Slavery To Freedom

• 5 Hours
• Max People : 40

Travel back in time and experience the unique synthesis of West Africa, the Caribbean, and the Americas in the Bahamas. Observe how the Bahamas was an important port of call for slavery and learn about its rich African heritage that transcended into Bahamian history. Your journey begins at Pompey Square where slaves were auctioned followed by the Pompey Museum where you will see historical artifacts of the slaves. Explore the oldest settlement in New Providence, Gambier Village, where the original inhabitants were never slaves because of the mutiny on the ship that crash-landed on the shores of the western side of the island.

Next, you will see ruins of the slave homes at Clifton Heritage which was previously a Whylly and Johnston plantation. Take a look at the beautiful, relaxing ocean where monuments of enslaved women were erected to show them looking towards West Africa, their home. Finally, the picturesque views of the Fort Fincastle and Queen’s staircase will bring everything together. The Queen’s staircase was carved by former slaves in gratitude to Queen Victoria for their liberation. Therefore, the final stop is one that commemorates freedom. Bask in the refreshing sounds of the waterfall and the beautiful sights at this historical site. This tour will bring you rich and lasting memories and will show you Bahamians from a different perspective…our history! Price includes admissions to Pompey Museum and Clifton Heritage National Park.

Tour Highlights

Pompey Square – Named after Pompey, the central figure of one of The Bahamas’ most significant slave revolts, Pompey Square is a cultural center where visitors can purchase handcrafted artwork and accessories, and its beautiful palm trees and water fountain also make it a picturesque place to relax and unwind, especially on a warm day.

One of the liveliest locales in downtown Nassau, many events, such as art and music festivals, occur at Pompey Square, adding to its festive atmosphere and allowing visitors to taste The Bahamas’ rich culture!

Pompey Museum – The Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation, named after a slave who led a slave revolt at a plantation on Exuma, is set within historic Vendue House, known for previously being a site for auctioning slaves, cattle, and imported goods.

A must-visit for history lovers, the Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation contains artifacts that date back centuries, and as visitors examine its many exhibitions, they can learn about the historical legacy of enslaved Africans, which is evident in Bahamian music, art, literature, and politics!

Whylly Plantation – Deep within Clifton Heritage National Park, almost hidden amongst a lush forest, lies the Whylly plantation, once home to two generations of African slaves who worked tirelessly to grow crops for their owner, William Whylly. Like slaves on other Bahamian plantations, the slaves on the Whylly plantation underwent immense cruelty but were allowed to marry each other and grow crops for themselves, such as cassava and sweet potato, which they either cooked or sold in markets.
Thanks to the establishment of Clifton Heritage National Park, the standing architecture of the plantation, which dates to the 18th century, is preserved and ready to be explored!

Queen’s Staircase – Often referred to as the 66 steps, the Queen’s Staircase is Nassau’s most visited attraction and, at the time of its construction in the late 1700s, played a pivotal role in The Bahamas’ defense, as it provided a direct route between Nassau and Fort Fincastle.

With every step you take on the enchanting Queen’s Staircase, located in downtown Nassau, you’ll delve further into The Bahamas’ rich, captivating history and hear the chilling stories of the brave slaves who carved them.

Fort Fincastle – Deriving its name from Governor John Murray, also known as Viscount Fincastle, Fort Fincastle is an impressive limestone structure that sits atop Bennet Hill, an area that provides beautiful views of downtown Nassau and its harbor.