Preservation Virginia Releases “Most Endangered” List Highlighting Historic Buildings for Enslaved People

Preservation Virginia, the oldest state-wide historic preservation organization in the country, has unveiled its annual “Most Endangered” list, drawing attention to historic places in Virginia that face immediate or sustained threats. This year, the list includes dwellings for enslaved people across the state, shedding light on the architectural remnants of a dark chapter in American history. The structures, once abundant, are now scarce and disappearing, making their documentation and preservation crucial.

Uncovering Virginia’s Enslaved Heritage

Leading the effort to study these buildings are preservationists Doug Sanford and Dennis Pogue, who have dedicated over fifteen years to researching and documenting structures associated with enslaved African Americans. Through their Virginia Slave Housing Project, Sanford and Pogue examine the construction methods, materials, and historical context of these buildings to establish their connection to the enslaved population. Their work aims to provide a deeper understanding of the lived experiences of enslaved individuals and contributes to the interpretation of Virginia’s Black heritage.

Promoting Restorative Justice and Cultural Preservation

The study of dwellings for the enslaved not only fosters ongoing discussions about slavery’s legacy but also has the potential to promote restorative justice. By raising awareness about these structures and encouraging property owners, private citizens, and community organizations to preserve them, Sanford and Pogue believe that these buildings serve as vital cultural resources. The preservation efforts not only honor the lives of those who were enslaved but also humanize their existence, giving significance to individuals who were often forgotten and marginalized.

The Significance of Preserving Fluvanna County’s Enslaved Dwellings

Fluvanna County, in particular, holds significance in the preservation efforts. The Fluvanna Historical Society, alongside Sanford and Pogue, aims to identify and protect the dwellings for the enslaved in the county. Horace Scruggs, a board member of the society and descendant of people enslaved in Fluvanna, emphasizes the importance of recognizing and preserving these spaces. He believes that these dwellings are more than just physical structures; they represent the homes of individuals whose stories deserve to be told and remembered.

The preservation of housing for the enslaved in Fluvanna County is on the society’s list of upcoming projects, with property owners expressing interest in protecting these buildings. Additionally, the Virginia Slave Housing Project continues its efforts to study and identify more structures. Individuals who have information about buildings once used as housing for enslaved people are encouraged to contact the Fluvanna Historical Society, contributing to the ongoing preservation and understanding of Virginia’s enslaved heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Preservation Virginia?

  Preservation Virginia is the oldest state-wide historic preservation organization in the United States. It aims to protect and preserve Virginia’s historic places and cultural heritage. The organization works to identify endangered historic sites, advocate for their preservation, and raise public awareness about the importance of historical conservation.

• What is the “Most Endangered” list released by Preservation Virginia?

  The “Most Endangered” list is an annual compilation of historic places in Virginia that are facing imminent or sustained threats. Preservation Virginia selects these sites based on their historical significance and the challenges they encounter, such as neglect, deterioration, or development pressure. The list aims to draw attention to these endangered sites and promote efforts to preserve them.

• What is the Virginia Slave Housing Project?

  The Virginia Slave Housing Project is an initiative that focuses on the study and identification of buildings associated with enslaved African Americans. Led by preservationists Doug Sanford and Dennis Pogue, the project examines various structures across the state to determine if they were once used as housing for enslaved individuals. Their research involves analyzing construction methods, materials, and historical records to establish connections to the enslaved population.

• What is the significance of preserving dwellings for the enslaved in Fluvanna County?

  Preserving the dwellings for the enslaved in Fluvanna County holds cultural and historical importance. These buildings serve as artifacts that provide insight into the lives and experiences of enslaved individuals who were often overlooked or forgotten. By identifying and preserving these structures, efforts are made to honor and humanize the existence of those who were enslaved, contribute to the interpretation of slavery’s legacy, and provide restorative justice.

• How can I contact the Fluvanna Historical Society regarding buildings used as housing for enslaved people?

  To contact the Fluvanna Historical Society with information about buildings once used as housing for enslaved people in Fluvanna County, you can send an email to [email protected] or text 434-390-1218. The society is interested in receiving information and photographs of such buildings to aid in their preservation efforts and further study.