Phillis Wheatley (ca. 1753-84), the first published African American woman poet in America, landed in 1761 at Avery’s Wharf, near present-day Tyler Street.
Phillis Wheatley (ca. 1753-84), the first published African American woman poet in America, landed while still a small child in 1761 in the slave ship Phillis at Avery’s Wharf located near the present position of Tyler Street. She was purchased at auction by the Wheatley family. Members of that family taught Phillis to read and write and encouraged her poetic talent. Phillis Wheatley is one of three women chosen to be portrayed in the Boston Women’s Memorial.
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The Boston Women’s Heritage Trail celebrates the past accomplishments of remarkable women in Boston, claiming their rightful place in our City’s history. Through education, reflection, and an interactive city-wide monument, we activate the powerful female side of Boston’s history.
