Murder

Descendants of Richard Borden of Fall River MA

American Printing Company 1910 Illustration

The Borden family, tracing their lineage to Richard Borden, who settled in Rhode Island in 1638, has played a pivotal role in American history, especially in Fall River, MA. Beginning with Richard, who engaged in land surveying and local governance, the family expanded its influence through successive generations. Prominent members, such as Colonel Richard Borden and his son Richard Baxter, were integral to the cotton manufacturing industry, community affairs, and public service, leaving a lasting legacy in both industry and civic life within Fall River.

Colored Victims of the Riots

The colored victims of the 1863 draft riots endured horrific acts of violence. William Henry Nichols was killed while protecting his mother; James Costello was lynched after defending himself; Abraham Franklin, a disabled man, was brutally murdered before his mother; and others, like Augustus Stuart and Peter Heuston, succumbed to mob violence. Many suffered extreme brutality, faced public humiliation, and were killed based on their race. These tragic accounts highlight the racial terror prevalent during this tumultuous period in American history.