Our Histories Revealed: African Stories in Hull and East Yorkshire is a new exhibition at Goole Museum from 5 February to 6 April which uncovers the history of people of African descent from 1750 to 2007.
These dates represent the period of history beginning with the era of the famous anti-slavery campaigner William Wilberforce and ending with the bicentenary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade.
The exhibition is the result of a two-year project to reveal and record histories that have often been overlooked and make them accessible to the public. The stories in this project challenge the misconception that Black presence has a brief history in the make-up of Britain. Goole Museum was contacted as part of the research process.
Goole Museum curator Debbie Hardy said: “Did you know that in 1851 Swinefleet had an African curate? Known as the ‘Black Vicar’ by his congregation, Cragg Haynes was possibly the first formally trained clergyman with African heritage in Yorkshire. He also established a school in the village and was eventually appointed as the vicar.”
“We were delighted to discover Rev Haynes in our history. As a port town, I am sure there were many more people of African descent in the area, it is just that their stories have been lost. It would be fantastic if there is anyone who has African heritage who would like to share their story with us. We want to record your history for the future and add it to the project website, as well as include it in our exhibition.”
If anyone would like to find out more then please visit https://www.africansinyorkshireproject.com/blog
There will be an exhibition preview on Saturday, 2 February starting at 1pm, with refreshments plus hands-on art activities for the kids. The event is free and open to all.
Goole Museum opening hours are :
Tuesday to Friday 10am to 5pm
Wednesday 10am to 7pm
Saturday 9am to 4pm
Closed for lunch 12 noon to 12.30pm (Wednesdays 1.30 to 2pm)
There is also a lift and disabled access to all areas in the museum.
