The seminar is designed to help teachers of history and social studies grades 4-12 and museum educators employed in a public history setting to incorporate the history of African-American slavery into their programs. Although the main focus will be the history of slavery in Virginia, the seminar will provide participants with a general study of slavery in America.

Topics will include:

The origins of slavery in North America, slavery and religion, the slave family, slave narratives, urban slavery (including a tour of Colonial Williamsburg), slave revolts, Jefferson and slavery, the relationship between slaves and slave holders, the archaeology of slavery and the relationship of free African Americans to those in bondage.

Through lectures, discussions, field trips, readings and projects, the participants will have the unique opportunity to interact with historians in the field enabling them to gain new insights into the experience of slavery. The emotional and, at times, interpretative nature of the subject matter will challenge the participants to confront both themselves and one another so that the history of slavery can be presented with honesty, fairness and sensitivity in their classrooms and museum programs.

What sets this seminar apart from mere book studies is the singular experience of learning within the historical setting of Stratford Hall Plantation. Reconstructed slave quarters, as well as outbuildings and work areas, will provide the participants with an intimate understanding of the conditions under which the slaves lived and worked, allowing each participant to study the practice that divided a nation and remains a controversy to this day.

The importance of an accurate interpretation of the events that have brought us to this point in our history cannot be overstated. As America progresses, so must its understanding of the events that bind us as a nation. It is the intent of this seminar to offer a scholarly forum for individuals to discuss, debate, experience and, hopefully, one day to better understand this most difficult of issues. The success of our multicultural society relies on lessons taught today from lessons learned yesterday. The seminar encourages the participation of those who are dedicated to making a difference tomorrow. To take a close up look at the participants and activities of the 2002 seminar, visit our seminar alumni web site .

The director of the seminar will be Dr. Philip J. Schwarz, professor of History at Virginia Commonwealth University and author of Twice Condemned: Slaves and Criminal Law of Virginia, 1705-1865 in addition to other topical studies of slavery. Dr. Schwarz also has been involved with several other seminars and workshops of this nature.

The Stratford Hall Plantation Seminar on Slavery offers teachers and museum professionals the opportunity to:

• Study for two weeks with distinguished scholars of slavery.
• Interact with other school teachers and museum professionals interested in teaching about slavery.
• Develop projects and lesson plans concerning slavery.
• Enjoy the facilities of Stratford Hall Plantation, including the Jessie Ball duPont Memorial Library.
• Take field trips to Colonial Williamsburg and Richmond, Virginia.
• Learn about methods museums use to educate visitors about slavery.

"A fascinating, educational and fun experience. Just what I needed to recharge for the coming school year...."

"...A great opportunity for those who want to further their understanding of slavery as a distinct American experience...."

"I have learned a tremendous amount. I was a sponge that absorbed almost anything that came at me...."

"Excellent! Best experience I've ever had and I hope to be a part of future seminars like this...."

"I have grown as a student and a person in a multicultural setting."

"One of the greatest professional and personal experiences of my life. Truly remarkable experience! Keep it going!"

"These ideas not only broaden our understanding but bring healing to our land. My students will reap the benefits of this challenging experience...."

• Virginia and Maryland - $50
• Other states east of the Appalachian Mountains - $225
• States between the Appalachian Mountains and the Mississippi River - $325
• States west of the Mississippi River - $425
• Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico - $475
• Teachers from schools abroad fall into the category appropriate to their port of entry.

Participants will be housed near the historic area at Stratford and will take their meals in the Plantation dining room nearby. They will be responsible for some of their own meals during field trips. Participants may want to take advantage of free time to visit Civil War battle sites and other sites of interest.

• Evidence of the applicant's demonstrated success as a teacher or museum educator.
• Evidence that the seminar will relate to the needs of the applicant and those of the applicant's school or museum.
• Evidence of a well-rounded personality and the ability to work with people.
• Evidence of a commitment to, and capabilities for, the concentrated study of the seminar program.

Complete applications must be received by March 8, 2003, and all applicants will be notified of their status during the second week in April. Applications will not be returned.

An application must include:

• The completed application form.
• Resume (limit to two pages).
• Statement of personal and professional reasons for wanting to participate in this seminar(limit to five hundred words.)
• Any other evidence of teaching success, academic capabilities, a well-rounded personality, and the ability to work with other people.
• A signed statement of commitment to attend the 2003 Seminar on Slavery if you are selected and accept the invitation to participate.

To be mailed separately and directly:

• Certified undergraduate and graduate transcripts mailed by registrars from institutions at which you completed course work in the past five years.
• Letters of recommendation from your immediate supervisor or principal and from one other person competent to judge your character and academic skills. Letters from your supervisor/principal should indicate how this course could benefit your school system or museum program. Letters will be completely confidential.
• If your name has changed since university experience, please indicate transcript name.

Mail these materials to:

Questions about the seminar may be directed to Slavery Seminar Staff at (804) 493-1558 or FAX (804) 493-8006.