Phillis Wheatley, Portrayed by Dr. Daisy Century - History Chat

Presented by the American Historical Theatre
Co-hosted by the Historical Society of Plainfield / Drake House Museum and Plainfield Public Library

The first published African-American poet and the first African-American female published writer, Phillis Wheatley’s life began in West Africa. Taken from her home on a slave ship when she was only 7, she was bought by the affluent and well-connected Wheatley family of Boston. The young girl was “uncommonly intelligent,” so Mrs. Wheatley educated Phillis. The Wheatleys provided Phillis with a life and experiences uncommon to most slaves of her day. She met Benjamin Franklin, attended balls, wrote and published poetry. One poem, dedicated to George Washington, elicited a note from Washington who said he’d visit if he came to Boston. When Washington was in Boston, he sent for Phillis and was surprised to discover the poet he admired was a black woman. Phillis Wheatley lived her life between two worlds, belonging to neither yet her poetic soul endures.

The world would be less beautiful, less inspired, without Phillis Wheatley. Dr. Daisy Century, also a published author, portrays this talented poet with respect and flair.