The Burial Ground for Enslaved People affords an opportunity for honoring and reflecting on the over 400 enslaved people who lived and labored at Monticello during Thomas Jefferson's lifetime. This burial ground, which holds over 40 graves and was likely used beginning in the eighteenth century, was dedicated in 2001 in a ceremony featuring remarks from NAACP President Julian Bond.
Led by guidance of the Getting Word Advisory Committee, a group of descendants representing the interests of multiple families enslaved on this plantation, Monticello embarked on a new initiative to better honor and protect the solemnity of this site in 2018. Completed in 2022, this project introduced more accessible pathways, new plantings, dedicated parking for descendants, additional seating, and new signage.
