Portsmouth, NH - The Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire (BHTNH), in partnership with the Hampton Heritage Committee and the Lane Memorial Library, is excited to announce the unveiling of a historic marker honoring Dinah Small Burdoo in Hampton, NH. This will be the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire’s first commemorative marker in Hampton.
The unveiling ceremony will take place on Saturday, July 12, at 1 PM. The marker will be located at the entrance of the Lane Memorial Library, 2 Academy Ave, Hampton, NH. This marker is intentionally placed in a central location so that it can be seen by the public. This event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will follow the unveiling ceremony.
Dinah Small Burdoo was one of the last surviving previously enslaved people in the town. In 1777, she married Caesar Small, a Revolutionary War veteran who died serving the cause. Dinah married again, in 1783, to Philip Burdoo (1738 -1806 ), who worked at Dearborn’s Tavern in Hampton. After Philip’s death, Dinah continued to live in a house just a few yards east of Centre School in Hampton. In her declining years, she was cared for in the home of Deacon John Lamprey with town funds. She died there at the age of 92. Esteemed for her great age and wisdom, a note in the Hampton Church record noted that she retained her powers of body and mind most perfectly. Not a professor, but serious, undoubtedly more worthy than many professors.
The Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire is an independent 501(c)(3) organization that promotes a deeper understanding and appreciation of African American history and culture. By fostering inclusive communities, the Trail works to honor and share a more truthful and complete history of New Hampshire through compelling exhibits, educational programs, curriculum development, and immersive guided walking tours. A state-wide organization, the Black Heritage Trail connects and brings to life the stories of New Hampshire’s African heritage by uncovering and preserving sites that bear witness to this rich and often untold history. Through its annual programs—including the Elinor Williams Hooker Tea Talk series, a multi-day Juneteenth Celebration, statewide readings of Frederick Douglass’s iconic speech in July, and a national Black New England Conference in October. By illuminating the profound contributions of African Americans to our state and nation, the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire inspires dialogue, reflection, and action toward a more inclusive and equitable future.