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.