“Freedom House,” once the site of the largest slave-trading operation in the pre-Civil War United States, has been transformed by Alexandria city historians.
“Back then, they could have possibly sold you from your family, too," his mom, Erin Smith, told the Black middle-schooler as he clutched her arm. “You would be valuable. They would profit from it.”Smith nodded. As she explained to him and his two younger siblings — and as a large sign next to them did, too — this brick rowhouse in Old Town Alexandria had once served as the site ofin the pre-Civil War United States.
Daniel Lee, a city historian, said the pair intentionally located their enterprise outside the city limits of what would have then been D.C., in part to keep away from the more respectable businesses closer to the Potomac River.Today, however, the building makes no secret of what happened past its doors: “You are standing in what remains of a large complex dedicated to trafficking thousands of Black men, women and children,” the sign in the entryway announces to visitors.
Rose’s story perhaps offers the most direct connection between the various exhibits. Her father, the Rev. Lewis Henry Bailey, was enslaved in the pen by Franklin and Armfield as a child and sold in Texas. When he was freed years later, he walked all the way back to Alexandria looking to reunite with his mother. The structure is called Freedom House in his honor.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Watch Out NBA, Steph Curry's Son Can Dribble 2 Balls At OnceAyesha Curry shared a sweet video of her 3-year-old son showing off some impressive ball handling skills.
Read more »
NBA Finals: Golden State Warriors Are Champions Once Again, Blast Boston Celtics In Game 6The Golden State Warriors are the National Basketball Assn. champions, destroying the Boston Celtics by 103-90 at the TD Garden in Game 6 to win the series. Boston ran out to a 14-2 lead to start t…
Read more »
Tristan Thompson Tells Drake ‘You Only Get Married Once’ in New Music VideoDrake recruited NBA star Tristan Thompson to play his best man in the wedding-themed music video for 'Falling Back' — details
Read more »
Denver's Five Points Looking To Thrive Once AgainDenver's Five Points is more than just another historical landmark. For Terri Gentry, it’s about highlighting her personal connection to the community.
Read more »
Colorado Republicans cry foul once again over deceptive political ads, saying they violate election lawColorado Republicans are once again raising concerns about some ads they say are not only deceptive but illegal. via Meghan_Lopez
Read more »
28 Celebrities Who People Once Adored But Ended Up Losing Every Shred Of Respect For'I stopped admiring Kelly Clarkson after learning that she spanks her kids.'
Read more »