The British Napoleonic Bicentenary Trust is now the UK-St Helena Heritage Trust.
Following the passing of the Bicentenary of Napoleon’s death on St Helena – the original focus of the Trust’s activities – and completion of the Jacob’s Ladder Restoration Project, the Trustees decided that it was time to take stock and consider the Trust’s future role in preserving and championing the unique built and cultural heritage of St Helena.
While the period of Napoleon’s exile is a vital continuing part of the island’s story, the history and heritage of St Helena – and its significance for UK and world history – is much broader, and going forward our activities and events will reflect this.
An important example is St Helena’s pivotal – but relatively unknown – role in ending Trans-Atlantic slavery. Between 1840 and 1872, 450 ships carrying more than 26,000 enslaved Africans were captured by the Royal Navy West Africa squadron and brought to St Helena, where the slaves were liberated and the crews put on trial. Tragically, more than 8,000 men, women and children died – mostly from disease – shortly after their liberation. Most were hastily interred in unmarked burial grounds, considered among the most significant physical remaining traces of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade in the world.
You can read more about St Helena's role in ending Trans-Atlantic slavery, and about the remains of the Liberated African Establishment at Rupert's Bay, here.
While the UK-St Helena Heritage Trust will continue to promote new perspectives on Napoleon’s imprisonment and support projects that protect important Napoleonic heritage sites (including the restoration of Toby’s Cottage, which has now commenced under the direction of Saint Helena Napoleonic Heritage), our new name reflects a widened focus that encompasses all aspects of St Helena’s built and cultural heritage. Please keep an eye on our newly-designed website for the latest news and updates.
Thank you for all of your support over the last 4 years – we hope you will join us for this exciting next chapter!