American Tapestry: The Story of the Black, White and Multiracial Ancestors of Michelle Obama

National Archives at Atlanta Welcomes Author of Book Tracing Story of First Lady Michelle Obama's Ancestors.

The National Archives at Atlanta, in partnership with Clayton County, is proud to welcome Rachel L. Swarns for a program on her new book American Tapestry:  The Story of the Black, White and Multiracial Ancestors of Michelle Obama, on June 26, 2012, at 6:30 p.m.

Beginning in the 1800s, the book tells the captivating story of Michelle Obama's ancestors and their five-generation journey from slavery to the most prominent position in our nation.  First Lady Obama's great-great-great grandmother was a slave on a farm in what is now Clayton County, Georgia.  Her name was Melvinia Shields, who in her early years lived as a slave with a white family.  As a teenage girl, she ultimately give birth to mixed race children, the first born of which was to become Mrs. Obama's great, great grandfather, Dolphus Shields.

The program begins at 6:30 with an author discussion followed by a book signing.  Please see the attached flyer for more details.  Please note that there is no cost to attend the event; however each attendee must register at: www.claytoncountyga.gov/michelleobamabook

Those who register will receive a ticket from Clayton County.  The ticket must be presented at the door for admittance to the program.