As we've begun to plan exhibits for the Stevens and Smith Historic Site we're finding that a motif of "see" and "unseen" is driving us as we look at aspects of the lives of Thaddeus Stevens and Lydia Hamilton Smith. As a white, male, Congressman, Thaddeus Stevens was seen both in society and by the work that he did. Lydia Hamilton Smith as a black, female, housekeeper was essentially ignored, "unseen". We could look at this in the large societal themes of slavery and Underground Railroad, the wealthy and educated and the poorer classes or other themes. And we certainly will as we move forward.

But today we look at the motif as things are revealed to the public both literally and electronically. On this, the 216th anniversary of Stevens' birth, Thaddeus Stevens will return to Lancaster today and will be seen on the campus of the school he founded. Simultaneously he will be revealed to many through the 21st century technology of the internet.

George Mummert's statue of Thaddeus Stevens will be unveiled at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology in Lancaster, PA. Although many Matthew Brady images of Stevens are out there, this may be only the second sculpture in existence The other statue, sculpted by Vinnie Reams, was made during Stevens' life.

Electronically, we welcome you to the Stevens and Smith Historic Site website. Our aim is to update you on our project, provide some history of the lives and times of Stevens and Smith, and to learn from you, our visitors. In the weeks and months ahead we'll share information on our construction plans, our programs and our efforts to further Stevens, and Smiths' vision of bringing all Americans Closer to Equality.