Free Boy is the story of a 13-year-old slave who escaped from Washington Territory to freedom in Canada on the West's underground railroad. When James Tilton came to Washington Territory as surveyor-general in the 1850s he brought with his household young Charles Mitchell, a slave he had likely received as a wedding gift from a Maryland cousin. The story of Charlie's escape in 1860 on a steamer bound for Victoria and the help he received from free blacks reveals how national issues on the eve of the Civil War were also being played out in the West. Written with young adults in mind, the authors provide the historical context to understand the lives of both Mitchell and Tilton and the time in which the events took place. The biography explores issues of race, slavery, treason, and secession in Washington Territory, making it both a valuable resource for teachers and a fascinating story for readers of all ages.

Free Boy: A True Story of Slave and Master (V. Ethel Willis White Books xx)

Children's Books

Judith Bentley

Lorraine McConaghy

Biographies

University of Washington Press

First-hand narratives augment portraits of women who settled the American West, exploring their lifestyles from social, cultural, and economic perspectives

Brides, Midwives and Widows (Settling the West)

Teen & Young Adult

Twenty-First Century Books

First-hand accounts reflect the observations, adventures, journeys, and accomplishments of the first men to explore and chart America's Far West

Explorers, Trappers, and Guides (Settling the West)

Education & Reference

One man's miraculous journey through the flames of war.

Fourth Man in the Fire

Edwin Yarsiah Forkpa

Daughters Of The Promise

Word Aflame Press

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Books by Judith Bentley