Event Details

Slave Chefs and the Creation of American Cuisine
Friday, February 21, 2025

Join food historian and documentarian Julian Gooding as he shares the history of the Lowcountry through the culinary arts. Hidden in the kitchens of presidents and families of high standing were the slave cooks. Gooding will share the stories of Hercules, Caesar, and James Hemmings. Participants will learn and sample the first known recipe for mac and cheese brought to America by Mr. Hemmings and sample a West African dish still popular in today's American South.

This program will take place at the McLeod Plantation Historic Site Pavilion where seating is available for all participants. The program will take place outside in a shaded area. A small, tasting portion of food will be provided to each participant. A list of ingredients will be available during the program. McLeod Plantation Historic Site has accessible parking, restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables. Trails throughout the property are of a natural, unpaved surface.