Join us for a remarkable presentation on the Still family.

Samuel Still's presentation describes the early beginnings of two former enslaved Africans, Levin and Charity Still and their progeny. Three of their sons would become notable historical figures in the 1800s. This presentation includes brief biographies on William Still (1821-1902) a major conductor of the Underground Railroad, his brother Peter Still (1801- 1868) who was left in slavery as a young boy and survived 40 years to reunite with his family, and Dr. James Still (1812-1882) a self taught herbalist, who became one of the wealthiest African Americans in New Jersey during the 1800s. The Still family is a real life story of an American family raised with strong work values as well as pride and self-determination to persevere through life challenges despite the lack of formal education and prejudices.

This presentation will also touch on the present day community efforts to preserve, educate, and restore the historic medical office of  Dr. James Still Historic Office Site and Education Center, located in Medford, NJ. Managed by volunteers, the center is the only NJ State Park that recognizes the significance of an African American contribution to the history of New Jersey.

Presenter Samuel C. Still III is the third Great Grandson of Levin and Charity Still. His third great grandparents were the parents of William Still. Samuel began telling his family’s story at 13 years old in local elementary schools in southern New Jersey where he grew up. As an adult, Samuel Still has given presentations about his family’s history at local schools, universities, and numerous celebrations of Black History. He has done significant research on the Levin and Charity Steel-Still progeny. He is the Executive Director of the Dr. James Still Historical Office Site Association. Samuel holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Architectural Engineering from North Carolina A&T State University. He is a former US Coast Guard Commissioned Officer, a construction project manager, a historian, a motorcycle enthusiast, and a semi-professional photographer. He is passionate about telling his family's history and learning more about their importance in American history.

This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Moorestown Library.