10/05/2026
There is a long and storied tradition of Black sailors in Maine and New England. People of African heritage also worked in related shore-side industries such as longshoremen, blacksmiths and sailmakers. Maritime historian Seth Goldstein will share stories of Black mariners across time, starting with the African roots of Black sailors and progressing up to WWII.
Participants will learn why the occupation of sailor was so significant to formation of Portland's Black community and how this community participated in the activities of the Underground Railroad.
Free and Open to the Public
RSVP - https://BlackSalts.eventbrite.com or Click link in bio
Refreshments provided
Finding Place: Maine’s Black Presence Then and Now is presented by The Third Place, in partnership with Maine MILL, with support from the Maine Semiquincentennial Commission. The broader project brings together historians, artists, academic partners, and community organizations to expand public understanding of Black life in Maine – past and present.
Androscoggin Historical Soc. Maine MILL Bates College L/A Arts Maine Humanities BlackNESCAC Bates College Africana Club