This project is a counterproposal to the National Museum of Slavery that is in development in Richmond, Virginia. It is situated on the site of Lumpkin’s Slave Jail– a historic place that signifies the intense suffering and injustice faced by slaves in the United States. Richmond itself was one of the centers of slave trade and therefore should carry this heavy significance in the minds of those who live and visit there.
The design for such a museum is complex and requires large amounts of research. In this design, the narrative of those who experienced slavery is highlighted by using the architecture as a backdrop for the excavation site of Lumpkin’s Slave Jail, various artifacts found there, and oral testimonies. This backdrop is created using three primary elements: brick, water, and light.
The site itself is located in a flood zone, so flooding the site’s negative space not only compliments this condition but also creates a reflective, contemplative atmosphere. Water flows throughout the site, from the native species garden all the way to the Pathway of Remembrance leading to a site where many slaves were buried near the jail. Sometimes flowing, sometimes still, the water defines each space and creates continuity as a visitor moves throughout the site.
Brick is a natural choice of building material as there already exists a historic brick building that the city wishes to preserve on the site. The Seaboard building, a long and well-built baggage building from the early 20th century, is seen transformed into administration space and a restaurant with rooftop dining. The matching brick of the museum compliments this historic piece and creates a beautiful but unimposing backdrop to the museum’s contents.
Light is used to guide a visitor through each of the museum’s spaces and to represent the illumination of truth. Slicing through the heavy brick walls, the intentional use of light highlights the most important purpose of this museum: acknowledging the truth and gravity of slavery and its continuing impact on Americans today.
