With great anticipation and gratitude, we are excited to announce the second George Moses Horton Book Festival, scheduled for April 17, 2027, in Jackson, North Carolina.
This exciting event will bring together authors, illustrators, and book lovers from Northampton County and beyond. The festival honors George Moses Horton, a remarkable poet and former Northampton County native who was enslaved. Horton’s mother, his five older half-sisters, his younger brother, and three sisters were also enslaved by William Horton.
As a child, George Moses Horton moved with his master to Chatham County, where he taught himself to read and began composing poetry in his head. His work drew inspiration from the rhythms of Wesley hymns, showcasing his incredible intellect and creativity even under the harshest circumstances.
This exciting event will bring together authors, illustrators, and book lovers from Northampton County and beyond. The festival honors George Moses Horton, a remarkable poet and former Northampton County native who was enslaved. Horton’s mother, his five older half-sisters, his younger brother, and three sisters were also enslaved by William Horton.
As a child, George Moses Horton moved with his master to Chatham County, where he taught himself to read and began composing poetry in his head. His work drew inspiration from the rhythms of Wesley hymns, showcasing his incredible intellect and creativity even under the harshest circumstances.
Following the success of our 2025 event, made possible by the generous support of donors like you, we are now embarking on preparations for our second festival. As we set our sights on the 2027 festival, we are keenly aware of the pivotal role your contributions played in our past achievements. Therefore, we appeal to your generosity once again, along with new donors as we seek initial funding to kick-start our promotional efforts, secure necessary deposits, and cover various logistical expenses.
