Phebe of Beverwyck Plantation

“Phebe of Beverwyck Plantation”
Born a slave, but her spirit helped change the nation
 
On the Sundays of February 12 and 19, at First Presbyterian Church of Whippany, local historian Don Kiddoo will recount the life story of a slave girl born in 1785 on the 2,000-acre Beverwyck Plantation at present day Troy Hills .  Slave Phebe was “given” at age 15 to a wealthy family of Dartmouth College, and had a remarkable career serving the families of presidents of three New England colleges.  Through observations of her Pastor Adams at Brunswick, Maine, and a white admirer also named “Phoebe,” black Phebe’s poignant life experience informed author Harriett Beecher Stowe’s characterization of her noble protagonist “Uncle Tom” in "Uncle Tom’s Cabin," the most influential publication of America’s 19th century.
 
The two-part lectures will be presented in the original church sanctuary (built 1834) while the church's Parish Hall remains under reconstruction from flood damage by Hurricane Irene.  Morris County's black history community and the general public is cordially invited to attend either or both of the segments.  Doors open at 8:30 am for coffee; lecture with Q&A from 8:40 to 9:45 am.  First Presbyterian Church of Whippany is at 494 NJ Route 10 (near the Whippany Road intersection).  Convenient parking behind the church, off the jughandle.  Church office: (973) 887-2197.