The Burwell School was the site of one of the first all-female academies in the south. Operated between 1837-1857 by the Rev. Robert and Margaret Anna Burwell, over 200 young women (ages 8-18) received their formal educations here. This was also the home of famous African-American enslaved woman, Elizabeth Keckly. Keckly is notable for purchasing her freedom and moving to Washington D.C., becoming the seamstress and personal confidante of First Lady, Mary Todd Lincoln.