The History of
THE BLACK GARDEN

Since the founding of America, African Americans have planted crops for themselves that have cultural importance, particularly in Virginia and the greater South. Join Debra Freeman, host and creator of Setting the Table podcast, as she explores the fascinating history and relevance of fish peppers, watermelons, sweet potatoes, collards, peanuts and other legacy vegetables that still endure today.

Fees: Member $10, Non-Member $12

All programs are subject to change. Pre-registration through our website is required.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden strives to be a Garden for all and we are committed to offering diverse adult learning opportunities that are inclusive and accessible to all learners. If you would like to request an accommodation to support your participation in an adult learning opportunity at the Garden, please contact [email protected] or call 804-262-9887 x320 and we will make our best effort to help.

Register Member $10

Register Non-Member $12

Date:
Saturday, January 25, 2025
Time:
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Event Details

Portrait of food journalist Debra FreemanAbout the Instructor

Debra Freeman is a food anthropologist, podcaster and writer, and writes about Black foodways throughout America, but particularly in Virginia and the greater South. Freeman is the host and creator of Setting the Table, the critically acclaimed podcast that explores Black culinary history. It was named by Apple Podcasts as “one of the shows we loved in 2022”, listed as a podcast to listen to by Tasting Table, and Texas Monthly wrote “[the podcast] explored topics they wished they had covered.” Freeman was recently named as a Black Women in Food, a Snailblazer by Slow Food USA, and one of the Most Powerful Richmonders of 2022. Her written work can be found in outlets such as Eater, Conde´ Nast Traveler, Food52, Modern Farmer, The Local Palate, Plate Magazine, Epicurious, Garden and Gun, Pit Magazine, Gravy, Southern Grit Magazine, and Gastro Obscura, and she has been a cultural commentator for BBC Radio. Freeman is currently the with executive director and host of the upcoming documentary Finding Edna Lewis on PBS.

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