DONALDSONVILLE, LA.—-This exhibit tells the compelling story of the GU272, a group of enslaved people purchased and trafficked by the Jesuits of Georgetown University in Maryland to Dr. Jesse Batey and Henry S. Johnson, sugarcane planters in Louisiana. The Episcopal Church of Ascension was selected as the location for this exhibit because the church was co-founded by Governor Henry S. Johnson who practiced law and resided in Donaldsonville.
Art is included in the timeline of this American history, thanks to the commissioned images created by Louisiana artist Malaika Favorite and the sculpture donated by Connecticut artist, Linda Vauters.
The exhibit’s virtual component provides links to more detailed information and documents in the Georgetown Slavery Archives. The on-site exhibit was curated by Kathe Hambrick with the assistance of GU272 historian and genealogist, Karran Royal. A series of genealogy workshops were conducted to educate the public and descendants about the GU272 of Ascension Parish.
This project was funded by a grant to the River Road African American Museum from the Social Science Research Council.
Registration for the Opening Reception required. For more information call Kathe Hambrick at 225-206-1225.
SAVE THE DATE—— June 18, 2022 (Space limited)
Exhibit Opening Reception and Program: GU272 and Ascension Parish: The Jesuit and Episcopal Connection to Slavery
For more information call Kathe Hambrick at 225-206-1225