A Look Inside the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) continues to captivate visitors with its powerful exhibits that honor African American history and culture. One of its standout features, however, is due for a poignant transition. The museum recently announced that it will be removing a significant artifact from its “Slavery and Freedom” exhibit: a timber remnant from the infamous slave ship “São José-Paquete de Africa.”

The Valuable Timber Artifact

This 33-pound piece of timber has held immense historical weight since it was put on display when the museum opened in 2016. On loan from the Iziko Museums of South Africa, the artifact has been a key element in conveying the harrowing narratives of the transatlantic slave trade. However, its loan agreement is set to expire on July 1, 2023, necessitating the careful extraction of this delicate relic.

Museum officials have stressed that the removal of the timber is not simply a matter of logistics; it is rooted in the necessity of preserving its integrity. The wood’s fragility means that a specially constructed crate must be designed for its safe transport back to South Africa, ensuring that this piece of history is returned in the best possible condition.

Historical Significance of the “São José”

The “São José” holds a tragic place in history. The Portuguese ship sank off the coast of Cape Town in December 1794, carrying more than 400 Mozambican captives who were destined for Brazil. Tragically, half of those aboard perished during the wreck. The survivors faced a grim future, as they were resold into slavery. The shipwreck itself was located and excavated in 2015, marking one of the earliest documented recoveries of a slave ship tied to the transatlantic slave trade.

In addition to the timber, the ship’s ballast stones—used to stabilize the vessel during its dangerous voyage—will remain on display in the gallery for an additional two years before returning home. A new document detailing the ship’s cargo will replace the timber, ensuring that the story continues to be told even as the artifact departs.

Transparency in the Exhibition

Museum deputy director Michelle Commander has made it clear that the decision to remove the timber is strictly based on the expiration of the loan agreement and the need to care for the artifact. “That’s why we’re being transparent in this moment,” she asserted, recognizing the public’s interest in understanding the processes that govern such sensitive historical displays.

This move not only reflects the museum’s commitment to preserving history but also its dedication to ethical practices regarding artifacts that embody profound human experiences.

Looking Ahead

As this significant piece of history prepares to leave the NMAAHC, the museum remains a vital institution for those seeking to understand the rich and often painful narratives that shaped the African American experience. The careful decisions made by its leadership exemplify a deep respect for the past while paving the way for future engagement with these essential stories.

With such changes on the horizon, visitors are encouraged to experience the NMAAHC’s offerings before the timber departs on March 22, 2023. As the museum continues to evolve, it provides a powerful platform for reflection, education, and dialogue about African American history, culture, and legacy.

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