What's Happening?
Letters written by Hannah More, a prominent abolitionist and novelist born in Bristol in 1745, are being digitized to provide significant insights into the history of the abolition campaign. More, who was instrumental in opening some of the UK's first
schools for the working class, wrote a poem titled 'Slavery' that was used in William Wilberforce's parliamentary campaign to abolish the enslavement of Africans. The digitization project, led by University of Bristol research fellow Ben Wilkinson-Turnbull, aims to make these letters accessible to the public, offering a 'massive bit of the jigsaw' in understanding the abolition movement. The letters, spanning from 1766 to 1833, are being transcribed and will be showcased at Nailsea's Tithe Barn, a site where More established a Sunday school in 1792.
Why It's Important?
The digitization of Hannah More's letters is crucial for understanding the historical context and grassroots efforts that contributed to the abolition of slavery in Britain. More's writings not only supported Wilberforce's campaign but also provided educational opportunities for the working class, reflecting her broader impact on society. By making these letters publicly accessible, the project enhances community engagement with local history and highlights the role of women in social reform movements. This initiative underscores the importance of preserving historical documents to educate future generations about the struggles and achievements in the fight against slavery.
What's Next?
The project will continue to digitize and transcribe the remaining letters, with plans to map the buildings associated with More in Somerset and Bristol. This effort aims to deepen public understanding of More's influence and the historical landscape of the abolition movement. The digitized letters will serve as a resource for historians, educators, and the general public, fostering a greater appreciation for the contributions of individuals like More in shaping social justice initiatives.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond the immediate historical insights, the project highlights the evolving role of women in literature and social activism. More's friendship with figures like Samuel Taylor Coleridge and her influence on educational reforms demonstrate the interconnectedness of cultural and political movements. The digitization effort also raises awareness about the importance of preserving and studying historical documents to gain a comprehensive understanding of past social justice efforts.
