Celebrating African American Heritage at Happy Retreat
Bee Line Daughters learn about African American Heritage at Happy Retreat
The Journal | Tuesday, June 3, 2025
By Staff
The Bee Line Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution recently hosted a program at historic Happy Retreat in Charles Town to celebrate African American heritage. Led by member Marjorie Gaestel, the event highlighted the estate's history and the importance of recognizing the lives of enslaved individuals who contributed to its legacy. Gaestel, also a historian with Friends of Happy Retreat, discussed the ongoing project to create a memorial for enslaved persons and showcased recent research into their lives. This initiative emphasizes the value of acknowledging African American contributions to the region's history, particularly in connection with notable local figures like the Washington family.