Tricia Johnson and Horace Scruggs of the Fluvanna Historical Society: The Words They Left Behind: Legacies of Bremo

November 2, 2023

Many of the people enslaved by John Hartwell Cocke of Bremo between1803 and 1865 could read and write. Separated from their families and community by forced migrations, they wrote letters back to Bremo. This exhibit features those letters, alongside artifacts connected to their lives.

The exhibit is the result of collaboration between descendants of the men, women, and children enslaved at Bremo, a descendant of John Hartwell Cocke, and The Fluvanna Historical Society. Central Virginia’s public history professionals contributed their knowledge, skills, and expertise to the project.

Horace and Tricia will also share information about ongoing efforts in two historic Black cemeteries in Fluvanna – Oak Hill and Free Hill.

Next Meeting:

  • Niya Bates on Trans-Appalachian Maroons in the 19th Century
    January 2, 2025 Niya Bates will present preliminary ideas and research from her dissertation which explores the 19th century history of maroon settlements in Ohio that were founded by Black Central Virginians and their impact on antislavery movements. Her research also reframes the history of the Underground Railroad movement within global traditions of marronage. She
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