Somerset Case 250th Anniversary Event

On 22 June 1772, William Murray, Baron (later Earl of) Mansfield and Chief Justice of the Court of King’s Bench, ruled in the case of Somerset v Stewart that it was unlawful to transport James Somerset, an enslaved African, forcibly out of England. When the verdict was announced, it sent political and legal shockwaves through Britain and its American colonies. Although the decision was technically a narrow one, it was popularly taken to mean that slavery was illegal in England. Join us at Kenwood house on the 250th anniversary of the decision, to commemorate the ruling in the Somerset case with an evening event including a discussion of the enduring relevance of the Somerset case today and live performances of classical music. Tickets include refreshments and canapés following the event. Doors open 6pm, event starts at 6.30pm.