HOLLYWOOD, Md. – What began as one woman’s determination to uncover her family’s story has become a powerful legacy that continues to reshape our understanding of local history.
On Wednesday, June 17, at 7:00 p.m., Historic Sotterley will host a special evening conversation featuring Kane family descendants Agnes Lightfoot and Gwen Bankins alongside author and historian David Brown, whose new book, The Kane Family: Slavery to Freedom at Sotterley, brings decades of groundbreaking family research to a wider audience.
The book preserves and expands upon the remarkable genealogical work of the late Agnes Kane Callum, a descendant of the Cane family enslaved at Sotterley. Through years of dedicated research, Callum traced generations of her family history, beginning with her great-grandfather, Hillery Cane, and uncovered connections to hundreds of descendants whose stories had long remained untold.
Her work transformed Historic Sotterley’s understanding of its past, helping to illuminate the lives, experiences, and resilience of the individuals and families who lived and labored on the plantation. Today, her research continues to influence the site’s interpretation, educational programs, and commitment to telling a more complete history.
More than a book discussion, this event offers a unique opportunity to explore the power of family history, the importance of preserving historical records, and the lasting impact one individual can have on how communities remember the past.
Facilitated by Historic Sotterley Executive Director Dr. Scott Gray, Ed.D., the conversation will delve into Callum’s life and legacy, the process of compiling and annotating her extensive research, and the ways her work continues to inspire descendants, historians, and visitors alike. Through personal reflections and historical insights, Lightfoot, Bankins, and Brown will share how Callum’s passion for uncovering the truth created lasting change for both her family and Historic Sotterley.
Guests are invited to arrive at 6:30 p.m. to meet the speakers, enjoy light refreshments, and purchase signed copies of The Kane Family: Slavery to Freedom at Sotterley before the program begins.
The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Reserve your seat at go.sotterley.org/thekanefamily
Whether you are interested in local history, genealogy, African American history, or the stories that connect families across generations, this evening promises an inspiring look at how one family’s journey continues to shape our understanding of the past.
Event Details
- Date: June 17th, 2026
- Time: 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
- Location: The Historic Barn at 44300 Sotterley Lane, Hollywood, MD 20636
This speaker event is a part of a series of events taking place at Historic Sotterley the week of Juneteenth. Visitors are also welcome to join us for our event on June 19th honoring Edith Younger Edmunds, Threads of Freedom, or all weekend long for our Pursuit of Freedom themed guided tours that include extra notes on how freedom evolved through the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, the Civil War, and post-Emancipation into the 20th century. These tours will also be half-priced for dads in honor of Father’s Day. More details on all Historic Sotterley’s events can be found at www.sotterley.org/events.