This is a dramatized account of John Hossack, who stood trial in 1860 for violating the Fugitive Slave Act. Hossack was accused of helping an enslaved person gain his freedom in Ottawa, Illinois.

The narrative is based on court documents using the actual words spoken during the trial. Our narrator, Robert Hitt, is a fictional observer who helps bring the real-life historic characters to life.

Narration was provided by: David Blanchette, Connor Cantrall, Doug Cantrall, Joe Crain, Tim Dyer, Curt Fleck, Brian Gilley, Jock Hedblade, Bernie Lutchman, Jim Rowley, Michael Sanchez and Chris Vallillo.

This episode was funded inpart by a grant from the Illinois Humanities, with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities and the America Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Any views, findings in this project do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities. This program was supported by Union Pacific.

Sounds Effects: istockphoto.com and Epidemic SoundMusic by Mike Anderson: McPherson’s Lament, Rosin the Beau, Soldier’s Joy, and Mississippi Sawyer. Learn more at  https://www.dulcimerguy.com/