Darlene Colón

My love of history began while researching my family history which I found included participation in the Underground Railroad, many ancestors were members of the United States Colored Troops fighting in the Civil War, graduates of HBCU's in the late 1800's, educators and more. I was asked to portray Lydia as a stand in for someone else but the more I researched her life and her accomplishments, the more I had to know. With many thanks to Pam and Terry, From The Heart of Lydia was born. Thank you. My personal accomplishments are listed below.

Christiana Historical Society

The Christiana Historical Society evolved from a Committee planning the 150th anniversary commemoration of the Christiana Resistance. The Society continues to grow and explore many facets of the Resistance which include continued efforts to trace descendants of all parties involved, give programs and lectures surrounding the Resistance and many other historical people and/or events in the local area.

Lancaster Historic Preservation & Trust – Board of Directors

Boards mission was to encourage and facilitate historic preservation throughout Lancaster County. Monitor restorations and adaptive reuse of historic buildings in Lancaster County. Educate and advocate for historic preservation.

United States Colored Troops Institute and Family Research Center, Oneonta, NY

Elected to Board of Directors June 2001; Vice President, Exec. Board, 2006 - 2020

The Institute, based at Hartwick College in NY, was dedicated to bringing the role of the African American in the Civil War to the forefront of American history.

Portrayal of African American Women in History

• Mrs. Lydia Hamilton Smith, businesswoman, financial manager and confidante of Congressman Thaddeus Stevens.

• Kathay Williams aka William Kathay - only known African American woman to successfully serve as a Buffalo Soldiers in the Western Campaign masquerading as a man.

African American Historical Society of South Central PA

President in 2011 – 2015. One of four co-founders. Organization dedicated to researching and educating public on rich African American history in Southcentral Pennsylvania through genealogy workshops, field trips and partnering with various community and educational organizations.

2019 Appeared on PCN series on African American History.

2021 The Leon Block – podcast by Jontel Toland on various African American historical events.

2023 Haverford College – Panel on Resistance @ Christiana

2024 Self Evident Education Interview

2024 Slave Dwelling Project Conference – Philadelphia, PA