DOVER, DE – Senator Eric Buckson (R-South Dover) has sent a letter to President Donald Trump requesting he posthumously pardon Delaware Underground Railroad hero and abolitionist, John Hunn. This marks the third attempt to secure recognition for Mr. Hunn’s contributions to justice and human rights following unanimous support from the State Senate in 2023 via Senate Resolution 12 (SR 12) and previous appeals to the White House.
John Hunn, born June 5, 1818, was a Quaker abolitionist widely regarded as the architect of Delaware’s Underground Railroad. Operating from his plantation, which is now the site of Middletown High School, Mr. Hunn risked his own freedom to help slaves escape to freedom. His efforts were conducted alongside other freedom fighters like Samuel Burris, a freed slave and abolitionist who was pardoned by Delaware Governor Jack Markell in 2015.
Mr. Hunn was convicted of federal crimes for his work aiding enslaved individuals, a mark of injustice that Senator Buckson believes should be rectified. “John Hunn’s legacy deserves to be one of heroism, not criminality,” said Senator Buckson. “By granting him a posthumous pardon, we honor his bravery and commitment to justice, and we affirm our nation’s dedication to human rights and equality.”
The Delaware State Senate unanimously passed SR 12 in April 2023, officially requesting a posthumous pardon for Mr. Hunn. Letters were sent to President Biden in April 2023 and again in January 2025, but despite the thousands of pardons issued by former President Biden, the effort remained unresolved as his term concluded.
“John Hunn took incredible personal risks to fight the ferocious barbarity of slavery,” added Buckson. “Correcting this historical wrong would send a powerful message about our commitment to justice and equality as a nation.”
Copies of the letter were also sent to the state’s federal delegation, including Representative Sarah McBride, Senator Chris Coons, and Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester.
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