Meet Hercules Posey
Join Mount Vernon's K12 team to celebrate the season with a special night dedicated to K12 teachers nationwide and in the DMV. Enjoy an evening on-site (or online!) as you learn more about the legacy of enslaved cook Hercules Posey, portrayed by American Historical Theater's actor historian Keith Henley. Mr. Henley shares an intimate reflection into the life of a "highly accomplished and proficient in the culinary art as could be found in the United States" and his reflections on fleeing the home of President George Washington in 1797.
Following the performance, enjoy candlelight tours of the mansion, highlighting what life was like for the Washington family at Mount Vernon during the holiday season.
*Please note that some rooms in the Mansion are off-view due to preservation work. Learn more about our Mansion Revitalization Project.
Schedule of Events
| Time | Event | Location | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9am-4pm | Visit Mount Vernon! Use the code "GWTEACH" online to receive a 30% discount when booking tickets, and come early to visit the estate. | Mount Vernon Grounds | Please note that some rooms in the Mansion, the Education Center, and the Museum are off-view due to preservation work. |
| 4pm-5:30pm | Onsite Check-in | Ford Orientation Center | Please make sure you know the name of the person who booked your ticket (whether that be yourself, your friend, or your colleague!) Visit the Shops to receive a 10% discount on all purchases (open until 5:30pm). |
| 5:45pm-6:45pm | Meet Hercules Posey | Ford Orientation Center | This portion is also livestreamed! |
| 6:45pm-8:30pm | Onsite Reception | Ford Orientation Center | Enjoy drinks and horderves while socializing with your fellow educators and Mount Vernon staff. |
| 6:45-8:30pm | Candlelight Estate Tours | Ford Orientation Center | You'll pick up a free ticket upon check-in. Just listen for the time listed on the ticket and follow the guide! |
Resources on Hercules Posey
Who is Hercules Posey?
This article gives information on Hercules Posey and his life.
Learn about HerculesEnslavement at Mount Vernon
This exhibit tells the story of the many people enslaved at Mount Vernon throughout George Washington's Lifetime, including Hercules.
Learn about EnslavementA Day in the Life
Hercules labored as an enslaved cook. This timeline helps explain what his day might have looked like.
Learn about Cooks at Mount VernonA Mistaken Identity
This article describes the story of a portrait long thought to be depicting Hercules Posey (and how that story was debunked).
Learn about the PortraitMore about Keith Henley (Hercules Posey interpreter)
Keith Henley’s background is one of great diversity. He graduated from South Carolina State College with a major in Chemistry and minors in mathematics and biology. Later, he went on to study Theatre Education at Camden County College in Blackwood, New Jersey. He currently owns and operates J.O.Y. Productions, Queenie’s Homemade Sweets and Catering, and Alpha Designs. In addition, he is the Artistic Director and Choreographer for Folkloric Heritage Culture Arts Company Inc. of Cherry Hill, New Jersey.
Keith began his historical interpretation career with Historic Philadelphia Inc. and has since worked for the American Historical Theatre. He is presently serving as Artistic Director for Transformation Theatre Productions of Camden and is the Director of the Theatre Ministry at First Nazarene Baptist Church, Camden. He also serves as the Stage Manager for Chosen Vessels Inc. of Philadelphia.
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