URGENT UPDATE: The legacy of Samuel Ringgold Ward, a nearly forgotten abolitionist from Syracuse, is gaining renewed attention as historical experts highlight his profound impact on the anti-slavery movement. Once lauded by Frederick Douglass as “the ablest Black man the country has ever produced,” Ward’s life story is a crucial piece of American history that demands recognition today.
Ward, born into slavery on October 17, 1817, on Maryland’s eastern shore, escaped at a young age. His journey took him to New York City and then to Syracuse, where he became a pivotal figure in the abolition movement. His oratory skills left audiences in awe, including Douglass himself, who remarked on Ward’s superiority as an orator and thinker.
NEW DISCOVERIES reveal that during his time in Syracuse in the 1840s and 1850s, Ward published one of America’s earliest Black newspapers, The Impartial Citizen, advocating for racial pride and abolitionism. The paper launched on February 14, 1849, and was dedicated to uplifting the Black community amidst rampant racism.
In a dramatic turn of events on October 1, 1851, Ward played a key role in the Jerry Rescue, a pivotal moment in Syracuse’s history. An escaped slave named William Henry, known as “Jerry,” was captured and faced return to slavery under the Fugitive Slave Act. Ward’s impassioned speech to a crowd of 2,500 people galvanized support, prompting them to take action that led to Jerry’s freedom.
“Fellow citizens!” Ward proclaimed, addressing the crowd. “A man in chains, in Syracuse! How does this sound beneath the pole of liberty?” His words ignited a furious response, leading to the crowd breaking into the jail to free Jerry, marking a significant act of resistance against slavery.
Ward’s activism continued after these events, as he became involved with the American Antislavery Society and later the Antislavery Society of Canada. His memoir, published in 1855, chronicled his experiences and highlighted the ongoing struggles of Black Americans. Despite his significant contributions, Ward’s story faded from public memory.
As the Syracuse community reflects on its history, historians and activists urge a revival of Ward’s legacy. His commitment to justice and equality serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight against racism. With discussions on racial equity more pressing than ever, Ward’s contributions resonate strongly today.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Local historians and community leaders are planning events to honor Ward’s legacy in Syracuse. The renewed focus on his life could inspire educational programs aimed at understanding America’s abolitionist movement.
Stay tuned as we cover further developments in honoring the contributions of Samuel Ringgold Ward and his enduring impact on the struggle for freedom and equality in America.
