Stagville Under the Stars - African folktales about the night skies, plus stargazing with Morehead Planetarium

Stagville State Historic Site, 5828 Old Oxford Highway in Durham, contains the remnants of one of the largest plantations of the pre-Civil War South. The plantation belonged to the Bennehan-Cameron family, whose combined holdings totaled approximately 900 enslaved people and almost 30,000 acres of land by 1860.

Stagville offers a view of the past, especially that of its African American community, by allowing visitors to guide themselves around its extensive grounds.

It is free to visit Stagville State Historic Site. There are also many free and inexpensive events throughout the year.

Here’s what’s coming up:

Stagville Under the Stars
Friday, February 28th, 2020
6 p.m.

Join Historic Stagville and Morehead Planetarium & Science Center for Stagville Under the Stars! Storytelling, science, and stargazing, all in one evening.

Hear African folktales about the sun, moon, and stars, and then peer through telescopes to take a tour of the stars. This event is perfect for kids and families. We will meet in the Visitor Center at Historic Stagville for stories, and then head outside to use telescopes on the grounds after dark.

Arrive early if you can! This event can be crowded and the stories start right at 6 pm.

This event is FREE and open to the public. Wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather.

A Birthday Party for Addy!
Saturday, April 11th, 2020
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
$4 per child

Did you know that American Girl Addy Walker is based on a true story from Durham County, North Carolina? Families and children are invited to celebrate Addy and her connection to Stagville.

Spring Homeschool Day
Thursday, April 23rd, 2020
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
$4 per student

A full day of educational activities to learn about slavery, labor, and life on an antebellum plantation. Open to students of all ages.

Stories of Stagville Women Tour
Saturday, May 2nd, 2020
2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
$5 per person

Special guided tour featuring stories about enslaved women at Stagville.

Juneteenth at Stagville
Saturday, June 20th, 2020
12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Free

A celebration and exploration of Emancipation at Stagville, featuring USCT reenactors and stories about freedom at Stagville.