A new historical marker was erected last week in Champaign, Illinois to mark the site where Frederick Douglass spoke in 1869. The famous Abolitionist spoke at Barrett Hall at 1 Main Plaza. The marker is part of a new African American Heritage Trail in Champaign. Douglass spoke in Champaign on February 15, 1869. The local newspaper reported that “His wit was keen and sparkling, his humor dry and effective, and his logic and argument as clear as that of the most polished orator in the land.” [Champaign County Gazette, February 17, 1869]
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