At Laurel Ridge Community College, we were proud to host the Sixty Slaves for Sale: Reckoning with Enslavement in the Shenandoah Valley event on Oct. 26. Guy Curtis, marketing director at the college, Kristen Laise, executive director of Belle Grove, and Sociology Professor Larry Friedenberg appeared on the River 95.3’s The Valley Today show to talk about the historic event. Organized in collaboration with Belle Grove Plantation, the event provided a unique opportunity to explore a significant chapter of local history and engage with the community in meaningful conversations about the past.
The event was part of the college’s ongoing commitment to connect students and the public with important historical events. Guy explained that the event was designed to offer both historical insight and an opportunity for collective reflection, furthering the college’s mission to provide thoughtful discussions on topics that matter to the community.
Kristen provided essential context for the event. This event stemmed from the discovery of a 19th-century newspaper ad revealing the sale of 60 enslaved people at Belle Grove. This finding was a key reason for gathering to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the sale and continue researching the lives of those affected.
But it wasn’t just about revisiting history—it was about bringing these stories to life. Larry pointed out how telling the stories of the enslaved helps us better understand our community’s past and strengthen connections today. By reflecting on these experiences, we can better understand how far we’ve come and how much further we need to go.
The research behind the event was no small feat. Kristen discussed the challenges of tracing the fates of enslaved people after they were sold and how Route 11 played a key role in the domestic slave trade. These stories are often left out of traditional history books, but are crucial to understanding the full picture of our region’s past.
The event featured a panel discussion, moderated by Dr. Michael Blakey, where historians and researchers delved into the context of the sale and its legacy. In addition to academic discussions, the event also included engaging community activities, including art projects led by Professor Monica James and African drumming performances, bringing the event to life for attendees.
At Laurel Ridge, we know that events like this rely on community support. Guy and Larry emphasized that attending such events not only helps preserve important historical narratives, but also provides opportunities for students to interact with faculty and community. members in meaningful ways. By coming together, we can continue to offer enriching educational programs that connect us all.
We’re grateful to everyone who joined us for this important event. Together, we can reckon with the past, learn from it, and take steps toward a more connected future.