Seneca Village: Speaking Still

What lies beneath your feet as you walk the length and width of Central Park New York is #SenecaVillage. Buried but still breathing, silenced but speaking still. Let children know that before Africans were labelled slaves, we were kings and queens, princes and princesses #JUSTICE

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Seneca Village was a vibrant community in 19th-century New York City, located in what is now Central Park. Founded in 1825 by free Black Americans, the village thrived as a self-sufficient neighbourhood with schools, churches, and cemeteries.

Here's what we know about Seneca Village

Location: The village spanned from 82nd to 89th Streets between Seventh and Eighth Avenues, covering about five acres of land.

Residents: Seneca Village was home to around 225 residents, primarily African Americans, with some Irish and German immigrants. Many residents owned their homes, which was rare for African Americans at the time.

Community Institutions:

All Angels' Church: A central institution and Episcopal church serving the villagers.

African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church: Provided spiritual guidance and support to African American residents.

Coloured School No. 3: Educated children and offered opportunities for a better future.

Significance:

Seneca Village represented African American property ownership, community, and resilience in pre-Civil War New York.

It was a symbol of black self-sufficiency and a haven from the slums of downtown Manhattan.

Destruction: The village was forcibly removed in 1857 to make way for Central Park, with the city using eminent domain to acquire the land.

Residents were displaced, and many received little or no compensation for their lost properties.

Legacy: Efforts have been made to commemorate Seneca Village, including archaeological excavations, educational programmes, and commemorative plaques. The village's story serves as a reminder of the complexities of history and the importance of preserving the stories of marginalised communities.

I urge you, never let silence win.