History on Foot: Elizabeth Keckly
Danielle A. Drakes as Elizabeth Keckly. Photo by Gary Erskine.
A Free Black Woman: Elizabeth Keckly
written by Jennifer Nelson
directed by Patrick Torres
Elizabeth Keckly, who bought her freedom after 35 years of slavery, was Mary Todd Lincoln’s modiste, dresser and confidante. Forged during the throes of the Civil War, the unlikely friendship between First Lady and her dressmaker has fascinated historians in the years since.
Walk the historic streets around Ford’s Theatre and explore Lincoln’s impact on history from a rarely heard voice of the time. Listen as Elizabeth details her friendship with the Lincoln family, her work as seamstress to the elite wives of Washington, and her dedication to helping former slaves make a new life in the city.
This tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and the distance walked is about 1.5 miles. Wear comfortable shoes.
Watch a trailer for this walking tour.
Fine Print
Please note: History on Foot tours do not include entrance into Ford’s Theatre. For information on touring Ford’s Theatre, click here. Filming is not permitted but photography is encouraged. All tours begin promptly. Latecomers may not be accommodated.
Tours will take place rain or shine. If you have a question regarding the status of the tour, please call the Box Office at (202) 347-4833.
Dates
- Saturday, May 29, 2010 - 11:15am
- Saturday, June 12, 2010 - 7:00pm
- Saturday, June 19, 2010 - 7:00pm
- Saturday, June 26, 2010 - 7:00pm
- Saturday, July 10, 2010 - 8:45am
- Saturday, July 10, 2010 - 7:00pm
- Saturday, July 17, 2010 - 7:00pm
- Saturday, July 24, 2010 - 7:00pm
- Saturday, July 31, 2010 - 7:00pm
- Saturday, August 7, 2010 - 7:00pm
- Saturday, August 14, 2010 - 7:00pm
- Saturday, August 21, 2010 - 7:00pm
- Saturday, August 28, 2010 - 7:00pm
- Saturday, September 11, 2010 - 11:15am
- Saturday, September 18, 2010 - 11:15am
- Saturday, October 2, 2010 - 11:15am
- Saturday, October 9, 2010 - 11:15am
- Saturday, October 16, 2010 - 11:15am
- Saturday, October 23, 2010 - 11:15am