|
Black history is integral to every era of the Vassall-Craigie-Longfellow House, starting in 1759 when the house was built for the wealthy enslaver Vassall family. On this page, you'll find stories of slavery and resistance; of freedom and community; of abolition and education. Cuba, Dinah, Malcolm, William, James, and two “small boys.” These are the seven people known to have been enslaved by sugar plantation owner John Vassall at 105 Brattle Street as of 1774. Late that year, the Vassalls abruptly fled Cambridge, leaving behind the people they had once enslaved to carve out their own freedom. Additional research into their lives is currently underway. The most is known about Cuba (who later used the surname Vassall), her husband Anthony (Tony) Vassall, and their children. The family became involved in the struggle for abolition and civil rights, occasionally intersecting with the Longfellows' own philanthropic abolitionist efforts into the mid-19th century. Other key stories linked to this site include the experiences of free and enslaved Black laborers at Washington's Cambridge headquarters, the Longfellows’ abolitionist literary network, and the site's connection to Tuskegee and Hampton Universities, two early educational institutions for black Americans. The interpretation of Black history is constantly evolving as new evidence is unearthed and new perspectives are considered. This page will be updated with these historically underrepresented stories as research progresses. 
Though Dwelling in a Land of Freedom
Learn more about the lives and activism of Tony and Cuba Vassall - enslaved and free at 105 Brattle St. - and their descendants. 
Bondage and the Building of Brattle St.
We explore the early history of 105 Brattle Street, focusing on the history of slavery and emancipation at the site. 
Beyond "Poems on Slavery"
This new article examines the work of Black abolitionist poets Frances E.W. Harper and George M. Horton in contrast with Longfellow. 
“More Precious Than Rubies”
Learn about the Black students whose education and work at Hampton Institute and Tuskegee Institute was supported by Alice Longfellow.
Visit our keyboard shortcuts docs for details
Ranger Anna explores the early history of 105 Brattle Street, including the history of slavery and emancipation at the site. 
Unfinished: America at 250
The American Revolution remains unfinished. Visit Unfinished 250 for upcoming events, speakers, and related articles. |
Last updated: August 10, 2024