A powerful piece of Black history has been brought back into the spotlight in Richmond, where the legacy of Abraham Peyton Skipwith is finally getting the recognition it deserves. Known as one of the earliest documented Black homeowners in the area, Skipwith is now being honored with a reconstructed version of his historic home.
The unveiling of the rebuilt Skipwith-Roper cottage not only celebrates his life but also highlights a deeper story of Black ownership, resilience, and legacy long before emancipation. As conversations around history and representation grow, this moment stands out as a meaningful step toward telling fuller, more accurate stories.
Reconstructed Skipwith-Roper Cottage Brings Black History to Life
The newly rebuilt cottage was revealed during a special homecoming event organized by The JXN Project, a nonprofit founded by sisters Enjoli Moon and Sesha Moon. The project aims to uncover and preserve overlooked Black history in Richmond, particularly in the historic Jackson Ward area.
The structure is a reconstruction of the original home, which had been moved decades ago and stripped of much of its original material. Now restored, the space serves as both a cultural landmark and a headquarters for the nonprofit, also known as the JXN Haus. It includes a permanent exhibition focused on Skipwith’s life and the broader story of the community.
Abraham Peyton Skipwith’s Legacy as an Early Black Homeowner
Skipwith’s story is remarkable for its time. In 1793, he became the first documented Black homeowner in what is now known as Jackson Ward—more than 70 years before enslaved African Americans were officially freed in the city.
Beyond property ownership, Skipwith also purchased his and his wife Cloe’s freedom. He later secured another milestone by having a fully executed will, making him the first Black man in the state to do so. His will passed down his three-story home and valuable possessions, including gold, silver, and a horse and buggy, to his descendants.
Discovery of Skipwith’s Story Sparks New Historical Recognition
The journey to rediscover Skipwith began with a simple question asked by the Moon sisters in 2020: Who is the “Jackson” in Jackson Ward? That question led to years of research that uncovered a rich history of Black success and community in the area.
Today, Jackson Ward is widely known as “Black Wall Street” and the “Harlem of the South.” However, many of its early figures, including Skipwith, had been largely left out of mainstream historical narratives. This project aims to correct that gap and give credit where it is due.
Community Leaders Gather to Celebrate Black History in Richmond
The unveiling event drew local and state leaders, including Jennifer McClellan, who spoke about the importance of preserving stories like Skipwith’s. She noted that even as a lifelong resident of the area, she had never heard his story before.
“Not only bringing them forward, but fighting to preserve that history,” she said, highlighting the importance of continued efforts to protect and share Black history. Other officials present included city and state representatives who recognized the significance of the moment.
Preservation Efforts, Funding, and Community Impact
Bringing the project to life required major effort and funding. The JXN Project raised $5.6 million to reconstruct and preserve the home, with support from organizations like the Mellon Foundation.
In addition to preservation, the group has invested in the community through scholarships. So far, it has provided $250,000 in educational support to institutions such as Norfolk State University, as well as other schools in the region. These efforts show a commitment not just to history, but to future generations.
A Broader Reflection on Black Contributions to American History
Skipwith’s story also challenges common narratives about early American history. According to Sesha Moon, his life shows that Black individuals were not just present during the founding era, but active, successful, and influential.
With ties to well-known historical figures like Thomas Jefferson, Skipwith’s life adds new depth to the understanding of America’s past. His recognition today serves as a reminder that many important stories are still waiting to be fully told.
