THE ANONYMOUS VISITOR
A full length play by Shirley Wilson

Synopsis

A Quaker farmer and his wife Dorothy, a midwife and healer, are key station keepers on the Underground Railroad, having built their house with a trick wall leading to a passageway that can harbor up to seven slaves. A notorious stranger named John Brown comes in from a major snow storm, and stays ten days. Before long, a debate ensues between Henry Copeland, the pacifist, and John Brown the militant, about how to best end slavery.
Brown observes and admires the family life of the Copelands who live in constant danger, yet in peace-- with ears and hearts always tuned for the soft, hesitant, knock on their door. He especially endears himself to the younger daughter, Julia. The play also highlights a romance between the oldest daughter Elizabeth, and Joseph, whose father stands in strong opposition to harboring slaves.
John Brown knows the area to be strategically well-suited to his future plan for a subterranean pass way which would run the length of the Appalachian chain, with a militarized section based in the caverns of the Blue Ridge Mountains. He wants Henry to help by persuading other Quakers to join in leading slaves to this enclave in the mountains. Henry tells him “There will be no connection with Quakers and munitions.” John Brown’s fiery words do not dissuade: “With your help and other Quakers and conductors all working together, thousands would come, and keep on coming! We could drain slavery of its economic base, almost immediately! Think of it!” But Henry’s answer is final. In the end, Henry Copeland and John Brown—though still separate in their views, have a true respect for each other. Who is right? It is all left up to the audience.

Award: Beverly Hills Theatre Guild--Julie Harris Playwright Competition for 2020