What was Mr. Ruggles’ role in Douglass’ life? He was the minister who performed the wedding ceremony between Douglass and his wife in New York. He planned and paid for Douglass’ journey between Baltimore and New York. He gave him a safe place to live, supported him in New York, then helped him get married and travel safely to New Bedford. He was a famous abolitionist in New York that published Douglass’ first work, and helped him get established in New York.