Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell said Wednesday that the state would pay $3.3 million for land thought to be an ancient burial ground for free blacks and slaves in Richmond. “In order for Virginians and Americans today, and for generations to come, to learn about our history and our heritage, we must take the necessary steps to preserve that history, and safeguard our places of historical significance,” McDonnell said. “The slave burial ground located at this site in downtown Richmond is one of those that needs to be properly treated and protected.”
A study from the Virginia Department of Historic Resources found evidence of the burial ground and gallows under what is now Interstate 95, but suggested that the burial grounds may extend onto the land now owned by Virginia Commonwealth University.
“We have been working together diligently with the governor and VCU to find a solution to this problem,” said Richmond Mayor Dwight Jones. “The site is of great historical importance and I applaud the governor on this strong step of dedicating funds for the acquisition of the burial ground.”
The General Assembly must pass legislation authorizing the land transfer from the university to the state, said Del. Delores McQuinn, D-Henrico, who will introduce that legislation.
“This historic burial ground site plays an important and integral part of the commonwealth of Virginia’s diverse history,” she said. “This site has become an iconic symbol of tragedy, trials and finally times triumphant and should be reclaimed as a part of the rich history and heritage of Richmond and Virginia.”
VCU President Michael Rao, who has clashed with McDonnell over the school’s plan to raise in-state tuition by 24 percent, said he was “grateful” to the governor for including the historic land proposal in his budget amendments.
