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Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2015
https://archive.org/details/africanrepositor183amer_1
THE AFRICAN REPOSITORY,
AND
COLONIAL JOURNAL.
Published semi-monthly, $1 50 in advance, when sent by mail, or $2 00 if not paid
till after the expiration of six months, or when delivered to subscribers in cities,
VoL. XYIIL] Washington, February 1, 1842. [No. 3.
ANNUAL MEETING OF THE- AMERICAN COLONIZATION
SOCIETY.
The American Colonization Society and Board of Directors met in the 4th Presbyterian Church of this city on the 18th ultimo, at 7 o’clock p. m. In the absence of the Hon. H. Clay, President of the Society, the Rev. Wm. Hawley, one of the Vice Presidents, was called to the chair, and presided over the meeting. On taking the chair, Mr. Hawley stated that a letter had been received from Mr. Clay deeply regreting that ill health prevented him from being able to attend the meeting.
The Rev. AV. McLain, was appointed Secretary.
The meeting was opened with an appropriate prayer by the Rev. John C. Smith, pastor of the church;
The Rev. W. McLain read the Annual Report of the Executive' Com- mittee.
On motion of Mr. AVhittlesey, it was resolved, that, to give time for the consideration of the Report, and to make way for other exercises this evening, the Report be laid on the table.
The Rev. C. C. Vanarsdale, of Philadelphia, in compliance with the request of the Executive Committee, delivered an able and highly inter- esting discourse on the life, character, and death of the late Thomas Bu- chanan, Governor of the Commonwealth of Liberia.
After which the Society adjourned, to meet in the Colonization Rooms to-morrow at 10 o’clock a. m.
Colonization Rooms, January 19, 1842.
The American Colonization Society met agreeably to adjournment — the Rev. Mr. Hawley in the chair. •
The Annual Report was, on motion, taken up and referred to the Board of Directors, for their consideration and action.
On motion of Mr. Whittlesey, it was resolved that the thanks of this Society be tendered to the Rev. C. C. Vanarsdale for the very able and interesting discourse which he delivered before the Society last evening.
TWENTY-FIFTH ANNUAL IILPOKT
3i
IFth. 1
and that we request a copy for publication, undei the direction of the Ex- ecutive Committee.
The late despatches of Lieutenant Governor Roberts, including a cor- respondence between himself and Capt. Denman, H. B. M. sloop Wan- derer, and also the despatches of the Executive Committee to General Roberts, were read ; and, on motion, they were referred to the Board of Directors for their action.'
Messrs. Stone, Backus, and Hawley were appointed a committee to nominate officers for the ensuing year.
The committee reported the following list ; and the individuals therein named were, severally, unanimously elected, viz :
Hon. Henry Clay, President. ’
Vice Presidents.
1.
2.
o.
4.
6.
6.
7.
8. 9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20. 21. 22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
John C. Hei bert, of Maryland.
General John H. Cocke, of Virginia. Daniel Webster, of Massachusetts. Charles F. Mercer, Florida.
Rev. Jeremiah Day, D. D., of Conn. John Cotton Smith, of Connecticut. Theodore Frelinghiiysen, of N. York. Louis McLane, of Baltimore.
Moses Allen, of New York.
General W. Jones, of Washington. Francis S. Key, of Washington. Samuel H. Smith, of Washington. Joseph Gales, jr. of Washington.
Right Rev. Win. Meade, D. D. Bishop
139.
|40.
11.
of Virginia. 42.
Alexander Porter of Louisiana. 43.
John McDonough, of Louisiana. 44.
S. L. Southard, New Jersey. 45.
George Wash. Lafayette, of France. 46. Rev. James 0. Andrew, Bishop of the 47.
Methodist Episcopal Church. !48.
Wm. Maxwell, of Virginia. !
Elisha Whittlesey of Ohio. U9,
Walter Lowrie, of New York, |50.
Jacob Burnett, of Ohio. I
Joshua Darling, of New Hampshire.
Dr. Stephen Duncan of Mississippi.
Wm. C. Rives, of Virginia,
Rev. J. Laurie, D. D., of Washington. Rev. Wm. Hawley, of Washington,
After which the Society adjourned
29. Rev. Wm. Winans, of Mississippi.
30. James Boorman, of New York City.
31. Henry A. Foster, of New York.
32. Dr. John Ker, of Mississippi.
33. Robert Campbell, of Georgia.
34. Peter D. Vroom, of New Jersey.
35. Alexander Reed, of Pennsylvania.
:36. James Garland, of Virginia.
|37. Rev. Thomas Morris, Bishop of the 1 Methodist E. Church, Ohio.
Rt. Rev. Bishop Griswold, of Boston. Rt. Hon. Lord Bexley, of London.
Wm. Short, of Philadelphia.
Elijah Paine, of Vermont.
Willard Hall, of Delaware.
Rt. Rev. Bishop Otey, of Tennessee. Gerald Ralston, of London.
Courtland Van Rensselaer, of N. J. James Ronaldson, of Philadelphia.
Dr. Hodgkin, of London.
Rev. E. Burgess, D. D., of Dedham, Massachusetts.
Thos. R. Hazard, of Providence, R. I. Dr. Thos. Massie, of Tye River Mills, Virginia.
Gen. Alex, Brown, of Virginia.
, Maj. Gen. Winfield Scott, Washington. . Rev. F. Wayland, D, D. Rhode Island.
Rev. Thos. E. Bond, D. D., N. York.
. Rev. A. Alexander, D. D. New Jersey.
to meet on the third Tuesday of
January, 1843.
Colonization Rooms, January 19, 1842. The Board of Directors of the American Colonization Society met im- mediately ai^er the adjournment of the Society.
In the absence of the President, Judge AVilkeson, Col. Stone, of New York, was called to the Chair, and Rev. W. McLain was appointed Secretary.
The following gentlemen appeared as Directors and took their -seats :
A. G. Phelps, Y
D. M. Reese, kNew York State Colonization Society.
W. L. Stone, J
K o jTi> n e- •\revn ixnr • . i
lS42j OF THE AMERICAN COLONIZATION SOCIETY, "35
?*B *Pin^y^*^ Pennsylvania State Col. So.
J. W. Miller, New Jersey State Col. So.
E. Whittlesey, ? g^
S. Mason, 5
Thos. W. Williams, Connecticut State Col. So.
On motion of Mr. Whittlesey, it was resolved, that so much of the despatches of Gen. Roberts as relate to making specific appropriations in the colony be referred to a committee, to report their views thereon. The Chair named as this committee, Messrs. Pinney, Ellsworth, and Phelps.
On motion of Mr. Whittlesey, the Board took up so much of the an- nual Report as relates to the resignation of S. Wilkeson, Chairman of the Executive Committee. Whereupon, the letter of resignation, addressed by Judge Wilkeson to the Executive Committee was read; and, on mo- tion, it was
Resolved, That the resignation of S. Wilkeson, Esq., be accepted.
Resolved, That tlie thanks of the Board be presented to Judge Wil- keson for his arduous services while General Agent of the Society and a member of the Executive Committee ; and especially for his devoted and gratuitous aid during a period of great difficulty and embarrassment; and that he be assured of their highest respect and confidence, with the most ardent wishes for his future welfare.
On motion of Dr. Reese, a committee of three was appointed to examine the Treasurer’s report, and the financial transactions of the Society.
The chair named as this committee, Messrs. Phelps, Williams and Backus.
On motion of Mr. Pinney, the Annual Report was taken up and referred to a committee of three, to report thereon.
The chair appointed Messrs. Pinney, Reese, and Williams on this Com- mittee.
Tbs committee appointed at the last annual meeting on the general state of the colony, and to consider the proper distribution of legislative powers between this Board and the Colonial Council ; and also the committee ap- pointed on the 22d of July last, to report on the, proper manner of impeach- ment by the Colonial Council, were called upon to report; and not being prepared, the subjects above mentioned, together wjth the despatches of Gov. Roberts, on. the same subjects, were referred to another committee, consisting of Messrs. Underwood, Mason, and Miller.
On motion, it was resolved, that the Board go into an election of mem- bers of the Executive Committee. This motion, after discussion, was laid on the table ; and the letter of Mr. Gurley, addressed to the Executive Committee and Board of Directors, dated 15th November, 1841, was read, and referred to the committee appointed to audit the accounts of the So- ciety,
36
TWENTY-FIFTH ANNUAL REPORT
IFehAy
On motion of Mr. Ellsworth, the Board resolved to go into the election of a Corresponding Secretary ; which motion was laid on the table. And on motion of Mr. Whittlesey, it was resolved, that it is expedient to ap- point, for the present year, a Corresponding Secretary, whose duty shall be defined by the Executive Committee, and whose services shall be un- der their control.
The motion to go into an election of Corresponding Secretary was then taken up, and the Rev. R. R. Gurley was unanimously elected to that office.
The motion to go into the election of the members of the Executive Committee was then taken up, and the following gentlemen were elected, viz ; W; W. Seaton, M. St. C. Clarke, H. L. Ellsworth, R. S. Coxe, E. Whittlesey, H. Lindsly, and R. R. Gurley.
On motion of Mr. Whittlesey, it was resolved that the Executive Com- mittee be and they are hereby authorized, from time to time, to employ one or more individuals to do any business which the interest of the Society may require to be done.
On motion of Mr. Williams, it was resolved that the salary of the Cor- responding Secretary be fifteen hundred dollars per annum, exclusive of his travelling expenses.
The memorial of N. Brander (colonist) was read and referred to the committee on the general state of the Colony.
^
Adjourned till to-morrow.
January 20, 1842.
The Board met according to adjournment. Present as yesterday.
The memorial of A. W. Anderson, on the subject of common schools, was taken up, and, on motion, was referred to the Executive Committee for their action ; and they were instructed to take the general subject of education into particular consideration, and to adopt the best measures possible for its advancement.
* * * *
The subject of the distribution of premiums in the Colony was taken up and referred to the Executive Committee for their consideration, to act in the premises as they may deem advisable.
The subject of preparing a code of Jaws for the Colony of Liberia, with instructions to correspond with Gov. Roberts, to obtain all the information possible in regard to the laws legally passed and in force in the Colony, and to act thereon as the necessities of the case demand, was referred to the Executive Committee.
The committee appointed to audit the Treasurer’s account, and examine the financial transactions of the Executive Committee, laid before the Board a statement of the receipts and expenditures of the Society for the past year, as follows, with their certificate of its correctness :
Receipts and expenditures of the American Colonization Society, from 20/A January, 1841, to \lth January, 1842.
1842.]
OF THE AMERICAN COLONIZATION SOCIETY.
37
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.^Washington, Jammri/ 19, 1842., THOS. W. WILLIAMS.
in^'ENTY-rirTH ANNUAL REPORT
' Feb. 1,
3S
The committee appointed to examine the Annual Report were called upon, and made the following report:
“The committee appointed on the Annual Report, beg leave to report, that they have carefully examined the same, and recommend that it be published under the supervision of the Executive Committee.”
On motion of Mr. Phelps, Lt. Gov. Gen. J. J. Roberts, was appointed Governor of the Commonwealth of Liberia for the time being.
The various committees made reports on the subjects committed to their consideration; which were disposed of as the nature of the case required.
After the transaction of much business of a merely local nature, the Board adjourned.
THE TWENTY-FIFTH ANNUAL REPORT OF THE AME- RICAN COLONIZATION SOCIETY.
The time has again arrived when it becomes our duty to present to the Board of Directors of the American Colonization Society, and through them to the public generally, a detailed statement of our transactions during the year that has passed.
Our thanks and gratitude are due to the Almighty Ruler of the Uni- verse for the favor which he has shown to this Society and all its interests since our last anniversary . The tokens of his love have been manifest and often repeated. At no time have we enjoyed more evidences of his providential regard, nor been more encouraged to trust to his power and wisdom to carry forward this great enterprise to its glorious completion. We recognize, as applicable to our plans and underiakiitgs, the great principle that “ except the Lord build the house, the builders labor in vain: and except the Lord w’aich the city, the watchman waketh iif vain.” We have no confidence in our own councils, or our best directed efforts, apart from his divine blessing. It is, therefore, with no ordinary degree of pleasure that we are able to recognize the “ good hand of our God upon us,” and his benevolent aid afforded to us in all the labors of the past year. For the general and increasing prosperity of the cause in this country ; for the favorable impression made upon the minds of the colored people ; for the great liberality which many friends have manifested in their contributions ; for the manner in which our vessels have been pro- tected while sailing the bosom of the mighty deep; for the preservation of the colony in times of extreme peril ; for the general health which has prevailed ; for the advancement in industry, education and general im- provement ; for the outpouring of his Spirit on the churches ; and for many other blessings, we are indebted to Him who ruleth among the nations, and whose dominion is over all.
But while we speak of that favor which has so signally marked the operations of the Society during the past year, we are called upon to record the removal by death of one of oUr most ardent, untiring and sue-
S42.
OF THE aMEKICAX COLOMZATIOM SOCIETY.
39
cessful fellow-laborers. Oar excellent and worthy Governor, Thomas Buchanan, departed this life on the 3d of September, at the Agency House, at Bassa Cove. He left Monrovia, with apparent good health, on the 24th of July, in the colonial schooner Regulus, for the purpose of visiting the leeward settlements, for the discharge of the important duties connected with his office. He arrived at Marshall on the following day, and immediately after his arrival he was seized v/ilh a violent attack of fever, which continued at intervals for several successive days. With indefatigable zeal he prosecuted his duties until the 31st, when lie again embarked for Bassa Cove. While at Marshall he was unfortunately una- ble to get the medicines whicli he ouglit to have taken, and when leaving there he was thoroughly drSnehed in the rain, which brought on again the paroxysms of fever with greatly increased violence. He arrived at Bassa Cove on the 1st of August, and v/as conlincd to his bed until the 7th, when he again found himself convalescent, and commenced the dis- charge of his various duties. They being exceedingly arduous, and his zeal unconquerable in prosecuting them, he soon sunk under them. After a few days’ relaxation, he again partially recovered, and again resumed his duties, hoping to complete them, that he might return to ^lonrovia: but it was too much for him ; his constitution was too shattered to sustain itself, and alas ! he is gone! His mortal remains lie entombed in the Government grounds at Bassa, beneath some stately trees, shading the house built by himself some six years ago. “ He has ceased from his labors, and his works do follow him.” He retained the exercise of his faculties of mind until die last. He enjoyed a calmness and peace of soul which nothing could shake ; and he died in the triumphs of that faith which he had long professed, and in the blessed hope of the glory of God. We find in the journal kept by him on his first voyage to the Colony, in 1835, the following interesting record of his feelings and hopes, on en- tering upon the work in which he laid down his life : “ Tht God who
“ tempers the wind to the shorn lamb, can also temper the rays of a “ tropical sun to a northern constitution. But though he slay me,
YET WILL I TRUST IN HIM. ThE WORK IS HIS TO WHICH I GO, AND IS “ WORTHY OF ALL SACRIFICE.” i .
While we deplore the loss susiained by ourselves, by this country, the colony, Africa, the church, and the world, in the decease of this noble and distinguished laborer in the cause of philanthropy, we have the con- solation of knowing, that he went forth to the work “having counted the cost, ’ and with the distinct knowledge that he might never again return to his country or his kindred. When the hour of his departure came, he was not taken by surprise, he was not called upon to make a sacrifice greater than he had contemplated. He had finished the work that was given him to do, and was neither unprepared nor unwilling to 'go and receive the crown that had been laid up for him. ‘
Few events could possifjiy Have occurred more deeply affecting the in-
40
TWENTY-FIFTH ANNEAL REPORT
IFeb. r
terests of Colonization than the death of Gov. Buchanan. It cast a gloom over Liberia. The Commonwealth deeply mourned his loss. And thou- sands of hearts in this country have felt a chill come over them, as they have heard or read the melancholy intelligence of his departure from that benevolent and devoted career of usefulness, in which they had learned to love him for the excellence of his spirit, and to admire him for the greatness of his soul !
He came to the aid of the cause at a time when his help was greatly needed., To his character and administration is to be ascribed much of the continued confidence in the prospects of the Colony’s firmness and stability, which has taken possession of the great body of its friends and patrons. With such a man at the helm, they were willing to freight the ship with their treasure, believing that she w'ould outride the severest storms that might rise and beat upon her !
Now that he is removed, we trust that they will maintain their steadfast- ness, and not allow their confidence, in either the goodness or ultimate success of the cause, to abate in the least. We are happy in being able to give them our best assurance, that the progress of the colony will still be onward. Gen. J. J. Roberts, the Lieutenant Governor, immedi- ately on hearing of the demise of Gov. Buchanan, assumed, by virtue of his office, the administration of the Government. At our latest dates all things were quiet and promising. There was no jar, and no disorder or commotion on account of the reins of government passing into different hands. On the contrary, there seemed a general disposition to uphold the laws, and abide by the provisions of the Constitution.
Gen. Roberts is a colonist of more than ordinary intelligence and en- ergy of character. He stands high among the citizens of Liberia, and we have great confidence in his capacity to manage the duties of Chief Exe- cutive of the Commonwealth. With the aid of his legal advisers in the Colonial Council, and the proper exercise of prudence and discretion, we may confidently hope to see the interests of the colony upheld, and its influence over the native tribes extended far and wide.
Much has been done during the last year to place the administration of justice and the execution of the laws upon a firm foundation. Circum- stances of danger have arisen, which have shown some defects in the legal enactments of the Colonial Council, which have been promptly corrected or supplied. The exercise of the elective franchise has given rise, as in all other countries, to party preferences and political strife. The natives around have in some instances showed themselves in hostile attitudes. But through all these difficulties the majesty of the laws has been re- spected, and the government has kept on in the even tenor of its way. Much of encouragement is thus furnished to the friends of Colonization. This strength and stability of the Colonial government gives bright pro- mise for the future. In the hour of peril, it has nerve and sinew suffi- cient to bear itself bravely through. Such a result will tend powerfully
1842.]
OF TIIF A>IERICA\ COLONIZATION SOCTETV.
41
to establish this stupendous scheme of philanthropy in the confidence of the whole American people. After all the dark storms Avhich have beat upon it have spent their force, the colony has emerged with renewed vigor from them all, and the bow of promise appears, at present, encir- cling with vivid colors, that asylum for the oppressed, and that home for the free.
The only real objection which has ever been urged against the magnifi- cent scheme of Colonization, has been its impracticability. But now this is removed. The most formidable obstacles have been overcome. We behold on that once barbarous coast several flourishing, industrious and happy colonies, in which good order, pure morality, exemplary tempe- rance, and fervent religion are conspicuous.
The regular official reports which we have received in regard to the health of the inhabitants the past year, have been of a highly encouraging nature. The several companies of emigrants sent out, have passed through their acclimation with an unusually small amount of sickness, and comparatively few deaths. It is true that several deaths have occurred among the white residents, and during the past rainy season considerable sickness has prevailed among the old colonists, owdng to the fact that the rains have been excessive beyond what the oldest inhabitants can remem- ber to have witnessed ; still the mortality has not been great.* The physicians now understand the diseases. Great credit is due to Dr. Day, the Colonial Physician, for the zeal and skill with which he has dis- charged his responsible trust. He has himself had several attacks of the fever. But his exertions to take care of the lives and health of the neivly arrived emigrants, have been unremilted, and his success has been highly creditable to himself and fortunate for the society and the cause. And while his life and services are spared to the colony, we shall have great confidence in sending emigrants from any section of this country. ^
The incipient steps have been taken for the establishment, under his superintendance, of a medical school, in which shall be educated, from the youths of the colony and natives of the country, a regular body of physicians. This measure will essentially contribute to the welfare and respectability of the Commonwealth, and also to the economy of our home operations. The minds of the whole population need to be changed in regard to the theory and practice of medicine. They entertain very low ideas of the necessity of learning and science, in order to qualify any per- son for this responsible duty. Springing from this is a want of entire confidence in the regularly educated physician. Of necessary consequence, our physician must labor under the greatest disadvantages, until such no- tions are removed from their minds. Another error which needs correc-
* By examining the files of Africa’s Luminary and the Liberia Herald, we find that in three months, during the sickliest season, there were 13 deaths— three of whom were white persons, five newdy arrived emigrants, and five colonists— out of a popula- tion of over 2,000.
42
rWENTV- FIFTH ANNUAL REPORT
iFeb, 1,
tion, is the impression that when they are once taken sick they must cer- tainly die. There is almost certainty of death when the patient desponds, and has no one present to give him hope and encouragement. Our phy- sician correctly remarks “ one medicine on which I rely with much con- fidence is encouragement to hope for the best in every case. I have been frequently obliged to order from the room those who would come and sit over the sick with long and foreboding countenances, relating the suflFer- ings they had passed through, and the mortality that had attended their expedition. Were their story all true, then was not the time nor there the place to relate it.”
Dr. Day was right in this course. No person aught to be allowed con- tinually to be sounding the sentence of death in the ears of those who are sick. Minds naturally credulous and easily frightened need a different course of treatment.
We feel constrained to call the attention of our friends to this important subject. The very best medicine an emigrant can carry out with him is cheerfulness and a reasonable degree of assurance that he will survive the fever, and have long life and great prosperity and happiness granted to him in that land of his fathers and only hope for his descendants.
We would, therefore, most respectfully request, that persons liberating their slaves, to go to Liberia, and persons who have intercourse with the free colored people about to emigrate, should adopt a course of instruction and counsel corresponding with the above suggestions. They can thus contribute most powerfully to the health of the colonists ; and while they enjoy the high gratification of having accomplished much present good, they shall see, painted in the future prospect, scenes still more bright and cheering, consequent upon their timely endeavors.
During the year that has passed, the vital interests of morality and reli- gion have steadily advanced in the colony. Increased attention has been given to the education of the rising generation. Several schools have been supported by the missionaries of the Methodist Episcopal Church, where they have educated the children free of any charge. It has been a part of their policy to devote a large share of their efforts to the rising generation in this way. In this respect they are now making some change. Here- after all their free schools are to be for native children : while none are to be established in the colony but such as will maintain themselves. Several new churches have been built and dedicated to the worship of Almighty God. The Methodist mission is prosecuting this work with great zeal. There arc few places in Christendom better supplied with the gospel than the various settlements in Liberia. One of the most interesting fea- tures in their operations during the past year is the increased attention which has been given to the spiritual wants of the native tribes in the neigh- borhood of the colonial settlements. A strong missionary spirit has been manifested among the colonists themselves. The most friendly and bene- volent feeling has been shown towards the natives. Several new raissionarv'
1812.3 OF THE AMERICAN COLONIZATION SOCIETY. *l3
stations have been formed under the most encouraging prospects. The greatest anxiety is shown by multitudes of the natives to have schools es- tablished among them, and churches built, and the ordinances of the gospel administered. It 'may be said with great truth, that “the fields are white ready to the harvest.” It would be impossible to find in any country freer access to wider fields of usefulness. Several of the most im- portant missionary societies in this country are turning their attention thither with more than their former earnestness. It is important, however, that they should seek out and send forth colored men as their missionaries. Two very essential considerations urge them to this course : First, the
fatality of the climate to the white man. During the past year several of the missionaries have died. Some of them even before they had entered on their labors. They had no sooner set foot on the soil than death mark- ed them as his prey. Jt is the country and the climate of the colored man. And there seems a prohibition of nature against the appropriation of it to the use of the white man. We are convinced from past experience that we cannot rely on the labors of white men to perfect the institutions of civil liberty and of Christianity in the dark places of Africa.
But the second consideration which should urge our missionary socie- ties to send out colored missionaries, is the fact that they will harmonize with the colonists more readily, and wdll also have more easy access to the natives, and more powerful influence with them than white men can have. There is no prejudice against them ; while the natives have come to look upon the white man as their natural enemy.
These considerations induce us to hope that special eflbrts wflll soon be made to train up colored men to go as missionary pioneers into the heart of Africa. Our colony furnislies them an entrance and a defence, such as is enjoyed by no other missionaries. Under the aegis of its protection, and in co-operation with its citizens, they may labor with great security, and with the most flattering prospects of enlarged and ever enlarging success.
Early in the past year circumstances seemed to render it desirable that we should purchase from the natives the points on the seaboard lying be- tween our various settlements. The slave factories for a long series of years having existed at New Cesters and Gallenas, were broken up, and the internal slave trade w^as thereby seriously checked. New Cesters lies within the limits of coast that ought to belong to our colony, and it is indispensible that we should treat with the nations for it and several other points, in order that we may have an unbroken line of coast of about three hundred miles, to make a fair experiment of what can be done by a republican government on the shores of Africa. We supposed that the breaking up of these slave Stations furnished an opportunity wdien, by prompt and vigorous action, advantages could be obtained and secured, which, if suffered to pass without improvement, might never return. It w ill be recollected, that on the western coast of Africa we have four distinct 'and important settlements, viz : Monrovia and its neighboring
14
TWENTY-FIFTH ANNUAL REPORT
[Feh. 1.
villages ; Bassa Cove and its interior settlements ; Sinou ; and Cape Pal- mas. At Monrovia and Bassa Cove there is very little danger of the interfercnee of any other nation, or of the slave trade being carried on : but this is not the ease on the north of Monrovia, and between Bassa Cove and Sinou. This great extent of unoccupied territory furnishes eligible points for traders to establish factories for slaves, or merchandize, which must seriously interfere with the government and general pros- perity of our colony.
We gave the friends of the Colonization scheme in this country fair warning of this danger, and appealed to them, through the press, by pri- vate letters, and with the voice of our agents, to afford us 'at once the large sum that was demanded to meet this exigency. We could not move in the matter without the requisite means. Governor Buchanan was most solicitous about the result. The same solicitude pervaded the Board of Directors and other friends of the cause.
But some months passed away, and the requisite money had not been received. A general sympathy was expressed, and liberal promises of aid were given us. But there was no room for delay. Prompt action was considered the only efficient action. So fully were we impressed with this consideration, that we ventured to purchase, on credit, a small schooner and a valuable cargo of goods, the cost of which was $12,010, and despatched them to the colony for the purpose of negotiating with the natives along the coast. But the crisis with one or two of the points had passed before the Regulus arrived, or the Governor had the means of making the purchases. It was impossible to prosecute the necessary ne- gotiations along the coast without having a vessel at his command. Be- fore he could obtain one, the slave traders, and others interested, had contrived to excite the natives at Gallenas and New Cesters in such a manner, as that no treaty could be made with them. Since that time, the slave trade has been revived at both New Cesters and Gallenas, or its neighborhood.
So that for the present, there is little prospect of obtaining jurisdiction over those two tracts of country. But we do not abandon the hope of being able to secure them at no very distant day. The slave trade cannot much longer survive so near our settlements. The natives will soon learn who are their real friends. And if the patrons of this cause will only fur- nish us the means, so that, when another auspicious moment occurs, we can promptly meet it, we shall doubtless be able to add this desirable con- summation to our purchases along the coast.
We have the pleasure of communicating the fact, that our efforts to ac- quire territory have not been entirely without success. Two very impor- tant and highly beautiful tracts have been purchased, one lying north and the other south of the territory of Sinou. The tract on the north extends from Poor River, the boundary of Sinou, to Grand Boutau, about twenty-five ? miles, and running interior from fifteen to twenty-five miles. The tract on
OF THE AMERICAN COLONIZATION SOCIETY.
45
1842.]
the south is called Blue Barre, which is about fifteen miles in extent, and is represented as one of the most desirable places on the coast — a splendid district of country, well watered, and abounding in the greatest variety and luxuriance of productions. This tract has been selected by the Louisiana State Colonization Society as the site for their colony. A location has been selected for the establishment of the first emigrants, and houses erec- ted for the accommodation of about one hundred.
The purchase of these two parcels of territory is but a beginning of what must be done, and that speedily. The permanent prosperity of Liberia cannot be set down as the most certain of contingent events, until we have an un- disputed and indisputable claim to the whole line of coast between Cape Mount and Cape Palmas, a distance of about 300 miles. Every individual must be convinced that we ought to strain every nerve to gain possession of this continuous coast. What is wanted now is money to purchase this territory, so absolutely necessary to the unity and compactness of our colony, and its permanent peace and security. For it is certain, that if for- eign traders come in and locate their trading establishments between our settlements, there will arise jealousies and dangerous collisions. And we cannot disguise the fact, that we seriously apprehend trouble from this source. Already some difficulties have occurred between foreign traders who have established factories on the coast and our colonial authorities.* And there is evidently manifested a strong disposition so to interfere as to prevent the natives from ceding the right of jurisdiction over the territory to the government of Liberia. It is painful to us to be compelled to speak on this subject. But it is vital to our prospects. Already our colonists are liable to constant annoyance from this source ; and there can be no perma- nent peace and security till our right of government is established all along the coast. We therefore call upon the friends of the African race, and of the cause of Colonization, to arouse, and receive the adequate impression of the real importance of this emergency. Let the facts relating to this sub- ject be considered, and the sleeping zeal of many well wdshers be renewedly awakened. The requisite funds must be collected, or a cloud will come over our prospect and a chill run through our hearts. The friends of this cause in the United States are so numerous and powerful, that nothing but prompt and united action is requisite to achieve any thing that can be done by money !
A portion of the debt contracted for the Regulus and her cargo is yet un- paid. This debt never would have been incurred but for the urgency of the case, and the belief that the friends of the cause would pr<^mptly come forward and enable us to meet the payment. It is contrary to the general policy of the society to contract any new debts until the old ones are all paid. Indeed it was our intention at the beginning of the year, to appro- priate all our available funds to the liquidation of the old debts, expecting
• In some instances they have set up a claim to the territory themselves, and have denied the right of the native king s to cede their lands to the colony.
46
TWENTY-FIFTH ANNUAL REPORT
■ [Feb. 1,
to be able at this meeting to report that this very desirable object had been accomplished. But circumstances over which we could have no control, prevented the entire fulfilment of this intention. And we believe that if the old creditors will candidly consider the situation in which we have been placed, they will fully approve of the course we have pursued. The ap- propriations which have been made during the year, have all, excepting for the payment of old debts, been to preserve the very existence of the colony, and to execute pledges given to colored people desiring to emigrate. The expenses incurred in sending out emigrants have been heavy — and yet we have not sought for emigrants : more have offered than we could take, and we have only sent out those whose stay in this country could not be pro- longed. (To be continued.)
CONTRIBUTIONS to the Pennsylvania Colonization Society^ from Dec. 20, 1841, ^0 January^ 20, 1842, inclusive, received at the office.
Dec. 29, Professor Jacobs, of Gettysburg, - - - - - $3 00
Jan. 3, Paul Beck, Jr. * - - - - - - 60 00
14, A Juvenile Colonization Society, per Miss L. Richards, - - 8 00
15, Middlesex Congregation, per T. W. Kerr, - - - - 5 00
17, Rev. J. T. Lord, Blossburg, Pa., per W. Musgrave, Esq. - - 3 72
18, Josiah Brown, a member of the congregation of the Forks of Wheel-
ing, to constitute him a L. M. of the P. C. S., - - - 30 00
109 72
Dec. 15, Collections by Rev. John B. Pinney, general agent —
At Youngstown, Rev. P. Massinger !$2, Wm. Rankin $1, - - 3 00
ScMisftitrg, Rev. D. D. Clark, - - - - 5 00
20, Bedford, Judge Morrison, to constitute him a L. M. of the Penn- sylvania Col. Soc. - - - - - - - 30 00
Pittsburg, Mr. T. Lorentz - - - $100
less discount - - - - 31 75
68 25
106 25
Brought down, io9 72
T.otal, ^215 97
CONTRIBUTIONS to the American Colonization Society from 2^th December, 1841, to \&th January, 1842.
MAINE. *
Collections by Capt. Geo. Barker, agent : —
'Hallowell, Sarah M. Gordon, in behalf of ladies of Society, on acc.
of life membership for Rev. Wm. R. Babcock - - - 16 00
Mt. Desert, Calvin Kittredge, Jno. Somes, each $1, Lydia D. Finney 75c., Ladies, Judith Somes, each 50c., Sophia Heath Mary Thomas each 25c., - - - - - - - • 4 25
Portland, Captain Blanchard, - - - - - 7 00 26 25
NEW HAMPSHIRE .
Collections by Capt. Barker, agent : —
Po)ismouth, D. R. Rogers .$10, Mary C. Rogers $9 75, Hon. J. Good- win, Deacon Knowlton, each $5, Rev. E. Holt, J. C. Clark, each $2, Dea. D. Libbey .$1 50, Deacon J. W. Foster, Rev. A. Peabody,
Deacon Knight, C. W. Brewster, each $1, W. G. Cole, E. Picker- ing, each 50c., - - - - - . - 40 25
Sratham, James Smith $2, Mrs. E. Clark, C. Wiggins, each $1, Mr s.
E. A. C. Lane, Dr. Wiggins, Mrs. Mary Lane, each 50c., - 5 50
Hampton, Mr. Belknap, J. Perkins, each $1, Mrs. J. Dearborn, Jos.
Lane, each 50c., J. Lane 25c., R. Seavy 10c., Hannah M. Dow 5c. 3 40 Saybrook, Rev. S. T. Abbott - - - - - -1 00 50 15
1842.]
CONTRIBUTIONS.
47
MASSACHUSETTS.
iVeu) 3/arZ6oro’, Hon. Edward Stevens, - - - - 3 00
Collections by Capt Geo. Barker —
Newburi/port, J. Harrod, ^3, J. Roberts, M. Pearsons, a friend, Mrs.
Storer, each ^1, D. H, Knight, W. W. Willis, each 50c., Mrs. Myeall,25c., - . - - - - - S 25
.^mesbup/, N. White, W. C. Boardman, each ^2, W. Chase, 50, - 5 50 Haverhill, D. Marsh, Mrs. A. Kithredge, each }R-5, Mrs. Nancy Marsh,
Miss L. White, each $2, J. H. Duncan 50, Miss Betsy Marsh,
Mrs. Carlton, each SI, S. Noyes Kitredge 30c., - - - 17 80"
West Bradford, L. Johnson $2, Miss A. C. Hasseltine $1 50, W. Ord- way, W. Elliott, D. C. Kimball, Mary Hasseltine, Rebeckah Emer- son, J. Kimball, S. A. Heath, each $1, a friend, B.Greenleaf, J.
K. Farray, Lovejoy, each 50, G. Kimball 25c., - - - 12 75
Methuen, John Tenney, - - - - ■ - 1 50
48 80
Collections by Rev. R. Porter, agent —
Andover, Gentlemen and Ladies of South Parish, to constitute their pastor. Rev. John L. Taylor, a L. M. - - - - 50 00'
98 80
CONNECTICUT.
By Rev. C. J. Tenney, agent —
Suffield, Rev. A. C. Washburn and others, - - - - 6 00
N E W Y O R K .
A. McIntyre. ‘Esq., ----- 120 00
PENNSYLVANIA.
Pittsburg, Wm. & A. B. Curling, executors of R. B. Curling, dec’d 500 00
NEW JERSEY.
PHnceton, Rev. A. Alexander, D. D., his annual subscription of $10
in uncurrent notes, - - - - - - - 11 00
Belvidere, for N. J. Col’n Society from Hon. J. P. B. Maxwell, his ann.
subscrip, for 1841 & 1842, §J;20, and an additional donation of $30 50 00
MISSISSIPPI.
Collected by Rev. Wm. Winans —
Natchez, Wm. Bisland, Esq., to constitute himself a L. M., .^100,
Jos. Archer, Esq., to constitute himself a L. M., $30 - 130 00
Woodville, the Methodist Episcopal Church, to constitute their pastor, the Rev. Benj. Jones, a L. M., Ladies ol Presbyterian church, to constitute their pastor, the Rev. R. L. Staunton, a L. M. each $30, 60 00 Whitesville, John Whittaker, Esq., to constitute himself a L. M., - 30 00
Wilkeson and Feliciana, by the peopleof color to constitute their mis- missionary, the Rev. Tho. Clinton, a L. M., - - - 30 00
For purchasing Gallinas and New Cesters . . _
Centerville, Samuel Goodrich and Mary Walker, each .$10, W. H.
Taber, J. S. Lewis, Esther Connell, J. McD. Reilly, J. Johnson,
W. Dix, T. Gilbert, M. Zenors, J. Robson, jr., each $5, - - 65 00
W. Van Crupen $3 50, W. J. Furguson $3, P. Cage $2, cash $1 - 9 50 Mrs. Nancy Tarkington, her annual subscription of .$10 for 2 years 20 00
OHIO.
. Collections by Rev. L. G. Olmstead, Agent: —
Waynesville, N. McClean and A. Mott, each, $1, - - - 2 00
Loudon, Dr. Malsby $2, E. Armstrong $1 25, W. F. Davidson, S.
Moore, J. Chinman, A. A. Hurne, and Mrs. Chinman, each $1, J. Rayburn, C. Knight, A. G. Thompson, H. Warner, J. Dungar, and Mrs. Roe, each 50c., cash 25c, - - - - - - 11 50
6 OO 120 00 500 00
61 00
344 5(^
13 50
Collections by Rev. Fran. M. Hastings, Agent: —
■Canfield, Wm. W. Whittlesey and Rev. W. McCombs, each $2, Rev.
W. 0. Stratton, J. Clark, and A. M. Barber, each $1, E. E. Bough- ton 50c, 7 50
48
CONTRIBUTIONS.
[Feb. 1,,184‘i
Carrolton, Judge McEldery and Dan’l Cook, each $‘2, L. Pearce, D.
Van Horne, Dr. Hunter and J. Cameron, each $fl, W. Holmes, 50c. 'Ihoo Ridges, W. Winters, $2, J. Torrence and D. Johnson, each $T, H. Trumbull, 50c, R. Johnson, 25c,
Knoxville, Rev. J. Cunningham, ^1,
Wellsville, J. F. Patterson, $5, J. S. McIntosh, $2, Rev. J. Mc- Gill, BU
New Lisbon, Rev. A. 0. Patterson, $3, J. Charters, $2, Mrs. D. P. Graham, Miss E. B. McMahon, R. Rankin, J. L. Vallendegham, G. W. Harper, T. Corbeth,B. W. Snodgrass, A. Rouch, Mrs. Pot- ter, A. L. Brewer, W. R. Russel, F. Skinner, Judge Endley, D. Biggo, E. Carroll, D. E. Penlicost, H. Springer, each f 1, D. P. Graham, S. E. Everett, Mrs. M. S. Patterson, B. Whitacre, L.
Hanna, each 50c,
Ashtabula, Miss Mar}- Sabin, $3,
IVarren, S. D. Webb, B. Stevens, each $3, C. Stevens, $2, Mrs* L. J. Pearse, $1 50, E. Spear, J. T. McLain, J. J. Morgan, J. Er- win, A. D. Kibbe, each $-1,
Newton Falls, H. A. Du Bois, $5, H. Stephens, H. Austin, F. Tread- ley, G. Cooper, F. L. Kidder, each $1, S. M. Carter, 50c,
Messopotamia, Individuals, $4,
Nelson, Col. Soc. of Nelson, $17, Wells Clark, Esq. ^10, D. Everest, Esq., J. G. Stevens, each $3 50, D. Hannahs, Rev. C. Osburn, D. Beardsly, Lydia Clark, each ^1, S, Beardsly, S. Clark, each 25c, Windham, Rev. J. Hovey, $1 50, a Friend, $fl 45, R. Earl, S. Streeter, H. W. Hinman, Cash, P. W. Bush, S, Scott, E. Alferd, B. Higley, L. Scott, Dr. Augel, D. Jagger, each ^1, Mr. and Mrs.
Perkins, 75c, Mrs. Jagger, 50c,
Aurora, M. Egleston, $T,
Farmington, J. W. Wolcott, $4, C. Taft, $2, H. Beldin, E. Wolcott, L. C Brown, each $1, E. Loveland, M. Bostwick, J. Benton, E.
Fuller, S. Loveland, each 50c.
Parkman, W. B. Young, J. Webster, each $1, Mrs. H. Williams, 50c, Euclid, Mrs. Sarah Shaw, $3 50 . . . .
8 50
4 75 1' 00
8 00
25 50 3 00
14 50
10 50 4 00
40 50
15 20 1 00
11 60
2 50
3 50
174 95
Total, $1,381 65
FOR REPOSITORY.
New Hampshire. — Plymouth, O. S. McQuestion, J. & A. Ward, Thos.
Clark, Jas. Morrison, N. C. Cummings, Capt. D. Calley, Col. W. Webster, and D. R. Burnham ; Compton, Miss Harriet Cook, S. Moress and P. C.
Blaisdell ; Holderness, 0. Smith and L. F. Smith; Mt. Vernon, Mrs. S. H.
A. Burnham ; Manchester, D. Clark, S. 1). Bell, H. Brown H. Gillis, each $1.50 for ’40 ; Hampstead, Jas. Calitf, Cap. C. P. Farley Hillis, B. Fox, R. W.
Jerrett, C. Whiting, and Rev. C. Bartley ; Amherst, M. Spaulding, Hannah L.
Downs ; Mt. Vernon, Capt. Kitridge, Deacon J. A. Starrett, Z. Kitridge,
N. Bruce, D. W. Baker, and Dr. J. K. Smith ; New Ipswich, Rev. C. Shed,
Capt. E. Brown, each $1 50, for 1842, - - - -- - 51 00
Massachusetts. — Haverhill, Rev. A. S. Train, to May, 1843, $2, Carleton & Kimball, J. Sticharey, Mrs. Mary W. Duncan, Miss Mary C. Howe ; Georgetown, D. Mighill, R. Dole, and Mrs. Paul Nelson ; Lowell, Rev. L*
Porter; Boston, Wm. Amory; South Andover, A. Abbott, Ladies’ Auxil- iary Society 4 copies, $6, T. D. Stone, (Seminary,) ; North Andovor, La- dies’ Benevolent Society, J. Osgood and Lydia Philips ; Cambridge, Rev. H.
Ware, Jno. k J. Worcester, for ^42 $9; Boxford, Rev. P. Eaton, each $1 50, 34 50
Virginia. — Richmond, per Jos. Gill, Agent: — J. H. Eustace, S. Winfree and A. Pleasants, each $4 for ’40 & ’41, N. Mills, for ’40, ’41 & ’42, $5 50, and
N. C. Crenshaw^ of Hanover, for ’41 & ’42, $4, 21 50
Ohio.— New Lisbon, L. Hanna; Bloomfield, Dr. B. Palmer; Warren, H.
Stiles and Mrs. L. J. Pease ; Braceville, O. C. Smith ; Farmington, W. C.
Jenkins, E. Fuller, P. M. and S. Loveland: Farmington Centre, Holmes & McBride, and H. W. Collar; Bundysburg, M. Bunby, jr.; Parkman, Mrs.
• H. Williams ; Nelson, D. Everest and J. G. Stevens ; Windham, Rev. J. Ho- vey ; Euclid, Miss Sarah Shaw, each $1 50, for 1842, - - - - 24 00
Total for Repos., $131 00
Total, $1,512 65
Collections by the Rev. Wm. Winans, for the Mississippi Colonization Society .
Lewis Piper $12 50, W. James, E. H. Wailez, B. Jones, C. W. Miller, S.
Scott, each $5, E. Philips, $1, $38 60
1-7 v.17/18:!
African Repository and Colonial Journal Princeton Theological Seminary-Speer Library
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