In the dark of night on May 13th, 1862, at the height of the Civil War, 16 enslaved people commandeered a Confederate ship to sail for freedom. The leader of this incredibly brave group was one Robert Smalls, whose story has since been rendered for a young audience by his great-great-grandson, Michael B. Moore. Freedom on the Sea shares Smalls’ journey through the lens of a children’s book, with incredible illustrations by award-winning artist Bryan Collier. Join Michael to explore his family’s history with never-before-seen photos and the incredible story of one man’s daring escape to freedom.
If you are unable to attend the event, but would like to purchase one or more signed copies, please visit Buxton Books here.
About the Book
This is the thrilling story of Robert Smalls and the Confederate ship that he used to liberate himself, his family, and over a dozen others from enslavement. On the night of May 13th, 1862, as the Civil War raged on in the United States, 16 enslaved people decided they would reach freedom or die trying. Filled to the brim with suspense, this true story details how Robert Smalls commandeered a confederate ship through the Charleston harbor toward liberation at the Union blockade. Experience both determination and triumph with this picture book written by Robert Small’s great-great-grandson, Michael Boulware Moore, with illustrations by the award-winning artist Bryan Collier.
About the Author
Michael Boulware Moore is an accomplished business leader, consultant, keynote speaker, and author specializing in brand strategy, consumer identity, and purpose-driven growth. With expertise honed at global brands including Coca-Cola and Kraft, Michael advises organizations seeking identity-driven connections with consumers. Michael was the Founding President and CEO of the International African American Museum (IAAM), leading it from concept to reality as a renowned institution telling the powerful stories of enslaved Africans and their descendants. This unique experience enables Michael to advise museums and cultural institutions on strategic growth and impactful community engagement. As CEO of Glory Foods, principal of a boutique brand strategy consultancy, and an experienced board member, Michael has guided businesses and nonprofits through strategic transformation. A dynamic speaker, Michael has addressed audiences as large as 5,000, vividly bringing history, identity, and brand storytelling to life. He frequently explores how history shapes identity and inspires today’s organizations. Michael is the great-great-grandson of Civil War hero and Congressman Robert Smalls, whose remarkable life often anchors his compelling talks. He authored “Bridging the Gaps: The Love of Marketing,” a resource for businesses seeking deeper emotional connections with customers, and “Freedom on the Sea,” a children’s book about Robert Smalls. Michael was honored as one of Charleston Business Magazine’s “50 Most Influential” and received numerous awards, including an honorary Doctorate in Public History from Dickinson College and recognition by the City of Charleston with “Michael Boulware Moore Day.” He serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees at St. Mark’s School in Southborough, MA, and as a board member of the South Carolina Historical Society. Previously, he served on boards including the National Park Foundation, Penn Center, and the Metro Charleston Chamber of Commerce. Michael actively seeks corporate board roles to leverage his expertise in brand strategy, consumer insights, and organizational leadership. Michael earned his BA from Syracuse University and MBA from Duke University. He lives with his family in Charleston, South Carolina.
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