Exploring Black Heritage: Must-Visit Destinations Across America

Across the United States, there are towns and regions where Black history and culture are deeply woven into the fabric of the community. As summer approaches, consider adding these significant destinations to your travel itinerary: New Bedford, Massachusetts; Eatonville, Florida; and Africatown, Alabama. Each location offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Black heritage and resilience.

New Bedford, Massachusetts

The New Bedford Whaling Museum is currently celebrating a significant milestone: 50 years of Cape Verdean independence. This celebration includes the opening of two new exhibits in June: “Claridade: Cape Verdean Identity in Contemporary Art” and “Morabeza: Cape Verdean Community in the South Coast.”

Naomi Slipp, the museum’s chief curator, highlights New Bedford’s historical role as the first point of arrival for many Cape Verdeans emigrating to the United States, starting in the 1870s. The city continues to be a hub for Cape Verdean immigrants, fostering a vibrant community that honors its roots.

Cabo Verde, an island nation off the coast of Africa, has a complex history of racial and ethnic identities. The museum’s high school apprentice program reflects this diversity, with over 40% of participants identifying as Cape Verdean.

The “Claridade” exhibit draws inspiration from a literary review that focused on identity and cultural clarity, showcasing various art forms, while “Morabeza” highlights the experiences of the Cape Verdean community in New England through photographs and oral histories. New Bedford’s abolitionist past also adds depth to its narrative, as it served as a crucial stop on the Underground Railroad.

Eatonville, Florida

Eatonville holds the distinction of being the oldest Black-incorporated municipality in the United States, founded in 1887 by freedmen. This town represents a beacon of self-governance and freedom for Black Americans.

N. Y. Nathiri, executive director of the Association to Preserve Eatonville Community, describes it as a “quintessential American town” with a unique character and spirit. Eatonville is also the hometown of renowned novelist Zora Neale Hurston, best known for her classic work, “Their Eyes Were Watching God.”

The community has seen significant changes over the years, with reduced crime rates and new businesses emerging. Attractions in Eatonville include the Zora Neale Hurston Museum, the Moseley House Museum, and the annual ZORA! Festival, which celebrates the arts and culture of the community through performances and interactive art.

Africatown, Alabama

Africatown is a remarkable community in Mobile, Alabama, founded by survivors of the last known slave ship, the Clotilda. This neighborhood stands as a testament to resilience, as it was established by West Africans who endured the harrowing Middle Passage.

For decades, Africatown thrived as a self-governed community with its own churches, schools, and stores. However, after being annexed into the City of Mobile in 1960, the vibrancy of the community began to wane. Despite these challenges, the rich African-descendant culture and the spirit of the residents continue to shine.

Visitors to Africatown can explore the Africatown Heritage House, which offers insights into the community’s history and the legacy of the Clotilda. The Heritage House hosts various events throughout the year, including lectures on the Black experience and cultural festivals featuring live performances and food trucks. In 2023, it received recognition from National Geographic as the best museum opening.

Tourists can also visit the Union Baptist Church, a cornerstone of the community, and the Old Plateau Cemetery, where many of the enslaved Africans were laid to rest.

The Importance of Honoring Black History

Naomi Slipp emphasizes the significance of towns and regions across the U.S. in honoring Black history. She argues that understanding and celebrating diverse experiences enriches the collective narrative of the nation.

“Folks who say that it is not important to tell the story about what makes us different are coming from a place of privilege,” Slipp notes. “It’s essential to hear and learn about people’s experiences to foster authentic connections.”

These destinations not only offer a glimpse into the past but also serve as reminders of the ongoing journey toward understanding and unity. As you plan your summer travels, consider immersing yourself in the rich history and culture that these communities have to offer.