The daguerreotypes were rediscovered in Harvard’s Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology in 1976, spanning 15 images that depict individuals named Alfred, Delia, Drana, Fassena, Jack, Jem, and Renty. This settlement ensures the transfer of all images, not only those of Renty and Delia. The photographs were commissioned by Harvard zoologist Louis Agassiz, reflecting discredited research aimed at proving white superiority.
The case has sparked discussions surrounding universities' historical connections to slavery. In 2016, Harvard Law School made changes to a shield linked to a slaveholder from the 18th century. Though Harvard refrained from detailing the settlement specifics, a spokesperson noted that the institution has long wished to place the Zealy Daguerreotypes with another museum. However, the complexity of Lanier's ownership claims added challenges, especially as Harvard could not confirm her connection to the individuals in the images.
Lanier initiated legal action against Harvard in 2019, claiming unauthorized use of the images and accusing the university of profiting through licensing fees. While the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court dismissed her ownership claim in 2022, it acknowledged Harvard’s “complicity” in the injustices tied to the creation of the images. Lanier stated, “Repatriating them is like a homecoming ceremony,” underscoring the cultural significance of this transfer.
The South Carolina museum, while aiding Lanier with genealogy, remained separate from the legal dispute. Its president expressed the intention to display the images with contextual understanding, highlighting the harsh reality of slavery and its enduring impact today. The museum aims to create a space for discussions around the grim history of enslavement as part of its mission.
The case has sparked discussions surrounding universities' historical connections to slavery. In 2016, Harvard Law School made changes to a shield linked to a slaveholder from the 18th century. Though Harvard refrained from detailing the settlement specifics, a spokesperson noted that the institution has long wished to place the Zealy Daguerreotypes with another museum. However, the complexity of Lanier's ownership claims added challenges, especially as Harvard could not confirm her connection to the individuals in the images.
Lanier initiated legal action against Harvard in 2019, claiming unauthorized use of the images and accusing the university of profiting through licensing fees. While the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court dismissed her ownership claim in 2022, it acknowledged Harvard’s “complicity” in the injustices tied to the creation of the images. Lanier stated, “Repatriating them is like a homecoming ceremony,” underscoring the cultural significance of this transfer.
The South Carolina museum, while aiding Lanier with genealogy, remained separate from the legal dispute. Its president expressed the intention to display the images with contextual understanding, highlighting the harsh reality of slavery and its enduring impact today. The museum aims to create a space for discussions around the grim history of enslavement as part of its mission.
