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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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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In Their Own Words

Old sources give fresh voice to slavery's story. Manager of African American programs Tricia Brooks explains how we know what we know. May 18, 2009

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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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Slavery and Manumission

The little-known process of manumission was a means of securing freedom for a handful of Virginia slaves. May 21, 2007

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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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