Kingston's history and our stories

Kingston has a rich black history and one that we are extremely proud of which has helped shape our borough. 

From the former slave Cesar Picton who became a successful coal merchant in the borough in the 1880’s, to the Windrush generation in the mid-twentieth century, all the way to the present day - with one of the few Race and Equalities Councils in the country, and the annual Kingston Carnival which is a key part of the borough’s cultural life. 

You can find out more about our black history at our libraries, museum and history centre. 

Our stories

Below you will find stories from members of the black community who told us what Black History Month means to those who live or work in Kingston.