February 15, 1839
Here is an ad for the new paper, published in the city by George Russell, for an Association of Abolitionists. It is expected that Elizur Wright, Jr. Esq, now one of the secretaries of the American Anti-Slavery Society, will become its editor.
The new paper ” is neatly printed on a small sheet, and exhibits both tact and talent in its selected and original articles. Some criticisms upon it, this week, are necessarily omitted to make room for Clay’s speech and other articles.”
May 31, 1839
Here is a notice from the Managers addressed to The Abolitionists of Massachusetts. This is in response to Elizur Wright, who has claimed that the Society has virtually given its sanction to all of the theories of government espoused by Garrison. He evidently seeks a stronger control over the Editor. The Managers here respond that they feel quite free to exercise their freedom to vote, “but we will not make, of our own freedom, a fetter for the conscience of our brother.” Signed by sixteen men, including Jackson, Loring, Garrison, Sewall, Phillips, Hilton, and others.
January 8, 1841
An article signed by James Birney, E. Wright, Jr. and Henry B. Stanton, with a statement opposing the creation of a third political party. It deprecates “the formation of a distinct anti-slavery political party …. Or any effort to unite our interest with any existing party…”
February 21, 1851
Elizur Wright (an editor of the Commonwealth), John Foye, a colored man, and James Scott, a colored man, were arrested on the charge of aiding the escape of Shadrach.
