Robey's Slave Pen and Tavern
Item
Title
Robey's Slave Pen and Tavern
Description
Robey's slave pen, like its neighbor at the Yellow House, was a holding pen for slaves intended for auction. Brought in from surrounding areas, the slaves were subjected to brutal conditions before their sale and were marched through the streets of Washington in coffles. A high wall between 14 and 15 feet high surrounded the grounds to keep slaves and other prisoners in. Pens like this one operated until 1850, when the federal government abolished the slave trade in the District.
Source
Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division. View original.
Date
1850 (Prohibited)
Coverage
1830-1859
1830-1859
topic
ghost mall
neighborhood