Historians to discuss ‘Darkology’ research April 12

Dr. Rhae Lynn Barnes will join historian Paul Sparrow for a discussion of her new book, “Darkology: Blackface and the American Way of Entertainment,” at 5 p.m., Sunday, April 12, in the fireplace area at the Lewes Public Library, 111 Adams Ave., Lewes. The event will also stream live via Zoom.

A Princeton historian, Barnes has spent decades researching archives and private collections to reveal the extraordinary extent to which Blackface, and the caricatured and dehumanizing depiction of formerly enslaved people was a staple of community entertainment for more than two centuries. Barnes and Sparrow will discuss the damage these depictions have done to generations of Americans. 

This event is part of a series of America250 collaborations among the library, the History Book Festival and Browseabout Books. Seating is limited, and registration is required. At registration, participants will be asked to select in-person or online attendance. To register, go to tinyurl.com/AuthorEventsLPL or call 302-645-2733.

"When I picked up ‘Darkology,’ I was fascinated by how much there is to the story of Blackface in America,” said Jen Mason, History Book Festival co-founder and chair. “We are thrilled to host Dr. Barnes and Paul Sparrow for an exploration of these incredible insights.”

Sparrow is former director of the FDR Presidential Library and Museum.