For more on Virginia’s role in the American Revolution, see our Cardinal 250 project, where we tell the little-known stories of that era leading up to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. You can sign up for our free monthly Cardinal 250 newsletter to be the first to read these stories.
Nearly 600 African American Revolutionary War combatants and patriots from Virginia are represented by stars on the accompanying maps of the state’s school districts and General Assembly districts. This corresponds to about 10% of the 6,000 currently known to be associated with the 13 original states. They are connected to all eight school districts, 138 General Assembly districts, and 75 counties, cities and towns.
We intend to build them a voice across the Rochambeau Bridge connecting Arlington County, Alexandria and Fairfax County to the Mall at 14th Street. This is between Independence Avenue and Jefferson Drive. It will create at least the perception of a gateway entrance from the Pentagon across the Rochambeau Bridge to the anticipated site. Depending on a person’s imagination, it could extend even as far as the historic Jim Crow refuge at 14th and U streets.