I chose Horace King because he had a very interesting life. He was a kind and thoughtful person. Horace’s work was not limited to building structures for white clients. He also designed and built for African American communities including schools, churches, and even a courthouse. Among his most significant accomplishments is the construction of the covered bridge over the Chattahoochee River, which was the longest in the world at the time, and the Alabama State Capitol. 

Horace king was born into slavery and traded to many different places throughout his life. He was known for his fast building throughout the South. When he was given his freedom by James L. W. Smith, Horace got a job helping Smith, who was a contractor, with his projects. 

In my art project, I wanted to portray Horace breaking out of chains and showing everyone he was more than just an enslaved man. I created a wooden model of Horace King's covered bridge. On top of the roof there is a map of Horace’s travels from South Carolina to Alabama, where he was set free. 

Horace’s story has influenced me by encouraging me to help people, even when they are unkind, and to be nice no matter what. I think sharing this artwork will help people see that you do not need to be limited by what people assume they know about you.