Jacob Smith

19 Jun 2026

Rochester Cathedral has uncovered evidence linking its early 18th-cen… – Jacob Smith

Rochester Cathedral has uncovered evidence linking its early 18th-century finances to the transatlantic slave trade. Historical records revealed that church leaders invested in a company involved in trafficking enslaved people, generating profits of around 400%. Cathedral officials believe the money may have helped fund major renovation work, including parts of the quire that remain visible today. The discovery has sparked renewed reflection on how historic institutions benefited from slavery.