October is Black History Month, a time to reflect on the accomplishments, experiences and challenges faced by Black people. Here in Bath, there are various talks, tours and exhibitions lined up to mark the month.
This year's theme is ‘Reclaiming Narratives’, shining a light on the untold stories and amplifying the voices that have been historically marginalised. Learn more about the contributions that Black people have made nationally, internationally, and to our local community through these events.
Changing narratives of Bath's heritage at Bath Spa University (17 October)
Join for a discussion with speakers from well-known institutions in Bath, including the Roman Baths, Bath Preservation Trust and Bath Abbey. This discussion will take a deeper look at the hidden histories of Black people in Britain, hear new perspectives on stories you thought you knew and understand the work that is being carried out in decolonising our history.
Image - No.1 Royal Crescent
Guided Tours at Fairfield House (Sundays in October)
Fairfield House in Newbridge was the residence of Haile Selassie I, Emperor of Ethiopia and one of the most influential statesmen in history, during the five years he spent in exile (1936–41).
Image - Haile Selassie I with his family
During Black History Month knowledgeable volunteers are leading tours around the house, revealing how the house was used in his time as well as his deep connection to with Bath.
Image - Fairfield House
William Beckford and the transatlantic slave trade
Built between 1826 and 1827 for William Beckford (1760-1844), Beckford’s Tower is a key landmark on a hill overlooking Bath, however Beckford’s ability to build the tower, and to collect art and furniture to store in it, was made possible by a fortune built on the profits of sugar plantations in Jamaica. An animated video in the museum explores the root of William Beckford’s wealth, including the Beckford family’s plantation ownership on Jamaica, telling the story of their involvement in the transatlantic slave trade.
Image - Beckford's Tower
Walk & Talk Sessions at The Holburne Museum (every Monday in October)
The Holburne Museum are embracing this year's Black History Month theme of 'Reclaiming Narratives' with free 45-minute walk and talk sessions every Monday in October. Join one of the museum's senior staff members, including the Director, Curator and Head of Learning, to learn about what the museum is doing to address its connections to the transatlantic slave trade, and reclaim the narratives of items in its collection.
Image: The Holburne Museum
Walking Bath’s Uncomfortable Past
This self-guided walk takes in several key buildings and attractions, showing the splendours of 18th century Bath which were funded by the transatlantic slave trade. The walk also offers insight into the lives of some Bath residents and visitors who contributed to dismantling the slave economy by writing and campaigning against it, such as Emma Sturge, Hannah Moore or William Wilberforce. The walk also pays tribute to prominent Africans and African descendants who visited the city like violin virtuoso Georges Bridgetower and actor Ira Aldridge.
Image - A route map of Walking Bath’s Uncomfortable Past
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