[Fugitive Slave Law] Historic CT Congregational Church Concerned About Member For Sale

The Fourth Congregational Church, Norwich, Connecticut, was involved with national issues in the antebellum period, including supporting sermons on the topic of The Fugitive Slave Law, which featured prominently in American discussion at the time. The Fugitive Slave Law required that escaped slaves be returned to their owners even if they were in another state. While there is no firm evidence that the church was involved in the Underground Railroad, the church was in an area where abolitionist sentiment was strong.

In the following 5 x 8, 1 ½ pp, March 24th, 1868, ALS by the church clerk Edwin T. Avery, parishioner Mrs. Wolcott Hill receives a letter of concern regarding her absence from services.

“It is several years since you have been with us and I am directed by the Church to say to you we trust you are still living in accordance with your covenant vows and obligations.

“Will you please inform us of your present religious character and feelings as we have known of you for a long time. If still in good and regular standing we should like to have you transfer your church relations from us to some church of our denomination near your present house. It is not only expected but a rule of the Congregational Church of our county that members of our churches absent one year and not intending to return will take letters from us.

“We desire to publish a new church annual and before we do so as speedily as convenient wish absent members in good standing to apply for letters from us.

“Very truly yours

“Edwin T. Avery, Clerk

“Would like to hear as soon as convenient...”

In excellent condition. Fine religious Americana from a prominent New England Church.

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