Harewood was built in the 18th century using the profits from the Transatlantic trade in enslaved people.
Here, learn about Harewood’s history and links to enslaved people, and explore the ways that we strive to use our platform for positive change.
Legacy of Enslaved People
Harewood and Slavery
Learn about Harewood House's origins in the Transatlantic trade in enslaved people, in this article by writer Mireille Harper.
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I've always found this remark by American writer James Baldwin inspiring: “Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced." At Harewood, we face our history, in the hope of making a more just and equitable future."
David Lascelles, 8th Earl of Harewood
Engaging with the past for a fairer future
For many years, the Lascelles family and Harewood House Trust have sought to make Harewood a platform for change, through exhibitions and public events that open up conversations and bring communities together.

Acknowledge, Remember, Educate

David Harewood: What’s in a Name?

Arthur France: Son of a Small Island

Carnival Messiah

Sonia Boyce: Crop Over

Bertie Robinson: The Footman from St Vincent

Craft Spotlight: Chris Day

Acknowledgements

Acknowledge, Remember, Educate

David Harewood: What’s in a Name?

Arthur France: Son of a Small Island

Carnival Messiah

Sonia Boyce: Crop Over

Bertie Robinson: The Footman from St Vincent

Craft Spotlight: Chris Day

Acknowledgements

Voices of Leeds
We interviewed people from our local Black communities to hear about their experiences growing up in Leeds and their perceptions of Harewood.
Listen to the storiesEducating young people
As an educational charity, it is our responsibility to raise awareness of Harewood's past and the impact of that history today. Our on-site learning sessions and Study Spot give teachers the tools for engaging young people with these narratives.


Missing Portraits with St Matthew's Church of England Primary School



Missing Portraits with St Matthew's Church of England Primary School

Learn more and contribute
Explore more resources about the history of the Transatlantic trade in enslaved people, its impact in the UK and around the world, and how you can help tackle racism and inequality.