African American Experience

Celebrating 30 years of telling the story of Williamsburg’s African American community.

Colonial Williamsburg interpreters re-enact “jumping the broom” marriage ceremony.

During the 18th century, half of Williamsburg's population was black. The lives of the enslaved and free people in this Virginia capital are presented in reenactments and programs throughout the Historic Area.

Introduction to colonial African American life
Great Hopes Plantation
Lord Dunmore's Proclamation--an early emancipation proclamation.
Colonial Williamsburg Journal articles:
Biographical Fact Sheets
Bibliography

Multimedia and related links

Podcasts
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African American Programs at 30

African American programming adapts through the decades. Harvey Bakari outlines the goals of interpreting Williamsburg's enslaved population. February 2, 2009

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The Bray School

A historic headmistress devotes her days to educating enslaved children. Interpreter Antoinette Brennan shares the biography of Ann Wager. September 29, 2008

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No Master Over Me

A man purchases his enslaved family to set them free. James Ingram shares the tale. February 4, 2008

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Gowan Pamphlet, slave preacher

Born at the right time, this revolutionary figure was an electrifying force. February 19, 2007

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Dunmore's Proclamation

Dennis Watson talks about the royal governor's promise to free slaves and indentured servants who joined the British army in the American Revolution. November 7, 2005

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Music passed from ear to ear

Emily James talks about the music of Africa performed on a new Colonial Williamsburg recording. June 5, 2006

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