Fashion Africa

African-Inspired Fashion Brand
Fort Mosé

Fort Mose 1738 operates as a heritage-driven fashion brand that connects contemporary African print clothing with the historical legacy of Fort Mose—the first legally sanctioned free Black community in what would become the United States, established in 1738 near St. Augustine, Florida. Founded by Dr. Maurice N. Gattis and headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, the brand produces small-batch garments handcrafted in Ghana, using bold African textiles to create sophisticated contemporary pieces while channeling proceeds toward economic empowerment and historical education about this lesser-known chapter of American freedom struggles.

The Squarespace website balanced heritage storytelling with e-commerce functionality—featuring vibrant product photography against Richmond's historic Slave Trail locations that visually connected past struggles for freedom with present-day cultural celebration, while the brand narrative educated customers about Fort Mose's significance without overshadowing the fashion offerings themselves. The site architecture organized collections by garment type (jumpsuits, dresses, shirts) with clear production timelines (1-2 week shipping for made-to-order items), integrated video content that positioned the clothing within broader narratives of African diaspora and American history, and emphasized the dual mission of style and social impact. The result was a platform that positioned Fort Mose 1738 as more than a fashion label—functioning as a vehicle for historical awareness and economic justice, appealing to customers seeking garments with cultural significance and authentic connection to both African craftsmanship and overlooked American liberation history.