Hidden truths about slavery and abolitionTalk by Paul Crooks at Eastbury Manor House

Wednesday 30 October 2019, 7pm£10 (Non-residents); £5 (LBBD residents)With a glass of wine

Join Paul Crooks as he embarks on a journey of discovery. In this talk, he will focus on the rise and fall of slavery and challenge inherent perspectives on the reasons for the abolition of slavery in British colonies.

In the 1990s, undeterred, he embarked on a personal journey that led from suburban North London to Jamaica and ultimately back to the Gold Coast of Africa – an effort that has brought him international recognition for his breakthroughs in researching African Caribbean genealogy.

When he began his research, he was told that it would be impossible to trace records of slave-ownership let alone his African ancestors enslaved on plantations in Jamaica. He was told ‘No one had tried because such records did not exist.’

Paul will be joined by Borough Archivist, Karen Rushton, who’ll provide insight into Barking and Dagenham’s archive collections held at Valence House, and how these can be used to deepen understanding of genealogical research in the local area. Karen will also be discussing the importance of increasing Barking and Dagenham’s archival information in order to be more representative of the diverse local community.

Tickets include light refreshments. Doors will open from 6.15pm, with the talk starting at 7pm.