According to Ellen Schwartz:
>
> This may not go anywhere, but last year there was an event at Monticello
> that brought T. Jefferson's descendents, white and black, together.  This may
> have only been a one time thing, but considering the discussion that continues
> about Jefferson and his slave mistress, they may be pursuing a more long term
> interpretation, including continued dialogue with the parties involved.
> Ellen Schwartz
> [log in to unmask]
>
 
Wait a minute, here. You so casually refer to "Jefferson's
descendents, white and black" and "Jefferson's slave mistress"
as if this were established fact, which it definitely is not.
The event at Monticello brought together descendents of the
plantation, white and black, not necessarily Jefferson's
personal descendents. Monticello does not take a position for
or against the claims of Jefferson's relationship with Sally
Hemings, which is still very much an open question among
Jefferson scholars. The Thomas Jefferson Memorial Foundation,
owners of Monticello, are actively moving towards a more
inclusive presentation of plantation life, especially including
the experiences of African-Americans as slaves.
 
Carol Ely
Virginia Discovery Museum
Charlottesville
 
(no affilation with Monticello, just an interested bystander)