Voices members enjoy their discussion of the book Master Slave Husband Wife: An Epic Journey from Slavery to Freedom, by Ilyon Woo. (Photo by Elaine Kushmaul)
Elaine Kushmaul
On a hot summer night in August, 14 members of Voices United gathered to discuss the book Master Slave Husband Wife: An Epic Journey from Slavery to Freedom, by Ilyon Woo.
The book is the true adventure of Ellen and William Craft, a couple who escaped slavery in plain sight by disguising Ellen as a wealthy, disabled young white man, with William playing the part of “his” slave.
After traveling north, the couple became involved in giving talks about their experience of being enslaved to those in the abolitionist movement. They eventually settled in Boston, but after the passing in 1850 of a strengthened fugitive slave law, the couple had to flee the U.S. altogether. After some years in England and after the Civil War, the couple did return to the Southern United States.
The discussion was led by Elaine Kushmaul. Voices United members found the story of the Crafts to be inspirational and motivating. They discussed the skills this man and woman had to have to successfully make this journey. Even though nonfiction, the book keeps a level of excitement while relating the near misses of exposure on the trip.
The book won a Pulitzer Prize for its author, and The New York Times called it one of the Top 10 books of 2023. It is available in the Robson Ranch Library.
Voices United is a non-partisan group of Robson Ranch women who share progressive values, perform community outreach, provide civic awareness and social contact for members, and have a good time!
We’re a 501(c)(3) group. Annual dues are $20.
Visit us at voicesunitedrr.org.