Join Wayne Tucker as he speaks on the intriguing life of Elizabeth Keckley. Keckley was born enslaved and lived in Dinwiddie County and Petersburg as a young girl. She eventually purchased her freedom with her seamstress skills after being moved to Missouri. With her freedom, she became the premier dress maker in Washington D.C., just before and during the Civil War. Keckley’s impressive work led to her selection as the personal White House dressmaker, close friend, and confidante of Mrs. Lincoln.

Black History Month events are included with regular paid Park admission or active Park memberships.