Cemeteries are largely seen as final resting places - an end. But God’s Little Acre, a Colonial African Burying Ground in Newport, Rhode Island is the beginning point to a rich cultural tapestry that is Newport’s African and African-American history.
Recognized as the oldest and largest existing enslaved and free African heritage burying ground in America dating back to 1705, the historic site contains the remains of men, women and children who are directly connected through the African Diaspora and back to West Africa.
A special opportunity to hear award-winning national treasure Keith Stokes, a descendant of family buried at God’s Little Acre, leads us in discussion of the colonial African community in Newport, and modern preservation, restoration, research and most importantly, how African heritage and history can be reclaimed and interpreted for today’s audiences.
Mr. Stokes is presently Vice President with the 1696 Heritage Group. The 1696 Heritage Group is a historical consulting firm dedicated to helping persons and institutions of color to increase their knowledge and access to the light of truth of their unique American heritage. The firm draws on extensive knowledge and experience in ethnic American historical research, interpretation, program and product development.