Under a Northern Star

Mary Ann Shadd Cary: Abolitionist

Legendary abolitionist Mary Ann Shadd Cary, a free-born Black woman, moved to Canada at the time of the U.S. Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. In addition to being a teacher and activist in the movement to abolish slavery, she established The Provincial Freeman, a newspaper dedicated to the cause of Black refugees. Under Writing you can explore a variety of records documenting her social activism, including copies of her correspondence and other writings related to her abolitionist activities. Under Family you will find documentation relating to her personal life and family, among them a digital copy of her Canadian naturalization certificate. Under History you will find an overview of Mary Ann Shadd Cary's life and work, written by Adrienne Shadd, Shadd Cary's great-great-grandniece.