Snowtown: A Hidden History of Racism and Resilience in Providence
Archaeological Discovery Sheds Light on Lost Community
In the heart of Providence, Rhode Island, where the imposing State House now stands, there once thrived a vibrant community called Snowtown. But this community’s history was tragically cut short by a racist mob attack in 1831. Now, archaeological excavations are uncovering the remnants of Snowtown, revealing a hidden story of inequality and resilience.
A Thriving Community in the Shadow of Prejudice
Snowtown was a diverse and close-knit community, home to free Black people, Native Americans, immigrants, and poor white laborers. Despite their contributions to the city’s economy, they faced discrimination and exclusion. Many worked in low-paying jobs or lived in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions.
The Mob Attack of 1831
In 1831, a violent mob of white sailors attacked Snowtown, destroying homes and businesses. The violence stemmed from racial prejudice and the perception of Snowtown as a threat to white society. The mob’s actions left four people dead and forced the community to rebuild.
Snowtown’s Legacy: Resilience and Resistance
Despite the attack, the people of Snowtown refused to be silenced. They rebuilt their homes and businesses, and continued to fight for their rights and dignity. Snowtown became a symbol of both the resilience of marginalized communities and the ongoing struggle for racial justice.
Archaeology Uncovers Hidden History
In the early 1980s, archaeological excavations uncovered a wealth of artifacts from Snowtown, including ceramics, tools, and personal belongings. These artifacts provide valuable insights into the daily lives and struggles of the community’s residents.
Snowtown Project: Reclaiming a Lost History
The Snowtown Project, a collaboration between historians, archaeologists, and community members, is dedicated to uncovering and sharing the history of Snowtown. Through research, public exhibitions, and educational programs, the project aims to bring this hidden history to light and promote understanding of the complex issues of race and inequality in American history.
Snowtown History Walks: A Journey into the Past
The Snowtown History Walks offer a unique opportunity to explore the remnants of Snowtown and learn about its history. Guided tours lead visitors through the streets where the community once stood, revealing the physical and social landscape of this vanished neighborhood.
Public Art and Performance: Giving Voice to the Silenced
Artists and performers are playing a vital role in the Snowtown Project by creating works that bring the community’s story to life. Playwright Sylvia Ann Soares is working on a Snowtown-themed play that will premiere next year, using drama and music to convey the experiences of the community’s residents.
Snowtown: A Microcosm of American History
The story of Snowtown is not just a local history; it is a microcosm of the larger history of race and inequality in the United States. It is a reminder of the struggles faced by marginalized communities and the resilience they have shown in the face of adversity.
The Ongoing Fight for Racial Justice
The Snowtown Project is not just about uncovering the past; it is also about inspiring action in the present. By shedding light on the history of racism and inequality, the project aims to promote understanding and foster a more just and equitable society.
Call to Action
The legacy of Snowtown continues to inspire activists and advocates today. The Black Lives Matter movement has brought renewed attention to the ongoing struggle for racial justice, and the Snowtown Project is part of this larger movement. By learning from the past and working together, we can create a future where all voices are heard and all communities are valued.