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Harrisburg on the eve of Civil War

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Gravesite of John Harris, the Settler

Gravestones of John Harris, the settler, Harrisburg,  PA.

Riverfront Park, Harrisburg, PA

The gravestones and burial site of John Harris, the settler, have been familiar to Harrisburg residents for generations. Harris settled in what is now modern day Harrisburg to trade with Native Americans and establish a ferry to help travelers and local residents cross the wide Susquehanna River. He is the first recorded slaveholder in this area, having the man known as Hercules in his household. Upon his death, Harris stipulated in his will that Hercules should be emancipated and be allowed to live on a plot of nearby land. Harris held other enslaved persons, giving them to his family upon his death. Hercules is the only enslaved person he emancipated.

 

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All photographs and text on this page copyright © 2010 George F. Nagle and Afrolumens Project.

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