Key highlights Starting point of the Nantucket Black Heritage Trail Resting place of some of the island’s earliest Black residents Family names that appear throughout the trail: Boston, Crawford, Cooper, Grant, Pompey, Porte, and Ross Earliest known burial dates back to 1798 Burial site of Eunice Ross, whose fight for education changed U.S. law Did you know? The challenge by Eunice Ross and her family led to the first law in the United States guaranteeing equal access to public education, regardless of race. Many of the families buried here were homeowners, business owners, sailors, teachers, and community leaders. Fun Facts This cemetery has been in use for over 225 years. Several of the last names here appear on homes, churches, and meeting places you’ll see later on the trail. The site remains one of the most important landmarks connected to Nantucket’s Black history. Additional information Eunice Ross’s case helped influence Massachusetts law and later inspired similar efforts across the country. The cemetery is still actively preserved as a place of remembrance and education.
Five Corners
Key highlights One of the most important centers of Black life on Nantucket in the early 1800s Known by 1820 as New Guinea, reflecting African roots A thriving neighborhood with churches, inns, a dance hall, school, shops, and homes A rare and powerful example of Black homeownership during the 19th century Cultural and social hub for Nantucket’s Black community Did you know? “New Guinea” was a common historical name used in the 18th and 19th centuries to reference African heritage. Property ownership in this area helped protect families and allowed them to build generational stability. Fun Facts Five Corners was one of the busiest gathering spots on the island. Music, worship, business, and celebration all happened within this small neighborhood. Many families here appear at other stops along the Black Heritage Trail.
African Meeting House
Seneca Boston - Florence Higginbotham House
Key highlights Land purchased in 1774 by Seneca Boston after gaining his freedom Home to Seneca Boston, his wife Thankful Micah, and their six children Remained in the Boston family for over 140 years, until 1919 Purchased in 1920 by Florence Clay Higginbotham, a determined businesswoman A powerful symbol of Black homeownership, resilience, and independence Did you know? Seneca Boston’s purchase of this property came at a time when most formerly enslaved people had little access to land or financial security. Florence Clay Higginbotham supported herself through multiple jobs, including boarding guests, laundry work, domestic service, and cooking. Fun Facts This home has been owned by Black families for over two centuries. It has witnessed the transition from the 1700s into the modern era. The property reflects how entrepreneurship helped sustain Nantucket’s Black community.
