The African Meeting House is remembered for its rich history and important role on Nantucket.
Some info offered at the African Meeting House on York Street.
These dolls from Bette Spriggs' collection are part of the African Meeting House.
Nantucket's history is rich with the tales of whaling, shopkeepers and
family heritage. Whether you've heard of the Brotherhood Riot of 1842
or just know the popular tale of Melville's Moby Dick,
Nantucket's legacies would not exist had African-Americans not been a
part of it all. One such woman, Mary Ellen Pleasant, lived in Nantucket
for a dozen years. Pleasant was called the "Mother of Civil Rights" in
California. She came to the island as an indentured servant and ran a
shop in town, a large accomplishment at the time for not just an
African-American but a woman as well.
There are many ways to discover the history of our Island, whether it's the Nantucket Whaling Museum on Broad Street downtown, or catching a tour at the African Meeting House on York Street. Stay tuned to Plum for all things present and past on Nantucket, on the web and on Channel 22.
Be sure to check out our video below as we step inside a piece of history at The African Meeting House and talk to locals about the structure and the importance of remembering our heritage.
Video
As part of the celebration of Black History Month. Locals of the island, including Sharon Liburd, Frank Spriggs, and Bette Spriggs, all give us a glimpse at the rich history and importance of the African Meeting House. Take a look as we step inside this historic Nantucket landmark.
Add your comments...