The Torrington Historical Society and the Torrington Trails network is hosting a Twilight Hike to memorialize John Brown on December 2 at 4 p.m.
On December 2, 1859, abolitionist and Torrington native John Brown was hanged for treason after leading a raid on a federal armory at Harpers Ferry. John Brown was a radical abolitionist who believed in the violent overthrow of the slavery system. During the Bleeding Kansas conflicts, Brown and his sons led attacks on pro-slavery residents. Justifying his actions as the will of God, Brown soon became a hero in the eyes of Northern extremists and was quick to capitalize on his growing reputation. By early 1858, he had succeeded in enlisting a small “army” of insurrectionists whose mission was to foment rebellion among the slaves. In 1859, Brown and 21 of his followers attacked and occupied the federal arsenal at Harpers Ferry. Their goal was to capture supplies and use them to arm a slave rebellion. Brown was captured during the raid and later hanged, but not before becoming an anti-slavery icon.
Participants on this twilight walk will walk around the birthplace of the abolitionist John Brown and talk about the sacrifices made for the cause of racial equality. This is a relatively short hike (3/4 mile) the trail is a flat wooded trail that goes around his birthplace. Bring a flashlight or headlamp and wear proper hiking shoes.
Directions: Route 4 west toward Goshen. Turn right onto University Drive then left onto John Brown Road. The birthplace is approx. 1/2 mile on the right. Parking is on the roadside.
For additional information call the Torrington Historical Society or visit their website.