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Welcome to Wells & Transatlantic Slavery
Bringing together people from Britain and the Caribbean to explore how the City of Wells is connected to transatlantic slavery.
Uncovering Hidden Histories
In recent years many British institutions have been moved to rediscover, re-evaluate and ‘own’ their histories – seeking ways to balance the appreciation of treasured places and people with the acknowledgement of their connections to enslavement of Africans. Our website explores important buildings, institutions and people in Wells and their connections to British slavery in the Caribbean. A series of talks reveal a range of histories, legacies and perspectives from Britain and the Caribbean.
The Buildings
Discover how the historic sites of Wells, including Wells Cathedral, The Bishop’s Palace, Wells & Mendip Museum and Wells Town Hall, are connected to British slavery. Our building pages highlight treasured places and belongings, such as paintings, stained-glass windows and chandeliers, that all have visible connections to the enslavement of Africans.
The People
Slave-owning families and their descendants living in or close to Wells were instrumental in the life and politics of the city from the 17th onwards. Our people pages uncover how they shaped the city and its history in countless ways, through politics, religion, banking, land-ownership, education and beyond.
Talks & Resources
Bringing together people from Britain and the Caribbean to explore how the City of Wells is connected to transatlantic slavery.