The Marietta History Center proudly announces the opening of a powerful new temporary traveling exhibit entitled, Before Slavery. This exhibit offers a compelling exploration into the lives, culture, and legacy of the African people from Bunce Island and the enduring heritage of the Gullah community.
Located off the coast of Sierra Leone, Bunce Island was one of the largest British slave trading operations on the West African coast. Before Slavery delves into the lives of the people who passed through this tragic site—not solely as enslaved individuals, but as members of vibrant cultures with complex traditions, histories, and identities. The exhibit also highlights the Gullah people, descendants of these West Africans, whose unique culture has been preserved for generations in the coastal regions of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.
Visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the rich African traditions that survived the Middle Passage and continue to influence Southern culture today. Before Slavery is an exhibit from the Vibrant Health Association. For more information visit https://beforeslavery.com.
The exhibit will run through Saturday, August 2nd, 2025, and is included with general admission to the Marietta History Center. Educational programming will be offered during the exhibition’s run.
