James Madison Bell (1826-1902) was born on April 3, 1826 at Gallopolis, Ohio. At 17 years he moved to Cinncinnati with his sister and brother-in-law, George Knight, to work in the plastering trade. Mr. Knight was a teacher.

At this time Mr. Bell worked by day and attended the Gilmore School at night. He also became involved in the anti-slavery movement. In 1854 he married Louisiana Sanderlin and moved to Chatham, Ontario, Canada. They made their home at 153 King Street East, where the WISH Centre stands today. Mr. Bell was very busy in Chatham with the educational system, the anti-slavery movement, and was John Brown's Host on his visits to Chatham.

Mr. Bell was responsible for John Brown's correspondance when Brown was out of town. He was John Brown's confidant in money matters and the recruitment of men to support the cause. After the insurrection was over at Harpers Ferry, Virginia Mr. Bell left his wife and children in Chatham and moved to California. He went to improve the educational system in California. When he returned to Chatham he stayed only briefly and moved his family to Toledo, Ohio. His poetic prowess caused him to become known as the Bard of Maumee.

His affiliation with the A.M.E. Church brought him into contact with Bishop Benjamin Arnett. This association became a lasting arrangement. Bishop Arnett accompanied James M. Bell to Washington, D.C. where he recited some of his poerty to Chester Arthur, the 21st president of the United States.

Source:
Gwen Robinson