John Greenleaf Whittier (1807-1892) was an American poet, journalist, and abolitionist. He was born in Massachusetts and grew up on a farm. Despite limited formal education, Whittier became an influential writer and an advocate for social justice. Whittier's early works included poems and essays published in local newspapers. In 1833, he became editor of the abolitionist newspaper, The National Philanthropist, and later worked for The Pennsylvania Freeman and The American Manufacturer. He used his platform to advocate for the abolition of slavery and other social reforms. Whittier's poetry was widely read and admired during his lifetime. He is best known for his anti-slavery poems, such as "Ichabod" and "The Hunters of Men," which exposed the cruelty and inhumanity of slavery. He also wrote about nature, religion, and American history. Whittier's contributions to American literature and social justice were widely recognized during his lifetime. He was a prominent member of the Anti-Slavery Society and a close friend of fellow abolitionist, William Lloyd Garrison. On September 7, 1892, he passed away at this residence. He was buried in Amesbury, Massachusetts.
