Strolling through London’s storied streets, one might chance upon the remarkable tale of Ottobah Cugoano, a pioneering figure in the abolition of slavery and a beacon within the city’s historical narrative. Captured from his homeland in what is now Ghana, Ottobah Cugoano’s journey to freedom led him to the bustling heart of London, where he became an essential voice against the horrors of the trans-Atlantic slave trade.
His time at Schomberg House, under the bookemploy of the illustrious Richard and Maria Cosway, provided him not just with shelter but a platform to pen his influential book, which challenged the very foundations of the slave trade. While you wander past the blue plaques in London, marking the places where history was made, you might find yourself curious about St. James Piccadilly, where Cugoano was baptised, and where his legacy is still celebrated today.
Join us as we explore the life of one of the leaders of London’s black community, and perhaps consider booking a London guided walk to uncover the many stories hidden within London’s streets.
Ottobah Cugoano: A Trailblazing Legacy
Ottobah Cugoano’s journey from captivity to becoming a pivotal figure in the abolition of slavery is a testament to human resilience and the power of the written word. His life story, deeply intertwined with London’s history, continues to inspire and educate.
Early Life and Captivity
Ottobah Cugoano was born around 1757 in what is now Ghana. His early years were marked by a tragic turn of events that would shape his future and the course of history.
At the tender age of 13, Cugoano’s life changed forever when he was captured along with about 20 other children. This brutal act tore him away from his family and homeland, thrusting him into the horrific trans-Atlantic slave trade.
Cugoano was transported to Grenada, where he experienced the harsh realities of plantation life. This period of captivity would later fuel his passionate advocacy against slavery.
Freedom in London
In 1772, Cugoano’s life took another dramatic turn when he was brought to London. This coincided with a landmark legal decision that would have significant implications for enslaved people in England.
Lord Chief Justice Mansfield’s ruling in the Somerset case declared that no enslaved person who came to England could be forcibly returned to enslavement. While the details of Cugoano’s path to freedom are unclear, this ruling likely played a crucial role.
Cugoano found employment with Richard and Maria Cosway at Schomberg House on Pall Mall. This position provided him with stability and, importantly, access to influential circles that would later support his abolitionist efforts.
The plaque to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the baptism of Ottobah Cuguano in St. James’s church, Piccadilly. Photo by Philip Scott.
Literary Contributions
Cugoano’s most significant contribution to the abolitionist movement came through his powerful writing. His experiences as an enslaved person gave him a unique and authoritative voice in the fight against slavery.
In 1787, Cugoano published his seminal work, ‘Thoughts and Sentiments on the Evil and Wicked Traffic of the Slavery and Commerce of the Human Species’. This book was a scathing indictment of the slave trade, drawing from his personal experiences and moral arguments.
Beyond his book, Cugoano was active in writing to newspapers and prominent individuals, consistently condemning the slave trade. His writings were instrumental in shaping public opinion and challenging the moral foundations of slavery.
The Cosways and Schomberg House
The story of Ottobah Cugoano is inextricably linked with the Cosways and their residence, Schomberg House. This connection provided Cugoano with a unique platform from which to advocate for abolition.
Richard Cosway’s Artistic Influence
Richard Cosway (1742-1821) was a renowned portrait artist whose work captured the likenesses of the fashionable and famous, including the Prince of Wales (later George IV).
As the ‘First Painter to the Prince of Wales’, Cosway held a position of significant influence in London’s artistic and social circles. This status likely provided Cugoano with access to influential individuals who could support the abolitionist cause.
Despite his fame, Cosway struggled with mental health issues, which at times led to his institutionalisation. This personal struggle adds a layer of complexity to the household in which Cugoano lived and worked.
Maria Cosway: A Pioneering Woman
Maria Cosway (1760-1838) was a remarkable figure in her own right, breaking barriers for women in the arts during a time when such achievements were rare.
Born in Florence to Anglo-Italian parents, Maria was a talented painter and musician. Her work was exhibited at the Royal Academy, a significant accomplishment for a woman of her time. She was supported in this endeavour by Angelica Kaufman, another pioneering female artist.
Maria’s influence extended beyond the arts. She founded girls’ schools in Paris and Lodi, Italy, demonstrating her commitment to education. Her legacy lives on through the Maria Cosway Foundation in Lodi.
Schomberg House: A Historical Hub
Schomberg House, located on Pall Mall, was more than just a residence; it was a centre of cultural and intellectual activity in late 18th-century London.
Under the Cosways’ ownership, the house became known for its lively gatherings of artists, musicians, and influential figures. Maria Cosway’s concerts and recitals earned her the nickname ‘The goddess of Pall Mall’.
It was in this stimulating environment that Cugoano found support for his writing. The fact that his book could be obtained at Schomberg House suggests the Cosways were supportive of his abolitionist efforts.
Honouring Cugoano’s Impact Today
Ottobah Cugoano’s legacy continues to be celebrated and recognised in modern-day London, serving as a reminder of the ongoing fight against slavery and injustice.
Blue Plaques in London
London’s blue plaque scheme, run by English Heritage, commemorates the links between notable figures of the past and the buildings in which they lived and worked.
In November 2020, a blue plaque was unveiled for Ottobah Cugoano at Schomberg House, making him the earliest black man to be honoured with this distinction. This recognition highlights the growing awareness of the contributions of historical black figures to British society.
Interestingly, Schomberg House is one of only 18 properties in London to boast more than one blue plaque. The other plaque on the building honours Thomas Gainsborough, another notable resident.
St. James’s church Piccadilly. Photo by Philip Scott
Commemorations at St. James Piccadilly
St. James’s Piccadilly, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, plays a significant role in Cugoano’s story. It was here that he was baptised in August 1753, taking the name John Stuart.
In August 2023, the church commemorated the 250th anniversary of Cugoano’s baptism. The event included the unveiling of a plaque by Reverend Lucy Winkett and Bishop of Croydon Dr. Rosemarie Mallet.
As part of the commemoration, four artworks by Trinidadian artist Che Lovelace were unveiled in the church entrance, further cementing Cugoano’s place in the church’s history.
Continuing the Fight Against Slavery
Cugoano’s work with the Sons of Africa, alongside figures like Olaudah Equiano, laid the groundwork for the abolition of the trans-Atlantic slave trade. However, the fight against slavery is far from over.
Modern forms of slavery, including human trafficking and forced labour, continue to plague societies worldwide. Organisations like Anti-Slavery International carry on the work that Cugoano started, fighting for a world free from slavery.
Cugoano’s legacy reminds us of the power of individual voices in the face of systemic injustice. His courage and determination continue to inspire activists and human rights defenders around the world.
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