Changing the Dark Historic Narrative at Hampton Plantation

I left with mixed feelings. While the Georgian-style mansion and the Washington Oak Tree were impressive, I was troubled by the information on the signs. The signs say that the mansion “represents the wealth these families accumulated through the rice era. Enslaved Africans worked in the rich fields during the 18th and 19th centuries.” This phrasing implies that the enslaved people had a choice, ignoring that they were forced to labor. In my opinion, it should read, “the house represents the wealth these families accumulated by forcing enslaved Africans to work in the fields,” to include the reality of forced labor. I believe South Carolina can do better.