“A Journey to Freedom: Josephine Williams” Tour
“This My Mark: Josephine Williams” is a FREE tour that connects two historic properties with two remarkable women – Ellen McCormick and Josephine Williams – who in 1870 agreed to establish a new community for freed slaves. The event begins at Clermont Farm (151 Clermont Lane, Berryville) and concludes at the Josephine School Community Museum (303 Josephine St., Berryville).
At Clermont, learn about Ellen McCormick who, after her husband’s death, owned the farm as well as Josephine and other African-Americans. After the Civil War, Josephine – now a free woman – negotiated a land deal with Ellen McCormick that resulted in the Black community known as Josephine City.
At the museum, visitors will trace Josephine’s journey from enslavement to land ownership and leadership that resulted in a self-sufficient community.
This program is supported by the VA250 initiative, part of the national celebration of our country’s 250th anniversary. Read more here.
Contact Clermont at (540) 955-0102 or office@clermontfarm.org. Contact the museum at (540) 955-5512 or jschool515@verizon.net.
