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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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

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The Slave Trade

The slave trade touched the lives of people around the globe, explains Colonial Williamsburg's Educational Program Development director Bill White. February 9, 2007

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Mr. Wythe's Cook

Valarie Holmes interprets Lydia Broadnax - a cook for one of Williamsburg's most influential men. June 19, 2006

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Emily James interprets spirited women

Jamaican-born Emily James has interpreted at least 16 different 18th-century women who learned how to survive lives of enslavement. February 27, 2006

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Recalling African American Interpretation

Rex Ellis reflects on 25 years of interpreting the African American experience in the colonial period. February 6, 2006

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African American Interpretation

Harvey Bakari discusses the rich history of black Americans in Williamsburg. January 30, 2006

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