Resolution Recognizes 1848 Pearl Escape Attempt, Honors Abolitionist Legacy in American History

This resolution officially recognizes the historical significance of the 1848 escape attempt involving the schooner Pearl and honors the legacy of those involved. It specifically acknowledges the daring effort by 77 enslaved people to gain freedom by sailing from Washington, D.C., and the subsequent events that unfolded.

A Forgotten Chapter of Courage

The resolution brings to light the details of this pivotal event: the chartering of the Pearl for $100, the coordinated escape attempt, and the heartbreaking recapture of nearly everyone aboard. It also notes the violent reaction, known as the Washington Riot of 1848, that followed the capture, targeting abolitionists and anti-slavery advocates in the city. The measure highlights the legal prosecution faced by those who aided the escape, underscoring the risks taken by allies in the fight against slavery.

Echoes in History

Beyond just recounting the events, the resolution emphasizes the Pearl incident's lasting impact. It points out how the bravery of the escapees and the subsequent crackdown fueled the national abolitionist movement. Notably, the resolution mentions the event's influence on Harriet Beecher Stowe, suggesting it contributed inspiration for her seminal work, Uncle Tom's Cabin. By formally recognizing the individuals who resisted slavery and those involved in the Pearl incident, this resolution aims to solidify their place in the history of Washington, D.C., and the broader narrative of American freedom.