A son of formerly enslaved people, Paul Laurence Dunbar (1872–1906) was one of the first African American authors to become world-famous for his writings. During his short life, Dunbar authored books including poetry and novels. Some of Dunbar’s books were illustrated with photographs taken by members of the Hampton Institute Camera Club in Hampton, Virginia, and decorated by famous book designers Margaret Armstrong and Alice Morse. These books celebrated African American life using both words and images. This Hands-on History Program will focus on a number of Dunbar’s publications, including those that feature Camera Club images and designs by Morse and Armstrong. Attendees will handle books from the Free Library’s collection, read Dunbar’s poems, and consider how Dunbar’s writings can speak to us still today.

Take history in the palm of your hand: turn pages, hold manuscripts, and handle artifacts with the Hands-on History series from the Free Library's Special Collections. Curiosity seekers age 13 and up are welcome! Registration is free, but required. 

Seating is limited. Click here to get your free tickets!

Find out more about our Hands-on History series