Conversation Club: Liz Lightfoot

About The Program

Liz Lightfoot of Witness Stones Project will take participants through an intro to the history of slavery in CT and then a discussion of the five themes developed by Dennis Cullition, Founder of Witness Stones Project (dehumanization, treatment of enslaved, paternalism, economics of slavery, and agency and resistance). Then, explore/interpret documents related to Pharaoh/Pharo/Robin and others in his world. Lightfoot has done some preliminary research into his "seller" and "purchaser" and has some thought- and question-provoking details to have attendees begin to unpack, including additional information about others enslaved by the same individuals.

About Liz Lightfoot

Liz Lightfoot serves as Director of Operations for the Witness Stones Project. A former journalist, she has worked in education for the last 15 years, holding a variety of roles, including overseeing communications and alumni relations, serving as a history teacher, and facilitating the Witness Stones Project. She also works as a freelance writer. A graduate of Harvard (AB, English and American Literature) and Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism (MS), Liz lives in Lyme, Connecticut, with her family.

About Conversation Club

Inspired by the rich tradition of "The Conversation Club," established in 1818, our monthly gathering offers a dynamic platform for engaging dialogue. Join us on the third Thursday of each month as we delve into lively conversations rooted in history. Through re-examining the past, our club fosters meaningful discussions that inspire learning, reflection, and a shared vision for the future.

Located in the heart of the historic village of Farmington, Stanley-Whitman House stands as the town's inaugural museum, offering vivid insights into early colonial life. Beyond traditional exhibits, our museum provides immersive experiences through dynamic programs, events, classes, and hands-on exploration opportunities, including living history demonstrations, publications, exhibits, a library, an archive, and a permanent collection. Our centerpiece is a circa 1720 National Historic Landmark house with period antiques, offering a glimpse into colonial Connecticut life. Surrounding the house, visitors can stroll through period-raised bed gardens, explore an apple orchard, and admire heritage stone walls, immersing themselves in the past. Since 1935, Stanley-Whitman House has operated under the auspices of the Farmington Village Green and Library Association, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) educational organization dedicated to collecting, preserving, and interpreting the rich history and culture of 17th-19th-Century Farmington, Connecticut.

This program isn't just about listening but actively participating in the dialogue. Please bring your questions, perspectives, and curiosity as we navigate the complexities of telling inclusive histories together. Register online at https://www.s-wh.org/conversation-club or call (860) 677-9222 to reserve your spot.

This is a free, in-person program, although donations are graciously accepted. 

We believe in access and equity, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to engage and participate in our museum programs and events. As part of our commitment to accessibility, we offer this program free of charge. However, we kindly ask that those who can donate to support our ongoing programs do so. Your generosity plays a vital role in our mission to maintain accessibility and continue organizing and hosting these events. By donating, you help us expand and diversify our range of activities and subjects, ensuring our programs remain accessible. Thank you for your support in making our mission possible.

Sherra Palmer and David Palmer (1942 - 2024) have generously supported this program.

Host or Publisher Stanley-Whitman House