Archives of Maryland
(Biographical Series)

James A. Wilkins (b. ? - d. ?)
MSA SC 5496-8659
Fled from Slavery, Cecil County, Maryland, 1859

Biography:

James Andy Wilkins successfully escaped from Cecil County, Maryland, in 1859 with his wife, Lucinda, and son, Charles.  His owner was George Biddle, a bachelor and farmer, whom Wilkins viewed somewhat favorably and described as a "moderate man in talk."1  Biddle owned two other slaves, named Rachel Ann Dumbson and John Price.  Though little information has been recovered regarding his life after his escape, Wilkins is known to have reached Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and was aided there by individuals connected to the Underground Railroad.

1Still, William. Underground Rail Road: A Record of Facts, Authentic Narratives, Letters, etc. Philadelphia, PA, Porter & Coales, Publisher, 1872. 504.

Return to James A. Wilkins' Introductory Page


This web site is presented for reference purposes under the doctrine of fair use. When this material is used, in whole or in part, proper citation and credit must be attributed to the Maryland State Archives. PLEASE NOTE: The site may contain material from other sources which may be under copyright. Rights assessment, and full originating source citation, is the responsibility of the user.


Tell Us What You Think About the Maryland State Archives Website!



© Copyright October 04, 2017 Maryland State Archives