Sumter Museum welcomes Carolyn Hooker for talk and book signing reception

Sumter Museum will welcome author Carolyn Hooker for a talk and book signing reception featuring her novel "Leaving Edgefield: Carrie Butler's Story" on Tuesday, Sept. 1, at 6 p.m. at the Heritage Education Center, 122 N. Washington St., Sumter.

"Leaving Edgefield" brings to life the story of a young Black woman whose resilience becomes her legacy. Inspired by the real-life mother of Strom Thurmond's biracial daughter, the work of historical fiction follows Carrie from the rolling fields of Edgefield to the streets of Philadelphia, exploring themes of exploitation, loss, resilience and identity.

During the event, Hooker will discuss the inspiration behind "Leaving Edgefield," the historical research that informed the novel and the story of Carrie Butler. Guests will have an opportunity to meet the author and have copies of the book signed following the presentation. Refreshments will be provided.

Tickets are available for both reception-only and book-and-reception options. Admission is $10 for museum members and $15 for the general public for the reception only, or $25 for members and $30 for the public for the book and reception.

The event will be held at the Heritage Education Center, a permanent institution of the Sumter Museum, at 122 N. Washington St. in Sumter.

For tickets and additional information, visit SumterMuseum.org or call (803) 775-0908.

ABOUT SUMTER MUSEUM

Sumter Museum explores historical experiences through programs and exhibits that allow all of us to inform and shape our future. Museum facilities include the Williams Brice House (1916), Heritage Education Center, Carolina Backcountry Homestead, Temple Sinai Jewish History Center and future Sumter Military Museum.