Ahoy! Exploring life on board a ship during Bristol's maritime heyday

Did you know that Henbury has a fascinating history that tells the story of Bristol's maritime heyday of the 18th Century? In and around the church you will discover the names of many wealthy Bristol families who made their fortunes during the height of the colonial era and the transatlantic slave trade. People like the infamous enslaver Thomas Daniel, the Quaker Harford family who were abolitionists and owned the Blaise Estate and the Southwell family who owned Kings Weston Estate.

Amongst these memorials is one to a man named Sydenahm Teast. He was a shipbuilder who, as well as making ships which were used in the transportation of enslaved Africans, also built privateer ships. A pirate shipbuilder!

Come and find out what it was like to work on shipbuilding in the 17th and 18th Century. Discover more about the harsh conditions for enslaved people and crew 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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