In partnership with the 1838 Black Metropolis, The Historical Society of Pennsylvania is hosting a two-day workshop, bringing together individuals dedicated to preserving and sharing Black history. This event serves as a platform for community storytellers, historians, digital creators, students, activists, genealogists, poets, artists, and walking tour guides to connect, share their work, and learn from one another.

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Historian and artist Nell Irvin Painter will present “Arrived, New Names,” as the keynote address Friday evening. Sharing insights about her artwork focused on William Still’s Journal C of the Underground Railroad, she will set the tone for exploring how creative projects can share complicated and compelling histories. In her talk, she will dive into her research into 19th century anti-slavery movements and the interwoven literary, political, and artistic work of the Black communities.

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Purpose and Significance
The teach-in emphasizes the importance of memory work in maintaining the accuracy and accessibility of Black history. By sharing strategies and experiences, participants will explore the future of public history, focusing on reclaiming and restoring narratives that have been overlooked or marginalized.

Who Should Attend
We welcome individuals at all stages of their journey in preserving and teaching Black history. Whether you are deeply immersed in this work or just beginning, your perspective is valuable. The event is designed to be inclusive, encouraging participation from a wide range of voices and experiences.

Event Highlights

• Interactive Presentations: Engage with presenters sharing innovative approaches to public history.

• Collaborative Workshops: Participate in sessions designed to develop practical skills and strategies.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with others passionate about preserving Black history.

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Topics of Discussion

• Sites of Memory

• Digital Projects

• Small Museums and Grassroots Archives

• Art and Expression

• History and Political Action

 

​Schedule

View a detailed schedule here.

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Friday, April 25

4:30 p.m. - Community Resource Fair and light reception (See call for vendors below)

6:30 p.m. - Arrived, New Names: Keynote Address with Nell Irvin Painter

 

Saturday, April 26

8:00 a.m. - Registration and light breakfast

8:45 a.m. - Welcome 
 

9:00 a.m. - Panel 1: Grassroots History and Community Preservation

This session highlights the importance of community-driven efforts to preserve, protect, and share Black history at historic sites.

• Moderator: Faye Anderson

• Presenters: Shamele Jordon and Linda Shockley; Dr. Abdul-Rahim Muhammad; Samuel Still; Laura Keim and Stephanye Watts.

 

10:30 a.m. - Panel 2: Art, Writing & Storytelling as Historical Interpretation

This panel explores how artistic expression—through literature, digital media, and performance—brings Black history to life and fosters deeper engagement with historical narratives.

• Moderator: Morgan Lloyd

• Presenters: Octavia McBride-Ahebee; Pamela Mays McDonald; Mona R. Washington; Reet Starwind; Alisha Laws.

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11:45 a.m. - Lunch on your Own

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1:00 p.m. - Panel 3: Personal Passion to Tell Untold Histories

This panel focuses on personal research projects that have resulted in sharing little-known stories with the broader public.

• Moderator: Michiko Quinones

• Presenters: Tyler Diaz; Faye Anderson; Michael Clemmons; Michael Kearney.

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2:30 p.m. - Panel 4: Education & Public Engagement

This panel explores innovative ways to teach and engage the public with Black history—whether in classrooms, digital spaces, or through community programs.

• Moderator: Richard White

• Presenters: Rann Miller; Amy Jane Cohen; Haley Kowal and Ms. Brown; Dennis Gregg.

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4:00 p.m. - Panel 5: Walking Tours, Mapping, & Local History

This panel focuses on local history initiatives that use walking tours, mapping, and public history to connect communities with Black historical narratives.

• Moderator: Melissa Benbow Flowers

• Presenters: Judith Robinson; Paul Schopp; Adrienne Rhodes and Eric Zino; Carolyn C. Williams.

5:15 p.m. - Wrap up and next steps​