Identity, Belonging, and “Dead Silence”: Towards a Prospectus for Change in the Representation of Black Residents in English Historic Houses, 1714–1837

ABSTRACT This article explores the relationship between Georgian historic house museums in England and their historic Black residents. The aim is not only to critically analyze representations of Black individuals in historic houses, but to lay the foundations for the development of a prospectus for change. By visiting three house museums with known Black historic residents, this article begins development of such a prospectus. I provide suggestions for the curation of permanent exhibits that inspire a sense of belonging in visitors, and challenge the traditionally uncritical narratives that have been presented in stately homes. It is hoped that this research will continue with a wider breadth of locations and time periods, eventually working towards change within the heritage sector, which will have impact outside of our discipline and on ideas of the past in the public imagination.