Gerrit Smith

1797–1874

Abolitionist; Social reformer; U.S. Congressman

Biography

Prominent abolitionist, social reformer, and philanthropist. Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from New York. One of the 'Secret Six' who financially supported John Brown's raid on Harpers Ferry. Connected to the Livingston family through marriages — his daughter Elizabeth married Charles Fitzhugh, and the Smiths intermarried with Livingston descendants.