Moses Williams worked on the second floor of Independence Hall as a black slave, cutting silhouettes in famed artist Charles Willson Peale’s studio. Freed by Peale in 1803, Williams continued the craft until at least 1833 as a free man. His “Silhouette of a Boy” opens DAR’s latest exhibit- “Fighting for Freedom: Black Craftspeople and the Pursuit of Independence”.
This show highlights the human stories beyond the craft. The items on view range from:
- A simple clay bowl from Mount Vernon’s slave quarters
- Ornate furniture
- Hand planes
- Spinning wheel
- Quilts
- Simple chairs
- Silver utensils
- Portraits
The show opens on Saturday and runs through December 31, 2025. The small museum takes less than two hours to explore, making it perfect for exploring with children.
There are also free activities for kids every Saturday where they can learn more about history and the objects on display from engaging docents.
The Daughters of the American Revolution Museum is located next to the White House grounds on 17th Street NW. Visit their website for more information about hours and visiting.
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