Elizabeth Dowling Taylor talked about her book, A Slave in the White House: Paul Jennings and the Madisons. In her book she recounts the life of Paul Jennings, born into slavery on the plantation of James and Dolley Madison in 1799 and later a member of the household staff of President Madison. Mr. Jennings gained his freedom in 1847. He was active in community affairs and helping slaves escape, and he authored the first White House memoir. The author talked about her research, especially interviewing his descendants. Ms. Taylor responded to questions from members of the audience.
This was an event in the History and Biography Pavilion of the 12th annual National Book Festival, held on the National Mall.