Celebrating Freedom: Historical Program Recognizes Emancipation

The Randolph-Henry High School Auditorium was filled with pride on Saturday, June 27, as the Central High Museum and Charlotte County Board of Supervisors came together to sponsor a special program. Celebrating 150 years since the Emancipation Proclamation, attendees witnessed a variety of joyous events. “As I welcome you today, let us preserve our heritage and our legacy,” greeted Dr. Hezteine Foster, President of the Central High Museum.

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Guests were encouraged to wear period clothing reminiscent of the Civil War era and African American attire. Those dressed to impress participated in a Grand March to showcase their clothing. Musical selections throughout the afternoon were provided by the St. Michael Baptist Church Singing Deacons and White Oak Grove Mass Choir.

The highlight of the program was a special presentation by Female Re-Enactors of Distinction (FREED). “We were so excited when we found out that this group existed,” said Dr. Nancy Carwile, Board of Supervisors. “We’ve been planning a long time to have them here . . . and now we have them.”

Representing the African American Civil War Museum, FREED portrayed the lives

of three very different African-American women through the use of dramatic interpretation. Those portrayed included Susie King Taylor (1848-1912), Elizabeth Keckley (1818-1907), and Hallie Quinn Brown (1850-1949). At the conclusion of the program, Our Grandmother’s Quilts display was available for viewing.