Lecture On Thomas Jefferson's Free, Slave Daughters In Tredyffrin

CHESTERBROOK, PA — Many know that Thomas Jefferson a slave owner who spent intimate time with some under his watch. And a local history professor and author will shed light on the lives of Jefferson's daughters, one of which was a black slave and the other two white and free in Tredyffrin.

At 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 25, Catherine Kerrison, an associate professor of history at Villanova University, will host a discussion on her book "Jefferson's Daughters" at the Historic DuPortail House 297 Adams Drive in Chesterbrook

Kerrison will tell the untold story of Thomas Jefferson’s three daughters — two white and free, one black and enslaved — and the divergent paths they forged in a newly independent America.

Jefferson had three daughters: Martha and Maria by his wife, Martha Wayles Jefferson, and Harriet by his slave Sally Hemings.

Kerrison recounts the remarkable journey of these three women, and how their struggle to define themselves reflects both the possibilities and the limitations that resulted from the American Revolution.

Kerrison will sign copies of Jefferson’s Daughters which will be available for purchase after the discussion.

Tickets cost $15. A reception will be held at 7 p.m. and the lecture will begin at 7:30 p.m.

Get tickets here.

The lecture is hosted by the Tredyffrin Historic Trust.