April BOOK CLUB ~ Naked Genius (18 Apr 2026)

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 13:30:00 GMT

“NC History Between the Lines”- A Local History Book Club

APRIL 2026 ~ POETRY AND THE ARTS

Naked Genius by George Moses Horton (1865)

Naked Genius is the third book of poetry written by George Moses Horton, an enslaved poet from Chatham County whose extraordinary literary talent brought him national attention in the 19th century. This is Horton’s third book, written after obtaining his freedom. The book includes patriotic poems and a few describing conditions in the area right after the war. Discussion will include review of his autobiography, revealing the brilliance of his intellect and the injustice of slavery.

The Chatham County Historical Museum invites you to join NC History Between the Lines, a monthly book club exploring our local area’s rich past through engaging reads that connect with historical themes. We’ll meet on the third Saturday of each month at 9:30 am at the museum for lively discussion and conversation.

Each month’s selection will reflect our rotating historical focus. Whether you’re a lifelong history lover or simply curious about the people and events that shaped our area, we would love for you to join us. Come read, learn, and share your perspectives as we connect our local stories to the larger sweep of American history.

Sign up here for the Saturday, April 18, 2026 session where we will discuss Naked Genius. Participation is free and you are welcome to bring friends.

Note: Naked Genius is available online at Naked Genius :: :: University of Virginia Library

Print copies are available from the Chapel Hill Historical Society

https://chhs-books-online.myshopify.com/

Questions: Volunteers@chathamhistory.org

May BOOK CLUB ~ Like a Family (16 May 2026)

Sat, 16 May 2026 13:30:00 GMT

“NC History Between the Lines”- A Local History Book Club

MAY 2026 ~ MAKING A LIVING

Like a Family: The Making of a Southern Cotton Mill World

by Hall, Leloudis, Korstad, Murphy, Jones and Daly (1986)

Like a Family explores life in Southern cotton mill villages, with a strong focus on the North Carolina Piedmont textile region (and many accounts from the mill in Bynum). Using local histories, the book reveals insight into the close knit communities shaped by work, faith, and resistance.

Sign up here for the Saturday, May 16, 2026 session where we will discuss Like a Family. Participation is free and you are welcome to bring friends.

Questions ~ or to borrow a copy of the book contact: Volunteers@chathamhistory.org

Chatham County Historical Association upcoming events

April BOOK CLUB ~ Naked Genius (18 Apr 2026)

May BOOK CLUB ~ Like a Family (16 May 2026)