Cottage Porch Chat - 08/16/2011

Grant Cottage Porch Chat: Harrison Tyrell

From the hour that Ulysses S. Grant was diagnosed with terminal cancer in the Fall of 1884 until his death at Grant Cottage on July 23rd., 1885, Harrison Tyrell was almost literally within arm's reach. Mr. Tyrell, an African American, has been described as General Grant's valet, butler and servant. In fact, he was one of the General's closest companions. Mr. Tyrell's important, indeed essential relationship with General Grant has almost been lost to history. Join tour guide Steve Trimm at noon on Wednesday, August 17th as he recounts this remarkable tale of friendship and caring. Mr. Trimm will also tell the equally inspiring stories of Harrison Tyrell's son and daughter-in-law, who were heroic pioneers of the early Civil Rights movement.