"FREE at Last! Black History Celebration!"
My first time meeting Sandi English was in February '09, when she and her daughter Liana brought the character portrayal of "Mammy Reminiscence" to Sotterley Plantation. As I sat in the Warehouse, watching and listening, and taking it all in, I was completely swept away to another place and time. It is said that spirituality begins with truth - and as difficult as it was to witness the truth of this portrayal, I thought, "This is what this place (Sotterley) is all about ... honoring the histories of all who lived here."
In the 1790's, Sotterley held nearly 100 enslaved people, who were largely responsible for the prosperity of this once over 4,000 acre plantation. We honor the sacrifices, struggles, and survival of those who have been lifted.
Building upon this past event, Sotterley Plantation and The Boeing Company are pleased to offer "FREE at Last! Black History Celebration" as part of the 2010 Speaker Series. Included in this free to the public event, Sandi and Liana English will not only revive their performance of "Mammy Reminiscence" in the truth African-American storytelling tradition, but will also transport the audience to the 1960's Civil Rights Movement. "Grandma Wisdom" recounts the significance of this more modern-day revolution for equality to her questioning granddaughter.
Tours of our original 1830's Slave Cabin will be given by Education Director Carolyn Hoey. Take the walk down Rolling Road and you shall come to a small white cabin, which once housed as many people as that of the Plantation House (a.k.a. The Mansion). Ms. Hoey will share the history of the the enslaved people here at Sotterley, as well as share slave inventories and new findings from last summer's restoration project. Hands-on exhibits and Children's Activities will also be available.
Combining music and prayer, we are grateful to announce the soulful praisings of the St. Peter Claver Choir at 11:00 a.m. and the Southern Maryland Gospel Choir at 2:00 p.m.
Join us this Saturday from 10 am - 4 pm, as we come together as a community of FREE people.
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