In August 1619, approximately 20 enslaved Africans arrived at Point Comfort—marking the beginning of African enslavement in the English colonial territories. This moment, on land long home to Indigenous peoples, became a defining chapter in a much longer story of Black presence in the Americas. Two hundred forty-two years later, this same ground witnessed transformation. Fort Monroe became "Freedom's Fortress"—the first Union-held refuge where enslaved people could claim liberation. Stand beneath the Emancipation Oak where freedom was first proclaimed to those who had been held in bondage. Walk the fortress walls that sheltered the contraband camp, where self-emancipated people built new lives and community. From forced arrival to chosen freedom, Fort Monroe connects the painful legacy of enslavement to the powerful story of self-liberation. Explore Hampton Roads heritage sites that honor this journey of resistance, resilience, and triumph.