Buncombe County Special Collections has partnered with several NC historical sites to present a full day of America250 events on Friday, Feb. 27, delving into the fundamental ideals of democracy and the diversity of voices that have shaped our nation.
The programming is centered around the theme, “When are we US?,” inviting local historians to speak to NC’s history of immigration, integration, fundamental rights, emancipation, and voting.
Here’s what’s on schedule for the symposium:
“A New Birth of Freedom in the Mountain South” | 9:30 a.m.
Historian Dr. Steven Nash, author of “Reconstruction’s Ragged Edge,” will explore the aftermath of slavery in Western North Carolina in a lecture followed by a Q&A session.
“A Woman of Her Own Making” | 10:30 a.m.
Professor Rebecca Godwin will spotlight Julia Wolfe, not just as Thomas Wolfe’s mother, but as a trailblazing businesswoman and symbol of early 20th-century female independence.
Screening of “Urban Renewal Impact” | 1 p.m.
Director Todd Gragg and collaborator and historian Priscilla Robinson’s new film — part two of the “Black in Asheville” film series — explores how Asheville’s East Riverside urban renewal project displaced 1,250+ families and reshaped the city’s Black community. Gragg and Robinson will host a Q&A following the documentary.
“Open Envelope” | 3:30 p.m.
Members of Asheville Community Theater will perform live readings of historical documents harkening back to the theme, “When are we US?”, featuring letters home from the Belgian front in WWI to accounts of suffragettes celebrating political victories.
The entire day of events is free to attend, with light refreshments served. Beyond the symposium, Buncombe County Special Collections has plenty of opportunities to help you learn all about local history — see the schedule of upcoming exhibitions and events.
