Early Abolition Doctrine in New Hampshire

“It is believed that New Hampshire is entitled to the honor of taking the first measures for the prevention of slavery.  The Rev. James Parker of Portsmouth, in compliance with the wishes of many of his parish, in 1642 preached against a law in Massachusetts which made it impossible for any freeman to vote in town meetings, unless he were a member of a church.  Article signed by John Alden.” (Liberator, April 2, 1836, pg. 2)