Unveiling History: Reburial of Racist Study Skulls in New Orleans Honors Their Legacy

On Saturday, a touching ceremony in New Orleans marked the return of 19 Black Americans’ skulls from Germany. These remains had been taken over a century ago for studies rooted in the false science of phrenology, which wrongly linked race to intellectual and moral traits. Many of those honored lived in the 1870s and faced tragic ends due to illness.

Historian Eva Baham from Dillard University emphasized the importance of remembering their stories. "You could be angry about what happened, but we can’t stay there," she said. This moment was about honoring their lives and moving forward.

The skulls were repatriated by the University of Leipzig, which acknowledged their acquisition as unethical. This return became a symbol of justice, representing not just the 19 individuals but also a broader recognition of the many African American remains still held in institutions worldwide.

Research suggests most of these individuals were likely enslaved or had been incarcerated before their deaths at Charity Hospital, a facility known for serving the city’s poor. The hospital closed years ago after Hurricane Katrina. Death records helped Baham’s team piece together parts of their lives.

During the memorial, students from Dillard University read poignant biographies, weaving their stories into the ceremony. The readings highlighted their journey: "Another voyage across the Atlantic, passing bones of enslaved Africans on the ocean floor."

The event included prayers from various faith leaders and a jazz procession, blending cultural reverence with a celebration of life. "These people’s lives had meaning," Baham noted. "History is not to wallow in; it’s about building a future."

In a recent survey, nearly 70% of Americans expressed a desire to see more historical injustices acknowledged. This memorial serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward understanding and reconciliation in America’s complex history. For those interested in exploring this topic further, the American Historical Association provides extensive resources and discussions around race, history, and memory.

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