HOLLYWOOD — Historic Sotterley will present a special program on June 17 exploring the legacy of Agnes Kane Callum and the newly published book The Kane Family: Slavery to Freedom at Sotterley.
The event begins at 7 p.m. in the Historic Barn and will feature Kane family descendants Agnes Lightfoot and Gwen Bankins along with author and historian David Brown. Dr. Scott Gray, executive director of Historic Sotterley, will facilitate the discussion.
Callum, a descendant of the Cane family enslaved at Sotterley, spent years tracing her family history back to her great-grandfather, Hillery Cane. Her research documented generations of descendants and helped expand the site’s understanding of the lives of those who lived and worked on the plantation.
Brown’s book preserves and expands upon Callum’s genealogical work. The program will examine Callum’s life, the process of compiling her research, and the ongoing influence of her findings on Sotterley’s interpretation and educational programs.
Lightfoot, Bankins and Brown will share personal reflections and historical insights during the conversation. Guests may arrive at 6:30 p.m. to meet the speakers, enjoy light refreshments and purchase signed copies of the book.
The event is free and open to the public, though registration is required at go.sotterley.org/thekanefamily.
The program is part of a series of Juneteenth-related events at Historic Sotterley. On June 19 the site will honor Edith Younger Edmunds with a program titled Threads of Freedom. Pursuit of Freedom themed guided tours will run throughout the weekend and will be offered at half price for dads in recognition of Father’s Day.
Historic Sotterley is located at 44300 Sotterley Lane in Hollywood. Additional details on all events are available at www.sotterley.org/events
