Fredericksburg, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Auction Block
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. It 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
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in the Washington Metropolitan Area and in Northern Virginia. It is also in the American South and specifically in the Upper South. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture, one of the original Thirteen Colonies, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
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 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
Photographed by Devry Becker Jones (CC0), June 26, 2021
2. Auction Block Marker is the leftmost marker visible in this photo.
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
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 380 times since then and 45 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 28, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
