2008 Woodie Awards
Vallejo gets a new day
Mayor Intintoli recognizes the struggles of former slaves
LaTasha Monique
Issue date: 2/21/07 Section: News
- Page 1 of 1
The City of Vallejo has proclaimed Feb. 23 William Parker Day, in order to give residents a chance to honor a man who initiated the abolition of slavery.
Born into slavery in 1822 on Roedown Plantation in Maryland, Parker was considered to be the property of Major William Brogden and later, after his death, of his son David "Master Mack" Brogden.
In 1839, Parker and his brother Charles fled from the plantation for many reasons, but mostly because the thought of being sold by "Master Mack" just did not sit well with the two.
In inherent danger from slave catchers as fugitives, Parker gathered a group of blacks who made it their sole mission to prohibit the return of blacks from their community into slavery. By any means necessary, Parker and his groups sought to protect their freedom, even if it meant violent conflict. His struggles led to the abolition of the Fugitive Slave Act.
Parker first found shelter in Rochester, N.Y., where he was helped by Fredrick Douglas before moving on to Toronto and then finally North Buxton, Ontario, Canada where he was able to obtain 50 acres of farm land.
Later, Parker would be joined by his wife and family to live out their remaining years. Even though safe with his newfound freedom, Parker continued to write and speak against slavery.
In honor of great dedication that Parker put forth in helping African Americans, Mira Theater Guild is presenting the play "Resistance!" directed by Irv Siegel.
"Resistance!", written by Richard Caulfield Goodman, depicts Parker's story.
The play opens Feb. 23 and runs through March 11. For ticket info and reservations, contact Mira Theater Guild at 707-649-1053.
Born into slavery in 1822 on Roedown Plantation in Maryland, Parker was considered to be the property of Major William Brogden and later, after his death, of his son David "Master Mack" Brogden.
In 1839, Parker and his brother Charles fled from the plantation for many reasons, but mostly because the thought of being sold by "Master Mack" just did not sit well with the two.
In inherent danger from slave catchers as fugitives, Parker gathered a group of blacks who made it their sole mission to prohibit the return of blacks from their community into slavery. By any means necessary, Parker and his groups sought to protect their freedom, even if it meant violent conflict. His struggles led to the abolition of the Fugitive Slave Act.
Parker first found shelter in Rochester, N.Y., where he was helped by Fredrick Douglas before moving on to Toronto and then finally North Buxton, Ontario, Canada where he was able to obtain 50 acres of farm land.
Later, Parker would be joined by his wife and family to live out their remaining years. Even though safe with his newfound freedom, Parker continued to write and speak against slavery.
In honor of great dedication that Parker put forth in helping African Americans, Mira Theater Guild is presenting the play "Resistance!" directed by Irv Siegel.
"Resistance!", written by Richard Caulfield Goodman, depicts Parker's story.
The play opens Feb. 23 and runs through March 11. For ticket info and reservations, contact Mira Theater Guild at 707-649-1053.
Viewing Comments 1 - 2 of 3
Michele Samuels (ne: Parker)
posted 3/01/07 @ 4:13 AM NA
William Parker is my great-great grandfather and I only recently became aware of this event in history let alone the family tie. It's a shame my family did not pass down this great legacy. (Continued…)
Anita Wills
posted 10/29/07 @ 3:43 AM NA
I am descendant of Free Blacks who settled in Pennsylvania prior to the Civil War. Several of the participants in the Christiana Resistance, were related to me, including William Parker, Benjamin Johnson, Anthony Johnson, and My Great-Great Grandfather, Henry Green. (Continued…)
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