William Peter Powell is generally overlooked in the history of the Black abolition movement. Nonetheless, as a former seaman from his homes in New Bedford, New York, and Liverpool ports, he was at the heart of a global network of anti-slavery activity, primarily centered on the nexus between Dublin, Liverpool, and Boston.
Powell’s numerous and crucial contributions are not forgotten. They are vividly brought to light in the documentary William P. Powell: A Black Abolitionist in Ireland‘ by Dr. Christine Kinealy. His story is also featured in Kenealy’s recently published ‘Black Abolitionists in Ireland Volume II, ensuring his legacy is not lost to history.
The film was produced by the Irish Heritage Trust and National Famine Museum, Strokestown Park, Co. Roscommon, in collaboration with the African American Irish Diaspora Network and Ireland’s Great Hunger Institute, Quinnipiac University, and funded by the Government of Ireland’s Emigrant Support Program.
Several excerpts from Dr. Kinealy’s works on Black Abolitionists who visited Ireland have been featured in Irish America, including The Black Swan: The Slave That Became The Singing Sensation.
Stunning work by this very credible and skilled historian. I continue to be awed and inspired by her work. This work on Black abolitionists is important on so many levels and sends ripples into the field with great promise. Exciting to share and applaud!!!