A new project – Sites of Memory Bermuda [SoMB] – will focus on producing and publishing an anthology of creative writing based on historic sites of enslavement in Bermuda.
A spokesperson said, “The lives of enslaved Bermudians, real and imagined, is to be the focus of a project to publish a creative writing anthology featuring stories based on historic sites of enslavement in Bermuda.
“The story of Bermuda has been explored extensively, but there remains much that is inevitably unknown, notably: the inner lives of those individuals doomed to a life in slavery. Now, a new project – Sites of Memory Bermuda [SoMB] – will focus on producing and publishing an anthology of creative writing based on historic sites of enslavement in Bermuda. This is an attempt to fill some of those gaps in our past, basing creative imagination on historical pillars of fact.
“Diverse sites have been selected to cover the broad spectrum of life for many in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. They will include historic properties and maritime locations. The writings will focus on the individuals who, despite being deemed ‘slaves’ were people with thoughts, feelings and everyday lives to live.
“The reimagining of lives of enslaved people in Bermuda linked to each site aims to shine light on their humanity, which was essentially erased for posterity by their status.
“The project launches on March 24 with a four-part course providing an overview of Bermuda’s known history, 1612-1834. Author Dr Angela Barry, creator and leader of the SoMB Project, will teach the course which will review the island’s history from settlement to emancipation. Titled ‘Settlement, Enslavement, Emancipation: Bermuda and the Mother Country’, it will examine the global historical forces that created Bermuda.
“The course will comprise four two-hour evening sessions, held on Tuesdays from 6:00 to 8:00, at the Butterfield & Vallis Conference Centre at Bermuda College. It is open to everyone interested in the history and development of Bermuda. Creative writers who may be interested in participating in the anthology will find it particularly useful for context and scene-setting.
“The second course, ‘Interpreting History and Creating a Story’, will require submission of a piece of creative writing to qualify for attendance. It is scheduled to take place in June at the Bermuda National Library.
Writing Sample
“A writing sample of 2000 – 2500 words will be required from everyone wishing to be considered for the anthology, whether or not you have taken the first course. The deadline is May 15 and the sample does not have to be new work.
Registration and Payment
“If you have any enquiries about the upcoming course, please contact us at sitesofmemorybda@gmail.com.
“Payment of $150 can be made by March 23 online to Bermuda College HSBC account 002 027258 011, referencing your last name and SoMB; or in person, at Bermuda College Business Office, second floor of the College Centre Building.
“To confirm your registration, it would be appreciated if you could send a quick email to sitesofmemorybda@gmail.com with your full name.”
