The new ANTISLAVERYBELFAST TOUR highlights the city’s role in the slave trade, and in its abolition. Local historians and guides, Mark Doherty and Dr Tom Thorpe (@drtomstours) are delighted to announced that they have put together a new walking tour examining Belfast’s role in the slave trade and its abolition.
The Anti Slavery Belfast Tour reveals the story of Belfast’s involvement in this shameful transatlantic trade and the inspiring role of anti-slavery campaigners who ensured Belfast never profited from the trade in the same way as other British cities such as London, Liverpool, Glasgow or Bristol.
In the 18th century, Belfast merchants exported linen clothing, leather shoes and food to the slave plantations in North America and the Caribbean and many prospered from slave labour.
From the 1780s, enlightened Belfast residents were activists for the elimination of the slave trade. Their focus was firstly on abolition in the British Empire and then the USA.
The tour examines a complex and fascinating story, placing people and institutions in their contemporary social, political and global context. It will appeal to those interested in the social history of Belfast, the British Empire, anti-colonialism and slavery.
The initial batch of tours are being held on every Saturday on 11, 18 and 25 February and 4, 11, 18 and 25 March. Tours start at 10.30 at the Big Fish. Booking information:
