Unbound: Free Black Virginians, 1619-1865

On the eve of the Civil War, around 60,000 Black men, women, and children lived free in the state of Virginia, often alongside enslaved neighbours. This volume is a history documenting the richness and variety of their lives. Although many stayed in Virginia, living, working, and thriving despite serious threats to their lives, some moved north or, further still, across the Atlantic to Liberia. In studying the lives of free Black Virginians prior to emancipation, this volume explores an under-told and inspirational story of Virginia’s past.

By delving into collections across the Commonwealth, whether the records of the state or testimonies left by free Black people themselves, this new volume fills a critical gap in our understanding of Virginia’s Black history.

Publication accompanies an exhibition at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, June 14, 2025 – April 4, 2027.