Field Trips
- Grade Level:
- Upper Elementary: Third Grade through Fifth Grade
- Subject:
- Social Studies
- Common Core Standards:
- 3.L.1, 4.L.1, 5.L.1, 3.RF.3, 3.RF.3.a, 3.RF.3.b, 3.RF.3.c, 3.RF.4.a, 3.RF.4.b, 3.RF.4.c, 4.RF.3, 4.RF.3.a, 4.RF.4, 4.RF.4.a, 4.RF.4.b, 4.RF.4.c, 5.RF.3, 5.RF.3.a, 5.RF.4, 5.RF.4.a, 5.RF.4.b, 5.RF.4.c, 3.SL.1, 3.SL.1.a, 3.SL.1.b, 3.SL.1.c, 3.SL.1.d, 3.SL.2, 3.SL.3, 4.SL.1, 4.SL.1.a, 4.SL.1.b, 4.SL.1.c, 4.SL.1.d, 4.SL.2, 4.SL.3, 5.SL.1, 5.SL.1.a, 5.SL.1.b, 5.SL.1.c, 5.SL.1.d, 5.SL.2, 5.SL.3
- State Standards:
- MO Learning Standards for Social Studies (k-5): 1B, 1D, 1E, 1F, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3aB, 3aC, 3aE, 6B, 6C, 6E, 7A. IL Learning Standards: SS.CV.2.3, SS.CV.1.4, SS.CV.2.5, SS.CV.4.3, SS.CV.3.4, SS.IS.3.3.5, SS.H.2.3, SS.H.1.4, SS.H.2.5, SS.H.3.5.
In 1846, an enslaved couple named Dred and Harriet Scott sued for their freedom at the St. Louis Courthouse (what is today the Old Courthouse across from the Gateway Arch). Their first trial at the courthouse began the following year, and a second case occurred in 1850.
In this program, students will learn about the Scott family and their trial. They'll also learn the basics of courtoom procedures. During the mock trial, students will read from a script based on the 1850 case, which declared that Dred Scott was deserving of his freedom. How will the students interpret the case?
Please note that the Old Courthose is currently closed for renovations and mock trials are taking place at the Education room inside the Gateway Arch Visitor Center until further notice. Reservations must be made at least 30 days in advance. Maximum group size is 30 students (one adult per 10 students). Please allow 50 minutes for this program and note that all programs begin at half past the hour.
To make reservations, call 314-923-3048. To learn more about the Scotts' freedom suit ahead of time, visit this webpage.
Last updated: January 5, 2023