forty years, would have fought absolutely in the interest of abolition of slavery. As a matter of fact, this publication by Mr. Russwurm met with more and greater obstacles than did any other paper ever published upon the continent. Besides having to fight for a cause which then had but few advocates, it could see in the popular mind no indication of support.
The Afro-Americans in the North that would patronize the journal were few, while the Abolitionists numbered no great throng at that time.
The Journal was a medium-sized weekly, presenting a very neat appearance, while the composition was as good as some journals of to-day. Mr. Russwurm had a most excellent estimate as to how an Afro-American journal should be conducted, particularly at that time, and for the people in whose interests it was published. There are few men who have lived who knew more about the business, or whose editorial pen could battle with such force against a volcano of sin and oppression, like unto that of American slavery. It devolved upon him and his journal to create sentiment, and to prove the interest which the free Afro-American of the North had in his oppressed brethren in the South.
At this time there appeared a mighty question involving life, the chastity of our women, the property, home and happiness of the freedmen of the South, to which the best efforts of Afro-American journalism must be directed yet it was not half so great as that of American slavery. Now the journalist contends for our rights as citizens; then he contended for our freedom from bondage, or our deliverance from a human curse which then seemed riveted about us with a most tenacious grip. It was for this, Mr. Russwurm caused The Journal to open its way and contend through discouragement and embarrassment for rights.
He was a man of positive journalistic ability, singleness of purpose and strong character. It is said he entered the forum of debate for the Abolition cause doing what he could with
