About
Kelly Kennington is an Associate Professor in the Department of History at Auburn University, holding the Draughon Associate Professorship in Southern History. She specializes in antebellum American slavery, legal history, and African American experiences. Her office is located in 320-B Thach Hall, and she maintains office hours on Thursdays at Panera in RBD Library.
Education:
- PhD, Duke University
- MA, Duke University
- BA, Tulane University
Kennington's research examines how enslaved individuals navigated legal systems, with ongoing book projects on Alabama's domestic slave trade and a biographical study titled The Mind of Susan Wray exploring slavery, violence, and mental health. Her work emphasizes regional legal cultures and marginalized perspectives.
Her publications focus on slavery litigation in Missouri and the Civil War era, revealing patterns of resistance through freedom suits and judicial decision-making. Awards include an NEH Fellowship for her current book and a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Wisconsin Law School.
