Vigilant Association of Philadelphia facts for kids
The Vigilant Association of Philadelphia was a group formed in Philadelphia in August 1837. Its main goal was to help African Americans who were in trouble or needed support. This group was part of the larger abolitionist movement, which worked to end slavery in the United States.
The idea for the Association came from Robert Purvis, who had previously been part of a group called the Committee of Twelve in 1834. His father-in-law, a successful businessman named James Forten, also helped start the Association.
The Association was actively helping people by 1838. However, its work started to slow down around 1852. William Still was a very important person in Philadelphia's efforts to help people escape slavery, and he also helped create this Vigilant Committee.
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What Was the Vigilant Association?
The main part of the Vigilant Association was called the Vigilant Committee of Philadelphia. Its first leader was James McCrummell, who was a Black dentist. Other people who helped fight against slavery also supported this group. For example, John Greenleaf Whittier helped form the committee and shared information about the Association in his newspaper, the Pennsylvania Freeman.
Who Were the Key Members?
The acting committee for the Vigilant Association of Philadelphia had five important members. These included Nathaniel W. Depee, William Still, Jacob C. White, Passmore Williamson, and Charles Wise. These individuals worked together to carry out the Association's mission.
How Did They Help People?
The Vigilant Association played a big role in helping people who had escaped slavery. For example, in June 1842, the future writer Harriet Jacobs was one of the people who had escaped slavery and received help from the Association. They provided support and aid to those seeking freedom.
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