Father Henson’s Story of His Own Life · Chapters

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Chapter companions for Father Henson’s Story of His Own Life by Josiah Henson.

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Chapter 1
Father Henson's Story of His Own Life
Josiah Henson recounts his early life in slavery, including the brutal punishment and sale of his father after defending his mother, the death of his kind master Dr. McPherson, and his eventual separation from his family at a slave auction. He describes the dehumanizing conditions, the resilience of the enslaved community, and his growing desire for freedom.
Chapter 2
I: My Birth and Childhood
Josiah Henson recounts his earliest memories, including the brutal punishment of his father for striking an overseer who attempted to assault his mother. He describes his father's transformation from a lighthearted man to a sullen, morose figure after receiving one hundred lashes and having his ear cut off, and his subsequent sale to the South. Henson also provides his birth details and the social context of slavery in Maryland.
Chapter 3
My First Great Trial
Josiah Henson recounts his early childhood with the kind Dr. McPherson, who gave him his name and treated him as a pet. After McPherson's death from drowning while intoxicated, the estate is broken up and the slaves are sold at auction. Henson's mother, Charlotte, desperately begs Isaac Riley to buy her youngest son along with her, but Riley violently kicks her away. Henson is sold to a cruel man named Robb, falls severely ill, and is eventually sold cheaply to Riley, reuniting him with his mother.
Chapter 4
My Boyhood and Youth
Josiah Henson recounts his early years as a slave, describing his first jobs, the harsh living conditions, and the meager food and clothing provided. Despite the misery, he recalls moments of joy and youthful exuberance, his competitive spirit, and his acts of chivalry in helping fellow slaves. He eventually becomes overseer of the farm, increasing productivity but receiving only curses from his master.
Chapter 5
My Conversion
Josiah Henson recounts his first exposure to Christian preaching at age eighteen, which leads to a profound religious conversion. Encouraged by his mother, he attends a sermon by John McKenny, a benevolent baker and occasional minister. The sermon on Hebrews 2:9 fills Henson with joy and a sense of divine love, contrasting sharply with his brutal enslavement. He begins to pray, preach to fellow slaves, and becomes an esteemed preacher among them.

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Father Henson's Story of His Own Life

I: My Birth and Childhood

My First Great Trial

My Boyhood and Youth

My Conversion