The Robert Smalls Story

Courage, resilience, hope. No doubt Robert Smalls needed a hefty dose of all three to accomplish one of the most heroic and daring feats of the Civil War. An enslaved young man working the docks of Charleston in May of 1862, Smalls saw an opportunity for freedom for his family and a small group of other enslaved individuals – and he bravely took it.

Donning a captain’s hat to disguise his identity, Smalls masterfully commandeered a Confederate ship in the harbor and sailed it into Union hands. He would go on to fight for Union forces, purchase the mansion he was once enslaved in, become a state legislator, a successful businessman, and so much more.

In this special program hosted by the Daniel Island Historical Society, hear from someone who can tell this remarkable story like no other – Michael B. Moore, the great-great grandson of Robert Smalls. The former president and CEO of the International African American Museum, Moore holds a BA in political science from Syracuse University and an MBA from Duke University. He has held leadership roles in Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurial ventures, and non-profits.   

Currently, Mr. Moore is a candidate running to represent South Carolina’s First Congressional District, the same region represented by his great-great grandfather some 150 years ago. Don’t miss this FREE program, to be held on Tuesday, September 17, from 7 to 8 p.m., at Daniel Pointe Retirement Center Theater, 514 Robert Daniel Drive, Daniel Island. www.dihistoricalsociety.com

Please Note: Although Mr. Moore is currently running for office, this is not a campaign event, but a historical education program. The Daniel Island Historical Society does not endorse political candidates.

PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT IS AT A DIFFERENT LOCATION THAN OUR REGULAR VENUE!

Courtesy Library of Congress