Richmond, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Execution of Gabriel
Photographed By Dawn Bowen, July 28, 2007
1. Execution of Gabriel Marker
Near here is the early site of the Richmond gallows and “Burial Ground for Negroes.” On 10 Oct. 1800, Gabriel, an enslaved blacksmith from Brookfield plantation in Henrico County, was executed there for attempting to lead a mass uprising against slavery on 30 Aug. 1800. A fierce rainstorm delayed the insurrection, which then was betrayed by two slaves. Gabriel escaped and eluded capture until 23 Sept., when he was arrested in Norfolk. He was returned to Richmond on 27 Sept. and incarcerated in the Virginia State Penitentiary. On 6 Oct. he stood trial and was condemned. At least 25 of his supporters were also put to death there or in other jurisdictions.Erected 2004 by Department of Historic Resources. (Marker Number SA-66.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Cemeteries & Burial Sites • Heroes • Notable Events. In addition, it is included in the Virginia Department of Historic Resources series list. A significant historical date for this entry is August 30, 1800.
Location. 37° 32.23′
Photographed By Dawn Bowen, July 28, 2007
2. Marker along E Broad Street
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Old Negro Burial Ground (a few steps from this marker); Richmond’s African Burial Ground (within shouting distance of this marker); Lumpkin's Jail (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); First African Baptist Church (about 700 feet away); a different marker also named First African Baptist Church (about 700 feet away); Monumental Church (approx. 0.2 miles away); The Virginia Convention of 1788 (approx. 0.2 miles away); Theatre Fire of December 26, 1811 (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Richmond.
Also see . . .
1. "The Defenders...'" Gabriel Marker Project. (Submitted on January 7, 2009, by Richard E. Miller of Oxon Hill, Maryland.)
2. Gabriel "Prosser". Virginia Governor Thomas Kaine recognizes that Gabriel's cause "has prevailed in the light of history" and posthumously pardons him and his co-conspirators, August 30, 2007. (Submitted on January 7, 2009, by Richard E. Miller of Oxon Hill, Maryland.)
Additional keywords. Gabriel's Rebellion, Slave Revolt, Conspiracy
Credits. This page was last revised on July 30, 2020. It was originally submitted on July 29, 2007, by Dawn Bowen of Fredericksburg, Virginia. This page has been viewed 2,869 times since then and 382 times this year. Last updated on January 7, 2009, by Richard E. Miller of Oxon Hill, Maryland. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on July 29, 2007, by Dawn Bowen of Fredericksburg, Virginia. • Kevin W. was the editor who published this page.
