Esther Lewis (abolitionist) facts for kids
Esther Fussell Lewis (born Fussell; March 18, 1782 – February 8, 1848) was an amazing American woman. She was a Quaker who worked to end slavery, a "conductor" and "station master" on the Underground Railroad, a farmer, a school founder, a teacher, and a nurse.
Esther Lewis managed her family's farm near Kimberton, in Chester County, Pennsylvania. She played a key role in helping people escape slavery along the Underground Railroad's north-south route through Pennsylvania.
Early Life and Learning
Esther Fussell was born on March 18, 1782, in Hatboro, Pennsylvania. Her parents were Bartholomew Fussell, a Quaker leader, and Rebekah Bond. She had seven brothers and sisters: Bartholomew, Solomon, Rebecca, Joseph, Jacob, Sarah, and William.
Esther dreamed of becoming a doctor. However, it was very hard for women to get a professional education in those days.
Even without formal medical training, Esther was very curious about the world. She wrote down what she saw during solar and lunar eclipses. She also noted when comets and meteors appeared. She even kept a diary about the weather and when plants bloomed!
Family Life
On September 10, 1818, Esther Fussell married John Lewis. They had four children together: Mariann (born 1819), Rebecca (born 1820), Graceanna Lewis (born 1821), and Elizabeth R. (born 1824).
Helping on the Underground Railroad
Esther Lewis taught her children to believe strongly in ending slavery. Their home became a secret "station" on the Underground Railroad. This was a network of safe houses and routes that helped enslaved people escape to freedom.
The Lewis home was like a safe place for people who had escaped. They even burned the old clothes worn by those who had been enslaved on southern plantations. This helped protect their identities and give them a fresh start. After Esther Lewis passed away, her children continued this important work, helping more people find freedom.
