Born: 1808 (Kitley Township, Ontario, Canada)
Died: 1898
Biography:
Laura Smith Haviland (December 20, 1808 – April 20, 1898) was an American abolitionist, suffragette, and social reformer. She was a Quaker and an important figure in the history of the Underground Railroad.
Early years and family:
Laura Smith Haviland was born on December 20, 1808, in Kitley Township, Ontario, Canada. Her parents, Daniel Smith and Asenath Sene Blancher, had recently immigrated from the United States. Daniel Smith was described as a man of ability and influence, with clear perceptions and strong reasoning powers. Her mother, Sene, was of a gentler nature, known for her quiet spirit and benevolence.
The Smiths, a farming family of modest means, were devout members of the Religious Society of Friends, also known as Quakers. Laura’s father was a minister in the Quaker community, and her mother served as an Elder. Despite their simplicity in dress and the prohibition of activities like dancing and singing, the Quakers held progressive views for their time. They believed in the equal education of men and women, a notion ahead of its time when most people were illiterate.
Quaker women, including Laura’s mother, also acted as ministers. While the majority of Quakers did not vocally advocate for abolition, they condemned slavery as brutal and unjust. Growing up in this environment, Laura developed a deep sense of justice and compassion for the oppressed.
In 1815, the Smith family returned to the United States and settled in Cambria, a remote and sparsely populated town in western New York. However, there was no school nearby, and Laura’s education was limited to daily spelling lessons taught by her mother. Despite the lack of formal education, Laura’s curious nature drove her to seek knowledge in every book she could borrow from friends, relatives, and neighbors.
At the age of sixteen, Laura met Charles Haviland, Jr., a devout young Quaker whose parents were respected ministers. They got married on November 11, 1825, in Lockport, New York. Laura described their marriage as a happy one, with Charles being a devoted husband. Together, they had eight children.
Role in the Underground Railroad and abolitionist movement:
The Havilands initially settled in Royalton Township near Lockport, New York, where they spent the first four years of their marriage. In September 1829, they decided to move to Raisin, Lenawee County, in the Michigan Territory. It was in Raisin that Laura Smith Haviland’s true calling would come to the fore.
Inspired by her Quaker upbringing and a sense of moral duty, Haviland became deeply involved in the abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad. She actively sheltered and provided assistance to fugitive slaves seeking freedom. Haviland was known for her unwavering determination and courageous acts in the face of danger. Her involvement in the Underground Railroad included sheltering and guiding escaped slaves, organizing safe houses, and facilitating their journey to Canada.
Haviland’s dedication to the cause of abolition extended beyond sheltering escaped slaves. She also played a significant role in educating and empowering newly freed African Americans. Haviland founded schools in Michigan and Ohio, providing a quality education to both children and adults who had previously been denied access to learning.
Influence on society and role in women’s history:
Laura Smith Haviland’s contributions to society extended beyond her work in the abolitionist movement. She was also an early advocate for women’s rights and suffrage. Haviland believed in the inherent equality of all individuals, regardless of gender, and fought for women’s right to participate fully in society.
As a prominent Quaker reformer, Haviland played a pivotal role in shaping the views and actions of others, advocating for social justice and gender equality. Her leadership and influence extended to various abolitionist and women’s rights organizations, where she worked alongside prominent figures such as Sojourner Truth and Elizabeth Cady Stanton.
Laura Smith Haviland’s legacy:
Laura Smith Haviland’s life and work left an indelible mark on American history. Her tireless efforts in the abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad helped countless individuals find freedom and safety. She was instrumental in providing education and empowerment to African Americans and played a crucial role in advancing women’s rights.
As we reflect on Haviland’s life and achievements, we are reminded of the power of one individual’s dedication to justice and equality. Through her unwavering commitment to social reform, Laura Smith Haviland has left a lasting legacy in the fight against oppression and discrimination.
Awards:
– Laura Smith Haviland’s contributions were recognized by the Michigan Anti-Slavery Society, which honored her for her work in the abolitionist movement.
– She received accolades from various organizations dedicated to social reform and women’s rights for her activism and leadership.
– While specific official awards may not be documented, Haviland’s impact and recognition within the abolitionist and suffragette movements speaks to her exemplary contributions as a pioneer for social justice.