1844: Benjamin Snow Jr.
Abolitionist, Mill Owner, & City Councilor Benjamin Snow Jr. (1813-1892), served as Vice President of the Massachusetts Chapter of the American Anti-Slavery Society between 1844 and 1860. He was a thought leader who supported the cause by allocating resources, connecting escaped slaves to avenues of support, and hosting national abolitionists to advocate for the end of slavery. He directly supported Black Fitchburg residents and together they helped formerly enslaved persons escape to Canada.
Commentary
Snow’s wealth came from a successful paper mill which he sold to Alvah Crocker. The mill may have been where Greif Paper is now, right below “Snow’s Millpond” https://maps.app.goo.gl/KbhEVqvHR96GpEmw8. Snow’s contribution supporting formerly enslaved people after the war was as important as his support before the war.
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Resources
Snow’s grave site on Findagrave
Collection of articles and notes
Donation noted in The Liberator October 4, 1850
Worcester North Anti-Slavery Society story in The Liberator February 21, 1845
My Father’s House by Martha Wallace Snow 1915
Fitchburg Past and Present