Emancipation Day at Negro Fort: A Sacred Gathering of Memory, Resistance, and Return

@Ronicaronica
May 29
3 min read

Updated: Jun 2

Fort Gadsden (Negro Fort), FL — Along the banks of the Apalachicola River, history awakened in a powerful way during this year’s Emancipation Day weekend at the site of the historic Negro Fort. More than just a commemoration, the event was a convergence of descendants, community leaders, scholars, and culture bearers honoring the legacies of African, Indigenous, and Maroon ancestors who fought and died for freedom on this land.

Built in 1814 by the Black British and later occupied by self-emancipated Indigenous Maroon warriors, Negro Fort remains one of the most important yet under-recognized sites of Black resistance in North America. It was the site of one of the first major acts of freedom defense in what would become the First Seminole War. For many, this gathering was not only about remembrance—it was a homecoming.

"We lit the smoke in honor of those who ran, who fought, who prayed and stayed,” said one participant. “We opened an ancestral portal this weekend—and those who returned walked through it in power."

A Celebration of Freedom and Cultural Survival

The event, co-organized by the North Florida African American Corridor Project (NFAACP) and supported by the Yamassee Indian Tribe’s Economic Committee, was more than a reenactment or festival. It was a spiritual weekend rooted in ritual, education, and cultural preservation.

Workshops, oral history sessions, site tours led by archaeologist Jeff Shanks, and spiritual practices led by Indigenous and Maroon elders created a space of collective healing and deep reflection. The presence of Meriken descendants from Trinidad, Seminole Maroons from the Bahamas, and attendees from Angola to Alabama underscored the vast diaspora connected to this sacred site.

The Land Speaks

As attendees gathered beneath ancient trees and along the earthen mounds of the fort, many described a tangible sense of presence—the land seemed to remember.

"Negro Fort is something magical," said Veronica, who served on both the event planning committee and the Yamassee Economic Committee. “I can truly envision what the future has in store for that land—cultural centers, healing grounds, and a return to Indigenous stewardship. This is about #LandBack and land repatriation.”

Honoring Ancestors and Building Futures

One of the most moving moments was a ceremonial smoke offering to the ancestors of Fort Negro. Led by tribal elders and descendants, the ceremony was a salutation of welcome to those who returned, and a spiritual acknowledgment that this land still holds memory and medicine.

Looking Ahead: Education and Empowerment

In the wake of the celebration, there has been an overwhelming response from attendees seeking help with genealogy and cultural reconnection. The initiative will also explore economic opportunities through heritage tourism and cultural preservation.

“This is just the beginning,” said Veronica. “A time was had, but we’re also building for the next seven generations. And I truly believe we’re right on time—divine time.”

Acknowledgments

Deep gratitude goes to Valentina Webb, Dr. Tolliver, Ms. Myrtis, archaeologist Jeff Shanks, Bria, and Park Ranger Nancy for their unwavering support and dedication. Special thanks to Iya Akilah, Dinizulu, the Seminole Maroon family, and all the descendants who came from near and far to make this gathering unforgettable.