Ellie’s Threads

Happy Fourth of July! I showcased some of my work as a Paid, Living History interpreter for Colonial Williamsburg, Monticello, Eppington plantation, Ferry Farm and independence hall. I was in the Parade on July 4 in 2010, went on to work with Mr. Jefferson at City Tavern, worked as Martha Jefferson the day before at ferry farm , Washington’s childhood home. Came back on July 5 to work as Martha Jefferson at Williamsburg where I danced with Jefferson, worked with other actors portraying the founding fathers, worked on the dance program at night with the Williamsburg dancers where I had been training for months. It was a whirlwind but it truly amazing year! As Martha Jefferson I had to spend years studying the Jefferson family letters, learning her music and to play harpsichord efficiently for the time period to give her justice. I did portray Elizabeth Hamilton as well occasionally. To do this kind of work you have to be a true historian, an actor singer and a dancer you have to give a tremendous amount of work to give these people of history justice. well working at Eppington plantation I did meet some Sally Hemmings descendants and some of the information they gave me was very enlightening! They actually had some of the letters between Thomas Jefferson and Sally!

My amazing experience with Princess Diana’s family and their exhibition