Join us for the first Pathways to Nature Black History Hike with Wyndham Land Trust.

In the 1940’s, Mary Webster, a woman of African and Native American descent, told Susan Jewett Griggs that she was descended from the enslaved Randalls who are buried in the Randall/Higginbotham Burial Ground. Griggs recorded Mary’s story in her book of oral histories, Folklore and Firesides.

Mary’s great-great grandfather, Reuben Randall, was born enslaved on the Randall estate in 1777, and likely helped the Higginbothams with building the dam for the mills on Nightingale Brook in the early 1800’s.

Learn more about Mary’s people as we dig into the understory of Nightingale Woods owned by Wyndham Land Trust in Pomfret.

Historian Donna Dufresne from the Pomfret Historical Society will share the research that links generations of people of color going back to the enslaved Africans buried in the Randall/Higginbotham Burial Ground on the property. The moderate hike will begin at the Darius Higginbotham homestead on Taft Pond Rd. in Pomfret and end at the burial ground where we will reflect upon the memorial stone for the enslaved Africans buried there.

Location: Pomfret, CT Register below to receive a confirmation email with meeting location and driving directions

Hiking Conditions: We will hike a total of 3 miles.This is an intermediate-level hike with some uphill portions and muddy conditions. Sturdy footwear is a must and walking sticks are suggested. 

What to Bring: Bring water, bug spray, and sun protection (hat, sunblock, sunglasses). CLCC will provide water, snacks, and binoculars in case people would also like to spot birds during the hike

Restrooms: No restroom or portable toilets

Event Capacity: Space is limited to just 30 participants! Once you register, you’ll receive information about the meeting location and parking instructions. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to connect with history and nature—sign up now!

Register below and provide an email address to receive weather updates. If light rain is forecasted, the event will go on but if heavy rain is forecasted then the event will be rescheduled to the following day, Sunday June 28th 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM.