History & Culture

Abolitionist and women’s rights advocate Maria W. Stewart was one of the first women of any race to speak in public in the United States. She was also the first Black American woman to write and publish a political manifesto. Her calls for Black people to resist slavery, oppression, and exploitation were radical and influential.

Located on the corner of Mt. Vernon and Charles Streets since 1807, the Charles Street Meetinghouse served as a home to several different communities over the past 200 years. Over the course of its existence, the Meeting House became a platform and safe haven for some of Boston’s radical thinkers

Reverend Leonard Andrew Grimes led the Twelfth Baptist Church in Boston and dedicated himself to helping freedom seekers escape slavery on the Underground Railroad.

Born in Bermuda, Robert John Simmons volunteered and served bravely in the 54th Massachusetts Regiment, ultimately losing his life from wounds sustained in battle. 

As an abolitionist and civil rights advocate, William Cooper Nell committed himself to a lifetime of service to the causes of freedom and equality.

As a doctor, lecturer, military recruiter, and lawyer, John S. Rock served Boston's Black community and was the first Black man admitted to the Supreme Court Bar.

Dr. Melnea Cass, distinguished in 1977 as a "Grand Bostonian," was a devoted advocate for the city's most vulnerable residents. Among her many efforts, Cass helped achieve legal protections for low-wage migrant workers and proved the potency of Black women's activism.

Phillis Wheatley earned acclaim as a Black poet, and historians recognize her as one of the first Black and enslaved persons in the United States, to publish a book of poems.

Educator and activist Maria Louise Baldwin belonged to a generation of Bostonian Black women involved in 19th and early 20th century activism. Her professional career and her life in activism set goals that are still being fought for today: social justice, equity, and representation for Black Americans.

Ellen Craft bravely escaped slavery by disguising herself as a sickly, White gentleman. Once free, Craft shared her story and advocated against slavery throughout New England and in England.