Jane Austen and Freed Blacks

202 Middle Street,New Bern NC 28560

23 February, 2023

Description

Enjoy a relaxing coach ride to eastern North Carolina from Raleigh where you will be introduced to the history of the freed Black people of New Bern. During this trip, you will discover James City, one of North Carolina's settlements of freed Blacks. You will start with a delicious lunch provided by a well known Black chef. During lunch, we will have a robust book discussion featuring a selection that will broaden your perspective and knowledge of the African diaspora. Afterward, you will tour the current communities that were founded in the 1700s, where Blacks carved out a substantial life despite obstacles. View the craftsmanship of the freed and enslaved Blacks which includes carpenters, coopers, dressmakers, blacksmith, bricklayers, and much more. We will tour Tryon Palace and unearth the daily lives of those indentured and enslaved people. We will listen to the music of African American composers while enjoying afternoon tea in the Regency style with heavy hors d'oeuvres. Before returning to Raleigh, you will have some free time to shop around downtown pedestrian-friendly New Bern, a waterfront city. Participants have the option of riding on the coach from Raleigh to New Bern or driving themselves to the locations. A cost of $150.00 for those driving themselves.