The Amistad Schooner
City: New Haven
Please check the Discovering Amistad website for the ship’s current location. The Amistad is Connecticut’s flagship.
The Amistad schooner replica in New Haven is a full-scale reproduction of the original ship, which played a significant role in American history. The original Amistad was a Spanish-built schooner that became famous in 1839 when it was taken over by captives from Sierra Leone who had been illegally transported for the slave trade. The ship eventually arrived in New Haven, where the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Africans’ freedom. They were arrested and charged with mutiny and murder but were defended by abolitionist lawyers, including former President John Quincy Adams. The United States Supreme Court ultimately ruled in favor of the Africans, affirming their right to fight for their freedom and return to Africa. The Amistad trial was the first human rights trial in the US and became a symbol of the international struggle against slavery. The replica Amistad schooner in New Haven is a floating classroom and educational center. It was built in 2000 to commemorate the historical significance of the original Amistad incident. The ship offers educational programs and tours to teach visitors about the history of slavery, the abolitionist movement, and the legal battles surrounding the Amistad case. It continues to be an important symbol of freedom and justice in American history.
351 Long Wharf Dr, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
860-992-4933
