Freedoms Imagined; Freedoms Won

Two women. Two extraordinary stories. One powerful journey toward freedom.

Exhibition Overview

Freedoms Imagined; Freedoms Won explores the lives of two extraordinary women whose experiences reveal different paths through one of the most significant periods in Cayman Islands history. Long Celia’s courageous act of speaking openly about freedom challenged the established order and demonstrated the power of resistance, while Elizabeth Jane Trusty’s determined pursuit of manumission transformed not only her own life but also the lives of others she later helped to free. Together, their stories reveal that freedom was not a single moment, but a long and often difficult journey shaped by perseverance, hope, and determination. Through rare historical records, immersive projections, interactive interpretation, and thoughtfully selected artefacts, this exhibition gives voice to individuals whose experiences have too often remained untold. Visitors are invited to reflect on the meaning of freedom, the legacy of slavery in the Cayman Islands, and the resilience of those who imagined a better future—and worked tirelessly to make it a reality. The exhibition is grounded in archival research and historical records that document both women’s lives and experiences.

Long Celia

In 1820, Long Celia was brought before the Slave Court after speaking publicly about rumours of emancipation. Her words challenged the authority of slave owners and ultimately led to her arrest, trial, and public punishment. Although much of her life remains unknown, her courage reminds us that resistance could take many forms—including simply speaking of freedom.

Elizabeth Jane Trusty

Elizabeth Jane Trusty secured her freedom through manumission in 1809 after paying five pounds to purchase her liberty. As a free woman, she established a home, accumulated property, and later used her resources to secure the freedom of others, ensuring future generations had opportunities she herself had fought so hard to obtain.

Did you know?

Freedom Cost £5
Elizabeth Jane Trusty purchased her freedom in 1809 for five pounds Jamaican currency—a remarkable achievement that marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life.

Speaking About Freedom Was Dangerous
In 1820, simply discussing rumours of emancipation led to Long Celia being arrested, tried before a jury of slave owners, and sentenced to receive 50 lashes.

Freedom Extended Beyond One Person
After gaining her own freedom, Elizabeth Jane Trusty later helped secure the freedom of several other enslaved people, including children she raised as her own.

The Stories Continue
Although Long Celia’s punishment was severe, historical records suggest she survived, remained on Grand Cayman, and likely lived to witness emancipation in 1835.

FEATURED OBJECT

Wompas (Traditional Sandals)

Material: Cowhide, Silver Thatch Palm Strings

Simple in construction yet essential in daily life, these traditional sandals, known as wompas or wompers, offer a tangible connection to Cayman’s past. Handcrafted from a piece of cowhide cut to fit the wearer’s foot, they were secured with straps woven from the fibres of the native silver thatch palm.

Although it is impossible to know who wore this pair, sandals like these could have been worn by enslaved people living and working in the Cayman Islands during the early nineteenth century. Designed for practicality and durability, wompas provided protection while carrying out everyday tasks around the home, in provision grounds, or in the fields.

Displayed alongside the stories of Long Celia and Elizabeth Jane Trusty, this humble object invites visitors to consider the everyday realities of life during slavery. While official records often document laws, transactions, and punishments, objects such as these help us imagine the lived experiences of the people behind those records.

Visit the Exhibition

Location
64 Seafarers Way, George Town, Grand Cayman

Opening times
Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Included with Museum Admission

Allow approximately 30–45 minutes to fully experience the exhibition.

Continue Your Journey
After visiting Freedoms Imagined; Freedoms Won, explore the Museum’s permanent galleries to learn more about the Cayman Islands’ cultural and natural history, and discover the people and stories that continue to shape our nation’s heritage.