by Erin McNelis

The novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin, by Harriet Beecher Stowe, was published in book form March 20, 1852 and was instantly popular. The book became the best-selling novel of the 1800s and was the second best-selling book of its day, just behind the Bible. The novel tells the story of the slave Uncle Tom, around whom the other characters’ stories are built. The antislavery novel is given credit for fueling the abolitionist movement in the years leading up to the Civil War.

The book continues to influence readers today. The characters of Uncle Tom, Simon Legree, Little Eva, and Eliza continue to appear in literature, plays, and other forms of art. The novel has drawn its share of controversy because it is accused of reinforcing negative stereotypes, and that sometimes overshadows the social impact the book had in its time.

In addition to bringing attention to the antislavery movement in the United States and Great Britain, the popularity of the novel brought Stowe great fame. She went on to publish more than 20 novels, travel memoirs, articles, and essays, making her one of the United States’ most published authors. She became an international celebrity. According to the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center’s website, she was rushed by crowds and invited to estates by nobility. She was presented with a 26 volume leather-bound petition that begged America to abolish slavery. The petition was signed by British women living all over the world. Queen Victoria wanted to meet Stowe, but was told by her advisors not to meet with such a controversial figure, and so they only arranged to pass carriages and nod to one another.

Her life and her writing, controversial on many levels, continue to challenge America’s social consciousness and confront the past while connecting that past to the nation’s current issues. On Sept. 11, actress Kim Hanely will portray Harriet Beecher Stowe in a presentation to be held at Fallsington Friend’s Meetinghouse, 3900 S. Main Street, Fallsington. The presentation will be held from 7:30 to 9 p.m.

“Hanely will give a first person interpretation, speaking in Stowe’s voice and dressing in period clothing,” says Erica Armour, Executive Director of Historic Fallsington.  “We have found visitors are receptive to this kind learning. It is a fun way to absorb history.”

Hanely is an actress, singer, dancer, and costume designer. She also holds a bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Restoration and History of Applied Arts from the Fashion Institute of Technology, State University of New York. She has performed in venues that include the White House Visitors Center, National Archives, National Portrait Gallery, Frazier Museum, the Franklin Institute, and the Liberty Museum.

The event is free. To reserve a ticket, call (215) 295-6567.

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