The Underground Railroad
Joseph Kneeland, Alias Joseph Hulson
Joseph Kneeland arrived November 25, 1853. He was a prepossessing man of twenty-six, dark complexion, and intelligent. At the time of Joseph’s escape, he was owned by Jacob Kneeland, who had fallen heir to him as a part of his father’s estate. Joseph spoke of his old master as having treated him “pretty well,” but he had an idea that his young master had a very “malignant spirit;” for even before the death of his old master, the heir wanted him, “Joe,” sold, and after the old man died, matters appeared to be coming to a crisis very fast. Even as early as November, the young despot had distinctly given “Joe” to understand, that he was not to be hired out another year, intimating that he was to “go somewhere,” but as to particulars, it was time enough for Joe to know them.
Of course “Joe” looked at his master “right good” and saw right through him, and at the same time, saw the U.G.R.R., “darkly.” Daily slavery grew awfully mean, but on the other hand, Canada was looked upon as a very desirable country to emigrate to, and he concluded to make his way there, as speedily as the U.G.R.R. could safely convey him. Accordingly he soon carried his design into practice, and on his arrival, the Committee regarded him as a very good subject for her British Majesty’s possessions in Canada.