to
freedom
Harrisburg's African American Community Moves Through the Twentieth Century
Study Areas
Robert M. Fields, a Formerly Enslaved
African American Resident of Steelton
Significant numbers of formerly enslaved African Americans made their homes in central Pennsylvania in the 19th and 20th centuries. Some escaped enslavement and traveled north via the Underground Railroad before 1865. Many more found themselves no longer enslaved by war's end and looked north for job opportunites or to escape the harsh poverty and crushing racism of southern Reconstruction. The first few decades of the 20th century saw large numbers of southern Blacks moving north to take advantage of the plentiful jobs in northern industries.
Their presence in northern cities enriched each African American community. Their shared first-hand stories of lives enslaved broadened the historical perspective and served to counter the "Lost Cause" myths. Knowing which citizens were formerly enslaved is invaluable for modern historians and persons researching their family histories. Small connections can often add up to bigger stories. The news items below represent snippets in the lives of these persons.
Death Notice, March 20, 1916
Text of Death Notice:
AGED COLORED LEADER DIES
Robert M. Fields, Ex-slave, Succumbs to Complications at Age of 82
Robert M. Fields, an ex-slave, for years a leader in Steelton's colored organizations, died Saturday afternoon at his home, 105 Adams street, from a complication of diseases incident to old age. He was 82 years old.
Mr. Fields is survived by one son, Perry Fields, Philadelphia; a daughter, Amdanda, wife of the Rev. Frank Bradley, of Philadelphia; and two sisters, Amanda and Annie, Steelton.
He was a member of Paxton Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, and of the Gallilean Fishermen. He was one of the founders of Monumental A.M.E. Church, Second and Adams streets, and until recent years, when prevented by age, he always took an active part in the church's activities. He was born in Shenandoah, Va., and for thirty years was a slave for various Virginia families.
Funeral services will be held tomorrow afternoon at 1 o'clock at the church with the Rev. Mr. King officiating. Burial will be made in Midland Cemetery.
Sources
Harrisburg Telegraph, Harrisburg, PA, 20 March 1916, p.3
Harrisburg Telegraph, Harrisburg, PA, 22 March 1916, p. 6.