Amistad Memorial

The Amistad Memorial is a bronze monument next to City Hall in New Haven featuring three relief panels that depict different moments from a long and difficult journey. The sculpture shows figures in various positions, water, and hands to tell a powerful story.

The memorial was built more than a century after events in 1839, when captives aboard a ship seized control and later won their freedom through court proceedings. The memory of this victory was preserved in New Haven, where the historic trial took place.

The memorial honors people who resisted captivity and fought for freedom through the courts. Visitors can see the bronze figures and read the names on the base, keeping their story alive.

The memorial sits on public grounds next to City Hall and is free to view from all sides. The best views come from the pedestrian walkways surrounding it, though the upper floors of the adjacent building offer an additional perspective.

One side of the memorial shows only hands rising from water and can only be seen from the upper floors of the nearby City Hall. This hidden perspective makes the experience of the memorial different depending on where you stand.

Creator: Ed Hamilton

GPS coordinates: 41.30745,-72.92450

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:02