On the record
Upon the decease of my wife, it is my desire that the slaves whom I hold in my own right should receive their freedom.
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gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Tompkins expresses his wish for the freedom of his slaves upon his death, highlighting his personal stance against slavery.
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More from Cydnor Tompkins
I repeat again, that it would rejoice my very soul that every one of my fellow beings were emancipated.
I know it is claimed, by men in the slave States, that slavery is necessary to the highest development of human society; but I think the experience of members of Congress is, that slavery does not always produce this beneficial result.
They would be scourged, driven by violence from the State, and might be considered fortunate should they escape with their lives.
Their philanthropy was without regard to complexion; they abhorred slavery, as based on injustice and cruelty; and more, as dangerous to our liberties.
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