Fredericksburg, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)

Auction Block

Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), June 26, 2021

1. Auction Block Marker

Inscription.
One of the most common symbols of American slavery was the auction block. The auction block was the ultimate manifestation of the capitalistic and inhumane nature of American slavery. It was here that the slave as property was most evident. As commoddities, African-American women, men, and children were displayed before slave buyers seeking the best product for the best price. Buyers sought able-bodied field hands, male and female breeders, and skilled artisans.

Slaves were sold to satisfy unpaid debts; they were sold as a means of punishment for fractious behavior; and they were transferred as property via wills. The cries of mothers were ignored by auctioneers whose successfully transacted their slave deals, shouting "Sold to the highest bidder."

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Industry & Commerce.

Location. 38° 19.316′ N, 77° 30.526′ W. Marker is in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Marker can be reached from Gordon W. Shelton Boulevard, 0.7 miles north of Willow Lane, on the right when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 6001 Gordon W Shelton Blvd, Fredericksburg VA 22401, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Spirit of Freedom (here, next to this marker); Runaways (a few

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steps from this marker); Hallelujah (a few steps from this marker); Abolitionists (a few steps from this marker); Acts of Bravery (a few steps from this marker); Endurance Through It All (a few steps from this marker); Voices of the Past (a few steps from this marker); Middle Passage (a few steps from this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Fredericksburg.

Also see . . . Abandoned National Slavery Museum. Article from Atlas Obscura (Submitted on June 28, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.)

Additional keywords. human trafficking; slave trade

Auction Block Marker is the leftmost marker visible in this photo. image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), June 26, 2021

2. Auction Block Marker is the leftmost marker visible in this photo.

Credits. This page was last revised on February 2, 2023. It was originally submitted on June 28, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 100 times since then and 12 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 28, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.