Thomas Galt facts for kids

Thomas Galt (born September 12, 1805 – died September 12, 1857) was an American minister who belonged to the Presbyterian church. He was also an important abolitionist. An abolitionist was someone who worked to end slavery. Thomas Galt helped start two Presbyterian churches in Sangamon County, Illinois. He was also a leader (Vice-President) of the Illinois Anti-Slavery Society. This group worked against slavery. He was also a "conductor" on the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved people find freedom.

Early Life and Education

Thomas Galt was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. His parents were James Galt and Mary Martin Galt. He went to college at Jefferson College in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania. Later, he studied to become a minister at the Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania.

He received his license to preach on June 18, 1834. In 1836, he became the pastor of Farmington Presbyterian Church. This church was in Farmington, Illinois, which is now called Farmingdale. The church's name changed around 1905. This was probably to avoid confusion with another town named Farmington in Fulton County.

Fighting Against Slavery

In 1837, Thomas Galt answered a call from Elijah Lovejoy. Lovejoy was an American abolitionist and newspaper publisher. Galt went to an Anti-Slavery Convention in Upper Alton, Illinois. At this meeting, people discussed how to end slavery.

During the convention, some people tried to stop the discussions. But Galt, along with Edward Beecher (who was the brother of famous writer Harriet Beecher Stowe), and others, worked to keep the meeting going.

The convention ended on October 28, 1837. However, the same people met again that day. They formed a new group called the Illinois Anti-Slavery Society. Thomas Galt was chosen as the Vice-President of this important group.

Starting New Churches

Thomas Galt believed slavery should end quickly. He was part of the "new school" Presbyterians, who often supported ending slavery. His church in Farmington had some members who did not agree with his strong views against slavery.

So, in April 1842, Galt decided to start a new church. He formed the Center Presbyterian Church in Farmington, Illinois. He held meetings for the Sangamon County Anti-Slavery Society at this new church. This showed his dedication to the anti-slavery cause.

On February 7, 1849, Galt started another "new school" church. This was the Third Presbyterian Church in Springfield, Illinois.

Underground Railroad Conductor

Thomas Galt was known as a "conductor" for the Underground Railroad in Sangamon County, Illinois. The Underground Railroad was a secret network. It helped enslaved African Americans escape to freedom in the Northern states or Canada. As a conductor, Galt would have helped guide and shelter these brave individuals on their journey.

Family and Legacy

Thomas Galt was married to Sarah Happer. He passed away on September 12, 1857. He is buried in Farmington Cemetery, near the community of Farmingdale. Sarah and other family members are also buried there. Even though the church name changed to Farmingdale, the cemetery is still called Farmington Cemetery.