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testimony to a way of life at a certain time – American culture and values as they melded with

European.

Considering the existing sites already incorporated into the World Heritage list gives a basis for

understanding in what ways the Freeman Houses also match the criteria and hold similar significance to

culture and history as do other cultural sites. Later will also be discussed the importance of the

“tentative” list for UNESCO, which brings the historical significance of other sites in the U.S. that share

similarities with the Freeman Houses.

With the history and testimony to human rights for

women and minorities, not only are the Freeman Houses

worth attention on a national level, they stand as examples of

three of UNESCO’s criteria under the Cultural Heritage

category for World Heritage. Namely, criteria iii, v, and

vi. Additional descriptions and reasonings for the fulfillment

of all three of these criteria are explored below.

“The back of the Freeman Houses” – photo from CT Post

DISCUSSION: The Freeman Houses serve as a testimony to a small, but powerful cultural tradition which

exceeded the norm for the United States in the time. As the entire country was approaching drastic changes to

protect human rights, the “Little Liberia” community was a precursor to the soon-coming rights of all blacks

in the United States; an advancement that was unique for its time. Mary and Eliza Freeman were exceptional

due to their success and prominence as important figures – remarkable as both were women and of an abused

minority race.

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