Curry’s interpretation of John Brown and the antislavery movement in Kansas Territory before the Civil War, is considered one of his best murals. Rich in symbolism, the painting depicts John Brown as an important, albeit fanatic man who would kill for his beliefs.
<p><span class="deck">Two hundred years after his birth, Americans still revere him as a martyr and loathe him as a fanatical murderer. What was he?</span></p>
<p><span class="deck">Without the material support of a half-dozen prominent northerners known as the Secret Six, John Brown’s attack on the federal arsenal at Harpers Ferry 150 years ago may well have never occurred.</span></p>
<p><span class="deck">Harper’s Weekly refused to print the story “Porte Crayon” wrote at the scene. Brought to light 95 years later, it is presented here.</span></p>
