Archaeologists from the University of New Hampshire (UNH) and a historian from Northeastern University have teamed up to uncover what they believe is the long-lost estate of King Pompey. Pompey was an enslaved African who won his freedom and became one of the first black landowners in colonial New England. Pompey Mansfield's house was a historical mystery. The discovery on the banks of the Saugus River could provide a deep insight into the life of this respected community leader.

“We are thrilled,” said Meghan Howey, professor of anthropology at UNH. “I am absolutely convinced that this is an 18th-century foundation, and everything that points to this being the home of King Pompey is very compelling,” the University of New Hampshire said in a press release.

The site is located on the Saugus River and was found by referring to historical documents such as deeds and maps. Historical accounts show that King Pompey's house was located on a river in a quiet and peaceful setting. (Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University)

Piecing together the past

Kabria Baumgartner, associate professor of history and African studies at Northeastern University, commented on the significance of the find in her report:

“King Pompey was a respected leader of the black community, but his house and property always remained a mystery. Being there and witnessing the unveiling was exciting.”

The research team, which included archaeologist Alyssa Moreau and community historian Diane Fiske of UNH's Great Bay Archaeological Survey, spent months carefully examining public records, deeds and genealogical records. They used historical maps, modern topographic maps created using LIDAR, probate records and historical newspapers to pinpoint the location.

The archaeological team from the University of New Hampshire and Northeastern University at the excavation site on the Saugus River. (Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University)

The meaning of Black Election Day

According to historical accounts, King Pompey was a prominent figure who purchased land, built a stone house in Lynn, and hosted free and enslaved blacks on “Black Election Day,” also known as “Negro Election Day.”

This annual event, marked by dances and songs based on West African traditions, was a significant celebration for black communities in colonial New England. It coincided with the day on which whites elected their leaders and culminated in the election and coronation of a black king who played a crucial role in community affairs.

The archaeological team uncovered a foundation made of river stones that matches historical descriptions. They dug through various layers, including rubbish, concrete and mortar, to reveal the 18th-century structure. The discovery of a hand-crafted pebble foundation without quarry rock showed ingenuity and fits with the limited resources available to Pompey.

Kabria Baumgartner, associate professor of history and African studies in the deanery, works at the site that archaeologists believe is the home of King Pompey. (Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University)

A look into the world of King Pompey

Baumgartner shared her excitement about the discovery. “It's rare that I get the opportunity to be present at a site, and thanks to the archaeological work of Meghan and her team, we're getting a better sense of King Pompey's world. It was exactly as described, serene and peaceful.”

The researchers hope to work with the National Park Service to erect a historical marker honoring King Pompey and create exhibits that tell the history and significance of Black Election Day. The project was funded by the New England Humanities Consortium (NEHC) and Northeastern University.

The University of New Hampshire, a Carnegie Classification R1 institution, continues to inspire innovation and change lives through its top-ranked programs and significant research partnerships as it further explores and defines the frontiers on land, sea and space.

Top image: Members of the multi-institutional team at the excavation site of the presumed residence of King Pompey. Source: Mathew Modoono/Northeastern University

By Gary Manners