Six of the First, but Far From the Last: Abolishing Slavery and Re-Inventing Servitude in Rural New England and New York

In 1743, six women, Yallah, Morandah, Mowoorie, Simboh, Burrah, and Yearie were among the human cargo disembarked from the slave ship “Jolly Bachelor” in Newport. These and other Africans labored on many farms throughout New England and New York, including Historic New England’s Watson and Casey Farms. As slavery ended, their status remained ambiguous and largely unfree.

Join artist Jean-Marc Superville Sovak and public historian Peter Fay, to hear the untold stories behind Jean-Marc’s poignant sculpture “Six of the First”, which stands as a monument to the six women.  Jean-Marc and Peter will follow the lives of the enslaved in New England and New York as they emerged from slavery to build a free community still imperiled by indentured servitude, disenfranchisement, and the poorhouse.

Members Free; Nonmembers $5.

Advance tickets required.

Please call 617-994-6678 for more information.

The link for the webinar will be included in the order confirmation for this program.