# The World's Fair in London explained — Father Henson’s Story of His Own Life

> Chapter companion for Father Henson’s Story of His Own Life by Josiah Henson.

## What happens

Josiah Henson recounts his participation in the Great Exhibition in London, where he displayed polished black walnut boards from Canada. He describes a conflict with the American superintendent over where to exhibit his lumber, which he resolves by painting a bold inscription identifying himself as a fugitive slave. The boards are eventually moved to the Canadian section. Henson notes the attention he received, including a visit from Queen Victoria, and reflects on being the only black exhibitor. He later receives a bronze medal and other honors, and returns to Canada content after fulfilling his mission.

## Themes in this chapter

### Quest for Freedom

Henson's participation in the World's Fair as a free man and Canadian citizen highlights his successful escape from bondage and his pursuit of economic independence.

### Resilience and Survival

Henson's determination to exhibit his work despite opposition from the American superintendent demonstrates his resilience and resourcefulness.

### Dehumanization and Identity

Henson's inscription identifying himself as a 'Fugitive Slave' reclaims his identity and challenges the dehumanizing narratives of slavery.

## Character check-ins

### Josiah Henson

Exhibits black walnut boards at the World's Fair, asserts his Canadian citizenship, and receives a medal and visit from Queen Victoria.

### Victoria

Queen of England who pauses to view Henson and his exhibit, inquiring if he is a fugitive slave.

## Key lines

> I uncovered my head and saluted her as respectfully as I could, and she was pleased with perfect grace to return my salutation.

Henson respectfully greeted Queen Victoria, who graciously acknowledged him.

_Highlights the dignified interaction between a former slave and royalty._

> This is the product of the industry of a Fugitive Slave from the United States, whose residence is Dawn, Canada.

Henson painted a sign on his boards declaring they were made by a fugitive slave living in Canada.

_Shows Henson's strategic use of his identity to assert ownership and challenge the American superintendent._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/father_henson_s_story_of_his_own_life_se/chapters/xxi-the-world-s-fair-in-london
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/father_henson_s_story_of_his_own_life_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/father_henson_s_story_of_his_own_life_se/chapters