Public Relations


Physical Address:
107 Jackson Street
(Corner of Center and Short Street)
Berea, KY 40404

Mailing Address:
Berea College Public Relations
CPO 2142
Berea, KY 40404

Phone: 859-985-3018
Fax: 859-985-3556


Berea College Alumn to portray York, Explorer Oct. 3
 
September 18, 2002
 
   
Hasan davis
Berea. Ky. (9/18/02): On October 3, at 3 p.m. in Phelps Stokes Chapel, actor Hasan Davis will portray York, an African American who stood out from the rest in the expedition Meriweather Lewis and William Clark led to the Pacific Ocean in 1803-1806.

Davis' one man show is the story of York, who was distinguished by his black skin and by the fact that he had not volunteered for this duty. He was a slave and served as the body servant of expedition co-leader (and Louisvillle resident) William Clark. It isn't known whether York wanted to be the first African American to cross the country, but he was, and it was a liberating experience. In the wilderness, many of the usual constraints of slavery did not apply. Expedition journals make it clear that York pulled his weight and won the respect of fellow adventurers. He was a major asset in dealing with Indians, who regarded his blackness as "big medicine."

"York" is Davis' second historical portrayal, the first being that of the life of "A.A. Burleigh, Berea College's first black graduate." Both portrayals have been a part of the Kentucky Humanity Council's Chataqua series.

Davis, a professional storyteller, performance artist, and poet, hold degrees not only from Berea College, where he appeared in several major theatrical productions, but from the University of Kentucky College of Law as well. Aside from his successful creative endeavors, he is also the founder of Youth Empowerment Solution, which offers consulting services to schools and community groups.

   
CONTACT:
Jennie Godfrey, (859) 985-3024 or Julie Sowell, (859) 985-3028, Berea College Public Relations

Bookmark