Michael Bundock

This talk will tell the remarkable story of a young boy’s journey from the horrors of Jamaican slavery to the heart of London’s literary world, and the unlikely friendship that changed his life.

Francis Barber, born in Jamaica, was brought to London by his owner in 1750 and became a servant in the household of Samuel Johnson, the renowned man of letters. Barber served in the British navy during the Seven Years’ War, but then returned to Johnson’s employ. Their friendship developed over the years, and Johnson came to rely upon his now educated and devoted companion. When Johnson died he left the bulk of his estate to Barber, a generous (and at the time scandalous) legacy, and a testament to the depth of their friendship.

Many slaves were brought to Britain in the eighteenth century, but little is known of their lives. Francis Barber’s story opens a window onto London at a time when slaves had yet to win their freedom.
Local author Michael Bundock is a Director of Dr Johnson’s House Trust. His book, The Fortunes of Francis Barber, has been shortlisted for the Slightly Foxed Best First Biography Prize 2015.