Mapping the Presence of the Enslaved in NY

When we think of slavery, many of us envision rows of tiny cabins behind the big house or Africans and their descendants working in the hot sun on large cotton or sugar plantations. We think of the enslavers as the rich folks on top. These views often prevent us from seeing those that were enslaved and the range of enslavers in New York.

When seeking to see and understand the number of people on both sides, looking to the land is one approach.

In this virtual presentation, Lavada Nahon, Interpreter of African American History for NYS OPRHP, will use maps as a gateway into the world of enslavement, examine the various agricultural systems used here, and discuss some of the ways the institution of slavery played out in New York.

Registered participants will receive a link to join.

Lavada Nahon is a cultural and culinary historian focus on 17th – 19th century New Netherland/New York. She has over 20 years of public history experience working with a variety of historic sites, societies, and museums across the tri-state region. Her mission is to bring history to life by giving presence to the Africans and people of African descent, enslaved and free, in the landmass that was once New Netherland/New York in whatever way possible.