Support provided by:
The Case:
On the "Spanish Esplanade" overlooking the Mississippi River, there is a magnificent home that for years was believed to be the original home of one of the Spanish dons who colonized the area. Recently, this story was discovered to be a myth.
The original owner was actually a free man of color named Robert D. Smith, who built it himself in 1851, 12 years before the Emancipation Proclamation.
The new homeowners, Ruth and Jim Coy, have been actively pursuing the history of Robert Smith and they have a question. According to a recently discovered record, Smith arrived in New Orleans on a slave ship.
How did Robert Smith go from traveling on a ship full of captive individuals destined for servitude to owning a luxurious home?
The History Detectives trace the rise of this unique individual.
Related Content
Technique:
Feature:
Feature:
Technique:
Feature:
Blog Post:
Related Links
Explore
-
Related Investigation
Shippen Golf Club
Was this the golf club used by John Shippen when he made sporting history in the 1896 U.S. Open?
-
Also in Civil War: 1850-1877
Civil War Soldier Photo
Is this the photo of a Civil War soldier actually a woman in disguise?
-
Related Investigation
Charlie Parker's Saxophone
Could this be jazz legend Charlie "Bird" Parker's saxophone?
-
Also with Tukufu Zuberi
Spanish Civil War Eulogy
What can this faded document tell about a US volunteer fighting in another country’s civil war?
-
Also with Tukufu Zuberi
Bill Picket Saddle
Did this saddle ride into cowboy history with one of rodeo's most daring innovators?
-
Also with Tukufu Zuberi
Florida Map
How did this faded map help unlock the riches of the New World?
Comments
This is a place for opinions, comments, questions and discussion; a place where viewers of History Detectives can express their points of view and connect with others who value history. We ask that posters be polite and respectful of all opinions. History Detectives reserves the right to delete comments that don’t conform to this conduct. We will not respond to every post, but will do our best to answer specific questions, or address an error.
Anyone wishing to submit an artifact for investigation should do so through Submit a Story.
- Submit your StoryDo you have a Civil War object? Submit your story now.
- Latest CommentI am tremendously happy i have come across this particular website. (17 hours ago)
- TwitterHappy Birthday, Bob Dylan! 71-y o today. Our premiere episode explores the Dylan guitar that changed R&R history. July 17, 9p/8p C. Watch! (2 days ago)
- FacebookIt wasn't until I sat in a class taught by Inez Turley at Mesa Community College that the study of the past became a passion for me. Who was the teacher that inspired you? --Eduardo (2 days ago)