Mabry-Hazen House Executive Director Patrick Hollis will give a talk on the life and emancipation of Wiley Mabry, a celebratory yet sobering tale of the lengths enslaved Black Americans took to obtain their freedom. Only fragments exist from Wiley’s life, yet an 1872 Southern Claims Commission report reveals a fascinating and powerful detail about him: Wiley Mabry bought himself. Since discovering this fascinating story, more details about Wiley and his experiences after his self-emancipation have emerged. From political activism to marriage, family and beyond, listen to Wiley Mabry’s story, learn about Black life in Knoxville during the 1870s and understand Hollis’ research process into the fragmentary evidence sketching Mabry’s life. Admission is free.

In addition, Mabry-Hazen House will host free tours for up to 24 people each time on Thursday, June 19, at 11 a.m. and 1 and 3 p.m.; and on Saturday, June 21, at 10:30 a.m. and 12 and 1:30 p.m.

Mabry-Hazen House will share stories, objects and research related to the historic house museum, local enslaved communities and their stories of emancipation. Visitors will learn about the lives of Black Americans connected to Mabry-Hazen House, their achievements and struggles, and the various methods they used to gain freedom and break down the oppressive institution of American chattel slavery.