Fighting for Freedom: Race & Culture in early St. Louis
Explore the many faces of Slavery in 19th Century St. Louis.
Imagine a time when steam-powered paddle boats crowded the downtown riverfront, including many that traded in human cargo!
Join Bobby as he returns to this historical era in St. Louis when people of color were considered property. Bobby examines the many myths, facts, and legends involving both free black men and slaves; and, through amazing stories, interprets and brings to life this fascinating era. He also revisits historical sites in St. Louis, as well as the famous people who lived here.
As a former National Park Service Ranger at the Old Courthouse and Arch, Bobby creates, through story, glimpses into the past that are entertaining, thought-provoking, and sometimes unsettling.
Highlights include:
- Slavery sites in St. Louis, such as the Old Courthouse & Laclede's Landing
- The famous trial of Dred & Harriet Scott, the slaves who sued for their freedom
- York, the only slave on Lewis & Clark expedition
- Scott Joplin, The Ragtime King and his connections to St. Louis
- Jim Beckwourth, the famous mountain-man
