About Us
Founded in 2006 by Dr. Barbara Brown, Hidden Brookline is dedicated to uncovering and sharing the overlooked histories of slavery, freedom, and Black life in Brookline, Massachusetts. Through research, public programs, and community engagement, we work to illuminate the people, places, and stories that have shaped Brookline’s past and continue to influence its present.
Dr. Barbara Brown holds a Ph.D. in African Politics from Boston University and has authored the majority of the site’s content through meticulous, long-term research. Her work draws on a rich range of primary sources—including church, town, and state records, diaries, wills, textbooks, and newspapers--alongside diverse secondary sources, from scholarly studies to local histories of Brookline.
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In our first 20 years, we have partnered with historical organizations, schools, preservation groups, and community institutions to bring hidden histories into public conversation.
Our work has included serving on advisory committees for:
Hidden Brookline continues to conduct original research into Brookline’s history, including ongoing work examining the town’s six known slave traders and the broader systems that connected Brookline to slavery.
Our research has also led to the creation of permanent public memorial stones, each commemorated through a public unveiling ceremony. Through exhibits, lectures, cultural programs, and partnerships, Hidden Brookline continues to make this history accessible to the wider community.
Our programs have included:
Join Us!
Hidden Brookline regularly offers walking tours exploring slavery and freedom in Brookline through Brookline Adult Education and for private groups. We welcome groups of six or more and can schedule tours at a time that works for your group. To learn about upcoming tours, visit our walking tours page.
For more information, to schedule a talk, or to arrange a walking tour, please contact:
Dr. Barbara Brown holds a Ph.D. in African Politics from Boston University and has authored the majority of the site’s content through meticulous, long-term research. Her work draws on a rich range of primary sources—including church, town, and state records, diaries, wills, textbooks, and newspapers--alongside diverse secondary sources, from scholarly studies to local histories of Brookline.
______________
In our first 20 years, we have partnered with historical organizations, schools, preservation groups, and community institutions to bring hidden histories into public conversation.
Our work has included serving on advisory committees for:
- Faneuil Hall -- contributing research and historical perspectives on its connections to slavery
- Revolutionary Act -- highlighting the histories of suffragists and activists, including Florida Ruffin Ridley
- Hidden Jamaica Plain — encouraging the establishment of the organization
- Brookline Preservation Commission — providing research on Brookline’s connections to slave trading
- Heath School — exploring the history and legacy of the Heath family
- watch our 30-minute talk at History Cambridge here.
Hidden Brookline continues to conduct original research into Brookline’s history, including ongoing work examining the town’s six known slave traders and the broader systems that connected Brookline to slavery.
Our research has also led to the creation of permanent public memorial stones, each commemorated through a public unveiling ceremony. Through exhibits, lectures, cultural programs, and partnerships, Hidden Brookline continues to make this history accessible to the wider community.
Our programs have included:
- Talks and exhibits at Brookline libraries and community organizations
- Cultural events celebrating Black history and achievement
- A concert honoring internationally renowned singer Roland Hayes
- A preview event featuring a downtown play about Roland Hayes and his legacy
Join Us!
Hidden Brookline regularly offers walking tours exploring slavery and freedom in Brookline through Brookline Adult Education and for private groups. We welcome groups of six or more and can schedule tours at a time that works for your group. To learn about upcoming tours, visit our walking tours page.
For more information, to schedule a talk, or to arrange a walking tour, please contact:
- Dr. Lloyd Gellineau
- Dr. Barbara Brown
Originally designed by Suzette Abbott
Updated by Isabella Nguyen in 2026
