Equiano exhibition arrives in Hull
A flagship exhibition which explores the life of former slave Olaudah Equiano will open in Hull tomorrow (05.03.08)
‘The Equiano Project’, which celebrates the life and times of the 18th Century writer and abolitionist campaigner runs until Saturday 29th March at Holy Trinity Church.
The prestigious exhibition, in partnership with the Equiano Society, has been secured thanks to the work carried out during last year’s bicentenary commemorations to mark the passing of the Slave Trade Act, the parliamentary fight of which was led by Hull’s William Wilberforce
Emily Keane, Holy Trinity’s Development Officer said: “We are delighted that we have been chosen as a venue for this exhibition, which played an important role in last years bicentennial commemorations. It will give the people of Hull and visitors alike the opportunity to learn more about one of William Wilberforce’s abolitionist counter parts.”
Equiano was enslaved as a young boy and was eventually bought by a naval captain and was afforded naval training enabling him to travel extensively. After changing slave owners hands on further occasions he was acquired by Robert King, a Quaker merchant from Philadelphia.
In 1765 King promised that for forty pounds, the price he had paid for Equiano, Equiano could buy his freedom. Equiano engaged in his own profitable trading as well as on his master’s behalf, enabling Equiano to come by the forty pounds honestly. In his early twenties, Equiano succeeded in buying his freedom. After several years of travelling and trading, Equiano arrived in London and became involved in the abolitionist movement.
This inspiring exhibition uses Equiano’s own autobiographical account ‘The Interesting Narrative’ (1789). It tells the story of Equiano’s life and times, drawing together all the major themes connected to the history of the Transatlantic Slave Trade and its abolition as well as his experiences travelling and trading around the world.
For more information on the exhibtion including opening times, group visits and volunteering please contact Emily on 07948739386.
Opening times for Holy Trinity Church:
Monday – Closed
Tuesday – 11am till 3pm
Wednesday – 12pm till 3pm
Thursday – 12pm till 3pm
Friday – 12pm till 3pm
Saturday – 12noon till 3pm
Sunday – Closed for services
Published: 4/03/08
