NEW LONDON HISTORY TOUR FIELD GUIDE
White Sails, Black Hands: A 75‑Minute Thames River Reckoning with New London’s Overlooked Black History
A 75-minute boat tour departing Fort Trumbull that recounts the lives of significant Black figures in New London County while directing all ticket profits to the Thames River Heritage Park Foundation.
White Sails, Black Hands: A 75‑Minute Thames River Reckoning with New London’s Overlooked Black History.
New London’s 400‑year story is written on the water. This returning summer tour takes a 75‑minute run along the Thames to surface the overlooked contributions and struggles of the city’s Black community — from fugitive slaves to Black Revolutionary patriots — led by local historians Nicole Thomas and Tom Schuch and designed to honor resilience, abolition, education and community while supporting local heritage institutions.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
All proceeds sustain local heritage
Every ticket matters: 100% of profit from purchases benefits the Thames River Heritage Park Foundation and fuels connection, support and promotion for heritage sites along the Thames.
Funding for over 20 heritage sites
Ticket revenue helps connect and sustain more than twenty heritage sites and institutions along the Thames, directing visitor dollars back into the network of local history stewards.
Support that keeps the stories afloat
Buying a seat on this tour is also a direct contribution to preserving and promoting the region’s layered histories through the Thames River Heritage Park Foundation.
What the day feels like
What it feels like on the water
You meet at Fort Trumbull State Park and board for a focused 75‑minute interpretive cruise down the Thames. Local historians narrate a compact, concentrated history of Black life in New London County — its fights for equality, educational advances, abolitionist currents and personal stories — delivered against the narrow, salt‑slick backdrop of Connecticut waters.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and what to consider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Light snacks and non‑glass drinks are permitted aboard; glass containers are prohibited.
There is no bathroom on the boat; plan accordingly before boarding.
The outing is a 75‑minute cruise departing from Fort Trumbull State Park in New London.
For questions, call (860) 407-5655.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts 75 minutes.
Where do we meet?
The meeting and departure point is Fort Trumbull State Park in New London, CT.
Are children allowed?
Yes—this program is for all ages; children aged 0–3 ride free.
Can I bring food and drink?
Light snacks and drinks are allowed, but glass containers are prohibited.
Are there restrooms on the boat?
No — there is no bathroom on the boat.
Where do proceeds from tickets go?
One hundred percent of profit from ticket purchases benefits the Thames River Heritage Park Foundation to support heritage sites along the Thames.