As February marks the start of Black History Month, researchers from Western University are working to uncover stories lost in London’s history. “London feels very much like a white space, especially when you look at historical pictures of London, but there are lots of locations in London that testify to this Black experience,” said Alyssa MacLean, a researcher with the Black Londoners Project. One location is especially meaningful, at the corner of Ridout Street and Dundas Street. “This was the location of Alfred T. Jones’ apothecary shop,” said MacLean. “Alfred T. Jones escaped from enslavement in 1833 and came to London.” Researchers said just across the street from the apothecary shop once stood a dry goods store owned my Alfred T. Jones’ brother. “It’s a really good example of how visible Black presence was in London and how erased it is now,” said MacLean. She said it is important we continue to discover stories and understand London’s Black history. “We’re really trying to find more information from sources that aren’t always consulted and from people that weren’t always consulted, when our current interpretations of history were being constructed,” said MacLean. Meanwhile members of London’s Black community are hosting events throughout the month to showcase the strong and ongoing presence across the city. “It’s always the past looking towards the future, it is the endless possibilities, it’s to make sure the rights that were hard won are not being taken back,” said Zahra McDoom, curator of collections at the Museum of London. The Museum of London will be hosting a Black History Month opening ceremony this Saturday, an opportunity to reflect, learn, and celebrate London’s vibrant Black history. “The theme this year is empowered voices, endless possibilities, 200 years of living history and it’s going to be a very exciting day,” said McDoom. The event will take place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
