Twinning between the Municipality of Chatham-Kent & Harpers Ferry

The Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society was extremely happy when our municipal council accepted our proposal for twinning with Harpers Ferry, West Virginia because of the historical connection in relationship to abolitionist, John Brown.

We cannot claim that Chatham was ever his home, likewise neither can Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, however we can claim what happened in our respective towns.  Some say John Brown was not fully understood.  To the abolitionist, he was a hero for objecting to slavery on religious and moral grounds.

Chatham was the town John Brown chose to hold his meetings and garner support for his plans.  During the 1850's the population of Chatham boosted many professional Blacks and many Black businesses were flourishing.  Ideal for John Brown who needed men and money to support his plan.

Harpers Ferry's mountainous areas with the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meeting there, were ideal for the attack; oh yes, the military arsenal was there also to supply arms for his warriors.  We know the insurrection failed and John Brown was hung for treason.  Many believe John Brown's raid on Harpers Ferry was a catalyst which helped spark the American Civil War.

As the song goes, John Brown's body lies a moulderen in the grave, but to this day both the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and the town of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia are proud of their connection to this internationally known figure.

Dignitaries commemorating the Twinning of Chatham-Kent and Harpers Ferry