Author Talk with Jeffrey Bennett & His Book "The Black Belt of Virginia"
Venue: Jessie Peterman Library, Floyd
Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026
Time: 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Event Types: Speaking Engagements
Cost: Free
Description:
The Jessie Peterman Library presents an Author Talk with Jeffrey Bennett on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

In celebration of African American History Month, Jeffrey Bennett will be talking about his newest book "The Black Belt of Virginia: Untold Stories of African American History" (American Heritage). He will uncover powerful stories of Black Virginians often missing from traditional history books.

Hidden Stories include:
• More than 80 Black lawmakers who helped lead Virginia from 1865–1877
• A courageous Black woman who spied on Confederate President Jefferson Davis
• Over 70 lost Black communities that once thrived across the state
• A 135-year-old church and the families who protected their land for generations

These stories reveal the strength, leadership, and resilience of Black Virginians whose contributions shaped the history we know today. Jeffrey Bennett brings these forgotten voices back to life through vivid research and compelling storytelling. His presentation is designed to challenge what you think you know about Virginia’s past—and inspire a deeper understanding of the people who shaped it.

This event is perfect for students, educators, history enthusiasts, community members, and anyone interested in a fuller picture of American history.

Presented in partnership with The Floyd County Historical Society and a Montgomery County 250 and Virginia 250 event.

The Jessie Peterman Library is located at 321 West Main Street in Floyd, VA.

For more information, visit: https://floydhistoricalsociety.org/the-black-belt-of-virginia-an-author-presentation/ or http://www.montgomery-floyd.lib.va.us/ or https://www.facebook.com/JPMLibrary or https://www.facebook.com/events/1636002980858969 or https://www.instagram.com/mfrlfloyd/ or call 540-745-2947.