We are partnering with Historic Sotterley to bring some of the Sotterley Descendants to campus to discuss their ancestry, history and perspectives.

The mission of the Descendant’s Project is to grow an official registry of all people whose ancestry is connected to Historic Sotterley's 300-year history, whether enslavers, the enslaved, workers, free and allied families.

The hope is to encourage enrichment through their stories, engaging Descendants’ and their families in Sotterley's vision, mission, operations, events, support and leadership.

Stories from Descendant perspectives and their research add richness to the lives we reach, teach and touch.

The Descendants program at Historic Sotterley today

Descendants are presenters in Sotterley's Common Ground, and their willingness to share their stories allows for a more personal connection to, and understanding of, the realities of our shared past. Whether you know you are descended from Historic Sotterley’s people or suspect you might be, you are welcome to join the Descendants’ Registry.

Before or after the discussion panel, visit the Boyden Gallery for the exhibition, ”Sharing our Common Humanity from Common Ground (the first 38),” featuring Nicole Stewart’s portraits of descendants of Historic Sotterley (formerly the Sotterley Plantation) in Hollywood, MD. The exhibit offers an opportunity to learn more about the history of St. Mary’s County and the ways in which that history is commemorated/remembered. Check out the exhibition during Hawktoberfest.

Nicole Stewart is a local artist who has embarked on a two-year journey to paint as many registered Sotterley descendants as possible. Follow Nicole on Facebook and Instagram.

If you are interested in getting involved in the descendants project at Historic Sotterley, find out more information here.

A second Sotterley Descendants Panel will be held on Monday, November 3, 2025 from 4:45pm-5:45pm in Montgomery Hall - Montgomery Hall Upper Commons.