Discover New Hampshire's Hidden Black History

Pictured: African Burying Ground Memorial Park in Portsmouth, NH

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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.

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May 21, 2026

Ona Judge Day Tour

Sankofa Scholar & Tour Guide: Sonya Arroyo

In 2022, New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu signed a bill that declared May 21 st to be Ona Judge Day. The declaration honors that day in 1796 on which Ona Maria Judge Staines left the residence of President George and Martha Washington in Philadelphia, boarded a ship to Portsmouth, and lived a long and dignified life in New Hampshire, free, but a fugitive.

On this special Ona Judge Day Tour, you will hear the true story of a young woman’s quest for freedom. See the waterfront where Ona landed and visit the Portsmouth properties of some of America’s most famous families - the Langdons, Warners, and Lears - whose stories are also bound to her incredible journey.

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

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May 23, 2026

Ona Judge Mural Unveiling

In 2023, the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire unveiled plans to paint a mural of Ona Marie Judge Staines on its Portsmouth, New Hampshire, headquarters. As part of a local History Through Art initiative, the Black Heritage Trail will honor Staines, who bravely escaped the bonds of slavery in the late 1700s. While not yet a household name, Staines’ story is one of courage and self-determination that historians are working to share with the public. The Trail is working with artist Manuel Ramirez of Positive Street Art to create the mural. Below see the process that we came to decide on the mural's imagery, how Ona Judge would be portrayed, and how we would ensure the artwork reflected historical reality of the time period in which Ona Judge lived. The mural will be unveiled on Saturday, May 23, 2026. The event will feature guest speakers and a reception with refreshments provided. Read more about the mural project here.

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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