Tracing the Legacies of Slavery in Limburg

How is the history of slavery embedded in Limburg? Which traces remain visible in the region’s archives, landscapes, architecture, and collective memory? These questions lie at the heart of Tracing the Legacies of Slavery in Limburg, a research project led by Christian Ernsten and Diana Natermann from the History Department, together with colleagues, student assistants, and volunteers.

Building on initiatives connected to Mapping Slavery, this Limburg-focused project examines how histories of slavery, colonial wealth, and plantation economies shaped local histories beyond the traditional colonial centres of the Netherlands. Particular attention is paid to material and spatial traces in cities such as Maastricht, Venlo, and Roermond. These traces may be found in urban development, landed estates, religious institutions, family histories, and architectural heritage connected to former plantation owners and colonial investments.

The archival research is conducted in close collaboration with regional heritage institutions and archives. Initial findings have contributed to the historical and conceptual foundation of the Draden van ons Nederlandse slavernijverleden Limburg tapestry project, while also opening broader discussions on artistic and critical heritage practices. By combining archival research, artistic expression, and community participation, the project aims to create what are described as “living memory objects”: spaces in which difficult and often overlooked histories can be collectively explored, discussed, and remembered.

Through this interdisciplinary approach, Tracing the Legacies of Slavery in Limburg contributes to ongoing conversations about the lasting impact of Dutch colonialism and slavery in the region and beyond.