Dr. James Paradis, an adjunct professor of History, spoke about Jeremiah Asher at an event co-sponsored by Citizens for the

Restoration of Historical La Mott and the Jenkintown Lyceum.

Asher, the grandson of an enslaved African, pastored Philadelphia’s Shiloh Baptist Church in the decade before the American Civil War. He became active in the anti-slavery movement, and held a memorial service for abolitionist John Brown at Shiloh after Brown was executed for his failed attempt to free slaves in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. 

When the Civil War came, Asher recruited Black volunteers to fight for the Union Army. He enlisted and became chaplain of the 6th Regiment, United States Colored Infantry, a regiment that trained at Camp William Penn near Arcadia University, and saw action in Virginia and North Carolina.

“As we reflect on the legacy of Jeremiah Asher, it is vital to recognize his contributions, not only as a pastor and abolitionist, but also as a trailblazer for African Americans during the Civil War,” Paradis said. “Hosting an event like this allows us to preserve and share the stories of individuals like Asher, whose impact on history deserves greater recognition. By engaging with his life and service, we honor the resilience and dedication of the men and women who fought for freedom and equality.”

Paradis is currently working on a book about Asher, tentatively titled “Jeremiah Asher’s War of Rebellion.”