Building Community, Honoring History

Pictured: African Burying Ground Memorial Park in Portsmouth, NH

Using New Hampshire's History to Connect Communities

The stories we haven’t heard shape the connections we’re missing. Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire brings those stories to life, helping us uncover a more complete and truthful history. From walking tours led by our expert Sankofa Scholars to interactive events and self-guided explorations, every experience inspires understanding, belonging, and action. Join us in creating bonds of understanding for stronger, more inclusive communities.

Join us for the 20th Black New England Conference

Sobering and eye-opening, the Black Heritage Trail forces us to question those we have traditionally considered heroes, and to elevate those who have been marginalized instead.

Jodi Picoult New York Times best-selling author, Frommers’ Best Places 2021: Great Authors on Our America

Programs

More Than Just a Trail

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August 8, 2026

Lives Bound Together: The Washingtons & Ona Marie Judge in NH

Sankofa Scholar & Tour Guide: Sonya Arroyo

This tour follows the extraordinary story of Ona Marie Judge, a young woman enslaved by George and Martha Washington who made the courageous decision to free herself rather than remain in bondage to America’s First Family.

In the spring of 1796, Ona left the Washingtons’ executive mansion in Philadelphia with help from the city’s free Black community. She journeyed north to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, where she would build a new life amid the constant threat of capture.

As you walk through Portsmouth’s historic streets, you’ll trace Ona’s path to freedom, beginning at the harbor where she arrived and continuing through the neighborhoods and homes connected to some of the nation’s most prominent families.

Along the way, you will learn about the President's relentless efforts to capture her, and explore the networks of resistance, courage, and community that helped sustain her freedom.

Meeting Place: BHTNH Headquarters | 222 Court Street, Portsmouth, NH.

August 12, 2026

Concord Marker Unveiling for William Penn "Bill" Thompson

The Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire, in partnership with Ryan Cutting and The City of Concord, is pleased to announce the installation of a Black Heritage Trail of NH Historic Marker in Keene, New Hampshire, honoring the iconic Sunset League player William Penn “Bill” Thompson. This will be the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire’s first historic marker in Concord.

The unveiling ceremony will take place on Wednesday, August 12 at 6:00 PM. The marker’s permanent location and unveiling celebration will be at White Park, 1 White Street, Concord, NH, the home field of Concord’s Sunset League. The marker will be near the State of New Hampshire Historic Marker (#0147) indicating the History of the Park. This event is free and open to the public; all are welcome.

August 15, 2026

Ain't She A Woman: Let Me Tell You Her Story

Sankofa Scholar & Tour Guide: Valerie Fagin

Can you imagine the hustle and bustle of a prosperous colonial seaport town?

Step into that world on this engaging walking tour that centers on the lives of African-born and African American women who shaped Portsmouth across generations.

Through powerful storytelling, you’ll encounter women who, despite enslavement and systemic racism, fought for justice, defied a sitting U.S. president, and educated generations of children—leaving a lasting mark on this community.

Walk the streets where their lives unfolded, hear their stories, and celebrate the resilience, courage, and determination revealed in our shared seacoast his/herstory.

Join the tour and experience the stories of women who helped shape Portsmouth

Meeting Place: BHTNH Headquarters | 222 Court Street, Portsmouth, NH.