THE National Trust has revealed 93 of its properties have direct links to colonialism and slavery, including Nunnington Hall.

The conservation charity commissioned a report to tell the history of colonialism and slavery at its sites, and found a third of its properties had some connections.

National Trust launched the investigation, which is the most in-depth examination of slave history, in order to properly represent the context of its buildings.

Nunnington Hall has the strongest links to slavery in Ryedale, after William Rutson purchased the estate in 1839.

“The buildings in the care of the National Trust reflect many different periods and a range of British and global histories - social, industrial, political and cultural,” said Dr Tarnya Cooper, the National Trust’s curatorial and collections director.

“As a heritage charity it’s our job to research, interpret and openly share full and up-to-date information about our places, this includes information about colonialism and slavery where it is relevant.

“The work helps us all understand what’s gone before; now and for future generations.”

William, who came from a family of Liverpool merchants, dealt in slave trading.

In the 18th century, at least 42 voyages by the Rutson family involved the transportation of enslaved Africans.

William later married the daughter of his father’s business partner, William Ewart - the two men traded in goods such as sugar and cotton, which were produced by slave labour.

“These histories are sometimes very painful and difficult to consider,” added John Orna-Ornstein, the National Trust’s director of culture and engagement.

“They make us question our assumptions about the past, and yet they can also enrich our understanding of our economic status, our remarkable built heritage and the art, objects and places we have today and look after for future generations.”