WINDSOR HISTORY
Explore Windsor’s Black History
Glimpses of Windsor's Black Patriots
The Black experience is an integral part of Windsor’s history, but has often been excluded from historical narratives. Through this page we seek to atone for this omission and give voice to these important stories in hopes that soon we will be able to share one history, inclusive of all Windsor’s people.
“Most people do not realize that the history of Blacks in Windsor – first recorded in 1680 – is nearly as long as that of the town itself.”
– Marcia Dort Hinckley, 1991
It is possible that Black people lived in Windsor even earlier. Initially most were enslaved, however gradual emancipation during the 18th century resulted in a vibrant Black community that included tradesmen, and laborers, household servants and property owners. Windsor’s Black population represented less than 5% of the town’s total for almost 300 years, but began to grow dramatically in the mid-20th century and today represents about 35% of the total population. Here are some of their stories.
Articles
Collections and Exhibits
The Society has many items, photographs, documents, oral histories, news articles, and other records related to Black history in Windsor. Much is held physically in our archives, but here is a sample of items available online for you to explore.
Past Programs
Recordings of the Society’s past programs related to Black history, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Feedback
Windsor’s residents – past, present, and future – are the holders and tellers of their experiences, their truths, their values, and their town.
We’d love to hear and include your voices here, so let us know if you have a story you’d like to share, or if there are ways we could improve this page.