Unearthing Buried Stories: The Exhibit is an effort by Richmond Hill to live into its mission, which is to seek the healing of metropolitan Richmond through hospitality, prayer, racial reconciliation and spiritual development. Black and white people in this country have been harmed in very different ways by a culture of white supremacy, enslavement and the legacies of enslavement – not to mention the ways in which religion has been used to justify oppression and to judge people based on their identity. Healing the traumatized spirit and the soul of America requires first truth, then lament, acknowledgement, repentance and atonement, dialogue, and finally repair. Through this exhibit, we are beginning with the truth about the history of the place where we are standing.
We began this process with a goal of creating 12 panels. That somehow felt right and 12 is a holy number. However, as the story of this land and neighborhood unfolded it called out for more. The exhibit is now composed of twenty (20) panels that are 3.5 x 2.5 feet, and an outside double-sided panel at the Dwelling of Enslaved Africans. Primary sources for the content include US census records, wills, letters, legislative petitions, vital records, newspapers, maps, insurance policies, and more. Sources are available upon request.
See the exhibit handout for additional information.
Audio Reflections
The exhibit is accompanied by Audio Reflections that complement the content on the panels. When viewing the exhibit, use your phone to scan the QR code where you see it and listen to diverse and meaningful commentary and song.
The Dwelling
Richmond Hill is preparing to rehabilitate the “Dwelling of Enslaved Africans” in the northeast corner of our garden. Watch architect Burt Pinnock discuss his exciting design.
Join Us in Honoring the Ancestors
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