Walking Tour 7: History of Slavery in York County, Maine

  • Jun 3, 2021 - Sep 21, 2023
  • Old York Historical Society

    3 Lindsay Road
    York, Maine 03909
Ticket Price $0.00-$10.00 This event is now over
Description

This tour brings to light the stories of enslaved people in York County, from Colonial times to the Emancipation Proclamation. Through local records, we learn the names of the enslaved of York, and hear a bit about the circumstances of their lives in New England. The first mention of slavery in York appears in the 1630s, when Thomas Gorges writes to England saying he could use slaves for work, but was unsure they could endure the cold. The prevalence of slavery in the northern colonies during this time period is not commonly discussed, but it is clear that enslaved Africans left an indelible mark on the region’s history. 

The creation of Maine as a state is inextricably tied to our nation’s history of slavery. We will briefly discuss the confluence of events brought about Maine statehood in 1820, and look at how those complex issues played out locally. 

The tour lasts approximately an hour, and covers a three-block area along York Street. The terrain is uneven, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

This tour is limited to 16 people.

Date & Time

Jun 3, 2021 - Sep 21, 2023

Venue Details

Old York Historical Society

3 Lindsay Road
York, Maine 03909 Old York Historical Society
Old York Historical Society

Old York cares for 16 buildings, 20 properties, more than 20,000 artifacts, 50,000 archival objects in the library, and serves thousands of people annually through tours, educational programs, exhibitions, and special events.


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