Bridge the Diaspora home

Historical Event

Radar Survey of the Enslaved Burial Ground (2019)

In 2019, a radar survey conducted at the Old Cahawba Archaeological Park in Orrville, Alabama, aimed to identify and document the burial grounds of enslaved individuals who lived in the antebellum plantation community. This non-invasive survey utilized ground-penetrating radar technology to reveal the locations of graves and to honor the legacy of those buried, thereby shedding light on their historical significance in the context of slavery and the Reconstruction era.

Why This Matters

This event is crucial in the narrative of Transatlantic Reconnection as it not only uncovers the hidden histories of enslaved Africans and their descendants but also serves as a point of dialogue about heritage, memory, and identity among continental African students and the African American diaspora. By recognizing and honoring these lost lives, we can foster a deeper understanding of our shared experiences and the ongoing impact of slavery across generations.