Dr. Robert Mitchell
(1786-1863)

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Marker Text:

Outspoken opponent of slavery, Mitchell was widely known as an abolitionist. In September 1845, he harbored five fugitives from slavery on his property here. Following a raid by bounty hunters, two men escaped; three were returned to slavery. Mitchell was tried and convicted for violating the Fugitive Slave Act of 1793, and suffered heavy financial losses. The incident contributed to the more restrictive Fugitive Slave Act of 1850.

The marker commemorates Dr. Robert Mitchell of Indiana, a leader of the Underground Railroad, and five fugitive slaves who were sleeping in a log cabin owned by Mitchell in what is now Clymer, then Green Township. Clarence Stephenson, renowned county historian, conducted the research and applied for the marker on behalf of the Historical Society. The public was invited to attend the dedication ceremony, which took place on Tuesday, October 16, 2007 at 4:00 p.m. on Rt. 286, Highway East in Clymer.

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Directions to the Robert Mitchell Historic Marker

Start at Indiana courthouse.

Head east on 286 (Philadelphia Street). After 1.1 miles take Clymer exit (still 286 E).

Continue 8.5 miles on 286 East.

Continue straight at the stop light in Clymer on 286 E. Marker is on the other side of the bridge heading out of town.

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