Williamsburg in James City County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Jackson Home
Freedom Park
Photographed By Brandon D Cross, June 21, 2023
1. Jackson Home Marker
By 1805, William Ludwell Lee's executor had begun constructing cabins for Lee's former slaves, who were allowed to live on "the Hotwaters" for ten years, rent-free. One type of house was made using long timber construction and a wooden chimney. This very modest dwelling was typical for slaves, free Blacks, and poor whites. Such cabins might last only 20 years before falling into disrepair, leaving behind very little archaeological evidence.
This house represents the home occupied by John Jackson, a former Lee slave, and his wife, Nancy. The Jacksons had two children. The household furnishings in this dwelling reflect the meager circumstances of newly freed slaves. John Jackson eventually purchased and developed his own property. His descendants still live in the area.
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Image from Strother, D.H., One of the Best Draughtsmen the Country Possesses. West Virginia University
Photo by Frances Benjamin Johnson. Library of Congress
Erected by Freedom Park.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Parks & Recreational Areas • Settlements & Settlers. A significant historical year for this entry is 1805.
Location. 37° 19.083′ N,
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 3 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Free Black Settlement (within shouting distance of this marker); Brown Home (within shouting distance of this marker); Lightfoot Home (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Welcome to Freedom Park (about 500 feet away); Engagement at Spencer's Ordinary (about 600 feet away); Early Settlement and Cemetery (about 600 feet away); Hot Water / Centerville (approx. half a mile away); Six-Mile Ordinary (approx. 2.9 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Williamsburg.
Photographed By Brandon D Cross, June 21, 2023
2. Jackson Home Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on August 17, 2023. It was originally submitted on June 22, 2023, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida. This page has been viewed 69 times since then and 15 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 22, 2023, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.
