Brooklyn, Illinois, was established in the 1830s along the Mississippi River as a settlement for African Americans, both free individuals and those escaping slavery. The village played a significant role as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Today, the AME Church in Brooklyn is listed in the National Park Service’s Network to Freedom. Ultimately, Brooklyn became a vibrant community and was the first Black town in America to be incorporated in 1873.
In 2023, the Village of Brooklyn was listed as one of Landmarks Illinois’ Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois. Ongoing grassroots efforts to revitalize the community have focused on archaeology and historic preservation. Since 2008, the Illinois State Archaeological Survey (ISAS) has partnered with community leaders in the Historical Society of Brooklyn Illinois (HSOBI) and coordinated with the Brooklyn Mayor’s Office, Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Illinois State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), and St. Clair County Genealogical Society. Together, they have been helping residents create a sense of place and seek to make Brooklyn’s history relevant to current and future generations. The communities’ goals include historic preservation, awareness of Brooklyn’s historical significance, and heritage-based community development to revitalize the town through archaeology, history, and shared memories.
This September, ISAS was invited back to continue archaeological investigations, preservation activities, and public outreach in Brooklyn, contributing to the efforts of the HSOBI to gain recognition for the village’s historical significance. Staff conducted archaeological excavations to recover artifacts and features dating to the village’s founding during the 1830s. Geophysical surveys were also employed to detect the boundaries of an unmarked cemetery within the community.
The artifacts and information collected offer valuable insight into the lives of Brooklyn’s earliest residents. The small fragments of glass and tableware speak to the daily experiences of the people who established the community. These investigations are crucial for supporting the preservation efforts of the village and protecting its heritage for the future.
ISAS is excited to continue this collaboration and has committed to participating in the HSOBI’s annual programming. Additionally, ISAS is currently exploring funding opportunities that would allow us to significantly expand outreach and educational activities within the community.
Learn more about the community of Brooklyn and ISAS’ recent work by visiting the Historical Society of Brooklyn Illinois Facebook page and news stories below:
https://www.facebook.com/people/Historical-Society-of-Brooklyn-Illinois/100064535176420/
KMOV St. Louis coverage:
https://www.firstalert4.com/video/2024/09/15/residents-brooklyn-ill-are-digging-what-archaeologists-are-finding/#m13onc30319twhrf8y5
https://www.firstalert4.com/2024/09/12/archaeologists-dig-into-brooklyn-look-historic-black-community/
