Irvington Historical Society Presentation on Understanding Slavery in Colonial New York

The Irvington Historical Society invites the public to a presentation on Understanding Slavery in Colonial New York. The powerpoint presentation by Dr. Dennis Maika, Senior Scholar 2012, the New Netherland Institute, will examine distinctive features of New York slavery, the changing experiences of enslaved Africans and their masters over time, and the opportunities and challenges posed by historical evidence. Dr. Maika will include some history of the enslavement at Philipsburg Manor.  When most Americans imagine their country's experience with slavery, their perceptions are typically influenced by an understanding of the 19th Century American South in the decades before the Civil War.  Less well known is the long history of slavery in Colonial New York which began decades after the Revolution. For almost 175 years, the experience of enslaved people and their enslavers in Colonial New York was uniquely different from the rest of American colonies.  All are welcome.  Refreshments. Snow date: Sunday, March 2, 3:00 p.m. Irvington Library