Weeksville was founded by James Weeks in 1838, just 11 years after New York had outlawed slavery. It’s located in what is now Crown Heights, Brooklyn.
Weeks sold plots of land to other Black people, some free, some formerly enslaved - and eventually a thriving community of homes and businesses was formed with hundreds of residents.
Land ownership was key. It was a way out of poverty and, because land was required in order to vote, it was also a form of political power-building. One of the first Black newspapers in America, the Freedman’s Torchlight, was also founded there.
In the 1960s and 70s, long after Weeksville had mostly been absorbed into Crown Heights, some of the homes from the earlier era were rediscovered. The Weeksville Heritage Center and museum were formed to preserve them and teach their history. But it may not last!
Rent keeps rising, and the Center is having trouble keeping its doors open. A crowdfunding campaign has raised enough to float it for now, but its future is in doubt.
It’s so important that we keep the tangible truths of our history alive.
If you’re able to help support the effort, check out their CrowdRise page or make a point to visit on your next trip to Brooklyn!