CHS ASALH joins the Charleston Library Society and Buxton Books to invite the community to an enlightening conversation. This special event features esteemed historian Dr. Edda Fields-Black and conservation expert David Ray. The dialogue will take place at the Charleston Library Society, with invaluable support from community partners including the Lowcountry Land Trust and the South Carolina Historical Society.
Dr. Edda Fields-Black: Reclaiming History Through the Lens of the Combahee River Raid
Dr. Edda Fields-Black, a distinguished professor at Carnegie Mellon University, will discuss her latest groundbreaking publication, COMBEE. The book explores the significant yet often overlooked Combahee River Raid led by Harriet Tubman during the Civil War. Dr. Fields-Black, whose ancestor fought in the raid, uses original documents and intensive research to detail this historic event. Her work not only sheds light on Tubman’s strategic brilliance but also delves into the cultural and social impacts that resonate through the Gullah Geechee culture today.
The discussion will reveal how Dr. Fields-Black’s deeply personal and academic connections to the Gullah Geechee heritage and the rice plantations of the American South and West Africa enhance our understanding of this unique cultural identity. Her role as a consultant for the Smithsonian and her work on the contemporary classical piece, “Unburied, Unmourned, Unmarked: Requiem for Rice,” stresses her commitment to honoring and preserving African-American history.
David Ray: A Steward of the Land
David Ray, Chief Conservation Officer at Lowcountry Land Trust, will share insights into the vital work of land and water conservation in South Carolina’s coastal plain. With a career spanning numerous conservation roles—from an attorney specializing in environmental law to leading conservation programs at The Nature Conservancy—Ray brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion. His efforts have led to the preservation of over 48,500 acres, emphasizing the importance of maintaining our natural and cultural heritage for future generations.
Join Us for a Night of Insight and Inspiration
This event promises to be a compelling exploration of how historical events shape our environmental and cultural landscapes. Whether you are a history buff, a conservation enthusiast, or someone interested in the rich culture of South Carolina, this conversation between Dr. Fields-Black and David Ray offers a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of our past and the natural world.
We encourage all community members to join us for this inspiring event. Engage with these two remarkable speakers and gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity of history and conservation efforts that define our region.
See below for Event Partners.
Tickets*: Purchase HERE
$10 – Members
$15 – General Admission
$50 – Members (Ticket includes 1 signed copy of COMBEE: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War)
$55 – General Admission (Ticket includes 1 signed copy of COMBEE)
$60 – Limited Option (Includes 2 Tickets and 1 signed copy of COMBEE)
Date/Time
May 8 @ 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Charleston Library Society
164 King St, Charleston, SC, 29403
For more information about this event, please visit the Charleston Library Society’s website.
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