By Telegraph, News of the 1855 National Convention

By Telegraph, News of the 1855 National Convention

A newspaper clipping describing the initial events of the 1855 National Colored Convention

PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 17. - During the session of the National Colored Convention today, resolutions were offered expressing admiration at the conduct of Passmore Williamson, and sympathy for his injured family. Frederick Douglas made a speech objecting to the resolutions, and instancing the colored men who rescued Col. Wheeler's slaves as more entitled to thanks; he denounced Col. Wheeler slaves as a villain and a scoundrel; the resolutions were adopted as well as others honoring the conduct of the men who assisted in the escape. A resolution was submitted imposing an assessment of one dollar on each delegate, many members objected, and a scene of confusion ensued. Julius Caesar Morrell intimated that certain persons had beed living luxuriously upon contributions thus made. For himself he never had one cent, although engaged for nineteen years in the cause. He was sorry he could not say so much for some others. Frederick Douglas believing himself alluded to made a short reply, and said the opposition to the assessment was mean and disgraceful. The resolution was adopted. Most of the session was occupied in discussing a proposition to form industrial unions. Application has been made by the counsel of Passmore Williamson for permission to file an affidavit by him. Judge Kane decided that the proper mode of procedure was to take a rule to show cause why such a paper should not be filed; the counsel refused to do this, and no further action was had.

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1855.PA-10.16.PHIL