The Revolutionary War forever changed the lives of every New Yorker. For the enslaved and free Black people living there, it opened new avenues for self-emancipation through military service. Fighting in blue and red coats, they defended the land they called home while striving to achieve a level of freedom they heard their enslavers speak of—freedom that may not have been intended for them. This exhibit highlights particular stories of some of those brave souls.

Enslavement to Freedom is a multi-year commemoration highlighting New York's unique history with slavery. In 2027, New York will recognize two significant Black history anniversaries: the 200th anniversary of the end of legal slavery on July 4/5, and the 400th anniversary of the arrival and enslavement of the first twenty-two African men and women in New York on August 29.

As stewards of fifteen historic sites with known connections to slavery and park lands that were once spaces of enslavement, the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation honors these anniversaries by sharing this vital part of the state's story in multiple ways. These banners are part of a larger series of exhibits, programs, and events commemorating the contributions of thousands of enslaved Africans and their descendants, as well as the various ways wealth was gained by those who supported the transatlantic slave trade.

This commemoration is part of the Our Whole History initiative, a framework that seeks to expand the history we share to better reflect the rich multicultural world that is New York's past and present.

Event details may change. Confirm details on the official event website.