Echoes of the Past
Environmental Struggles and Resilience in Bristol's History
An Earth Day Reflection
By Sherri V. Cummings
Member, Bristol Middle Passage Port Marker Project Board of Directors
Bristol is a town rich in history, where the stories of the Pokanoket people, European settlers, early African American communities, and industrial expansion intersect. Examining the environmental history of Bristol reveals a complex narrative of land use, cultural conflict, and community resilience. From the ancestral lands of the Pokanoket to the industrial challenges faced by New Gorée, Bristol's past offers valuable lessons for our present.
The Pokanoket people were the original stewards of the lands now known as Bristol. Their deep spiritual connection to the environment guided their sustainable practices. However, the arrival of European colonists dramatically altered this relationship. Colonial expansion, fueled by land acquisition and resource exploitation, led to the dispossession of Pokanoket lands.
King Philip's War (1675–1676) marked a turning point, resulting in the loss of significant ancestral territories, including the sacred site of Mount Hope. Despite this historical injustice, the Pokanoket Nation continues to advocate for environmental stewardship and the preservation of their cultural heritage. Their enduring commitment highlights the importance of Indigenous environmental knowledge and the ongoing struggle for land rights.
The 19th century brought significant industrial growth to Bristol, transforming its landscape and impacting its environment. Shipbuilding, rubber manufacturing, and fishing industries flourished, but at a cost. The operation of the menhaden processing works, for instance, introduced significant pollution into local waterways.
These industrial activities often resulted in habitat degradation and environmental pollution, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. The residents of New Goree, a free African American community established in the early 19th century, faced the brunt of these challenges.
The New Gorée neighborhood, located along the Wood Street corridor, was established by free African American residents of Bristol after the American Revolution and the passing of the Gradual Abolition Act of 1784. As industrialization progressed in the nineteenth century, the community encountered increasing environmental challenges. The construction of the United States Rubber Company plant in 1864 contributed to the neighborhood's decline by displacing its residents and impacting local environmental conditions. Despite these hardships, the residents of New Gorée demonstrated resilience, highlighting the strength and determination of marginalized communities in the face of environmental adversity.
The transformation of land in Bristol reflects the shifting cultural values and economic priorities of its diverse communities. Areas like Mount Hope, once central to Pokanoket spiritual life, were repurposed for agriculture and industry by European settlers.
Understanding how different groups valued and utilized the land provides a nuanced perspective on historical environmental interactions. This knowledge is crucial for informing contemporary discussions about land conservation and cultural preservation. By acknowledging the past, we can work towards a more equitable and sustainable future.
Bristol's environmental history is a testament to the enduring impact of cultural interactions and industrial development. The stories of the Pokanoket people and the residents of New Gorée underscore the importance of environmental stewardship and social justice. By learning from the past, we can strive to protect our natural resources and honor the diverse histories that shape our communities.
