Arthur and Lewis Tappan were more than just successful businessmen; they were devout Christians who believed their wealth carried a moral imperative. Their lives were testaments to a faith-driven philanthropy, channeling their fortunes towards a multitude of causes aimed at bettering society. While their fight against slavery stands as their most recognized endeavor, their philanthropic impact extended far beyond abolition, leaving an indelible mark on education, religious reform, and ethical business practices in 19th century America.
Raised in a deeply religious household, the Tappan brothers carried their faith into their business dealings and, ultimately, their philanthropy. They saw their wealth as a blessing bestowed by God, to be used for the greater good. This conviction fueled their generous support of various religious institutions and initiatives. They were major contributors to the American Bible Society, aiming to make the Bible accessible to all, and championed missionary work both domestically and abroad, supporting efforts to spread Christianity to Native American tribes and impoverished communities overseas.
Their belief in the transformative power of education led them to invest heavily in institutions of higher learning. Oberlin College, one of the first colleges in the US to admit both women and African Americans, owes much of its early success to the Tappans. They provided significant financial support, including a $10,000 donation to construct Tappan Hall. Their vision for Oberlin extended beyond mere academics; they envisioned a space where progressive ideals like racial equality and co-education could flourish, challenging the societal norms of the time. Similarly, their support for Lane Theological Seminary, a Presbyterian institution, aimed to foster a new generation of ministers dedicated to social justice and reform.
The Tappan brothers’ most enduring legacy lies in their tireless fight against slavery. Deeply disturbed by the injustice and inhumanity of the institution, they initially supported the American Colonization Society, believing in the gradual emancipation and resettlement of slaves in Africa. However, they soon recognized the inherent flaws and racism within the colonization movement. Their evolving understanding led them to embrace the more radical approach of immediate and complete abolition.
Arthur Tappan became a founding member and the first president of the American Anti-Slavery Society in 1833. This organization, with its unwavering stance on immediate abolition, became a powerful force in the anti-slavery movement. Arthur’s leadership and financial backing were instrumental in the Society’s early success. He funded the publication and distribution of vast quantities of abolitionist literature, including newspapers like The Emancipator, pamphlets, and books, effectively disseminating the anti-slavery message across the nation. He also supported the work of prominent abolitionist lecturers and organizers, such as William Lloyd Garrison and Frederick Douglass, providing them with the resources to travel and spread their message.
Lewis Tappan, equally dedicated to the cause, played a crucial role in organizing and managing the Society’s operations. He was instrumental in establishing the National Anti-Slavery Standard, the Society’s official newspaper, and oversaw its publication for many years. He also played a critical role in the highly publicized case of the Amistad captives, a group of enslaved Africans who revolted against their captors and were subsequently imprisoned in Connecticut. Lewis Tappan, along with other abolitionists, provided legal and financial support, ultimately securing their freedom and return to Africa. This case became a powerful symbol of resistance and a rallying cry for the abolitionist movement.
The Tappan brothers’ commitment to abolition extended beyond public advocacy and legal battles. They were deeply involved in the Underground Railroad, providing financial and logistical support to this clandestine network that helped thousands of escaped slaves reach freedom in the North or Canada. Their homes and businesses served as safe houses, and they generously funded the transportation, shelter, and legal assistance needed by fugitive slaves.
Their unwavering stance against slavery came at a personal cost. They faced social ostracism, financial losses, and even physical violence. The 1834 attack on Lewis Tappan’s home, where a mob ransacked and burned his house, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers they faced. Yet, these threats did not deter them; their faith and conviction fueled their continued activism.
Beyond their anti-slavery work, the Tappans’ philanthropic spirit extended to other areas of social reform. They were strong advocates for temperance, believing that alcohol consumption was a major contributor to poverty and social ills. They supported various temperance organizations and initiatives, promoting abstinence and advocating for stricter alcohol control laws.
Arthur Tappan also demonstrated his commitment to ethical business practices through the establishment of the Mercantile Agency, a pioneering credit reporting firm that aimed to promote transparency and accountability in the business world. This venture, which later became Dun & Bradstreet, was not just a successful business enterprise but also reflected his belief in the importance of ethical conduct in commerce.
In conclusion, Arthur and Lewis Tappan stand as exemplars of faith-driven philanthropy. Their lives were dedicated to using their wealth and influence to address the social ills of their time. While their fight against slavery remains their most prominent legacy, their contributions extended far beyond abolition, impacting education, religious reform, and ethical business practices. Their unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the betterment of society continues to inspire, serving as a testament to the power of philanthropy driven by faith and conviction.