September 28, 2008
Help with some history, please.
2 Comments »I’m looking for a good source (or sources) to learn the history of my property on Rawlings – the old neighborhood Doctor’s house at 1707.
I have heard several folks say that this was a significant spot during the Civil War, and even that there are tunnels located somewhere under my land which assisted in slaves becoming free women and men. How awesome, if it’s true!
When I first bought my house, I wrote to PBS’s History Detectives to see if they would come out here and check into it. I thought it would make a cool story. They never contacted me, though.
The other day, another person mentioned that they understood my property to have been important in helping slaves escape, so I figured I would try another route to discovery. I really don’t know where to start, though. History is not a real strong suit of mine.
Anyone have any ideas? As well as pointing me in the direction of factual sources, I would welcome any folklore that anyone has. Seems like quite a few people that have lived up here for a while are familiar with the place.
Thanks for reading!
Shannon
Shannon,
We should probe your yard with avalanche probes to see if we find a hollow spot! That’s exciting stuff for sure. This area was very close to the Seven Days and Seven Pines Battles of 1862. Williamsburg Road was a main artery to the battles and the hospitals in Richmond. More than we can imagine occurred here.
I suggest calling the Richmond National Battlefield Park at 226-1981 and ask to speak to one of the historians such as Robert Krick or Mike Gorman. Better yet stop by the visitor Center at Tredegar Iron works or at the Chimborazzo Vistor Center in Church Hill on Broad Street. They have historians on duty right now who will be delighted to help direct you to resources.
Another great source of Richmond history during the Civil War is http://www.mdgorman.com. Check it out.
Good luck and let us know what you discover.
Thanks, Zeb! Great suggestions, which I really appreciate.
I will let you know what I find out!