Fred Miller, a 57-year-old Air Force veteran, sought to buy property in his Virginia hometown for family gatherings. Unbeknownst to him, he purchased Sharswood, a home with deep historical roots.
Located in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, Sharswood sat quietly, holding secrets from the past. It was once a thriving tobacco-producing area, and the house was pivotal to uncovering a lineage that led Fred on an unexpected journey.
Fred grew up in the area, in a large family that enjoyed frequent gatherings. His cousin Adam shared fond memories of family games and food competitions. Seeing a for-sale sign on Sharswood prompted Fred’s sister to urge him to make an offer, despite his reservations.
Fred thought, “because I was Black… surely, they would never sell this house to someone that’s Black.”
However, his offer was accepted, and he purchased the house along with 10.5 acres of land, marking a momentous occasion for him and his family.
Sharswood was built around 1850 in the gothic revival style by a notable New York architect. But soon, Fred’s sister Karen discovered that Sharswood was a plantation that housed enslaved people before the Civil War.
The property had a preserved slave quarter building, stirring Fred’s realization of the property’s complex history.
For Fred and Karen, the significance of owning Sharswood grew deeper. Through research aided by local historian Karice Luck-Brimmer, they discovered their ancestors, David and Violet Miller, had been enslaved there.
Fred’s newfound connection to his ancestors transformed his perspective. He was saddened by the lack of knowledge he and his family had about their history, realizing the importance of understanding the past.
Archaeologists Dennis Pogue and Doug Sanford confirmed the presence of slave quarters on the property. They discussed the probable original use of the building and how it changed over time.
Fred committed to preserving the history by establishing the Sharswood Foundation, aimed at maintaining the slave quarters and cemetery.
Fred said, “I want the story of slavery told. It’s important.”
Sharswood now serves as a gathering place for the Miller family. It fosters a sense of pride and connection to their lineage, bringing them full circle to a place that was both a home and a site of pain for their ancestors.
Fred’s story highlights the importance of preserving history for future generations, ensuring the sacrifices of those before are remembered and respected.