Board Member Interviews: Robert Graham

Bob Graham is originally from California. He moved to Cincinnati for work and later became involved with the Harriet Beecher Stowe House. He is currently Treasurer on the Board of the Friends of the Harriet Beecher Stowe House. Following are edited excerpts from an interview with Mr. Graham.

How quickly did you become involved with the Harriet Beecher Stowe House?
I was looking for something to become involved in after moving to Cincinnati. In Sacramento I oversaw communications for the traditional Sacramento Jazz Jubilee. I worked with the Traditional Sacramento Jazz Society for 22 years before moving to Cincinnati. I learned about the Harriet Beecher Stowe House through my friendship with Eric, Christina’s husband. When Christina became Executive Director, I began helping her and Eric with different projects around the house. I eventually began attending programs and was approached to apply to the Board.

What is one thing you have learned since becoming involved with the Harriet Beecher Stowe House?
I did not know about the Green Motorist Book before becoming involved with the House. It is a huge chapter of American history. I also learned that Harriet Beecher Stowe and Uncle Tom’s Cabin was one of the factors that led to the Civil War. Her novel was a moving story from the view of an individual that brought the horrors of slavery to light. I was not aware of how influential Harriet Beecher Stowe was.

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