“James Hemings enslaved as Jefferson’s chef, witnessed the beginning of the French Revolution”…. ~Monticello

Want to know more about Thomas Jefferson’s enslaved chef, James Hemings?… how we might not have a clue about so many of our iconic beloved American food faves in this country had it not been for Chef James (b. 1765) ?! .… James who was OWNED by the man who WROTE (as in actually PENNED IT) the document associated with freedom like no other document in this nation — yes, the Declaration of Independence. James witnessed both the American and French Revolutions up close and personal. As the head chef at Jefferson's Paris home, Hôtel de Langeac, that early morning in the dawn of July 14th 1789, James was likely preparing to plan out the course of the day’s meals for that location that also served as the American embassy as the storming of the Bastille began and unfolded….

Hungry for more? Definitely check out the wonderful documentary film, “James Hemings: Ghost in America’s Kitchen” (yes, yours truly makes a cameo ;) (& you’ll even learn a little more about his Bastille Day connection here in this mini mini vid that I made for IG once upon a time)

But also Join my Patreon community (& if you’re already in explore options for access to even more intel and updates): Take advantage of the myriad ways to get the full story, interact with me directly (& meet some of my colleagues too) ask your burning (or icy cold ) q’s about your fave food (& drink) history & culture topics and people like James… Expand your mind AND your heart as you gain understanding, foster greater appreciation and gratitude for your and “other” cultures, ancestors and peoples who brought and continue to bring so much to this vast and diverse American table.

Choosing to not know (what has been systemically withheld from us — as many ‘powers that be’ prefer) only contributes to the widening divide among us. Choose inclusive intel over ignorance, and be an ambassador for what you believe in…

I look forward to continuing the convo with you there! The Patreon hyperlink is above (see “Join” ) and here it is again, out in the open just below, for anybody who’s old-school (no judgement!) : https://www.patreon.com/thefoodgriot/membership