It’s just over a week after the 152nd anniversary of Brown’s raid on Harpers Ferry.
While many will continue to consider the actions of Brown, the man… especially as to whether he should be judged a hero or terrorist… this excellent video, from West Virginia Public Broadcasting, reveals an enduring, positive legacy, in the wake of Brown’s actions at Harpers Ferry… and because of what he did there.
Of course, in that this blog focuses heavily on the Shenandoah Valley, I’d also like to point out that this reveals yet another angle on the story, here, in the Valley… one that some may consider often overlooked as a part of the Valley’s history. Indeed, Jefferson County became a hub for refugee slaves from as far away as Lexington, Staunton, and Harrisonburg; many who followed the Union armies to freedom, between 1862-1865. I plan to touch on this more, from time to time, over the Sesquicentennial years.
Enjoy…
Mike Musick
October 26, 2011
Robert: Thanks so much for spotlighting my end of the Valley and Harpers Ferry, my hometown (though, technically, my town is Bolivar, the workingmen’s suburb of the Ferry, established in 1825). I hope all the folks who read your blog come to visit us and reflect on our past!
Robert Moore
October 26, 2011
My pleasure, Mike. Hope, myself, to call that area “home” one day.