Anthony Roberts

Anthony Roberts was a 19th-century American politician who served as a U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania's 9th congressional district from 1855 until 1859. A member of the Republican Party, Roberts was known for his abolitionist views and his close association with notable figures such as Thaddeus Stevens. His political career was marked by his commitment to anti-slavery principles and his involvement in significant events surrounding the enforcement of the Fugitive Slave Law.

Early life and career

Anthony Ellmaker Roberts was born on October 29, 1803, near Barneston Station in Chester County, Pennsylvania. He was the son of John Roberts and Mary Ellmaker. In 1804, shortly after his birth, his family relocated to Lancaster County, where Roberts spent his formative years. His education was limited, as he attended the local common school, which provided basic instruction typical of the time. At the age of thirteen, Roberts began working as a clerk in his uncle Isaac Ellmaker's country store in New Holland. His early exposure to business and commerce laid the groundwork for his future endeavors. By the age of twenty, he became a part-owner of the store, a position he maintained until 1839.

Roberts's political career began to take shape in the late 1830s. On October 8, 1839, he was elected as Sheriff of Lancaster County on the Democratic Antimasonic ticket. He served a three-year term in this role, during which he gained valuable experience in local governance and law enforcement. Following his tenure as sheriff, Roberts attempted to secure a seat in the Twenty-Eighth Congress in 1843, running on the Anti-Masonic Party ticket. However, he was defeated by the Whig Party candidate, Jeremiah Brown.

In 1850, Roberts was appointed by President Zachary Taylor as the United States Marshal for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, a position he held until May 29, 1853. His tenure as Marshal coincided with a tumultuous period in American history, particularly concerning the issue of slavery and the enforcement of the Fugitive Slave Law, which would later play a significant role in his political life.

House tenure

Roberts's congressional career began when he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1855. During his time in office, he served two terms, concluding his service on March 3, 1859. His election to Congress was part of a broader political shift in the United States, as the Republican Party emerged as a significant force opposing the expansion of slavery into new territories. Roberts's alignment with the Republican Party was indicative of his abolitionist beliefs, which he had actively championed throughout his career.

During his time in the House, Roberts participated in debates and discussions that were critical to the national discourse surrounding slavery. His experiences as a Marshal, particularly in relation to the Fugitive Slave Law, informed his legislative priorities and actions. Although specific details of his legislative accomplishments are not extensively documented, his affiliation with the abolitionist movement and his relationships with prominent figures such as Thaddeus Stevens suggest that he was an active participant in the efforts to address the moral and legal challenges posed by slavery.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his congressional tenure, Roberts's legislative focus was heavily influenced by his abolitionist stance. The political climate of the mid-19th century was fraught with tensions over slavery, and Roberts's commitment to anti-slavery principles positioned him as a key figure in the Republican Party's efforts to combat the institution of slavery. His experiences as a U.S. Marshal, particularly during the enforcement of the Fugitive Slave Law, provided him with firsthand knowledge of the complexities and moral dilemmas associated with the law.

One of the most notable incidents during Roberts's time as Marshal was the Christiana Resistance, which occurred in 1851. This event highlighted the conflict between federal laws and local anti-slavery sentiments. When Edward Gorsuch, a Maryland slave owner, attempted to reclaim a runaway slave in Christiana, Pennsylvania, a violent confrontation ensued, resulting in Gorsuch's death. Roberts was present at the scene following the incident and played a role in the subsequent trials of those involved in the resistance. His actions during this period demonstrated his commitment to the abolitionist cause, as he sought to navigate the legal and moral implications of the Fugitive Slave Law.

Roberts's involvement in the trials that followed the Christiana incident further illustrated his dedication to the principles of justice and fairness. He was responsible for summoning potential jurors, and it was noted that many of those he called were not inclined to convict the defendants. Additionally, Roberts's decision to allow a Thanksgiving meal for the prisoners in custody was seen as a gesture of solidarity, although it drew criticism from some quarters for perceived partiality.

Despite the challenges he faced, Roberts's legislative focus remained steadfastly aligned with the abolitionist movement. His association with Thaddeus Stevens, a prominent abolitionist and leader in Congress, further solidified his position within the Republican Party. The political landscape during Roberts's tenure was characterized by increasing divisions over the issue of slavery, and his contributions to the discourse surrounding this critical issue were significant.

Roberts's congressional career came to an end in 1859, and he continued to be involved in political and civic matters until his death on January 23, 1885. His legacy as a U.S. Representative and an abolitionist remains an important part of Pennsylvania's political history, reflecting the broader struggles of the United States during a pivotal era in its development.