Elayne Bond Hyman is the poet and author of Catoctin SlaveSpeak and “Creating Catoctin SlaveSpeak,” works that are a collection of narrative poems in the voices of enslaved Africans and their descendants, who were imported to work at the Catoctin Iron Furnace in Thurmont, Maryland.
Hyman recently won third place for her poem, “Creating Catoctin SlaveSpeak” in the 2023 Maryland Writer’s Association Poetry contest.
Creating Catoctin SlaveSpeak
In the museum, I touched bones
Smudging them in prayer
At the furnace, I walked earth
Sniffing decayed soil.
In the library, I read words
Finding them not there.In the night, I lay down listening
While woods whispered their song
In the morning, I opened my heart
And watched the sky for signs.Then I wore iron shackles
Clamped down round my legs.
And words few wanted to hear
Flew like birds from my mouth.
Catoctin SlaveSpeak by Elayne Bond Hyman is a thought-provoking publication that explores the unique language and communication system developed by enslaved African Americans in the Catoctin region of Frederick, Maryland during the 18th and 19th centuries. Hyman, a linguist and descendant of enslaved individuals from the area, delves into the history and significance of this secret language. It is based on available archaeological and forensic anthropological evidence resulting from studies conducted on behalf of the Catoctin Furnace Historical Society.
The author begins by explaining that Slavespeak was a form of communication used by enslaved people in Frederick’s Catoctin region to covertly communicate with each other, away from the prying ears of their white masters. It was a blend of English, African languages, and other dialects, which allowed slaves to convey messages and information without arousing suspicion. Hyman argues that this language was not simply a means of survival, but also a form of resistance and empowerment for the enslaved community.
Hyman provides examples of words and phrases from Catoctin Slavespeak, highlighting their origins and meanings. She emphasizes that this language was not a pidgin or creole, but rather a complex and sophisticated system that evolved over time. The author also discusses the challenges faced in preserving and studying this language, as it was largely undocumented and passed down orally.
Furthermore, Hyman explores the cultural and social implications of Catoctin Slavespeak in the context of Frederick, Maryland. She suggests that this language served as a unifying force among enslaved individuals in the region, fostering a sense of community and identity. It also allowed them to maintain a level of autonomy and agency in their lives, despite the oppressive conditions they endured.
Catoctin SlaveSpeak sheds light on a fascinating aspect of African American history and language specific to the Catoctin region of Frederick, Maryland. Hyman’s research and personal connection to the subject matter provide a unique perspective, highlighting the resilience and ingenuity of enslaved individuals in their quest for freedom and self-expression.
From Hyman’s own words, “the poems are meant to be read aloud.” In observance of Emancipation Day 2020, the Maryland Ensemble Theatre (MET) presented a live reading of Catoctin SlaveSpeak with the theatre cast: Rona Mensah, Ray Hatch, Kimberly Donoghue-Rick, Zachary Leo Harris, Richard Johnson, Julie Herber, Tad Janes and creator Elayne Bond Hyman leading the performance. Watch below.
Catoctin SlaveSpeak is available for purchase at The Museum of the Ironworker and on Hyman’s website: https://catoctinfurnace.org/shop/catoctin-slavespeak/
Photo credit: Catoctin Furnace Historical Society
