Welcome, we are a grassroots effort dedicated to researching, recognizing, and honoring the history, humanity, and contributions of the enslaved people who resided in Bristol, RI from its founding in 1680 to the Civil War. Led by a passionate group of community volunteers, our project strives to provide detailed and accurate information.
Whether you are seeking to connect with your past, explore your heritage, or contribute to the ongoing understanding of our shared history, we encourage you to reach out and engage with us.
The Bristol County Enslaved History Database and Beyond
Our project currently offers a range of valuable resources, including a searchable database, an interactive map pinpointing the locations of enslaved individuals, and images highlighting the residences of Bristol's free Black community. By making this information public, free, and easily shareable, we aim to empower descendants to locate their ancestors, delve into their history, and share their stories. Additionally, historians can utilize this valuable reference material for in-depth analysis and review.
Enslavement may have sought to erase the identities of these individuals, but even meager facts can help outline their lives, marked by both adversity and perseverance.
While our goal is not to craft complete life stories, we provide a comprehensive data source for qualified individuals to interpret and share these complex and nuanced narratives. Join us on this journey of discovery as we uncover further information and shed light on the lives of these extraordinary individuals.
BIPOC History Resources
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The History
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The Database
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Mapping The Enslaved
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New Goree
Project Updates
Project Updates
The Timeline of Enslavement Receives Prestigious Recognition
We are excited to share that the Timeline of Enslavement in Bristol, RI has been been recognized by The American Association for State and Local History with an Award of Excellence, the most prestigious recognition for achievement in the preservation of state and local history. It is the first time in more than four years that a RI project has been honored.
Take a “Walk” in the New Goree Neighborhood along Wood Street
June 5, 2024, at 6 pm, at the Bristol Sports Club, 417 Wood Street, Bristol
RSVP BELOW
How do people choose a place where they would like to live? How do they build a neighborhood and a community? Let’s take a “walk” along Wood Street in Bristol, from the comfort of your chair at the Bristol Sports Club at 417 Wood Street. We will be on the actual site where the African Church was built in 1850. Learn about the leaders of that community who built the church, and a school, and houses, and businesses, and elected their own ‘governor’ - and paved the way for later immigrants to the area.
The event is free and light refreshments will be served. There will also be a cash bar available. If you could RSVP using the form below, that will reserve your seat!
The program begins at 6 pm with a slide show followed by a Q&A. If you would like, linger afterwards to videotape a 3 minute message about YOUR memory of living, or working, or worshipping in this area. Bring a memento if it helps to tell your story. These video memories will be edited together and shared on this website for all to enjoy.
Please note: If you want to make a reservation for the May 15th presentation at the Bristol Senior Center at 10:30 am, kindly email them directly at dwilson@bcsc@gmail.com. Thank you.