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What was it like to build a pirate ship?

St Mary's Church, Church Lane, Henbury, Bristol, Bristol, BS10 7QG

  • 12 Sep 2026
  • | In person
  • | Pre-booking not required
  • | Site opening

Come and explore something of the fascinating everyday lives of poor workers linked to Bristol Merchants based in Henbury.

Did you know that Henbury has a fascinating history - with much of its heritage associated with the wealthy Bristol Merchant families and politicians who made their fortunes using enslaved labour as part of the transatlantic slave trade and as bankers. Many of these people are memorialised in Henbury Parish Church, including the infamous Thomas Daniel, the Harford family who owned the Blaise Estate and the Southwells who owned Kings Weston Estate.

Amongst these memorials is one to a man called Teast - a shipbuilder who, as well as making ships which were used in the transportation of enslaved Africans, also built pirate ships! Come and find out what it was like to work on shipbuilding in the 17th Century. Discover more about the harsh conditions for enslaved people on these ships as they made their way to colonies around the Caribbean.

While you're here, explore the beautiful church and surrounding grounds and enjoy some refreshments.

Timings

Saturday 12 September:
1400-1700

Location & directions

St Mary's Church, Church Lane, Henbury, Bristol, Bristol, BS10 7QG

Contact on day:
Jae

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:
Pre-booking not required

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