The first biography to rescue the true story of Josiah Henson, restoring to history his role in the Underground Railroad
Josiah Henson led a fascinating life—from the plantation fields of Maryland to the Georgetown Market to the plantations of Kentucky to escaping to freedom in Canada to being introduced to the Queen in England. Born enslaved, Henson eventually escaped and became a respected minister and famed secular leader.
"My Name Is Not Tom" is a biography of Josiah Henson, the man catapulted into fame after Harriet Beecher Stowe noted that certain events in his life partially influenced the development of her fictional character Uncle Tom. While previous biographies have relied heavily on Henson's four autobiographies, which replicated the myth that he was the sole inspiration for Stowe's character, "My Name Is Not Tom" uses new primary source research to fill in the untold parts of his extraordinary life and examine his views of slavery and morality, which changed substantially over the course of his life.
Table of Contents
Introduction
1. Born Enslaved
2. Growing Up Enslaved
3. Maimed and Adapting
4. Journey to Kentucky
5. The Cost of Freedom
6. Escape
7. Freedom in Canada
8. A New Dream
9. England
10. Discord at Home
11. New Directions
12. Royalty and Remembrance
Epilogue – Legacy
Appendix A – Josiah Henson Timeline
Appendix B – Josiah Henson's family
Appendix C – Josiah Henson's speeches
Reviews
"Soderberg's book skillfully presents Josiah Henson as a multifaceted figure, emphasizing both his extraordinary accomplishments and the complexities of his character. By placing Henson within broader historical and political contexts, the book illustrates his resilience and adaptability in overcoming adversity. Soderberg offers a nuanced portrayal, showing Henson as not just a symbol of perseverance but as an individual who navigated the challenges of his time with remarkable moral fortitude. This balanced approach deepens the reader's understanding of Henson's humanity and lasting legacy."—Steven Cook, curator, Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History
"Susan Soderberg masterfully weaves a compelling narrative of the real man whose life in slavery and freedom is far more inspiring than the fictional 'Uncle Tom' of Harriet Beecher Stowe's imagination. In Soderberg's skillful hands Henson emerges complex, deeply spiritual, and determined to acquire power and influence and reclaim his life and voice. Extraordinary, well researched, and a must read!"—Kate Clifford Larson, award-winning historian, New York Times best-selling author of Bound for the Promised Land: Harriet Tubman, Portrait of an American Hero and Walk With Me: A Biography of Fannie Lou Hamer
About the Author
Susan Cooke Soderberg retired as a historian with the Maryland–National Capital Park and Planning Commission and has written several books on state and local history.
