Database: Montagnes Noires

The Montagnes Noires, or the Black Mountains, located in the central part of western Hispaniola were often used by Maroon warriors as a place of refuge, the treacherous landscape working to their advantage.

Maroons escaped to the mountainous regions of the island, to join previously established communities or start their own strongholds. There, fugitige slaves could freely raise crops and livestock, hidden and sheltered by the mountain face. Maroons were able to survive by sending traders to nearby cities, or by raiding plantations for cloth, weapons, and food. The mountain's rough exterior made it extremely difficult for any surprise attacks from oppressors, and the high altitude was ideal for Maroon lookouts.