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The "Oberlin Wellington Rescuers," awaiting trial in Cleveland in 1858. As the federal government could not hold trial and return Price to Kentucky with his former slave master, federal officers tried those who helped Price escape, with more than 30 citizens hauled off for trial.
This video is part two of the Oberlin-Wellington Rescue, a turning point and prelude to the United States Civil War as communities rose up to defy the federal government and support freedom for enslaved individuals, fleeing Kentucky and Virginia.
The 1859 trial of the “Oberlin Wellington Rescuers” was the trial of the century, inspiring communities nation-wide to rise and oppose the federal government efforts to enforce the Fugitive Slave Law and force fugitives to return to the enslavers of the south. Also under the law, those who helped fugitives escape, or refused an order of a federal marshal to assist, could face harsh penalties; imprisonment, confiscation of property or fines of up to $1000, a huge sum in the day. In 1859, ... view more »