U.S. National Historic Monument, 2007
Of major significance in the prosperity of New York City (ultimately America) are the forgotten free and enslaved Africans that were in Colonial New York (now Manhattan) through the 18th Century.
Ancestors were put to eternal rest in burial grounds that were built onto during the passing decades and centuries—ultimately lost to history. Which is an undeserved neglect in the recording and storytelling of the birth of America. An estimate of over 15,000 children, women and men are believed buried within the grounds. If you’ve never been to the monument, I hope this visual story will encourage you to go. If you’ve been there, I hope it reminds you of its sacred historic value to all of humanity.
Info & history on this U.S. National Monument is at —> ABG History
Being there during the dedication week was of the highest personal importance. All photographs created October 6th 2007.
Tap any photo for larger size
For all those who were lost
For all those who were stolen
For all those who were left behind
For all those who were not forgotten
Please feel free to share your thoughts and/or feelings about the African Burial Ground National Historic Monument.
Dr. Lorenzo Pace’s 300 ton granite sculpture, “Triumph of the Human Spirit” commemorating the African burial site and the Middle Passage rises behind the performing choirs. Note, it’s not part of the national historic monument.
I apologize for not having the names of the performing artists and musicians.
National Park Ranger Doug has the undivided attention of attendees during dedication week. Delivering an oral history of the African burial grounds inside the memorial. Designed by Rodney Leon
In yielding to legal protocols with U.S. government buildings construction, the history of the burial ground has been restored.
Are you curious why there is a need to show these photographs seventeen years after the fact? Take a look at this Google image search —> See results. Most are overhead shots, absent of people, reverence or emotions deserving of the memorial. I hope you’ll let me know whether or not this newsletter imparts the human connectedness and reverence that should be apparent in any photograph of the memorial.
There’s overwhelming varied and valuable history. Acknowledgement of that history is the most important reason in showing this work. Please take this as a reminder, view documents that can help in understanding the site’s significance. Here
If you’ve found this article insightful, informative or educational, please hit the like button to let me know its impact. And share with everyone you know who would also relish the information.
As always, I appreciate that you took the time to read it through.
Til next time…
Kenneth