Black History Celebration Kicks-off Sotterley's 2010 Speaker Series

The 2010 Speaker Series at Sotterley will kick-off with “FREE at Last! Black History Celebration!” on Saturday, February 6th, 2010 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. This event is free to the public and recounts the days of slavery, as well as the impact of the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960’s. There is something for all ages - dramatic portrayals, a spirit lifting gospel choir performance, hands-on learning, children’s activities, and tours of the original 1830’s Slave Cabin.

Sandi English will revive her character performance of “Mammy Reminiscence” at 11 a.m. in the Customs Warehouse. Having mastered the art of African-American storytelling, she and her daughter Liana English will transport guests back in time to when slaves risked all to make their way to freedom. At 1 p.m. and
3 p.m., Ms. English will take on the persona of “Grandma Wisdom,” who recounts the significance of the more modern-day revolution for equality to her questioning granddaughter.

Lifting their voices in soulful praise, members of the St. Peter’s Claver Gospel Choir from Ridge will perform. Established in 1977, this well-known choir combines old and new age gospel, raising the spirits of all.

Education Director Carolyn Hoey will give Slave Cabin Tours featuring slave inventories, new findings from this past summer’s restoration, and a hands-on exhibit of tools and household items used by the slaves.

The 2010 Speaker Series at Sotterley Plantation is sponsored by the Boeing Company.

For more information, contact Sotterley Plantation at 800-681-0850 or 301-373-2280 or visit http://www.sotterley.org/.