Altadena in Los Angeles County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
Owen Brown, Abolitionist
Photographed by Craig Baker, July 16, 2024
1. Owen Brown Marker
Here is a replica of the grave of Owen Brown, son of John Brown. The elder Brown violently opposed slavery and led a raid of the U.S. armory at Harper's Ferry, Virginia in 1859 hoping to arm slaves and start an insurrection. His son, Owen, participated and was among the last survivors of this raid. Unlike his father, brothers, and others who were caught, tried, and hanged, Owen escaped and lived as a fugitive for 20 years.
He and his brother, Jason, homesteaded a parcel in the hills above Altadena in 1880 and began creating a monument to their father, 'John Brown the Liberator.' Owen became a local celebrity for his belief in racial equality and was revered by local African Americans, former Union Supporters, and the Temperance community.
Owen Brown's gravesite became a pilgrimage spot that attracted thousands of people of all races. Pictured above is such a gathering in the 1890s. The actual grave site is located in the foothills above Altadena.
Grave replica donated by Ian White.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Cemeteries & Burial Sites
this page online
Location. 34° 11.39′ N, 118° 7.923′ W. Marker is in Altadena, California, in Los Angeles County. It can be reached from the intersection of Altadena Drive and Lake Avenue, on the right when traveling east. Located in Altadena Triangle Park. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 800 E Altadena Dr, Altadena CA 91001, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in Greater Los Angeles and in the Transverse Ranges. It is also on the American Pacific Coast. Globally, it is in North America, on the Ring of Fire, in the Pacific Rim, in the Western Hemisphere, in the Western World, and in the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Spain and also Mexicos Alta California.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: The Old Mill (here, next to this marker); Altadena Founders Tree (a few steps from this marker); Altadenas Beginnings (within shouting distance of this marker); Transit to Nature (within shouting distance of this marker); WoodburyStory House
Photographed by Craig Baker, July 16, 2024
2. Owen Brown Gravesite Replica
Related marker. Click here for another marker that is related to this marker. - Owen Brown gravesite.
Photographed by Craig Baker, July 16, 2024
3. Owen Brown Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on July 22, 2024. It was originally submitted on July 19, 2024, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. This page has been viewed 1,521 times since then and 47 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on July 19, 2024, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California.
