "Liberty for the Slaveocrats and a strong hemp-rope for the eloquent throat of an English Spurgeon," should he be found in that land of blood, preaching the Gospel to every creature. The coloured people are mostly located in towns, villages, and townships, in the region above described.
There seems to prevail among them a disposition to settle in villages and towns, especially those who have been porters in stores, warehouses, or waiters in private families; their object evidently being to obtain situations in their former occupations: failing, as many do, (which is not to be regretted), they do, in the latter case, what they should have done in the former, engage in agriculture. However, experience soon teaches them that they are in the wrong place, consequently a larger porportion settles in agricultural districts than formerly. I may say, the majority are thus engaged, perhaps not in every case from choice but the force of circumstances, in either case, however, our object is accomplished. I am decidedly of opinion that in Canada, as in all countries, being settled with emigrants, agriculture is the occupation. Therefore we perpetually urge upon them the importance of thus becoming their own proprietors.—There seems to exist a peculiar fondness for each other, which is charcteristic of the coloured race; this influences them to settle together, thus forming large colonies or settlements as they are called. Land is purchased from Government, by individuals and companies, at one dollar and a quarter per acre. They divide it into sections, half sections, quarter sections, and even eights of sections, as convenience may require. These speculators sell this land at two dollars and two dollars and a half per acre, giving the purchasers the advantage of ten years to complete the payment.
Any man with a little industry and economy can secure himself a home, as many do, or Government will grant 50 acres as a homestead, on certain portions, and in certain places, to any one who will settle thereupon, giving a simple fee deed to the settlers, when their cabins are erected on the spot selected. But this land is in the interior districts, a great distance from market, not even roads along which to convey their produce to market To settle in such districts requires some capital to commence with, which the poor have not; and those who are so fortunate, find it to their decided advantage to settle as near a good market as possible.
The consequence is, the coloured people, with the whites of equal condition, buy land of the speculators, and remain within reach of markets, the prosperity of which, in a very great measure, depends upon their own industry. It may be said, to the credit of many of our coloured brethern, they have bought land by paying a few pounds in advance, and many of their farms are in a good state of cultivation; and, in some instances, superior to many of their white neighbours.
In the county of Kent, many are engaged in agriculture, residing upon and cultivating their own farms. One farm near Chatham, of which place we shall speak hereafter, owned and cultivated by a coloured man, recently deceased, is regarded, evenby those not so favourably disposed to the Negro race, to be the model farm of the community. It is now cultivated by his family, and still retains its former character.
It is a generally admitted fact in Canada, that the coloured people are much better farmers than the Irish, or even Canadian French. The better portion live in two-story frame houses, painted white on the ontside; now and then there is a respectable barn on the premises, around which are fowls, hogs, horses, cows, and occasionally sheep,—but less attention is paid to the latter than to any other kind of stock. The majority live in log houses, generally one room in which yon sometimes see a looking-glass, one or two bedsteads, a bureau, &c. Generally a garden is connected with the house, in which are vegetables growing luxuriantly; here the mistress occupies herself from two o'clock in the afternoon till five in the evening, and perhaps later. I am decidedly of opinion, that no people could do better under similar circumstances, than the Fugitive Slaves, and the coloured population, are now doing in Canada. I often think many of the friends of the Negro race, expect too much in too short a time, from the emancipated. The growth of a nation is slow, especially when degraded as the African race is. The nefarious system of Slavery has entailed upon them almost inconceivable evils, which requires generations to eradicate, while they are only in the first generation.
When wrong shall cease,—and liberty
And love, and faith, and right,
Throughout the earth, be known,
As in their home above.
Whittier.
As the foregoing remarks are of a general character, we will now enter more minutely into particulars, which in all probability will be more satisfactory to the reader. Toronto, as we said before, is situated on Lake Ontario; it is a flourishing town, admirably adapted for a commercial city. The census returns of 1850, gave a population of 50,000, it now is supposed to be about 80,000, of which 1600 are coloured, or of the African race; of the latter number 1000 are Fugitive Slaves. The coloured population are engaged in various avocations, some blacksmiths, bricklayers, carpenters, six grocers, one physician, also shoemakers, painters, &c. One broom manufactory, and a large coal and wood yard, kept by a coloured gentleman.
A considerable number, who emigrated to Canada at an early day, are in comfortable circumstances. Mr. A. who came from Mobile, Alabama, 18 or 20 years ago, has, by his industry and economy, accumulated 100,000 dollars in property. He has now retired from business and his three sons are studying for the medical profession. I am exceedingly happy to add, that few men are more respected than he, not because of his wealth only, but for his piety also. Mr. M. owns two lines of omnibuses, and horses and carriages. Dr. T., mentioned above, has quite a respectable drug store, in one of the principal streets, which no gentleman of his profession would feel disgraced to enter. An ice merchant, who furnishes hotels, public houses, and private families, during summer with ice, has a farm under good cultivation. His son-in-law has on the same farm, a two-story frame house, furnished as well inside as it is finished outside.
The winters are long and intensely cold in Canada, during which but little out door work can be done, which causes a deal of suffering among the poor; to remedy this, to some extent, soup houses are established, from which they can obtain coal, wood, bread, and soup. In the winter of 1858, only one coloured family made application for assistance. However, we must take this fact into consideration, that the necessities of this class are, to some extent, supplied by a few benevolent friends, who interest themselves in their behalf, but not sufficiently to prevent numbers of them from applying for assistance from the Town Fund. Many too would rather, and absolutely do suffer much, before they will make known their condition, or apply for aid to their white friends. Even, considering all these things, it is to be supposed, in a population of 1600, many and frequent would be the applications. But the true cause is found in the fact, that there is a great disposition in the better classes to assist their less fortunate brethren, and that they are very industrious.
Hamilton, at the head of Lake Ontario, around which the railway trains pass to the Niagara Falls, New York, and the Eastern States, has a population of 24,000, 600 of whom are coloured people. Among them are blacksmiths, carpenters, plasterers, and one wheelwright. Many of them own property, but how much or to what extent, I cannot say. Mr. M., a mulatto, who still drives his own hack, is worth 15,000 dollars. He came to Hamilton 17 years ago, and acted as porter in a store 12 years, he then bought a hack, and he has now two carriages and four horses. He takes three newspapers, one weekly and two daily. On the 14th of January, 1859, he said to me, "I shall have to emigrate to the West Indies to educate my children, for, the other day, my two daughters were refused admission into the Female Academy, because they are coloured." This may startle some, but it is nevertheless a lamentable fact; prejudice so prevails against the coloured race, even in Canada, In communities mainly consisting of Englishmen and Scotchmen, it does not prevail to the same extent, therefore the more emigration we have of these classes, the better for the coloured people. I am persuaded, if these were in majority in Canada no prejudice would exist. May God hasten the period when the glorious text shall be fully realized, "He is no respecter of persons; but every one, in every nation, that feareth God and worketh righteousness, is accepted of Him." As to their general morality the following will suffice:—In 1858, there were 1982 arrests and summonses to appear before the Court,—of these 81 were coloured. Putting down the population in round numbers at 24,000, the proportion of arrests would be about one in 12½, estimating the coloured population for convenience of calculation at 550, would be a fraction over one in seven. The fact of their being almost exclusively emigrants, the proportion of adults among the coloured people is greater than the population at large, some deduction must therefore be made from their proportionate criminality. Beggary and pauperism are almost unknown among them. Not a coloured person in this place is supported by the Township. They feel their position, and know that they are on their trial, and that they have a character to establish and maintain.
St. Catherine's, perhaps about 32 miles from Hamilton, is a straggling town of about 2500 inhabitants, 200 or 250 will include the entire coloured population. I am not so favourably impressed with the prosperity of the coloured people here. Their morals, I am sorry to say, are much lower than in most towns and settlements, more drunkenness than we usually see. There are among them a few good Christians,—pious, devoted persons; but a kind of goodness without intelligence. One man owns two hacks and four horses. It seems the community has been left without competent teachers to instruct the people; the consequence is, they have not done as well as we could desire, I may add, that several of them own property, and are in comfortable circumstances; but, upon the whole, they are far behind the mass of their brethren.
London is a town still further west, on the Great Western Railway, it has a population of 12,000, of which 500 are coloured people. What I have said of them in Toronto and Hamilton, will apply to their brethren here. They are rapidly advancing in this place in general refinement and respectability, nearly all seem engaged in some sort of useful employment. This is the Missionary field of the Colonial Church and School Society. They have done and are still doing a great deal to promote the interest and elevation of this people. I am confident God has blest the various agencies, and means employed by them in this glorious work, and I hope He will continue to do so. I only regret they are not sufficiently catholic. In London the coloured children go to school with the whites, the latter feel themselves not disgraced by the association. For the want of such Christian-like union, many of the coloured children are growing up in ignorance, even in a land of freedom, and so it will be until they are able to establish and sustain their own institutions, as I hope by the grace of God ere long they will. The elevation of a people depends more upon themselves than upon their neighbours. I have long been convinced the sentiment of the emiment poet is quite true:
Themselves must strike the blow.
Cowper.
These people are perfectly willing, and manifest a disposition to receive instruction, as the following extract will demonstrate. I quote from the Report of the Church School Society for 1859, page 27.
"The Tracts are still valued by the poor Fugitives who can read. They are sometimes returned to be exchanged with such expressions as the following. 'That's a nice book, it is so sweet and comforting.' 'I thought the last my daughter read to me was the best I ever heard in my life,' said a poor Fugitive the other day. A mother said, 'that tract you lent me was so good, and so beautiful, that I lent it to a friend of mine, and that friend lent it to another friend, and so it has gone through twenty people's hands, and it has not come home yet.'" I shall give my testimony in a subsequent page.
In conversation with the heads of the police in the town of London, they said that petty crimes were more frequent among the people of colour than any other class, except the Irish, who were much worse. However this was a mere opinion, as in the statistical statements of the Police department, the offences committed by the coloured people were not separately recorded, as in some other towns. They further said, beggary and pauperism were unknown among them. I thought this quite a free and open concession, and spoke well for them, which I found to be quite true when visiting their families. Mr. J. is a Fugitive Slave, from North Carolina, (my native State). He settled in the town of London 23 years ago, he became a merchant, but now is a dealer in medicine. He has a good drug store, and is possessed of considerable property.
Chatham is a town situated at the head of navigation on the river Thames, unlike Toronto, Hamilton, or even London. It has but few fine buildings, and its appearance at first sight would not very favourably impress a stranger as to its wealth; nevertheless, there is more business done here than would seem from first entering the town. There are three saw-mills, two shingle-mills, two potash factories, three cabinet warehouses, four flour-mills, several iron foundries, three breweries, &c. It is a port of entry, and exports a large amount of lumber. This busy town contains a population of 6000,—2000 are coloured people, who seem to add their quota to its industry. One gun-smith, four cabinet makers, working on their own account and employing others, six master carpenters, and a number of plasterers. Three printers, two watch makers, two ship carpenters, two millers, four blacksmiths, one upholsterer, one sadler, six master shoemakers, and last of all the trades, a cigar maker.
Chatham is the head quarters of the Negro race in Canada. It has acquired considerable notoriety, even in the United States, because of the great number that settled there. The better class live in such houses as before described,—(two story frames, painted white outside),—numbers of their unfortunate brethren live in log houses, with gardens around them, well stocked with vegetables. They have here two day-schools, though not very well provided for; one has 80 pupils, the other 30. They seem to be under good training and instruction.—They probably have the largest, if not the best conducted Sunday School in Canada among the coloured people. I had the pleasure of addressing 300 children in this school, which is considered a large number to be in attendance. It is certainly conducted in such a manner as to perpetuate a lively interest among the scholars, which is an essential element to the prosperity of any school. The other school is well conducted but not so large. The reciting of passages by the pupils from both the Old and New Testament Scriptures, was a sufficient evidence of their aptitude for learning; as the Negro race has ever evinced when surrounded by favorable circumstances.
There are two chapels in Chatham, Methodist and Baptist, the former has quite an intelligent coloured Minister. The latter has no regular Pastor, (I have occasionally preached for them). The Press is conducted by a coloured gentleman, well adapted to the business, the continuance of which up to the present time, is owing to his industry and economy; though it is not at present in a very encouraging condition, but that is no fault of his. Newspapers usually depend on voluntary subscription for support, it is therefore a very difficult matter to keep one in existence among an uneducated people, as this class is in Canada, when its support entirely or in part is to be derived from them. Parents do not see the necessity of taking papers for the benefit of their children, who can and are learning to read; in the majority of cases, if they did, they would not have the means to pay for one. However, I may truly say, in some respects, and with the best of feeling for my brethren, "they have eyes to see and see not; and ears to hear and hear not." We need more schools and qualified teachers in Canada. And as the people advance in intelligence we must have more newspapers and editors. The schools are very irregularly attended, just as they attend to every thing else, in the most erratic manner imaginable. However, knowing as we do, the cause of it, we bear with greater fortitude their imperfections. Our hope for better things is from the rising generation, now entering on the great theatre of human existence, whose minds are still to be developed, and their characters to be moulded; and unless we are prepared with efficient facilities to meet these emergencies, they will still be intellectually infants. We believe the period will arrive, ere long, when they will be enlightened, virtuous, moral and intelligent; or, in other words, possess those qualities in a higher degree than they now do, and lavish their blessings among the various kingdoms of the earth as freely as they have lavished on them their chains and ignomy. Education, combined with Christian civilization will enlighten, refine, and elevate the down-trodden sons and daughters of Ham.
The hearty loyalty of the coloured population in Canada is attested by all that come in contact with them. They love the country that protects them in the free and untramelled exercise of their natural and inalienable rights. The following anthem is the production of a man who was a slave 23 years, now living in Chatham, Canada West.
AIR,—Home Again.
Bless the Queen! England's Queen;
Heaven protect and save!
Oh, may the space be wide, between
Her cradle and the grave!
Ever may her land remain
Asylum of the free;
A spell to break each galling chain
Of human slavery.
Chorus,—Bless the Queen, &c.
Beneath her sway, equal rights
Extend to rich and poor;
From halls of Dukes and gallant Knights,
To the humble peasant's door.
Hence ever from the peasant's cot,
And domes of wealth and sheen.
One prayer ascends of word and thought,
God save, God save the Queen.
O'er her may angels spread
Their all-protecting wing;
Oh, may they shield her heart and head.
From each delusive thing.
Shield her from the gloom and care
By mortal eye unseen,
That she may live—long live—to wear
The crown,—God save the Queen.
When her long and peaceful reign
Shall here have been complete,
And she for brighter realms would fain,
Leave this terrestrial seat;
May her deathless spirit soar
To that blest world of light.
Where ills and cares disturb no more,
And there's nor day nor night.
Fifty-four miles further West, on the Detroit river, which connects Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair, is situated the town of Windsor, which has a population of 2500. Few towns perhaps in Canada are older than this; it is the place where the larger portion of the Fugitive Slaves first arrive on British soil, because of its close connection with the States. This portion of Canada is divided by the river Detroit from the State of Michigan; across the river, at this point, unknown numbers of Slaves have past into a land of rest, where the Slaveholders cease to trouble them, and the baying of the Negro hounds are no more heard on the track of the flying Fugitive. From 700 to 800 is the number of coloured people in this town; among them, as in other towns, are carpenters, shoemakers, bricklayers, grocers, &c.; most of them are doing well, and quite a number have comfortable homes for their families, but they are not extensive property-holders, as in some of the places mentioned before.—Mr. O. has a large provision store, and does extensive business, much more than any other coloured gentleman in the town: he is therefore very much respected by them. He lives in a neat well-furnished brick house. Rev. W. Troy, my colleague and fellow labourer among this class, owns property in this town, also a farm in the country. Here is mainly his field of labour, where he is now erecting a chapel with a school for their benefit. The Lord has abundantly blessed his humble efforts in bringing many to a knowledge of the Truth as it is in Christ Jesus. He is the leading man among them.—Mr. B. has been employed at the railway station for four or five years. He has not been absent a single day, unless prevented by sickness. By his steady habits and faithfulness to labour, he has won for himself a high respectability. Mr. Lewis Clark, who was her Majesty's Mail Carrier from Windsor, across the river to Detroit, in the State of Michigan, is a Fugitive Slave, from the State of Kentucky, but to the disappointment of his employers in the Post Office, he was necessitated to give up that useful and respectable occupation. His former master having been informed of his locality and avocation, notwithstanding it had been several years since he left Kentucky, pursued him to the very borders of Canada, watching his return with the Mail in the city of Detroit, on the States side, anxious to lay violent hands on the poor man, to bind him in chains, and take him into Slavery again. Fortunately some friends informed him that his late master was waiting on the other side for his return. O, what a blessing to him and his poor wife, that he received this timely information. Of course every precaution was taken to ascertain the facts of the case, but every advancing step only served to confirm the truth of the statement, until it was found absolutely dangerous for him to continue in his employment. The Slaveholder dare not cross over the boundary line to claim a fellow man as his property in Canada.
If their lungs receive our air.
That moment they are free."
Mr. Clark, by his industry and economy, has accumulated considerable property. He has also money in the bank of Upper Canada. He is distinguished for his piety and benevolence, but few men in his position contribute more for the spread of the Gospel among his people, which at once achieves for him the universal respect of his brethren. Mr. Clark was fortunate enough to escape with his wife,—children they have none. She is a woman of very superior mind, quite different from the generality of Slaves. Her condition was one of the exceptions. She was a Domestic Servant, quite a favourite in the family, consequently permitted many privileges, among them was the privilege of learning to read. She was intrusted with every thing in the house, newspapers and books not excepted; to the reading of these she devoted much of her time, which now proves a greater blessing to her than it possibly could have done in a condition of Slavery; by means of this knowledge she gained her freedom. Her master, in conversation with the Rev. W. Troy, mentioned above, said, "He often told his wife that permitting Anna to read Uncle Tom's Cabin, (which he as a humane man had purchased for his own family circle), she would be induced after awhile to run away." Now, said he, "if she had never read Uncle Tom's Cabin, I should have had her and Lewis to-day as my Slaves." Thank God for Uncle Tom's Cabin. These are not the only persons it has been instrumental in redeeming from the galling yoke of Slavery. Her Christian qualities, no doubt, won for her good usage, and many kind words from the family to which she belonged. Many persons would therefore think she had little cause for escaping, which I admit; but the fact of her being a Slave, is a sufficient justification. I have often heard her say, she was treated as well as a Slave no doubt could be treated. She was especially attached to the family, but when the thought would occur to her mind, What right had she and her husband to be Slaves to another, for no crime whatever, save the colour of their skin, in which they had no choice, this was sufficient to make her unhappy all her life long. My Bible tells me, "God is no respecter of persons;" why then should I be a Slave to another? I can read as well as my mistress, I can reason as logically, I can think as clearly; why should I not think, reason, and act for myself. A knowledge of my condition makes me unhappy, independent of my good usage from humane owners. It is slavery I hate and not my owners. On hearing these noble sentiments fall from the lips of a person, once a slave, and in a manner most insinuating, with all the dignity of the most refined and cultivated person, and with an indignation expressive of the deepest abhorrence for the nefarious system of unmittigated, inhuman, chattelism. I surely felt I was in the presence of a superior being.
Persons without trades, in this town as in others, find sufficient employment, at white-washing houses, fences, cutting and splitting wood, working in gardens, digging wells, &c., for all such labour they get from four or five shillings per day. They also get a fair portion of the public works. When the Grand Trunk Railway was being constructed, about 1500 hands were employed, 500 of whom were coloured men. I consider this quite a fair proportion. About ten miles from Windsor there is a settlement of 5000, which extends over a large portion of Essex County, of this settlement some places are more densely inhabited than others. It is called the Fugitive's Home. Several years ago, a very enterprising and intelligent Fugitive Slave came to Canada, bought a large quantity of land from the Government, divided it into small lots, from one to 20 acres, and sold it to his brethren as they arrived from the States, giving them from 5 to 10 years to complete their payments. This induced many to settle here, by purchasing in this small way. Any one could buy less than an acre, but not more than 20 acres. Emigrants settled here in such numbers, principally Fugitives, that it is called the Fugitives' Home Perhaps the larger portion of this land is still uncultivated, while a great deal is in a high state of cultivation, and many of the people are doing well. This plan answered the purpose very well, at that time, and no doubt it was the best that could be adopted under the circumstances; but since the Land Monopolists in Canada have become more numerous, consequently more opposition in this kind of speculation. The same class can purchase from these monopolists from the eighth of a section to any indefinite numbers of acres, with the same period to make payments. Thus they become much larger proprietors, and have sufficient quantity of land to augment trade by raising live stock, such as Hogs, Cows, Horses, Sheep; or the cultivation of Grain, Beans, Peas, Indian Corn, Wheat, and Hay, all of which are saleable, and when turned into cash enables them to pay for their land. Many in the Fugitive Home with mere garden spots, have either rented it of their neighbours or left it to go to wreck, and have bought leased, or rented much larger farms elsewhere, which I think upon the whole is infinitely better than the fromer. While the course pursued by this Fugitive in the former case is not to be lost sight of. It shows a spirit of enterprise and a disposition to Trade, a Philanthropic feeling for the elevation of his degraded brethren, which he fully carried out in his own conduct during his life. He was the leader of his race in that portion of Canada. In the Fugitive Home are two schools built of hewed logs, perhaps there is school three months in the year, but oftener none at all, sometimes for the want of teachers, at other times for want of money to pay teachers.
Goverment pays only one half of the teachers salary, the other portion the parents in the districts are responsible for. The Teachers must collect themselves. The fact is, they seldom have school. The school-houses are used for worship on Sundays, when they can get preachers, but few preachers like to go into the back woods, if they did they do not like to go through snow, very often half-leg deep, or knee deep. Therefore, they have but few sermons during Winter. Upon the whole there is a great amount of spiritual bareness, and intellectual ignorance. As for industry, I find no fault, in general. Intelligence does not by any means keep pace with the industrial habits of the coloured people of Canada. That is to say, they are more inclined to industrial habits than they are to intelligence.
Sunderwich, a few miles from Windsor, has two thousand inhabitants; four hundred perhaps, coloured, they are mostly engaged in agriculture, though living in town; some own farms, others work by the-day in lumber yards sawing wood, others devote their time to gardening, which pays very well, and some few are grocers. They have a chapel but no school house, more for the want of teachers than otherwise. In the counties of Kent and Essex, which contain more coloured people than any other counties in Canada, they are prevented, by a legal enactment of the Provincial Parliament, from educating their children with the whites. They must, therefore, build their own school-houses, select their own teachers, pay half the salary of those teachers, and the Government the other half. The elevation of the Negroes under such inabilities can be but slow even in Canada.
Amherstburgh, sometimes called Malden, is situated on the banks of the Detroit river, 20 miles from the city of Detroit, about which I have previously spoken. This town has a population of about 2000, probably 800 of whom are coloured people. This place with others in this portion of Canada, is not so prosperous as some other portions, a great many of the French are settled here; in Lower Canada the French are very intelligent and refined, but here they are very uncultivated, they are quite a different class altogether. The coloured people are principally engaged in agriculture throughout this region of country, the western portion of Upper Canada. Colchester, New Canaan, Sandwich, and many other places where the coloured people have settled, seem to be developing the resources of the country.
I might merely allude to the Dresden Settlement, 13 miles from Chatham, this place is quite prosperous, well-cultivated farms, &c.; Chatham is their nearest and best market. In this settlement, my brother Missionary has just finished a small chapel, which has been in progress for four years, but no school house; I suppose he will keep school in the chapel. The homes here are mainly log houses, but they are generally well furnished, and exhibit considerable taste.
Wilberforce settlement is 15 miles from London.—One word as to its origin. Previous to 1829, a great many coloured people moved from the Slave States into the State of Ohio, which, up to 1845, had laws preventing coloured people from living in that State, but many came into the State being ignorant of the existence of such an enactment. In 1829 this law was put in force, and 1000 coloured people were driven out of that State. Previous to their emigration, they sent a deputation to the Governor of Upper Canada, to ascertain whether or not he would allow them to settle in Canada, I copy his reply;
"Tell the Republicans on your side of the line, that we Royalists do not know men by their colour. Should you come to us, you will be entitled to all the privileges of the rest of his Majesty's subjects."
This people, knowing that Wilberforce was a friend to their race, named their colony after him. This colony, as a farming region, is surpassed perhaps by few; they live in good houses generally, and pay more attention to stock than in most of the settlements. The people have more information, and are proving their capabilities for self-government.
A remark or two relative to the Elgin settlement:—This is decidedly the most improved of any colony in Canada, it perhaps numbers 800 coloured people, with a chapel and school. The school has been in regular operation for several years, the Rev. Mr. King is their instructor. God has abundantly blessed his labours, in bringing many to a knowledge of the Truth as it is in Christ Jesus; and also in developing their intellects, and moulding their characters, by which they have unquestionably demonstrated their original capacities for self-government. I much regret that we have not more such faithful servants of God among the coloured population of Canada, we suffer more than can be imagined from the want of such qualified teachers. He is pushing forward their elevation still further; may God bless his efforts in the future as He has done hitherto. Only one arrest for crime in that community, among the coloured people, from 1850 to the present time.
It would be my pleasure to enter more extensively into their condition, but in a mere sketch like this, it is impossible; besides, travelling from place to place, as I am, I cannot give the time and attention the subject requires. I have already protracted my statements to a greater extent than I first intended; however, my only object has been to present facts derived from personal observation, without any attempt whatever at a display of learning or talent, of which I cannot boast. I must now redeem my promise given on a previous page. The Negro mind is peculiarly susceptible of religious impressions, and that much may be hoped and looked for from planting of Christianity in a soil so favourable to its development. Naturally, the Negro is gentle, teachable, humble and simple. Physically and mentally enduring, which he has, beyond a doubt proved, by patiently enduring the galling yoke of inhuman oppression on the North American continent for two centuries. They receive a dying Saviour's love with alacrity and joy,—the faith which hopeth all things, believeth all things, loveth all things, they embrace readily, because it best accords with their warm, and overflowing sympathies, and unsuspecting kindly nature. They are easily moved to tears on religious subjects, such as the crucifiction of the Saviour; the joys of the world to come, &c.; these are themes upon which they are most easily brought into sympathy. In the midst of a sermon they seem literally enchanted, their eyes set upon the speaker, some with their mouths open, with all the simplicity of children. Occasionally exclaiming, "Thank God!" "Amen!" "Thanky Jesus!" others shout aloud, "Glory to God in the highest!" fall on the floor, and some, more self-possessed, shaking each others hands, saying "I am free both soul and body." The minister pauses until the flash of excitement abates, and when they resume their seats, he proceeds as before, commencing where he left off. To suppress the manifestation of their feelings, would be a means of destroying their happiness.
It is a great privelege to stand forth and proclaim the gospel of salvation to hundreds around you rescued from Slavery, both soul and body, and invite them to enter into the glorious liberty of the sons of God, where they will see their blessed Saviour, and receive a happy congratulation "enter into the joys of thy Lord, prepared for thee from the foundation of the world." These are they that have come up through great tribulations, and have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
I wish, if possible, to disabuse the minds of many who are not favorably disposed towards the Negro race, or who have only a superficial knowledge of their condition; they seem to think the Negroes are a nuisance, or, in other words, they are so numerous, that the Canadians are at a loss to know what to do with them. It is true some persons in Canada seek this method of venting their spleen upon this helpless and unfortunate race; but it is not true they have become so numerous as to baffle the skill and judgment of the inhabitants as to their well-being. I would much rather have them flood the cold and dreary region of Canada free, than have them continue in the sunny climes of the Slave States, in the miserable condition of non-mitigated Slavery, gradually sinking beneath the bloody lash of unfeeling tyrants into their graves, only to be remembered by their friends with sorrow, many of whom are destined to share the same mournful fate. Yankees who live in Canada, Americanised Canadians, also many of the Irish, when coming in contact with coloured mechanics and laborers generally, who are as well skilled in their profession and business as the former, and perhaps much better; these complain very much indeed. Sometimes liquor dealers, who are patronised more by these classes than the Negroes, join in the unpopular complaints. If the colored people sell their produce cheaper in market than some others, they also complain, "Too many Niggers here, they keep the price down in the market, if they continue to come, I don't know what we shall do," &c. These vile calumniators should remember what the Negroes lose in the price of their produce, they may make it up in the quantity they sell, and thus demonstrate a talent for trading. These are the character of the complaints, and the source from whence they emanate. It is quite conspicuous that it is a mere jealousy of business competition. I think I am quite justifiable and within the range of human probabilities in saying, not a newspaper editor in Canada would feel free to subject himself to public censure by uttering such aspersions upon the coloured population. On the first of January, 1859, in conversation with His Excellency the Governor Sir Edmund Head, on the progress of the coloured people, he made the following very significant remark, "We have plenty of territory for these emigrants." On the 12th of the same month, in conversation with the Governor-General, at his residence, he asked me "if it was my opinion the Fugitive Slaves were on the increase in their emigration into Canada?" I answered in the affirmative. He said, in reply, "We can still afford them homes in our dominions."
The provincial parliament recently incorporated an association as a body politic, for the education of colored youths in Canada, of which I was appointed a member of the committee, to write the constitution. I have only room for the preamble, which simply shows the object of the association:—"Whereas a charitable association has for some time past existed in this province, under the name of 'The Association for the Education and Elevation of the Coloured People of Canada:' having for its object the education of the coloured youth of this province, and their training and preparation for the active duties of life; and whereas it is expedient to encourage to the utmost so laudable an undertaking, and the said association having represented that by being incorporated they would be enabled greatly to extend their philanthropic labours, and more easily manage the affairs and business thereof; it is expedient to incorporate the said association, to grant the usual powers of bodies incorporated for like purposes, therefore Her Majesty," &c. If these facts, derived from the highest authority in the country, are in any respect an exponent of public opinion in Canada, they evidently show the public in general are in favour of such emigration, which is in direct opposition to the false representations often made,—that they don't wish any more such people, &c. Canada needs and must eventually have a sufficient number of laborers, such as the colored people, to develop its resources, and bring the land into cultivation, by which its value will be enhanced, both to the interest of the owner and the government. Taxes assessed for governmental purposes are in proportion to the value of the property thus taxed, consequently the higher the state of cultivation into which this land is brought, the more profitable it is to the government. Therefore every possible encouragement is held out by government for emigration—Fugitive Slaves, as well as others. It is to be hoped these evidences are quite sufficient to satisfy those who have been misled on this point. If you prevent the Slave, flying from his chains and handcuffs, entering Canada, where he is free, under the magna charta of the British constitution, which knows no man by the colour of his skin, I ask for the Slave, and in the name of humanity, where will you allow him to go? What shall we do with the 1,200 coming northward every year, seeking freedom if haply they may find it? Will you be so cruel, so fiend-like, to send them back into perpetual bondage? "God forbid!" They will run away more and more, in spite of all the Fugitive Slave Laws that the American government may pass.
I have elsewhere confined my remarks to the better class of the coloured population, in order to show their capabilities to self-government and civilised progress.
We will now speak more especially of the mass and their condition. On their arrival in Canada they are in a perfect state of destitution, among strangers, and in a strange country; you who are accustomed to travel, even with means to supply your various necessities, know how you feel when on your first journey, and arrived the first time in a strange country and among strangers, every face on which your eye falls is to you strange. Then arises in the mind a kind of a lonely feeling, and a desire to be at home; but alas, it is far, far away. You are by these past reflections prepared, at least in some degree, to sympathise with those who have fled from taskmasters,—cruel drivers—the bloody lash—the clanking of handcuffs—and above all, the unrighteous laws that sanction these evil practices. They have sought and happily found a home sacred to freedom. In many instance they find themselves surrounded by many sympathising friends. Friends—they are well worthy of the name; many of whom have drank deep of oppression's cup, but through the providence of a kind Heavenly Father, have reached their much-desired haven, like their brethren, kindsmen according to the flesh, whom they now shelter. They are made welcome to their new homes, and receive many happy congratulations. It is to them soothing balm poured into their wounded souls and much-depressed spirits. Our first duty is to supply them with food and raiment, such too as are best suited to the climate into which they have just come. In almost every case they are destitute of both. The colored population are expected by the white citizens to perform these duties, or at least bear the burden of it, from their identity with the sufferers. We have more emigrants in autumn and winter than any other season of the year, from the obvious reason that the facilities are pre-eminently better for them to effect their escape than at other periods. We are quite happy to receive them at any time, winter or summer, day or night. Though we are very much burdened with increasing responsibilities, yet our souls leap for joy when one succeeds in reaching this virgin soil, Canada. As the mass of the people are themselves poor, they are unable to meet the entire demands continually made upon them. The more benevolent of the community who are interested in the moral and religious elevation of this class, assist them, which contributes much to the alleviation of their suffering, and makes the responsibility much easier with us. However, after we have put them in positions suitable for employment, we feel ourselves very much relieved. There is a kind of independency which is rather commendable,—they like to have the name of administering to their own necessities, and it is to them a self-mortification when unable to do so. This may not be applicable to some; I think it is not; but it pervades to a very great extent. Even with the aid of many good friends in Canada we are still unable to meet the demands as they increasingly crown upon us. The Abolitionists of the Northern States, say from Boston and New York, have sent over boxes of clothes, with old and new, and of all sizes, which have been a great blessing. Very many have been relieved who would have suffered almost beyond human conception, but for the timely aid thus afforded. These contributions are voluntary, and are by no means regular, nor indeed do we expect it, though much desired. But the Anti-Slavery friends are burdened from year to year in sustaining their Papers and Periodicals, Lectures, &c.; the consequence is, we have a very great amount of distress, and distress unavoidable, and as may be expected a considerable mortality among these emigrants. I was called upon one day in mid-winter, by a man for a testimonial setting forth his suffering condition, that he might make applications to the benevolent of the community for assistance, without which from a Minister or some well known and accredited person or persons, such applications would be to little or no purpose; but before doing this, I made myself acquainted with the truth of what I was called upon to testify. For this purpose I immediately visited his family—his representations were quite true; even worse than he had said. I found in a miserable hut, which I will not attempt to describe, his wife and five children, whom they had been fortunate enough to bring with them from Slavery. Two of the children were crying, as she said, for something to eat; the poor woman weeping bitterly because she was unable to supply their wants. She said, "Sir, I have repeatedly prayed God to send us friends—I hope you are such a one." I said, "If I can do anything for you, I shall be most happy to do so." After a few questions as to her condition, her faith in Christ, &c., I asked her if she had ever been reduced to the like condition before. Her answer was substantially as follows:—"When I was in Slavery my two eldest children were sold a short distance from me; I was not even allowed to go to see them, nor were they allowed to come to see me. I thought I should die with grief; I prayed God to take me out of the world; then I thought it was wrong to do so; I remembered hearing my mistress say Canada was a place where all the coloured people were free. Then I prayed God to enable me to get there. Not knowing what moment my husband might be sold from me, or me from him, we made up our minds to run away; during the Christmas holidays we asked our master for a pass (his written consent) to go to see our children, which he kindly granted. We took our children and immediately started for Canada; we were twelve weeks coming; we prayed and travelled. Many a time we would eat corn by the way. She said, "I have not that for my children now." She paused for a moment, and burst into tears. We were all silent for the time being; her husband could no longer restrain his feelings at the truthful recital of this sad story, which is only one among thousands; her feelings in some degree subsiding, and gaining her self-possession, This, said she, is worse than my present condition. Said I, "Very true, you are free; but had you not rather be in Slavery and have enough to eat, without begging, as you have to do?" "No, no; I had rather be free, and crawl on my hands and knees from door to door." I could not but admire her ambition, and love of freedom. I need not tell you we immediately supplied her with provisions. Here were two Christian persons who had not attended a place of worship for sixteen months, not for want of holy zeal, strong and growing desires to do so, but their condition would not allow them.
We have a great many, both religious and irreligious, suffering in this respect, more from the want of suitable clothes to fit them for the weather, and to attend public worship, than the want of food. The latter cases are so numerous we are unable to supply them. To meet them the best way we can, we hold meetings in their dwellings on week evenings; they will assemble in each other's houses when they are absolutely unprepared to do so in public. I knew a man whose constitution was totally undermined by consumption from exposure to the cold, half naked, endeavouring to maintain his family; poor man, he finally died; but, thank God, he died in the full triumphs of Christian faith. I was in the habit of visiting the family of a pious good man, as I supposed, in whom I was not mistaken; but not seeing him attend church (as we call all places of divine service church), I began to think I might possibly be mistaken in my good opinion of him, I inquired as to the cause; he said, "I have not clothes suitable to go to church;" pointing to those he had on, he said, "these are all I have." evidently felt, from what I saw, the cogency of what he said. A great many devoted Christians, with whom I have been acquainted, were thus prevented from attending the house of God for the same reason. Even our Sunday Schools, as well as Day Schools, where we have them, a great number of the children cannot attend because they are not thus prepared. In cases of Christian people, I have known the better class to lend clothes to their poorer neighbour to attend worship, and the clothes thus lent returned.—Feb. 23, 1869.
The Report of the Fugitive Mission in Canada, has the following article; I use it in confirmation of what I have said:—"There is more than an ordinary amount of distress prevailing in Canada at the present time, and failure of the crops, last year, has caused considerable rise in the price of provisions in this city (London) the poor, both white and coloured, are suffering severely." The Report goes on to say what we all too well know is the inevitable effects of Slavery. From the general improvident habits of the coloured people many of them are in a wretched condition both as regards food and clothing. The few boxes just received will enable us to minister to the wants of many in the latter respect, and to some extent alleviate their sufferings. I am sure the benevolent Christian friends who have placed it in our power to do so, would feel themselves more than repaid could they witness the looks of gratitude and listen to the expressions of thankfulness given by the recipients of their bounty. Parents lose many of their children by exposure, a woman in Toronto said she had lost six, another four, all from consumption; this is the disease with which they mostly die, when once seated in the constitution its victim last a short time, therefore it has received the appellation of quick consumption. As to the destitute children of Amhurstburgh, Mrs. Hurst says: "Children go about the streets with apparently nothing on but an old cotton frock; no wonder they get sick and die. A woman told me yesterday she had lost 10 children by consumption." It is not to be understood that Canada is an un-healthy country by any means for the contrary is the fact, this mortality of which we are speaking is from absolute destitution, which could be avoided if we were able to meet the cases with sufficient food and suitable clothing; neither are we to infer that the coloured people can't live in Canada because of the intensity of the cold. True, it is severe, especially on those coming direct from the South as the majority do, coming into a climate much colder than they have been assustomed to, even when clothed suitable to the climate, they suffer very much for two or three winters at least, after which they become acclimated, and are as healthy as any people. But on the other hand when not properly clothed, they must suffer prodigiously, and many, as we have said, certainly die.
As to the readiness of the coloured people to receive the Gospel we have already alluded which they on all proper occasions evidently manifest; we add the testimony of the Rev. Dr. Willes, Professor of Divinity at Toronto College:—"There are about 60,000 emancipated Slaves settled in Canada, most of whom have fled from bondage. I have repeatedly preached to congregations of emancipated Slaves, and ever found them attentive and devout. They appear to me to enter with more spirit unto the praise of God than white men generally." Dr. Willes is an earnest and a true friend to the coloured people in Canada; he has very frequently preached for my congregation and does now during my visit to this country, he has relieved the sufferings of many on their arrival to Canada, likewise Mrs. Willes, they very often visit the houses and supplied their necessities. They are bold and fearless, willing to teach and instruct them in the Knowledge of God, attend their meetings both religious and political, ready to give all necessary and good advice, these are the kind of friends we need in that country, and among such a people.
Having said so much relative to the coloured people of Canada, we will say a word as to Canada itself:—the Province of Canada extends over an area of 242,500 square miles, or 240,000,000 acres, consequently one-third larger than France, and nearly three times larger than Great Britain and Ireland, the settled portion is about 40,000 square miles, the entire population in the Canadas exceeds 2,500,000. That part of Canada east of the Ottawa river is called Lower Canada, the inhabitants are chiefly French extraction, in this part of the colony, 160,000,000 acres; and not more than 15,000,000 have been surveyed. Upper Canada, west of the Ottawa river, the majority of the population are British, an enormous system of Lakes, forms a net-work of water communication over the entire province, and a line of rivers connecting the inland Lakes with the sea, between the inland waters and the sea, the remotest recesses of Canada are within the reach of trade and navigation, and large vessels can proceed a distance of 2,000 miles inland. The lines of railway are the Great Western and Grand Trunk, with a few other still shorter lines, altogether about 849 miles. The reader has now before him a geographical bird's-eye view of that great province, possessed by nature; many very great advantages quietly waiting the indefatigable hand of humam industry to develope it for the benefit of the inhabitants. The two great wants of Canada are capital and production. We are happy to say the capitalists of England and Scotland are emigrating there much more than formerly; and all the more necessary, because of the influx of the Fugitive Slaves and free coloured people from the State, with whom they come in direct contact and aid in their elevation, and it is still more necessary because the former knows nothing of American prejudice against colour, which is contrary to all law, both human and divine. The resources of this country must be developed; it therefore requires labourers to do that, there is sufficient room for such labourers from all countries, the Fugitive Slaves, and the free labourers can all find ample space on which to settle and labour, the former are coming in almost 2,000 yearly. They have been brought up in the manual labour school, out of which they have come to Canada; they need not be taught how to labour, but may be taught economy to direct and regulate that labour to the best advantage. This is a forced emigration, nevertheless, I am happy to say many are honourable and worthy colonists. We look anxiously forward to no distant day when Canada will be the brightest gem in the crown of our world—renown Queen. We have the territory, the lines of rivers and chains of lakes for navigation, we are gradually getting the capitalists, and the labourers still faster. In the advancement of any country three agencies are essentially necessary—the Bible, the Church, and the Press.
Civilization, without Christianity, makes but slow progress in any portion of the world. Human Governments are only correct when based upon the great principles of the Bible and influenced by the doctrines of the Cross. They then become the living and resussitating elements of the whole machinery.—Therefore, the prosperity of a Nation depends upon its conformity to the Word of the living and true God. In this respect, England may be proud—perhaps this is too strong a term; but in this she may rejoice and praise God. I verily believe her National prosperity is the result of her tenacity to the Word of God. An African King sent an Ambassador to England to enquire of Her Majesty what was the secret of England's greatness, he standing in her august presence,—she presented to him the Bible, saying, "Tell your King, this is the secret of England's greatness." This act speaks volumes in favor of religion. This Bible is quite sufficient to raise benighted Africa to the same eminent and praise-worthy position, by its undying influence,—she once walked hand in hand with her sister Nations in the advancement of christian civilization. This noble act again speaks volumes in the acknowledgment of equal moral, religious and political rights of that degraded race, which the United States most decidedly refuses to acknowledge. Our gracious Queen was not ashamed nor afraid to stand in the presence of one of the Sable Sons of Africa, and from her own hand presented to him the precious Word of God. The Church is the mighty agent, under God, to accomplish this great work. To her, God gave this Word, and said, "Preach the Gospel to every Creature," to the Savage, the Rude Barbarian, the Cultivated Greek, the North American Indian, the American Slave, the Proud and Haughty Anglo-Saxon,—yes, "to every Creature," without respect of persons; this is the duty of the Church. "Preach deliverance to the Captive." The Press is the great circulating medium through which she speaks to thouands in one breath, and sends truth over a whole Empire with lightning speed; thousands of Volumes of God's Word are cast abroad among the Nations of Earth's teeming millions; by means of which, we can converse with distant friends. Through the Press, the justice of God is vindicated—truth, love and mercy, shown in their true positions and relations—the social, civil and political rights of man are advocated. The Press is a means of drawing out the latent energies of the human mind, and of placing man in his legitimate and proper position before the world.
People with sufficient courage to leave the house of bondage, and to succeed in reaching a Land of Freedom, as the Fugitive Slaves have done, should have these mighty agents to promote their happiness in their new homes, which they prize so dearly. They have the Bible, but it needs to be more generally circulated among them. Religious knowledge should be circulated more freely. We have the Church, but her cords need strengthening, and her borders extended. We have the Press, but not in direct contact with the coloured people, and devoted to their special interests, except the one to which we have already referred—to establish a Press upon a more solid basis is the object of my friend and brother, Wm. H. Day, Esq., in visiting this Country, seeking aid from the British Public, for the special benefit of the Fugitive Slaves and coloured population, through which their rights may be more effectually vindicated, and their cause amply sustained by one identified with themselves—whose intellectual and moral attainments, as well as many years' experience in the editorial department, has eminently qualified him for this profession.
Knowing Mr. Day, as I do, and as a labourer with me in Canada, among our suffering brethren, in our respective spheres of action, I can speak with confidence of his fidelity, integrity, faithfulness in the cause of freedom, and his ability to conduct such a Press, when established. I hope, therefore, he may succeed in obtaining the sum required; and when the Press is established, it may, in part, be supported by the friends of this country. That by the united efforts and influences of these variegated agencies we may succeed, by the Grace of our common Lord, in building up and establishing the coloured people in Canada, on a more solid basis; and they, thereby, be fully prepared for the higher duties of life, by means of which they may exert a reflexive influence upon the nefarious system of Slavery in the United States, and thus aid in the great work of human emancipation.