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Black history is integral to every era of the Vassall-Craigie-Longfellow House. On this page you'll find stories of slavery and resistance; of freedom and community; of abolition and education. This home was originally built for enslaver and sugar planter John Vassall Jr. in 1759. The people he and his family enslaved in Cambridge - including married couple Cuba and Anthony Vassall and their children - seized their freedom in 1774. Others enslaved by John Vassall in Cambridge included Dinah, Malcolm, William, and three children: James and two unnamed “small boys.” Cuba and Anthony Vassall's children became involved in the struggle for abolition and civil rights, occasionally intersecting with the Longfellows' philanthropic abolitionist efforts. Other key stories include the experiences of free and enslaved Black laborers at Washington's Cambridge headquarters, literary history, and the site's connection to Tuskegee and Hampton Universities. 
Though Dwelling in a Land of FreedomLearn more about the lives and activism of Tony and Cuba Vassall - enslaved and free at 105 Brattle St. - and their descendants. 
Bondage and the Building of Brattle St.We explore the early history of 105 Brattle Street, focusing on the history of slavery and emancipation at the site. 
Beyond "Poems on Slavery"This new article examines the work of Black abolitionist poets Frances E.W. Harper and George M. Horton in contrast with Longfellow. 
“More Precious Than Rubies”Learn about the Black students whose education and work at Hampton Institute and Tuskegee Institute was supported by Alice Longfellow.
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Ranger Anna explores the early history of 105 Brattle Street, including the history of slavery and emancipation at the site. Jump to dateSearch Filters
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Last updated: June 20, 2022