VCU to create memorial for people, most of African descent, whose remains were dumped in a well
Virginia Commonwealth University will spend $3.6 million on a memorial for dozens of people, most of African descent, whose bodies were stolen from their graves, dissected by medical students and then dumped in a forgotten well. VCU to create memorial for people, most of African descent, whose remains were dumped in a well The Richmond school’s board of visitors voted Friday to fund what VCU calls the East Marshall Street Well Project, an effort to right wrongs committed more than a century ago. Construction of the memorial and burial site are expected to start in summer of 2027. “Years ago, VCU initiated this journey because we recognized a profound obligation to restore the human dignity of the people who were not afforded respect in their physical existence,” VCU President Michael Rao said in a story about the effort posted on the school’s website. “The East Marshall Street Well Project’s sacred mission is to ensure every life is honored with the permanence and reverence they deserve.” The circular memorial will feature a “unity chamber” inspired by …
