The Road to Freedom

Explore the stories below to learn about how Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania's history interconnects with Black American's long and winding struggle for freedom in the United States.

We are continuously learning and researching stories to enrich and deepen our understanding of the past. The content on this page will grow with time.

 

 

View of Fredericksburg from Chatham, overlooking the icy Rappahannock River

NPS Photo

Chatham Slave Revolt

January 1805

A slave revolt early in Chatham's history reveals the tumultuousness and fragility of the system of slavery in the American South

 

Hannah Coalter, Owner of Chatham

NPS Image

Coalter Manumission Case

1857-1858

Attempted manumission of ninety-two slaves and the ensuing legal battle on the eve of the Civil War