[VIDEO] Newsweek's "The Northern Slave Port" Uncovers Brooklyn's Hidden Past and the Fight to Preserve It

Though most of its history remains hidden or little-understood, Brooklyn's role in the abolitionist history of New York (and its less-proud history of participation in the slave trade) offers unexpected additional narratives. Weeksville Heritage Center President and Executive Director Tia Powell Harris speaks about the location's history as one of the first communities of free people of color, years before the Civil War. Lewis Greenstein, a former resident of 233 Duffield St. (also named "Abolitionist Place"), talks about the area's historical ties to the Underground Railroad.

The accompanying article a lengthy but fascinating read on a piece of New York history not frequently told, specifically, the slave trading markets of Brooklyn and Manhattan.

via Newsweek

Originally published on April 17th, 2015

Matt Coneybeare

Matt Coneybeare

Editor in Chief

Matt enjoys exploring the City's with his partner and son. He is an avid marathon runner, and spends most of his time eating, running, and working on cool stuff.

Something wrong with this post? Let us know!

Brought To You By…