Laying the Foundation to Freedom: The Story of Moses Harding/Grant
Author: Jeff Williams, Historic Interpreter Although it is not known when Moses Harding was born, it is believed that, based on his Civil War pension application, he was born October 8, 1837 in Davidson County, Tennessee. Through a pension affidavit written by a Nathan Harris (who’s last name could have been Harding during the time…
Juneteenth is Friday, June 19, 2020
By 1860, Belle Meade was home to 136 enslaved men, women, and children. Their numerous skills and talents included blacksmithing, horse breeding, training, grooming, and racing. Additionally, Belle Meade’s domestic staff was famous for their award-winning wines, cordials, and cooking skills. Today, we honor their legacy and recognize the triumph of black excellence. Their strength and spirit can be heard about in our tours, seen in the quality of the construction of our outbuildings, and felt in the photographs we have throughout the property. We honor the lives of these individuals who are an integral part of the history of Belle Meade. Juneteenth celebrates the issuance of General Order No. 3 by Major General Gordon Granger to the people of Texas on June 19, 1865, ordering that all slaves in the state be freed. Although the Emancipation Proclamation had been…