A Nantucket home, continuously owned by Black families for two centuries, stands as a testament to the resilience and enduring legacy of the island’s African American community. The story of this home, and the family who first settled it, reveals a complex history of enslavement, gradual emancipation, and the pursuit of economic and social independence.
A Legacy of Ownership
Seneca Boston, born in 1744, was the third son of Boston and Mariah, both of whom were enslaved by William Swain. A 1760 deed from Swain stipulated a gradual emancipation for the Boston children, promising freedom upon reaching the age of 28. Seneca later married Thankful Micah, a Wampanoag woman, and in 1785 built a home in the Fresh Guinea neighborhood, a community of free Black and Indigenous families.
A Family’s Rise and Fall
According to Angela Tate, chief curator of the Museum of African American History, the Boston family’s story reflects the broader experience of the Black community in Nantucket, a community that experienced periods of growth and decline. Seneca’s brother, Prince Boston, notably became the first enslaved person to successfully sue for his freedom and receive wages in 1773.
The Boston family’s involvement extended beyond homeownership. They were active members and leaders within the African Meeting House and later the African Baptist Church. Archaeological findings at the property—including ceramics, a punch bowl, animal bones, and jewelry—reveal details of their daily lives and a degree of autonomy.
A Lasting Impact
The Boston family retained ownership of the home until 1918. Florence Higginbottom then purchased the property, continuing its legacy as Black-owned. In 2001, the house was ultimately sold to the Museum of African American History. The family’s story extends through generations, including Absalom Boston, born in 1785, who became the first Black whaling captain in American history, commanding an all-Black crew in 1822.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is significant about the Boston family home?
The home is significant because it remained continuously owned by Black families for 200 years, representing a rare and enduring legacy of ownership.
How did Seneca Boston acquire the property?
Seneca Boston built a home in the New Guinea neighborhood four years after marrying Thankful Micah, a Wampanoag woman from Nantucket.
What role did the Boston family play in the Nantucket community?
The Boston family was deeply involved in the island’s religious, political, and economic life, serving as members and leaders of local churches.
What does the story of the Boston family reveal about the broader history of Black Americans?
