WORCESTER, Mass. - Three new paintings at Mechanics Hall will forever memorialize three Black Americans for their contributions towards the abolitionist movement and women's rights.

The historic venue unveiled paintings of abolitionists William and Martha Brown, formerly enslaved abolitionist and women’s rights activist Sojourner Truth and civil rights icon Frederick Douglass. 

The venue said the people and paintings are symbolic of their values, which include education, the pursuit of excellence, human welfare and a wider vision of human endeavor. 

The pieces were commissioned back in 2022, and were finally delivered to mechanics hall earlier this year. 

"More specifically it's to honor 19th century history in Worcester," said Mechanics Hall executive director Kathleen Gagne. "And so it was time to honor the Black men and women who were significant parts of the social reform activity in Worcester at the time. Also, William Brown, who is depicted with his wife Martha, was the first Black member of our association, the Worcester County Mechanics Association, in the 1860s. He held two patents in his time, and he won awards with our association for his work."

Gagne said William Brown was also good friends with Fredrick Douglass and worked with the underground railroad in Worcester. Douglass was also one of the first people to speak on stage at Mechanics Hall back in 1857, the same year the venue was built.

The paintings will be hung in the portrait gallery, where the venue is scheduling tours for those interested in learning more.