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.