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From the Crusades to the Windrush Generation: Black History in Cambridge & East Anglia

This event is part of a series of Black History Month events at the Museum of Cambridge; find other events here.
Join us for a talk by local historian Dr Carol Brown-Leonardi exploring black history in Cambridge and East Anglia, tracing stories of resilience and history of the black contribution to English society from the Crusades to the present day.
Explore the remarkable life of Olaudah Equiano, the African abolitionist whose powerful autobiography helped shift public opinion against the transatlantic slave trade.
Hear the stories of the Caribbean communities who arrived in the UK and Cambridge in the 1950s and 1960s, establishing thriving local communities. Recently collected oral histories are featured as part of the Legacies of Windrush exhibition which is on until 26th January 2026.
This is a companion event to our exhibition, ‘Legacies of Windrush in Cambridge’, which aims to shine a light on the lives and experiences of the Caribbean Windrush community and those who left an indelible mark on Cambridge and the UK.
Supporting the Museum of Cambridge
The Museum of Cambridge is an independent Charity and is not part of either the Cambridge Council or the University of Cambridge. We kindly suggest a donation of £5, which supports the daily running and conservation care of the Museum, an independent charity.
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Accessibility
You can also read about our accessibility information on our website. If you’d like to chat through any accessibility requirements, don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01223 355159 or email enquiries@museumofcambridge.org.uk. Event attendees with additional needs are welcome to bring a supporter or carer who will be admitted to the event free of charge.
Getting Here
We are in the centre of Cambridge. You’ll find us at the corner of Castle Street and Northampton Street. We are right beside Kettle’s Yard and only a 15-minute walk from King’s College.
You can park your bike at the bike parks on Bridge Street or on Northampton Street. There is a bus stop on Bridge Street. Check out the Stagecoach website to plan your journey to and from the Museum. Find out more about how to get here by train, bike, bus, car or on foot on our website.
Photography and Videography
Please note that this talk will be recorded for future viewing online. Please also note that photographs will be taken throughout this event, and images may be used in future marketing and reporting materials. If you do not wish for you or your family’s photograph to be taken, please make sure to let us know.
Healthy Events
If you’re feeling unwell or have recently tested positive for Covid-19, please do not attend this event. We’ll be happy to offer you a refund if applicable, and welcome you at the Museum on another day.