Sherwood Quakers and the Civil War Refugee Crisis

During the Civil War escaped slaves appealed for refuge and the Union Army declared them "contraband of war" so their former masters could not claim legal ownership. Many thousands left enslavement and made their way to Washington. Many came with nothing but the clothes on their backs. As staunch abolitionists, the Friends became aware of this refugee crisis. Our most recent exhibit tells the story of the citizens of Sherwood, NY offering their services during a time of great need.