Mary Prince Day

Mary Prince Day is celebrated on the Friday before the first Monday in August. In 2026, this date falls on July 31. This public holiday in Bermuda honors the life and legacy of an enslaved woman who became a powerful voice for abolition.

History of Mary Prince Day

Mary Prince was born into slavery in 1788 in Brackish Pond, Bermuda. Throughout her youth, she was bought and sold multiple times, enduring brutal treatment from her owners. In 1828, she traveled to London with her enslaver and escaped, seeking refuge with Thomas Pringle, a founder of the Anti-Slavery Society. With the help of writer Susanna Strickland, Prince dictated her autobiography, “The History of Mary Prince, A West Indian Slave,” which was published in 1831. It was the first account of an enslaved Black woman’s life published in Great Britain and played a significant role in the abolition movement. Slavery was abolished in British colonies three years later.

The holiday was originally known as Somers Day, named after Sir George Somers, the English sea captain who founded the colony of Bermuda. In 2020, the Bermuda government officially renamed it Mary Prince Day to honor a Bermudian who made a crucial contribution to the fight for freedom. The change was advocated by community leaders who argued that the holiday should recognize a local hero of emancipation rather than a colonial figure.

Why is Mary Prince Day important?

Mary Prince Day is a vital reminder of Bermuda’s complex history with slavery and the ongoing struggle for justice. Prince’s autobiography provided a firsthand account of the brutalities of enslavement, challenging the notion that slavery in Bermuda was benign. Her story gave a voice to the voiceless and helped galvanize the abolitionist movement in Britain.

• Recognizes the crucial role of Mary Prince in the abolition of slavery throughout the British Empire.
• Highlights the importance of preserving and sharing the stories of enslaved people.
• Serves as a call to continue the work of building a more just and equitable society.
• Offers an opportunity for Bermudians to reflect on their heritage and the resilience of their ancestors.
• Encourages education about the African Diaspora Heritage Trail and other historical sites.

How to Celebrate Mary Prince Day

Mary Prince Day coincides with the second day of Cup Match, an annual cricket competition between Somerset Cricket Club and St. George’s Cricket Club that began in 1902. The match is a beloved tradition that brings communities together for friendly rivalry and celebration. Many Bermudians attend the games, enjoy picnics, and participate in festive activities.

• Read or listen to “The History of Mary Prince, A West Indian Slave” to understand her firsthand account.
• Visit the African Diaspora Heritage Trail to explore Bermuda’s historical sites related to slavery and emancipation.
• Attend the Emancipation Sunday Celebration and Memorial Service at St. Peter’s Church in St. George.
• Support local vendors and enjoy traditional Bermudian food and music during the Cup Match holiday.
• Share Mary Prince’s story on social media to raise awareness about her legacy.

Mary Prince Day Dates