Morris Brown

1770 -1849

Name: Morris Brown

Birthplace: Charleston South Carolina

Status: Free Person of Color

Residence: Charleston, Philadelphia

Occupation/Training: Shoemaker, Minister

Abolitionist Involvement: While a young man, Morris used to give small funds to slaves to assist them in purchasing their freedom. He later spent some time in jail for this effort. He became licensed to preach while a young man and was a part of the Methodist Church. He assisted one African Born man Marcus who later took Morris's last name and followed him later into the AME church. As a licensed preacher, he was allowed to preach to slaves. When the AME denomination formed in 1816, Brown signed up 1000 persons who petitioned to become a branch of the new denomination. He was accused of being a co-conspirator with Denmark Vesey, who used Brown's church for secret meetings, and his life was threatened. He was invited to assist with managing the affairs of the AME church at that time, and relocated as the threats from whites in Charleston were mounting. He moved to Philadelphia, and became assistant to Richard Allen, AME founder. After he left the church in SC was closed. He was elected bishop of the church in 1828. This Pious man who began his adult life assisting slaves with purchasing their freedom, continued his leadership in the free community, in Pennsylvania. Under his direction new districts emerged in the AME church, and his influenced followed him throughout his lifetime.

Family: Wife---Mary Lewis Brown Children: John Jr, William L. Brown, Daniel Brown, Mamie L. Brown. Other children not mentioned in reference text.

Place of Death: Washington DC

Publications/References: William J. Simmons--Men of Mark 1887

BACK to African American Genealogical Resources

The Genealogy Forum - Main Page
Beginners' Center | File Libraries | Internet Center
Message Boards | Resource Center | Reunion Center
Genealogy Forum News | Surname Center
Shop With Us
Guestbook

© 1999 - 2005 Some Graphics By Carol, All Rights Reserved.
Genealogy Forum.com is a production of Golden Gate Services, Inc. of Armada, Michigan.
© 1998 - 2005 All Rights Reserved. Brenda Bova, President.
The Genealogy Forum is a member of the Federation of Genealogical Societies
and the National Genealogical Society.
Tree logo provided by MeadPond Designs
and is the trademark of GenealogyForum.com.

If you have any questions or comments,
please contact GenealogyForum@aol.com