Mystic in Stonington in New London County, Connecticut — The American Northeast (New England)
Mystic Has a Complex and Engaging History.
The Sea Connects Us
— Mystic Seaport Museum —
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones, June 24, 2023
1. Mystic Has a Complex and Engaging History. Marker
Located in Pequot territory and used for millennia by Indigenous people, it was later colonized by Europeans who displaced local Indigenous peoples. Mystic is also the notorious site of one the most brutal massacres of Indigenous people in American history, the Mystic Massacre of 1637 during the Pequot War. However, it was also the site of fervent abolitionist activity in the mid-19th century and had a thriving seaport that provided a livelihood for Indigenous men and their families during a period of increasing land encroachment. The maritime industry created relative racial equality for mariners while onboard a vessel and provided a stable income and social status for free African American men. It also provided an avenue of freedom for enslaved African American men. Explore the story of individuals who contribute to this complex history and give it a human face through our "The Sea Connects Us" panes throughout the campus.
Erected 2022 by Mystic Seaport Museum.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Abolition & Underground RR • African Americans • Colonial Era • Industry & Commerce • Native Americans • Settlements & Settlers • Wars, US Indian • Waterways & Vessels. A significant historical year for this entry is 1637.
Location.
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. An Aquinnah Wampanoag History of a Whaling Ancestor (a few steps from this marker); Whale Ship Charles W. Morgan (a few steps from this marker); Mystic Seaport Museum First Building (within shouting distance of this marker); An African Garden (within shouting distance of this marker); Bower Anchor (within shouting distance of this marker); Perils and Profits (within shouting distance of this marker); The Parlor Garden at the Buckingham-Hall House (within shouting distance of this marker); Changing Perceptions of the Natural World (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Stonington.
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones, June 24, 2023
2. Mystic Has a Complex and Engaging History. Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on June 28, 2023. It was originally submitted on June 28, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 58 times since then and 14 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 28, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
