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A Brief History of Andover
A Brief History of Andover
1835-1865 Abolitionism & Anti-Slavery
Even though slavery was abolished in Massachusetts in 1789, it was still legal in many other states. Abolitionists, who fought to end slavery in the United States, were often in direct conflict with Anti-Abolitionists, who held that states should maintain their right to maintain slavery.
In Andover, many students at Phillips Academy were the sons of southern slave–holders. Anti-slavery students were in the minority, although many believed slavery to be wrong they also supported the US Constitution and the Union.
In July 1835, the two sides came together in what has been called “Andover’s Anti-Slavery Riot.” A group of Phillips Academy students invited militant British Abolitionist George Thompson was invited to speak in Andover, but were not allowed to host the lecture on the academy grounds.
Thompson eventually spoke for two hours from the pulpit of Andover’s Methodist Church. At the conclusion of his speak, which had “inflamed the minds” of some present, an anti-abolition, pro-slavery mob rushed the pulpit intending to tar and feather George Thompson. A group of abolitionist, anti-slavery students, armed with clubs, formed a circle around Thompson.
Anti-Slavery banner in the collection of the History Center. A copy is on display in Andover's Memorial Hall Library.
Anti-Slavery banner in the collection of the History Center. A copy is on display in Andover's Memorial Hall Library.
Harriet Beecher Stowe
Already a national best-selling author, Harriet Beecher Stowe moved to Andover when her husband Calvin Stowe was appointed a professor at Andover Theological Seminary in 1852.
Stowe was the author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin; Or Life Among the Lowly, which was the best-selling novel of the 19th century. The sentimental novel depicted the reality of slavery and helped lay the groundwork for the American Civil War.
Sojourner Truth
Sojourner Truth was born into slavery in New York State in 1797. She was sold 3 times before she was 13 years old.
New York abolished slavery in 1827, but the abusive man who owned her refused to let her go. She fled to freedom with her infant daughter.
In 1843, she had a revelation from God directing her to preach the evil of slavery. Although she could neither read nor write herself, she dictated her life story to a white abolitionist. Narrative of Sojourner Truth: A Northern Slave was a best seller and made Sojourner Truth the most famous black women in America.
In April 1863, Sojourner Truth paid an unannounced visit to Harriet Beecher Stowe who invited Sojourner to stay with her for several days.
Free Christian Church
Free Christian Church, which stands on Elm Street today, was established in 1846. Founded by local abolitionists whose churches were sympathetic to the institution of slavery.
Free Christian Church, which stands on Elm Street today, was established in 1846. Founded by local abolitionists whose churches were sympathetic to the institution of slavery.
Reference: Juliet Haines Mofford, Andover Massachusetts: Historical Selections from Four Centuries
Harriet Beecher Stowe, author of Uncle Tom's Cabin.
Harriet Beecher Stowe, author of Uncle Tom's Cabin.
Sojourner Truth, author of Narrative of Sojourner Truth: A Northern Slave
Sojourner Truth, author of Narrative of Sojourner Truth: A Northern Slave
Preserving the pastEducating for the future
Connecting with our community
Preserving the past
Educating for the future
Connecting with our community
Andover Center for History & Culture
97 Main Street
Andover, MA 01810
978-475-2236
Andover Center for History & Culture
97 Main Street
Andover, MA 01810
978-475-2236
The History Center is funded by individual, foundation, and corporate donations and receives no Town of Andover funding.
Show your commitment to Andover's history by donating today.
The History Center is funded by individual, foundation, and corporate donations and receives no Town of Andover funding.
Show your commitment to Andover's history by donating today.
Show your commitment to Andover's history by donating today.
