The Rockingham Roots of American Antislavery
with historian E.K. Knappenberger
Third Thursday Talk, June 18, 2026, 7:00 pm
Long before the American antislavery movement gained national momentum, some of its earliest voices emerged right here in the Shenandoah Valley.
Building on research conducted last year into antislavery thought in the Shenandoah Valley, local historian and researcher E.K. Knappenberger explores how Rockingham County helped shape some of the earliest Protestant opposition to slavery in the United States.
His presentation focuses on Presbyterian minister George Bourne (1780–1845), builder of the church at Port Republic and founder of the first printing press in Rockingham County. Around 1810, Bourne began preaching openly against slavery while living in Harrisonburg. His outspoken position sparked outrage, controversy, and ultimately violence that forced him to leave the community.
Today, Bourne is widely considered one of the founding figures of Protestant abolitionism in America.
The talk will also examine the influence of George Baxter, Conrad Speece, Andrew Baker Davidson, and others whose ideas and actions challenged the “peculiar institution” and contributed to the growing national antislavery movement.
This fascinating program offers a deeper look at the Valley’s complicated place in early American history and introduces audiences to individuals whose local connections have faded over time.
Third Thursday Talks are free and open to the public. Programs are held in person at Rocktown History and livestreamed online at RocktownHistory.org.
E.K. Knappenberger is a doctoral student at Drew University, Madison, New Jersey, and a former US Army intelligence analyst writing in history, philosophy, and theology. He holds an MA in Religion from Eastern Mennonite Seminary, a BA in Philosophy and Theology from Eastern Mennonite University, and an AAS from Whatcom Community College. As a historian and analyst, Knappenberger seeks out the forgotten and overlooked. His trademark research uncovers unique details and little-known commentary of the times.