City of London in Greater London, England, United Kingdom — Northwestern Europe (the British Isles)
Phillis Wheatley
Photographed by Andrew Ruppenstein, April 25, 2026
1. Phillis Wheatley Marker
On this site in September 1773
A. Bell Booksellers
published a volume of poems
by Phillis Wheatley 1753-1784
the first work of an African American female writer published in English
Erected 2019 by Nubian Jak Community Trust, Black History Walks, United States Embassy, Dorsett Hospitality International.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Arts, Letters, Music • Women. A significant historical date for this entry is September 1, 1773.
Location. 51° 30.84′ N, 0° 4.553′ W. Marker is in City of London, England, in Greater London. It is at the intersection of Aldgate High Street and Minories, on the left when traveling east on Aldgate High Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 9 Aldgate High Street, City of London, England EC3N 1AH, United Kingdom. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in the Greater South East. Globally, it is in the Atlantic Ocean, in the North Atlantic Region, in Europe, in Atlantic Europe, on one of the British Isles, in the Western World, and in the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Roman Empire.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Aldgate (within shouting distance of this marker); Holy Trinity Priory (about 120 meters away, measured in a direct line); a different marker also named Holy Trinity Priory (about 120 meters away); The Great Synagogue Dukes Place (about 120 meters away); Dietrich Bonhoeffer (about 210 meters away); The London Wall Walk - 07
this page online
Also see . . .
1. Phillis Wheatley (Wikipedia). Overview:
Phillis Wheatley Peters, also spelled Phyllis and Wheatly (c. 1753 December 5, 1784), was an American writer who is considered the first African-American author of a published book of poetry. Born in West Africa, she was sold into slavery at the age of seven or eight and transported to North America, where she was bought by the Wheatley family of Boston. After she learned to read and write, they encouraged her poetry when they saw her talent.(Submitted on April 25, 2026.)
On a 1773 trip to London with the Wheatleys' son, seeking publication of her work, Wheatley met prominent people who became her patrons. The publication in London of her Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral on September 1, 1773, brought her fame both in England and the American colonies. Prominent figures, such as George Washington, praised her work. A few years later, African-American poet Jupiter Hammon praised her work in a poem of his own.
Wheatley was emancipated by the Wheatleys shortly after the publication of herbook of poems. The Wheatleys died soon thereafter and Phillis Wheatley married John Peters, a poor grocer. They lost three children, who all died young. Wheatley-Peters died in poverty and obscurity at the age of 31.Photographed by Andrew Ruppenstein, April 25, 20262. Phillis Wheatley Marker - wide view
2. Phyllis Wheatley, African child genius. London plaque and mini documentary (Youtube, 5:16). On Tuesday the 16th July 2019, to coincide with the 246th anniversary of Phillis Wheatleys visit, a historic blue plaque was installed at the Dorsett City Hotel to commemorate her life and amazing contributions. (Submitted on April 25, 2026.)
Additional keywords. Phyllis Wheatly, blue plaque
Photographed by A. Bell (courtesy National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution), 1773
3. Phillis Wheatley
Credits. This page was last revised on April 25, 2026. It was originally submitted on April 25, 2026, by Andrew Ruppenstein of Lamorinda, California. This page has been viewed 11 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on April 25, 2026, by Andrew Ruppenstein of Lamorinda, California.
