Lemuel Haynes, escapes from slaveholder in Framingham Massachusetts

The inspiring story of Lemuel Haynes, who escaped from his slaveholder in Framingham, Massachusetts on July 18, 1753, serves as a stark reminder of the perseverance and determination of individuals in the face of adversity. Haynes’ escape not only symbolizes the fight for freedom but also highlights the significant contributions and resilience of African Americans throughout history.

Born on July 18, 1753, in West Hartford, Connecticut, Lemuel Haynes was the son of an African father and a Caucasian mother. At only five months old, he was abandoned by his parents and left at the doorstep of a prominent local family, the Hayneses. They became his adoptive family and provided him with an education, which was a rare opportunity for an African American during that time period.

However, as Haynes grew older, he realized that his position as a free African American was precarious at best. In 1774, at the age of 21, he left his home in Connecticut and made his way to Massachusetts to pursue his dream of becoming a minister.

Haynes settled in Framingham, Massachusetts, where he worked as an indentured servant for the Rose family. Despite his circumstances, Haynes managed to educate himself, teaching himself Latin and Greek in his spare time. This dedication to learning would later shape his future as a widely respected and influential minister.

As Haynes became more knowledgeable about the abolitionist movement and the fight for freedom, he began to yearn for his own liberation. On July 18, 1753, Haynes seized an opportunity and escaped from his slaveholder in Framingham. The details of his escape are largely unknown, but it is believed that he utilized his intelligence and resourcefulness to navigate the challenges and dangers that came with fleeing bondage.

After his escape, Haynes traveled to Granville, Massachusetts, where he arrived on foot and virtually penniless. However, his determination and passion for education caught the attention of a local minister, who took him under his wing. Seeing Haynes’ potential, the minister encouraged him to continue his studies and helped him gain admission to Dartmouth College, making Haynes one of the first African Americans to attend college in the United States.

Haynes graduated from Dartmouth College in 1785 and subsequently became the first African American to be ordained as a minister in the United States. Throughout his ministry, he delivered powerful sermons on equal rights, challenging the prevailing beliefs of the time. His sermons emphasized the importance of equality, justice, and the inherent worth of every individual, regardless of their race.

In addition to his work as a minister, Haynes also authored several influential publications. His most notable work, “Liberty Further Extended: Or, Free Thoughts on the Illegality of Slave-keeping,” published in 1776, condemned slavery and argued for its abolition. Haynes’ writing helped shape the public discourse surrounding slavery and added fuel to the growing abolitionist movement.

Lemuel Haynes’ escape from slavery in Framingham, Massachusetts, on July 18, 1753, is an important milestone in American history. His story serves as a testament to the power of education, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. Haynes’ legacy continues to inspire and remind us of the ongoing struggle for freedom and equality, and his contributions to the abolitionist movement paved the way for future generations to fight for their rights.

As we reflect on Haynes’ remarkable story, we are reminded of the strength and courage of those who came before us, and the importance of upholding the values of equality and justice in our society today.