An Interactive Journey with John Rollison

Recommended ages: Middle & High School Students

Experience a compelling conversation with John Rollison—an 18th-century man of color of mixed heritage—brought to life by historical interpreter James Cameron. historian and interpreter, and an interaction with today’s students. Students will be encouraged to ask Mr. Rollison any questions that they wish may pertain to 18th century Virginia.

Mr. Rollison was a wealthy, African American business owner who lived in York County and helped finance the war effort. He was connected to Patrick Henry, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Thomas Nelson, Jr. Because he was a local gentleman, his story will help students form a more personal connection to their own American history and how it does affect them today. As students learn about the early years of American history, it is extremely valuable that they are exposed to a variety of narratives, particularly from the African American experience.

Educational connections will include colonial life in 18^th century Virgina, colonial customs, slavery, currency, class distinctions, Virginia laws of the time as they pertain to property or race, voting rights, and women’s influence in 18^th century Virginia. Enhancing learning about American history in an interactive way certainly aligns with many principles of Virginia SOLs in history that include:

• The Declaration of Independence, that provides framework for our constitutional republic.
• Living up to the ideals expressed but not fully realized by the Founders for a society that recognizes all individuals are created equal.
• Native Americans and Immigrants from around the world have contributed to the rich history of the United States.
• America is both exceptional and imperfect.
• The rights codified in Virginia constitution provide for individual freedoms that place a responsibility on current and future generations of Americans to engage in the political process with civility.
• Through the ages, civilizations have grown, prospered and vanished. Every student should understand our Great American Experiment is not guaranteed forever. As Benjamin Franklin warned citizens over 200 years ago, “you have a republic… if you can keep it.”

Key Points of Interest for Teachers:

This program aligns with many principles of Virgina history SOLs as outlined above.

Program highlights include dispelling myths about mixed race individuals, native Africans, and indigenous Americans.

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For questions or more information contact:

Hampton Arts Education: ronald.boucher@hampton.gov