African American History in Loudoun Event Set for Oct. 29

LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA — The community is invited to an Open House hosted by The Black History Committee (BHC) of Friends of The Thomas Balch Library. The event will be held on Saturday, October 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Thomas Balch Library, located at 208 West Market Street, Leesburg.

With the theme of: "Essence of a People: Explore the African American Experience in Loudoun County," activities at the Open House will include presentations by Committee members on African Americans who have made a difference in the community; a screening of the documentary: Looking Back at Leesburg with Wilson Townsend, Jr.; a tour of African American history resources at the Balch Library; and light refreshments.

At 10 a.m., Open House activities will begin with a period allowing visitors to view displays and interact with committee members.

Beginning at 11 a.m. there will be a presentation of African American resources at The Balch Library, followed by a tour of the Library itself, lasting until noon.

At 12:30 p.m. guest speaker Gertrude Evans will present: "Segregation & Civil Rights in Leesburg - A Personal Story," which will be followed at 2:30 p.m. by the hour-long documentary: Looking back at Leesburg.

Established in 2000, the Black History Committee is dedicated to preserve, collect and share the history of African Americans who have contributed to the emergence and development of Loudoun County. During the past 16 years, it has recorded oral histories, and produced numerous publications including: A Glimpse into Loudoun County's African American Histories, a Virginia Standards of Learning teaching aid; and African American Historic Communities: A Tour Map and Guide on which the committee's successful bus tour of these prominent communities is based.

For more information, visit: http://balchfriends.org/black-history-committee/

Please RSVP by e-mailing: BHC@BalchFriends.org

Image credit: Thomas Balch Library Facebook page