Welcome to the Stagville State Historic Site, a powerful testament to the complex history of North Carolina. Situated in Durham, this site once formed part of one of the largest plantations in the American South. Established in the late 18th century, Stagville was initially owned by Richard Bennehan, a merchant who began acquiring land in this region in 1776. Over time, the plantation expanded, becoming a vast complex under the ownership of the Bennehan and Cameron families. By 1860, it stretched over 30,000 acres and was home to nearly 900 enslaved individuals.
As you explore the site, you’ll encounter the original Bennehan House, built in 1787, and the remarkable two-story slave quarters at Horton Grove, constructed in the 1850s. These quarters are unique in their preservation and provide a poignant insight into the lives of the enslaved people who lived and worked here. The site also includes a massive barn built in 1860, reflecting the scale of agricultural operations at Stagville.
Stagville not only tells the story of the plantation’s owners but also highlights the resilience and contributions of the African American community. Following the Civil War, many formerly enslaved individuals chose to remain on the land, transitioning to sharecropping. Today, the site serves as a place of learning and reflection, offering guided tours that delve into the plantation’s history and its impact on the region.
The story of Stagville is not just about the past; it’s a continuing dialogue with the descendants of those who lived and labored here, fostering a deeper understanding of this chapter in American history.
