Exhibition to Celebrate Black Presence in Local History
St Mary's Putney to host displays and two special services
An African painting of Mary and Jesus
October 17, 2025
St Mary’s Church in Putney will mark Black History Month this October with a new exhibition and a pair of special services celebrating the often-overlooked contributions of Black individuals to the area’s rich history.
Running from 24 to 29 October, the exhibition, titled “Black Presence in Putney’s Past,” has been researched, curated, and presented by historian Yvette Reinfor, whose work shines a light on the lives and legacies of Black residents in Putney across centuries.
The exhibition will be formally introduced during services on Sunday 26 October at 10am and 6pm, with a sermon by Rev’d Sharon Hunt, believed to be the first Black member of the clergy team at St Mary’s. At the morning service, Yvette Reinfor will also speak about her research and the stories uncovered in the course of her work.
Yvette Reinfor is a local historian and educator whose work focuses on uncovering hidden narratives in British social history, particularly those of Black communities in suburban and riverside London. Her research combines archival study with oral histories, and she has previously collaborated with schools, museums, and community groups to bring marginalised stories into public view.
Her latest project explores the presence of Black individuals in Putney from the 17th century to the present day, including stories of migration, service, activism, and everyday life. The exhibition includes rare documents, photographs, and personal testimonies that challenge assumptions about the area’s past and offer a more inclusive vision of its heritage.
Rev’d Sharon Hunt’s participation in the service marks a significant moment for St Mary’s, a church with deep historical roots dating back to the 13th century and famously associated with the 1647 Putney Debates on democracy and equality. Her presence at the pulpit during Black History Month underscores the church’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and representation.
The church is inviting all members of the community to attend the services and view the exhibition. “This is a service affirming and celebrating this part of our history,” the organisers said. “A warm welcome to come and take some time to view the history and contributions of Black people in our community.”
The exhibition is free and open to the public during church opening hours. For those unable to attend the services, materials from the exhibition will remain on display throughout the week.
For more information, visit St Mary’s Putney website .
St Mary’s Church is at Putney High Street (SW15 1SN).
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