James Mathews, 1808 – 1888
In the ongoing Hallowell Mural research, Sam Webber, our grand Hallowell historian, introduced me to the story of James Matthews—a man from South Carolina, born into slavery in 1808. After a harrowing early life Mathews eventually escaped. He hid away on a ship in Charleston harbor that sailed north to Boston, MA. He then made his way north via the underground railroad to finally find refuge in Hallowell.
In 1838, in the Advocate for Freedom – a Hallowell-based abolitionist publication, Matthews told of his days of enslavement, in an account entitled Recollections of Slavery by a Runaway Slave, a story that spread nationally and became important to the abolitionist movement. You can read more here:
Hallowell has been a haven or sanctuary for many over the years and I felt the chapter of James Matthew’s life was important to include in the story of our town.
Matthews had a troubled life, even after his escape from slavery. However, when he died in June of 1888, people of Hallowell raised funds so he could be buried in the main cemetery. You can see his grave there today.
For the mural Mathews is portrayed making his way through a northern stand of white birch.
