# Living Descendants of White House Enslaved Builder | Oakland News

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/oakland-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7561175/living-descendants-of-white-house-enslaved-builder-oakland-news
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/oakland-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7561175/living-descendants-of-white-house-enslaved-builder-oakland-news.md
Podcast: [Oakland News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!](https://stenobird.com/podcast/oakland-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7561175)
Published: 2026-07-04T12:14:40+00:00
Episode link: https://api.fastcast.ai/audio/0941aa4b-cdbf-48c5-b345-f69829faffc2.mp3
Audio file: https://api.fastcast.ai/audio/0941aa4b-cdbf-48c5-b345-f69829faffc2.mp3
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Duration seconds: 121

## Resource

A groundbreaking genealogical discovery links Jackie Smith Sullivan and her daughter Ashley Swain to Calvert Ambush, an enslaved man who helped build the White House in 1829. After a two-year search through dusty records, researchers from American Ancestors and ABC News traced Ambush’s lineage — making Swain his fourth great-granddaughter. It’s the first time a living descendant has been connected to an enslaved worker who helped construct the White House. Swain was stunned to find her ancestor’s name on a 1829 payroll, realizing his hands helped shape the nation’s most iconic buildings. The story also reveals Ambush’s uncle, John Freeman, who bought his freedom in 1833 — a testament to resilience and the enduring power of family. This discovery honors the often-overlooked labor of enslaved people who built America’s foundational institutions. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/0486b65727d28217

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