English Heritage is researching connections between the transatlantic slave trade and UK properties in its care, to mark the bicentenary of the abolition of slavery next year.

Links between properties built from 1600 to 1840 and the transatlantic slave trade are being studied in a two-year research programme.

Formal descriptions of listed buildings, which meet the criteria, will then be reviewed in order to acknowledge any historic links with transatlantic slavery and the abolitionist movement. The new information will provide guidance on sites of social historic importance, which could be more significant than the architectural impact.

The first property to be linked to slavery is Kenwood House in London, which belonged to the aristocratic Mansfield family. Lord Mansfield’s niece, Dido, was of dual heritage and won significant legal victories for abolitionists in England. The full story will be revealed at an English Heritage exhibition --– called Mansfield, Slavery and Justice, A public and private legacy – in May 2007.

Culture minister David Lammy said: “I am delighted that English Heritage is showing such commitment to events commemorating the bicentenary of the abolition of the slave trade. This project will help explore the narratives behind parts of our built environment which have remained hidden for too long.”

Maria Adebowale, English Heritage commissioner, added: “History must be honest and fair. The history of slavery needs to be properly recognised for the human misery it caused and the extent to which this appalling trade was used to improve state and individual wealth.

“The past can be painful but we are committed to reflecting the rich history of all people in England. The definition of heritage has rightly widened over the years but there has never been a better time to look at whose history still needs to be better represented by the our sector.“

English Heritage also plans to produce a first national Sites of Memory leaflet map and web micro-site to provide information on buildings and memorials across England which reflect the role of and resistance to the slave trade.

In addition, the organisation will respond to an invitation by heritage bodies in Ghana, Africa, and St Kitts and Nevis in Central and South America to advise on survey, conservation planning and historic environment records for important sites relevant to the history of slavery.

Elsewhere, community projects will explore the hidden multicultural histories of objects in the collection at English Heritage property Rangers House in Blackheath, London. Details: www.englishheritage.org.uk

Photograph: Kenwood House