The Early Years of Abolition

Setting the Stage: The Early Years of Abolition

This past weekend, we celebrated the birth of American Independence. However, it was not until July 4th, 1827 - the date of final emancipation - that New York State could truly celebrate the notion of Independence, making New York the first state to pass a law for the total abolition of legal slavery.

Here is a panel from our ongoing exhibition 15 Years of New Discoveries: Rensselaer County’s Black History, highlighting the early years of abolition work right here in Troy, NY and Rensselaer County.