The Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire promotes awareness and appreciation of African American history and life through tours and events. In 2023, the trail installed a marker honoring Harriet E. Wilson. In addition to being a noted spiritualist and speaker, Wilson was the author of Our Nig, the first novel published in the United States by a Black woman. However, the 1859 novel was critical of White northerners and therefore not widely disseminated by the abolitionist press. The plaque installation, dedication, and surrounding events including a performance of the play “Hearing from Harriet” helped to tell this important but often overlooked New Hampshire story.

Photo courtesy of the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire

This project was made possible in part with support from the Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area Partnership Grants Program.