Honoring the Legacy of Enslaved People in Arlington

In a poignant tribute to the contributions of enslaved individuals, Arlington County has begun the installation of commemorative plaques designed to honor those who labored without recognition. “I hope when people see the plaques, they’ll think about those individuals and remember that we’re still living off their labour,” reflects community advocate Taylor. She emphasizes the vast historical significance of this initiative, noting the free labor provided by many generations and its lasting impact on the region.

The Beginning of Plaque Installations

The first stones were placed in October 2023 at the Ball-Sellers House, which holds the title of the county’s oldest surviving dwelling. This historic site serves not only as an architectural landmark but also as a reminder of the complex history of enslavement in the area. The plaques honor Nancy, a woman born around 1775, who lived her life in servitude on the grounds. She passed away sometime between 1831 and 1840, her identity preserved yet largely uncelebrated until now. Additionally, the plaques recognize two unnamed men enslaved by the Carlin family during the 1800s, honoring them in a way that society has often neglected.

Remembering Margaret Hyson and Her Family

The initiative continued in March 2025 with the installation of three plaques in Arlington’s Yorktown neighborhood, dedicated to Margaret Hyson and her children, George and Charlotte. Margaret, born around 1825 to enslaved parents, is a significant historical figure whose life reflected the struggles of many during that era. Throughout her life, she appeared in census records as the property of William and Catherine Minor. Even after marrying a free Black man, Thornton Hyson, in 1850, both she and her children remained enslaved until the conclusion of the U.S. Civil War.

Margaret’s life story underscores the realities of familial bonds in times of oppression. Those who attended the plaque unveiling, including Margaret’s great-great-great-granddaughter, Nadia Conyers, emphasized the importance of recognizing these overlooked histories. “When Nadia spoke,” Taylor recalled, “you could feel generations in the air. It was as if the ancestors were standing with us, saying, ‘Finally, someone called our names.'”

Community Involvement and Legacy

Community support for these commemorative efforts speaks volumes about the collective desire to acknowledge the past. Descendants of Margaret and other previously enslaved individuals are actively participating in this movement, eager to share their ancestors’ stories and ensure they are not forgotten. The ceremonies provide a space for reflection and connection, allowing families to link their current experiences with the sacrifices made by those before them.

As plaques continue to be placed around Arlington, each one tells a story of resilience, hard work, and unrecognized contribution. They serve as tangible reminders for future generations about the struggles and triumphs of those who helped shape the community, oftentimes without due credit.

A Call to Remember

The dedication of these plaques not only honors past injustices but fosters important conversations about equity and acknowledgment in modern society. Each name inscribed carries with it a history that reflects the labor and sacrifices of individuals whose contributions built the foundation of today’s Arlington. As residents and visitors encounter these markers, they are invited to reflect on the layers of history that permeate the very land they walk upon.

Through these efforts, Arlington is taking significant steps to educate and raise awareness of its complex history, acknowledging that the lives of enslaved individuals are integral to the narrative of the community today. By fostering an understanding of these past injustices, Arlington aims to cultivate a more inclusive future, bridging the gap between history and present-day recognition.