Runaways
Although most runaway slaves sought freedom individually, often resulting in leaving behind family members who may never be seen again, there are instances of bold and courageous efforts at emancipation that should be told. Clearly there was very little regard for slave families on the part of slave owners and sellers. Yet, family ties often influenced decisions whether or not to flee.
A family of four riding on horseback is a magnificent metaphorical representation for just how important freedom and family were to those who dared to undertake such a bold endeavor. Unity, courage, and determination are all embodied in this image because the odds of a successful escape were very limited. Yet, this family chose to defy those odds and endure the consequences — positive or negative — as a family unit.
There were many ways that slaves resisted the perils of slavery; breaking implements, slowing pace of work, poisoning, arson, revolting and trickery. Running away, however, represented the desire of the majority of slaves, even though many who fled were captured and punished. Incredibly, whipping and maiming did not always deter slaves from trying again and again. Slaves fled from coffles and holding pens in Africa; they willingly jumped overboard during the Middle Passage, and they fled during the revolutionary era — often
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At the beginning of the Civil War, long before the Emancipation Proclamation, slaves began to desert the plantations, often staking out not knowing where they were going but clearly aware that they were leaving to gain freedom.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Abolition & Underground RR • African Americans • War, US Civil • War, US Revolutionary.
Location. 38° 19.317′ N, 77° 30.52′ 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); Abolitionists (here, next to this marker); Hallelujah (here, next to this marker); Acts of Bravery (a few steps from this marker); Auction Block (a few steps from this marker); Endurance Through It All
Also see . . . Abandoned National Slavery Museum. Atlas Obscura article (Submitted on June 28, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.)
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 104 times since then and 16 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 28, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
