During Thomas Jefferson's first presidential term, a Richmond newspaper piece stunned the nation, stating that Sally Hemings, an enslaved African American, was Jefferson's "concubine" and had conceived a number of his children. His descendants - and many prominent Jefferson historians - have since denied that any such relationship had ever existed. A 1998 DNA study, however, found a link between the Hemings and Jefferson families. What are the facts of this fascinating story? How have certain aspects been exaggerated?

The lectures begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by a question-and-answer period at 11:15, with lunch at 11:30. The $30 fee for each event includes the lecture, lunch with the speaker, and a book signing.

NOTE: You must be an OLLI at UVa member for the spring 2020 semester to participate in the Winter Session. The registration deadline is the Friday before each lecture; no refund requests will be accepted after that day. (Maximum capacity: 75. Snow date: February 20th)