History by a Hair: Book Talk with Richard Kurin
Join Smithsonian scholar Richard Kurin for the launch of his new book, “History by a Hair: Thomas Jefferson, Sally Hemings, and Solving a 200-Year-Old Mystery.”
In 2011, staff at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History discovered a light red hair pressed between the pages of the Thomas Jefferson Bible.
That single strand sparked an unprecedented inquiry: could advances in technology help recover Jefferson’s DNA and resolve one of the most enduring questions surrounding his life – the paternity of the children of Sally Hemings, one of hundreds of African Americans enslaved by Thomas Jefferson?
Kurin will take attendees inside the historic investigation that brought together historians, scientists, and descendants to resolve a 200-year national controversy. Hear fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and discover how new scientific evidence is reshaping our understanding of Jefferson, Hemings, and the complexities of America’s past.
Copies of “History by a Hair” will be available for purchase at the program. You can also pre-purchase a copy when reserving your ticket and pick it up at the event on Sept. 27.
Admission
The program is $10 for non-members and $5 for History Center members with advance registration. Admission to the program also includes full access to the Heinz History Center and Franco Harris Sports Museum. Don’t miss an opportunity to visit the #1 History Museum in America for half price!
American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation will be available upon request. Please contact us at [email protected] in advance to request accommodations.
About the Speaker
Richard Kurin is the Smithsonian Institution’s Distinguished Scholar and Ambassador-at-Large and previously served as Under Secretary overseeing all museums and scientific centers. An author of several popular books on American history and a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, Kurin has led major national cultural initiatives and produced award-winning public history.
America250PA and Lecture250
This program is part of the History Center’s year-long commemoration of the U.S. Semiquincentennial, marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, in partnership with America250PA.
The Lecture250 Series, hosted at partner locations across the Commonwealth in 2026, examines the forces that shaped Pennsylvania’s role in the American story—from the founding ideals of independence and equality to the development of industry, culture, community identity, and global connections. Each event will include a public discussion following the lecture to deepen civic engagement and invite community reflection.
Heinz History Center programs commemorating America’s 250th anniversary are supported by Nimick Forbesway Foundation, Richard King Mellon Foundation, Visit PA, and the Allegheny Regional Asset District (RAD).
