Join the Friends of the Bucks County Historical Society and historical interpreter Keith H. Henley as he brings the story of Bass Reeves to the Mercer Museum.

Discover the life of legendary lawman Bass Reeves, one of the first Black men to be named deputy U.S. Marshall in 1875.

In this living history presentation, actor Keith H. Henley shares the amazing story of Bass Reeves by exploring the traits and characteristics that made Bass a hero to so many.

Bass Reeves was born in Arkansas in 1838. He escaped slavery and lived with the Cherokee, Seminole and Creek Indians. He learned the skills and languages of these tribes and was appointed a US Marshall in 1875. He served as a Marshall for 32 years. Bass retired in 1907 at the age of 68.

Keith H. Henley is an actor, choreographer, playwright, entrepreneur, and designer. Henley was raised in Camden, NJ and educated in the Camden school system. Presently, Henley works as an historic Interpreter for his company J.O.Y. Productions, as well as Historic Philadelphia Inc., and American Historic Theatre Inc. of Philadelphia.

His love of history led him to create and produce the Black Heritage History Series which is dedicated to the accomplishments of African Americans and their impact on American history. He serves as Artistic Director for Transformation Theatre Productions of Camden, NJ. He is also the host of “Story Time with an Alpha,” a channel on YouTube that is dedicated to childhood literacy.

Keith serves as the director of the Theatre Ministry at First Nazarene Baptist Church. When he is not performing, he loves to cook and bake.