Harriet E. Wilson and the Abolition Movement - BNEC 2026 Bus Tour

Friday, October 23

Harriet E. Wilson and the Abolition Movement

Milford Tour with Sankofa Scholar David Nelson
Cost: $40 per person
Leaving from Manchester, NH.

Long before her name became known in literary history, Harriet E. Wilson was navigating life in the small town of Milford, New Hampshire. Wilson, the first known African American to publish a novel on the North American continent, transformed the pain and injustice of her early life into Our Nig (1859), a groundbreaking work that challenged the belief that racism and exploitation were confined to the South.

This moving tour traces the places connected to her life as a child-servant, young mother, widow, and writer—revealing the experiences that shaped her voice and legacy. Along the way, you’ll learn about Harriet’s only son, George, whose tragic death in a poorhouse reflected the harsh realities she struggled to overcome.

Please note: Each tour requires a minimum of 20 participants to run. If fewer than 20 people register, we will notify you at least 48 hours in advance and provide a full refund or the opportunity to transfer to another tour. All tours depart from Manchester. Location TBD.