Sahar Coston-Hardy © Sahar Coston-Hardy/Esto
Today, the International African American Museum (IAAM) announces its profound gratitude and acceptance of the 175-year-old daguerreotypes depicting ancestors Renty and Delia, enslaved individuals whose images were commissioned by Harvard biologist Louis Agassiz in 1850. This historic transfer, part of a settlement with Tamara Lanier, a descendant of Renty, marks a crucial importance of the ongoing fight for ancestral dignity and historical truth.
IAAM’s President and CEO Dr. Tonya M. Matthews emphasized the profound significance of this decision. "It is critical that images such as these never be forgotten, abused, or have their stories slip into untold history. IAAM is committed to holding these objects with dignity, empathy, truth and respect,” said Dr. Matthews. “It is a weighty privilege to become home to these challenging, but precious artifacts, and we are incredibly proud to have these daguerreotypes into our collection.”
“The bravery, tenacity, and grace shown by Ms. Lanier throughout the long and arduous process of returning these critical pieces of Renty and Delia’s story to South Carolina is a model for us all. This moment is 175 years in the making, and we look forward to commemorating this monumental moment in history with a welcome home ceremony for these artifacts in the near future."
IAAM is located on the sacred ground of Gadsden’s Wharf – the port of arrival where nearly half of all enslaved Africans forced to America through the Transatlantic Slave Trade arrived in Charleston – is uniquely positioned to contextualize and present these images with the respect and gravity they demand. The museum's mission is to honor the untold stories of the African American journey and to challenge, illuminate, inspire, and move people to action. The return of Renty and Delia’s images perfectly aligns with IAAM’s mission by offering a powerful opportunity to delve deeper into the narratives of those who endured unimaginable tragedy, and yet, forged a legacy through triumph.
In working alongside Lanier, the museum plans to strategically integrate the artifacts into its location, providing visitors around the world with a deeper understanding of the African American experience and the profound impact of slavery on individuals, families, and the nation. More information as it relates to formally recognizing these artifacts and how they will be displayed within our museum will be provided in the near future.