revolutionary war soldier
African American War soldier Edward "Ned" Hector, portrayed by Noah Lewis
Noah Lewis, born in Heidelberg, Germany, and raised in the Philadelphia area, became a certified biomedical technician before transitioning into living history presentations. He began portraying Ned Hector in 1996 after learning about the soldier’s life through genealogical research.
Edward 'Ned" Hector, a free African American man who served as a teamster and artilleryman in the Continental Army, is remembered for his bravery at the Battle of Brandywine, where he refused to abandon his wagon and horses to the enemy. For more info, go to: nedhector@aol.com
Frederick Douglass
Ronald Carter portraying Frederick Douglass
Frederick Douglass was a formerly enslaved African American who became a leading abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman, advocating for civil rights and social reform in the 19th century.
Ronald Carter is a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania who also brings to life other historical African American figures.
Major General Henry Knox
Actor Robert Heffner portraying Henry Knox.
Henry Knox (July 25, 1750 – October 25, 1806) was a major general in the Continental Army and one of the most important artillery leaders of the American Revolutionary War
In Philadelphia, Bob Heffner is the actor who portrays General Henry Knox, the Continental Army’s Chief of Artillery and later the first U.S. Secretary of War, for performances at the American Historical Theater. In addition to his theatrical work, Heffner is also a historical actor/interpreter with Historic Philadelphia Inc., where he performs a variety of historical characters from different time periods
Harriet Tubman, Dina, Sail maker James Forten
Carla Wiley portraying Harriet Tubman, Irma Gardner-Hammond portraying Dina, Ronald Carter portraying James Forten.
Harriet Tubman was an American abolitionist, a former enslaved woman, and an activist who led dozens to freedom via the Underground Railroad and served as a Union spy during the Civil War. Dina was a freedom seeker and former enslaved African American widow who was once owned by the Logan family of Stenton House in Philadelphia. James Forten was a free Black American from Philadelphia who became one of the most prominent Black leaders of the post–American Revolutionary War era. He was a military veteran and prisoner of war during the Revolutionary War and a sailmaker.
Carla Wiley, Irma Gardner-Hamond, and Ronald Carter are storytellers and historical reenactors from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Sojourner truth
Denise Valentine performing as Sojourner Truth
Sojourner Truth was an African American abolitionist and women's rights activist, born Isabella Baumfree around 1797, who became a powerful voice for social justice in the 19th century.
Denise Valentine, a.k.a. Storymama, was a professional storyteller, historical performer, teaching folk artist, and cultural arts consultant known for blending traditional folktales, historical narratives, and West African storytelling traditions. Her performances were celebrated for their vivid characters, humor, suspense, and action, brought to life through music, movement, and a captivating voice. She is truly missed by many. This page is dedicated to her our wonderful "Ancestor" - Her's was a spirit of compassion and joy.
Bejamin Franklin
Actor & historian
Mitchell Kramer portrays
Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin was a Founding Father of the United States, a polymath, inventor, diplomat, and influential civic leader.
Mitchell Kramer, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, website: www.bfranklin.org/about.html
Memorable Performances
Stories of '76 Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary in Tyler, Texas, USA
On July 9, 2026, history and storytelling came together at the Tyler Public Library in Tyler, Texas, for Stories of ’76, a special program celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. The event featured storytellers Dry Wood, Ann McCarthy, Ronald Carter, Elizabeth Easterling, Mary Tyler, and Patty Williams of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Each storyteller contributed to an afternoon of reflection, remembrance, and celebration, demonstrating how the spoken word can bring history to life and connect the experiences of earlier generations with audiences today. Thomas Rankin served as host and master of ceremonies, welcoming attendees and guiding the audience through the program. His leadership helped create an inviting atmosphere in which history could be explored through the personal and expressive art of storytelling. The theme, Stories of ’76, honored the people, events, sacrifices, and ideals associated with America’s founding in 1776. Through their individual voices and storytelling styles, the featured presenters encouraged audience members to consider the nation’s journey, the meaning of its 250th anniversary, and the importance of preserving history through stories. The Tyler Public Library provided an ideal community setting for the occasion. Libraries are more than places where written history is preserved; they are also gathering places where stories can be spoken, shared, questioned, and passed from one generation to the next. The program highlighted storytelling’s valuable role in keeping history accessible and meaningful. Historical dates tell us when events occurred, but stories help us understand the people who experienced them. They invite listeners to imagine the courage, uncertainty, determination, and hope that shaped the nation’s past. As America commemorates its 250th anniversary, Stories of ’76 reminds us that the nation’s history is not represented by a single voice. It is a collection of many voices and experiences, woven together across generations. Through programs such as this one, storytellers help preserve those voices while inspiring audiences to examine the past, appreciate the present, and carry its lessons into the future.
