While participating in a costumed reenactment, students recreate the events surrounding the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.  Each student researches and acts the part of an historic character from the 1860s and traces President Abraham Lincoln’s steps as he considered emancipation and its alternatives.  These scenes are videotaped and, if time permits, students pre-view their film before returning to school.

Within the real historic spaces of the Stephen Decatur House, students engage in critical thinking to answer these questions:

How did Charlotte Dupuy, a slave owned by Secretary of State and Decatur House resident Henry Clay, use the legal system to seek her freedom?

How did President Lincoln come to his decision to proclaim emancipation?

How did Abraham Lincoln use his Constitutional powers as the president in signing the Emancipation Proclamation?

In conclusion to the program, each class receives a DVD of their filmed production.  In addition, educators participating in this free program are required to provide valuable feedback.

The program is standards-based; more information is provided upon request or booking of the program.  Please contact the White House Historical Association for more information: outreach@whha.org or 202-218-4322.

Thank you for your interest in the Paths to Freedom program. We are completely booked for the 2010-11 school year. Please email if you would like to be notified when we open reservations for the 2011-12 school year. We look forward to working with you in the future.