Events › Albany Library's AAHM Event-- James Hemings: Ghost in America's Kitchen

Did you know that an enslaved person was responsible for bringing culinary dining to the White House? The documentary James Hemings: Ghost in America's Kitchen enlightens viewers on facts not widely known about Thomas Jefferson and his White House. Specifically, how Sally Hemings' older brother, James Hemings at age 19 accompanied Jefferson to Paris in 1784 to attend a French culinary school. The documentary is narrated by four curious Chefs: Ashbell McElveen, Michael Twitty, Jacques Pepin, and Toni Tipton Martin. Each chef talks about the contribution James Hemings makes to the culinary world and the United States. This documentary reveals a first-class mystery.

To understand James Hemings' impact on American and French Cuisine, Albany Library will have a guest Chef recreate a few of his most famous recipes (e.g., Mac & Cheese, French Fries, and possibly Ice Cream). 

Director(s) - Anthony Werhun

Production year - 2022

Rating - PG

Studio - Buffalo 8

Runtime - 62 minutes

Cast - Ashbell McElveen, Michael Twitty, Jacques Pepin, and Toni Tipton Martin.

Seating: Registration required.

Cost: All AC Library events are free.

Other: Samples of James Hemings' recipes will be offered to attendees.

Event Sponsors: The Friends of the Albany Library and Alameda County Library.

Masks are optional for visitors and staff at all our AC Library locations in alignment with the end of State and local COVID-19 emergencies.