Rocking of the Old Cradle of Liberty

October 18, 1850

Here is a “Call” for citizens to gather at Faneuil Hall, ” to consider the condition of the Fugitive Slaves and other colored persons of this city, under the new Fugitive Slave Law. Signed by 238 people.

In answer to the call there was a “mighty gathering” at Faneuil Hall.  Charles Frances Adams presided and spoke.   Douglass, in a long speech says:  “..we, one and all, —without the slightest hope of making successful resistance  — are  resolved rather to die than go back.  If you are prepared to see the streets of Boston flowing with innocent blood, if you are prepared to see sufferings such as perhaps no country ever before witnessed, just give in your adhesion to the fugitive slave bill — you, who live on the street where the blood first spouted in defence of freedom; and the slave-hunter will be here to bear the chained slave back, or he will be murdered in your streets. ..”

Comments are closed.