Confronting history! A wiser man than I said "Truth before reconciliation." Until we acknowledge the truth there can be no healing. This website was created in memory of the Cape Verdeans of Nantucket and in response to the censorship by the Nantucket Historical Association of the novel, Oh, Nantucket, for its proximity to reality.
Remember, we are making tomorrow's history, today!
Families did not simply choose to leave the Cape Verde Islands, they were driven out by starvation, disease and death. Those that could manage passage for their families departed for Europe, Africa, South America and the United States.
Those who could not afford to leave, sent children to live with relatives abroad, to work and to send money back home. This memorial is to those children and their families, their separation, their sacrifice, and their struggle for survival.
Abensua bo!
It is my goal to see the physical version of this plaque placed in a location where all who pass can know their sacrifice!
These stories; some fact some fiction, speak to the people, the language and the culture of the Cape Verdeans who resided on Nantucket from the 1900's.
This site reflects the personal knowledge and experience of its creator.
View StoriesThe media consists of videos and images depicting the people and the culture and reflecting upon the social conditions they endured.
View Media