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
Thomas Edison's House
Was this New Jersey home built by inventor Thomas Edison?
-
Also with Tukufu Zuberi
Booth Letter
Did the father of John Wilkes Booth threaten to assassinate the President?
-
Also in Civil War: 1850-1877
Fillmore Pardon
Did President Fillmore pardon a Native American convicted of murder?
-
Related Investigation
George Washington Miniature
Did the artist paint this portrait from life, and what is its surprising connection to the abolitionist White Matlack?
-
Also with Tukufu Zuberi
Exercise Records
What role did these records play in the sculpting of america's fixation with fitness?
-
Also in Civil War: 1850-1877
GAR Photograph
How did two African Americans come to be part of this photograph in Reconstructionist-era America?
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 actually just found #3 and googled it and came up with this story. I am amazed that I have this in my posession. Yes, I am going to auction it. (8 hours ago)
- Twitterremember this investigation with @TukufuZuberi @elyseluray Tonight they reunite! Let us know your thoughts! @PBS http://t.co/4KMnc27K (7 months ago)
- FacebookWes here -- hope everyone is having a great long weekend. As you enjoy your time with friends or family , take a minute to remember all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. (17 hours ago)