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Many Rivers to Cross
African-American history has played an integral role in the shaping of politics, economics, and culture in the United States. Growing up, how did you learn about the accomplishments and struggles of African Americans? Were you in a classroom? Reading a book? Talking with relatives or friends? How has your understanding or knowledge of African-American history changed and/or developed over time? What do you think is the most effective way to pass along this rich and growing history to future generations?

George Monroe

Attached is a picture of my great great grandfather Ned. He was born in 1828 to an enslaved couple Ned and Peggy, who resided on President James Monroe’s plantation in Central Virginia. He also tended cattle for the descendants of Thomas Jefferson. Ned received his freedom with the Emancipation but worked to hold his family together. He had three wives and 16 children from two of those marriages. The descendants of those unions are still a tight-knit group today. Ned purchased the family homeplace in 1881 and it is still in the family today.

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