Featuring Daphne Maxwell Reid in discussion with Elvatrice Belsches, the film’s researcher and writer. Moderated by Kimberly Brown.
This documentary explores the extraordinary life of Elizabeth Keckly against the national crisis of the Civil War. Born a slave in Virginia, Keckly’s skill as a seamstress enabled her to purchase her freedom. She became the favorite dressmaker and personal confidante of First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln, and she later established a relief organization for freedmen and injured black soldiers.
Founded in 2010, the VCU Southern Film Festival explores how the distinctive qualities of the South have been portrayed onscreen by bringing together films and filmmakers with constructive commentary. Cosponsored by the VCU Department of History and VMFA.