Unearthing a Hidden History: Connecticut’s Black Governors
Hey everyone, Dan Blanchard here from “Travel in Time“! I recently visited the ancient burial ground in Hartford, Connecticut, a place where many of the city’s earliest residents are laid to rest. But what many don’t know is that this site also holds the history of some truly remarkable figures: Connecticut’s Black Governors.
A Unique System of Leadership (1750s-1850s)
For about a hundred years, from the 1750s to the 1850s, Connecticut was home to a unique and progressive system where Black governors co-existed alongside white governors. This was during a period when slavery was still present, making this system even more extraordinary.
Here’s how it worked:
- After the election of the white governor, usually about a week later, there would be another election specifically for the Black community.
- The winner of this election would become the Black Governor, who would then co-rule or rule alongside the white governor.
- The election of the Black Governor was a significant event, often celebrated with huge parades and parties.
It’s important to remember that the Black Governor was primarily the governor of the Black population. While some viewed this as a way to control the Black community, the Black governors did wield genuine power and earned significant respect. They were indeed called “governor”.
Their Crucial Role and Responsibilities
Black governors played a vital role within their communities and as intermediaries:
- They would mediate disputes.
- They were responsible for giving out rules and punishments within the Black community.
- Crucially, they served as a go-between, fostering communication between the white and Black communities. The hope was for a trusted, intelligent Black governor to bridge the gap and work things out effective.
A fascinating example is Sam Huntington, who was both the Black slave of the white Governor Sam Huntington (a signer of the Declaration of Independence) and simultaneously the Black Governor. One can imagine the unique relationship and conversations that might have occurred between them.
Leadership Lessons from a Challenging Era
The history of Connecticut’s Black Governors offers profound insights into leadership, especially when facing adversity:
- Leadership, Even Without a Clear Power Structure: While they held a title, “Black Governor,” their power structure wasn’t always well-defined, and some doubted their authority. Yet, they were natural leaders, effectively serving their people despite the system. This highlights that leadership isn’t just about a title or formal power; it’s about the innate ability to lead.
- Service Over Perks: These leaders prioritized serving their population, demonstrating that true leadership involves more than just seeking the advantages of a position.
- Resilience in Adversity: The system existed during the era of slavery, a deeply challenging and “bad system” to operate within. Yet, these Black governors showcased incredible leadership resilience, shining even during “the worst of times”. Their stories remind us that true leaders emerge and prove their mettle when things go wrong and challenges arise.
The history of Connecticut’s Black Governors is a testament to strong leadership and community building, a chapter that has largely been forgotten.
Discover More!
If you’re interested in history, travel, and leadership lessons, I highly recommend visiting the ancient burial ground in Hartford, Connecticut, to connect with this important past. And be sure to check out more episodes of “Travel in Time” where we mix these fascinating topics together.
What do you think about the story of Connecticut’s Black Governors? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
This is Dan Blanchard from the Travel in Time Show, encouraging you to check out this Connecticut historical gem
Thanks for joining me on today’s Travel in Time journey, where travel, history, and leadership intertwine with me, Dan Blanchard. See you soon.
*Check out Dan’s historical leadership book series: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BN8XS8XS?binding=kindle_edition&searchxofy=true&ref_=dbs_s_aps_series_rwt_tkin&qid=1746200479&sr=8-1
*Watch Dan’s YouTube video about this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-9K7Qk04yJ0&t=14s
*Listen to Dan’s podcast about this blog: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/daniel-blanchard84/episodes/Travel-in-Time-Episode-9-CTs-Black-Governors-e33rfh7
*Learn more about Dan: www.GranddaddysSecrets.com