By Julia O’Keefe on WWLP.com on May 27, 2025
LONGMEADOW, Mass. (WWLP) – A ceremony to honor two enslaved individuals from the 18th century was held at the First Church of Longmeadow Thursday morning.
These stones come as part of the Witness Stones project, and they not only show that slavery existed in Longmeadow, but also that it’s a history that must be acknowledged.
The project is a non-profit initiative that aims to restore the history of enslaved individuals who lived in communities here in the Northeast.
Students at Williams Middle School have researched Nicholas and Peter, two individuals enslaved by Reverend Stephen Williams in the 18th century. They delivered powerful remarks telling these individuals’ stories and emphasizing their humanity. Their teacher, Tracy Bradshaw, says that’s the goal of the project.
“They have created narratives, they have created artwork and poems, and now we feel like we have a complete history of our town and the kids are really hearing and listening to all of that,” said Bradshaw.
The Witness Stones Project emphasizes that slavery did not just exist in the South, and through its stones, educates students like those in Longmeadow.
The ceremony concluded with a blessing of the stones by Reverend Doug Bixby. Now, their goal is to place a plaque above the stones to explain their purpose to all who pass by.
You can donate to the project by visiting their website.
