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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
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Podcasts
- View descriptions
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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
Audio podcast: Listen (mp3) | Transcript
Image enhanced: View (m4a) | Transcript
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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
Audio podcast: Listen (mp3) | Transcript
Image enhanced: View (m4a) | Transcript
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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
Audio podcast: Listen (mp3) | Transcript
Image enhanced: View (m4a) | Transcript
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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
Audio podcast: Listen (mp3) | Transcript
Image enhanced: View (m4a) | Transcript
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A Slave's Perspective
The Declaration of Independence was a promise extended to white men only. Hope Smith portrays Eve, a slave in the Peyton Randolph house. July 16, 2007
Audio podcast: Listen (mp3) | Transcript
Image enhanced: View (m4a) | Transcript
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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
Audio podcast: Listen (mp3) | Transcript
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- more...
- Quicktime 7 (free) is required to view the enhanced and video podcasts.
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