Stories in Stone: African American Contributions to the Construction of the

Jeff Sellers, Director of Education & Public Programs, will share the often overlooked histories of the individuals who built the Capitol.
About this Event

During the initial phase of construction from 1845 to 1846, enslaved laborers were responsible for clearing the site, preparing the foundation, and excavating the basement of the Tennessee State Capitol. Their work continued in 1848 at the nearby stone quarry, where they cut the massive limestone blocks that would form the Capitol’s walls and columns.

In this Lunch & Learn program, Jeff Sellers, Director of Education & Public Programs, will share the often overlooked histories of the individuals who built the Capitol. His presentation will highlight the contributions of George Dardis, a free African American porter employed at the Capitol during its construction. Featured in the Tennessee Voices, American Stories exhibit, Dardis authored one of the earliest published descriptions of the Capitol, documenting many of its original architectural features and providing invaluable insight into its early years.

This Lunch and Learn event is in-person in the Museum’s Digital Learning Center at 12:00. To reserve tickets please use the code TNCapitol. The lunch and learn will be recorded and uploaded to TNMuseum.org/Videos. If you have any questions, please email [email protected]. Boxed lunches made by Apple Spice Nashville are available for purchase for $12.24 to enjoy during the event. The lunches will include a sandwich, chips, and a cookie. Lunch orders must be placed by noon on Tuesday August 18, 2026. Please order your boxed lunch on the ticket registration page.