A powerful exhibition that examines the evidence of the Island’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade

Details

  • 26 March 2022 - 31 December 2024
  • Jersey Museum, Art Gallery & Victorian House

In this FREE exhibition we examine the evidence of the Island’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade, including Jersey’s Lieutenant-Governor Sir George Carteret who was a founder member of the Royal Africa Company that traded in ivory, gold and enslaved people in the 17th century; Captain François Messervy of Jersey who was killed in 1722 during an uprising on board his slave ship off the coast of Africa; and Jersey trader Josué Mauger who in 1752 advertised enslaved people for sale in Nova Scotia, Canada, where his business was based.

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This exhibition takes place in the Victorian House at Jersey Museum, with its impressive mahogany staircase, because new research has shown that the house was built partly on the profits of the transatlantic slave trade. ‘Trade Roots’ explores Jersey’s historic links to slavery, from Islanders who owned mahogany plantations overseas and traded in slave-produced goods, to those who campaigned for the abolition of slavery.

Thought-provoking, and at times challenging, this exhibition exposes some uncomfortable new stories from Jersey’s past and examines the legacy and impact of transatlantic slavery on the Island’s community today.

Listen

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Listen to experts explore Jersey’s links to transatlantic slavery in our three-part podcast.

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Jersey Museum, Art Gallery & Victorian House

In the heart of St Helier you’ll discover the story of Jersey - FREE ENTRY

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Claude Cahun and Jersey

Claude Cahun (1894-1954) was an artist, photographer and writer. She is best known today for her surreal self-portrait photographs.