Governor Rendell Announces Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission's Year-Long Celebration of Black History in Pennsylvania

HARRISBURG, Pa., Feb. 3 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission today launched a year-long celebration of Black History with the public exhibition of the 1780 Act for Gradual Abolition of Slavery, Governor Edward G. Rendell announced.

"This exhibit demonstrates the commission's deep commitment to the preservation and interpretation of Black history and encourages communities across the state to contribute to this important effort," said Governor Rendell.  "By examining Black history through people, places and events, many communities can reclaim this important part of their heritage."

The 1780 Act for the Gradual Abolition of Slavery was drafted during the Revolutionary War by new wartime political leaders. As the name suggests, the document provided for a gradual, not immediate, abolition and served as a model for other northern states, according to PHMC Executive Director Barbara Franco.

The act begins with an expression of gratitude for deliverance from the "tyranny of Great Britain" and for the opportunity to "extend a portion of that freedom to others."

The original act is among the records of the Pennsylvania State Archives.  It comprises 13 pages and one of the signatories is Thomas Paine, Clerk of the General Assembly and the author of Common Sense.

The document will be on exhibit at the State Museum, 300 North St., Harrisburg from Feb. 3 - June 20. Museum hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday, noon – 5 p.m.

The commission's 2010 commemoration of Black history also will include a dedicated website, special publications and numerous public programs.

For additional information, visit www.PHMC.state.pa.us.

Media contact: Kirk Wilson; 717-783-9882

SOURCE Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission

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