Under the Cloak of Religion – Interracial Marriage in Antebellum America

The letters among Harriett Gold and her extended family in To Marry an Indian, edited by Theresa Strouth Gaul, give intimate insight into antebellum white people’s opinions on Indians and interracial sex. This correspondence between a young white Christian woman and her extended family regarding her relationship with an Indian man reveal white Americans’ disapproval of interracial sex and marriage. This family’s views are reflective of society at large during the early to mid-1800s. Overall, the letters show that antebellum white people see Indians as a heathen, uncivilized people who need to be saved. White Americans are willing to accept Indians as converts into the Christian religion; however, the white people do not see them as equals. It is generally thought that Indians and whites should not engage in interracial sex or marriage, and white Americans consistently mask their feelings of superiority with their religious beliefs. Upon hearing of Harriett’s engagement to Indian Elias Boudinot, her extended family begins voicing their opinions on the matter through the letters compiled in To Marry an Indian. Harriett’s brothers-in-law are particularly vocal about their disapproval of the engagement, and their words very clearly express their view that interracial sex and marriage are not acceptable. Daniel Brinsmade refers to the couple’s love as an “animal feeling,” and Cornelius Everest states, “this unnatural – this foolish – this wicked and mischievous connection” should not be allowed. People outside of the Gold family share this opinion, and many act upon it in participating in the violent burning of Harriett’s effigy. The people of Cornwall further express their ill feelings by withholding communion when Harriett attends church as well as not allowing her to sing with the choir as