Susanna Warder: Life As An Enslaved Person at Pennsbury Manor
Overview
In honor of America’s 250th birthday and the Summer Reading theme, Unearth a Story, Shirley Lee Corsey, Executive Director and Curator of Gather Place, will give a historical interpretation of Susanna Warder, an enslaved woman born in 1701 at Pennsbury Manor, the country estate of Pennsylvania founder William Penn. Through Susanna’s voice, participants gain insight into the daily lives, labor, family connections, challenges, and resilience of enslaved people living in colonial Pennsylvania.
Shirley Lee Corsey is a historical interpreter who has portrayed Susanna Warder at Pennsbury Manor. This immersive program draws upon historical research and primary source documentation to illuminate an often-overlooked chapter of Bucks County history. Through storytelling and audience engagement, Susanna shares her experiences living in bondage within a colony known for ideals of religious freedom and tolerance.
The presentation encourages audiences to examine the complexities of early Pennsylvania, the role of enslavement in the region’s development, and the contributions of African Americans whose stories are too often absent from traditional historical narratives. Participants are invited to reflect on themes of freedom, justice, perseverance, and human dignity while making meaningful connections between past and present.
This engaging program includes audience discussion and questions. As with all Gather Place Museum presentations, Susanna Warder’s story educates, inspires, and preserves local history by giving a voice to those who helped shape Pennsylvania and America.
This program will be held in the library’s multipurpose room.
Registration preferred. Walk-ins welcome.
Please contact the library at programming@lowermaclib.org if you are unable to attend.
Lower Macungie Library Voices and Stories Throughout America's 250 Years Program Series
This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Lower Macungie Library.
PA Forward: Civic and Social Literacy