Author: Margaret Seidler, author, and John W. Jones, artist
Date/Time: Wednesday 06/19/2024 at 11:00 AM
Book: “Payne-ful” Business: Charleston's Journey to Truth
Synopsis: This recent release coincided with an exhibit at the Charleston City Gallery displaying the original artwork created by Jones to illustrate the shocking discovery of ancestral ties by Seidler, a native and eighth generation Charlestonian. Instead of the medical genetic markers that were her object, the author discovered her Payne ancestors' bustling slave brokerage business on Broad Street, which supported the city's deep-seated and undeniable role in promoting the economic system of slavery. "'Payne-ful' Business: Charleston's Journey to Truth" follows Margaret Seidler's mission to learn and process her family's genealogical past. Using extensive research and personal experience, Seidler discusses the realities of Charleston's racial history while highlighting the historians, journalists, and community members who work to reconcile those truths. The book features authentic, historic slave advertisements brought to life by vivid paintings by artist John W. Jones (previously acclaimed for his pioneering book, "Confederate Currency, the Color of Money") that uncover the humanity hidden beneath the detached advertisement descriptions. Never has anyone taken the stilted, chattel-based text of human beings advertised for sale or rent and redefined them into living, conscious individuals depicting both their humanity and poignant familial relationships. Seidler hopes that acknowledging a more complete truth about our past will motivate us to bridge today's racial divide.
Restaurant: Litchfield Country Club
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Directions: 619 Country Club Drive, Pawleys Island 29585