Brooklyn, often celebrated for its vibrant culture and progressive spirit, carries a history that many residents may find surprising. Despite being located in the northern Union states, Brooklyn has significant ties to slavery—a fact that will be explored in the upcoming exhibition, “Trace/s: Family History Research and the Legacy of Slavery in Brooklyn.” Opening at the Center for Brooklyn History on January 30, this exhibit aims to shed light on the often-overlooked narratives of enslaved individuals in Kings County.
The exhibition invites visitors to confront the painful realities of Brooklyn’s past, featuring archival documents, rare personal accounts, and artwork that helps to visualize this challenging period. It serves as a reminder that understanding our history is essential for understanding our present. The exhibit will be open for free until August 30, allowing everyone the opportunity to engage with this crucial aspect of Brooklyn’s identity.
Art and Archives: A Powerful Narrative
At the heart of the “Trace/s” exhibition are poignant family histories that illustrate the legacy of slavery in Brooklyn. The exhibit is anchored by large-scale portrait paintings that reflect the stories of two individuals tied to this history. One of these is Mildred Jones, a born-and-raised Brooklynite and the great-great-granddaughter of Samuel Anderson, who was enslaved in Flatbush. The Center for Brooklyn History commissioned artist Rusty Zimmerman of the Free Portrait Project to create her portrait, linking the past with the present.
In contrast, the exhibition also features a painting of John A. Lott, the nephew of Jeremiah Lott, to whom Anderson was enslaved. Created by Thomas Martin Jensen in 1880, this artwork serves as a historical counterpoint to Jones’s contemporary representation. Together, these pieces evoke a dialogue between generations, illustrating how the effects of slavery continue to shape the borough today.
The exhibition also highlights the important contributions of family historians and researchers who work tirelessly to trace their roots through this difficult past. By showcasing their efforts, “Trace/s” encourages visitors to consider their own connections to history and how it informs their identity.
Brooklyn: Confronting the Legacy of Inequality
Dominique Jean-Louis, chief historian at the Center for Brooklyn History, emphasizes the importance of acknowledging this hidden history: “Brooklyn’s history of slavery shapes the borough we live in today: its contours, its street names, its economy and culture.” By confronting these origins, we gain a deeper understanding of contemporary issues, including systemic inequality and cultural evolution.
As Brooklyn continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize how the legacies of slavery have influenced its development. By engaging with this exhibition, visitors can gain insights into the complex dynamics that have shaped the borough’s identity, fostering a sense of community and collective responsibility.
Importance of Remembering
The “Trace/s” exhibition serves as a vital reminder that history is not merely a collection of dates and names but a living narrative that affects us all today. As we delve into Brooklyn’s ties to slavery, we confront the uncomfortable truths that inform our present and future. This exhibition is not just about the past; it is about understanding how the legacies of inequality continue to shape our communities.
As New Yorkers, acknowledging these histories helps us foster a more inclusive and equitable future. By visiting the Center for Brooklyn History and engaging with the stories presented in “Trace/s,” we take an essential step toward understanding the complexities of our city and honoring the experiences of those who came before us. This is how we truly celebrate Brooklyn—by remembering its history while striving for a brighter future.
