A fascinating inscription – Saml. Townsend, Esq. – was recently discovered on a book in the South Caroliniana Library titled An Essay on the Impolicy of the African Slave Trade. Unlocking the mystery of the hand who wrote it directly connects this volume to author Claire Bellerjeau’s new work about a Black woman and the Long Island family who enslaved her, Espionage and Enslavement in the Revolution: The True Story of Robert Townsend and Elizabeth.

Join UofSC Libraries as Bellerjeau weaves a story involving the Revolutionary-era Culper Spy Ring; the relationship between an anti-slavery son and his politically-minded father; the cruelty of a South Carolina enslaver and the Charleston men who opposed slavery; and the eventual freedom of Elizabeth, also known as Liss.

This event is free and open to the public in-person and virtually.

RSVP for seats at our in-person event or to watch the event virtually.

Hollings Library is accessed through Thomas Cooper Library. UofSC students, faculty and staff must show their Carolina Card for entry into the library. Non-UofSC visitors must bring a photo ID and sign in upon arrival.

Attendees may park on the street in metered spaces or in the Bull Street Parking Garage (enter through gate #3) at a cost of $1 per hour.

Can't attend in person? Register for virtual access to this event by clicking here!