U.S. singing group, significant figures in the development of a native popular music tradition.
Born and raised in Milford, N.H., the Hutchinson brothers Judson (181759), John (18211908), and Asa (182384) and sister Abby (182992) formed a quartet and began giving concerts around New England in 1841. In contrast to the prevailing sentimental and minstrel songs of the period, their songs embraced political causes, including woman suffrage , prohibition of alcohol, and opposition to the Mexican War . They sang at many antislavery rallies, including a Boston rally that drew 20,000 people. With some members replaced by other family members, the family continued to tour into the 1880s.