In Savannah, Georgia, a group of local leaders, descendants, and historians is pushing to purchase a historic site tied to one of America’s largest slave auctions, known as the Weeping Time, to build a memorial. As of late December 2025, efforts are underway to raise funds for the land at 204 West Old Lathrop Avenue, aiming to honor enslaved ancestors and boost the city’s Black history profile.
What Happened During the Weeping Time
The Weeping Time refers to a massive slave auction in March 1859, where over 400 enslaved people from nearby plantations were sold over two rainy days at a racetrack in Savannah. This event, driven by a plantation owner’s debts, tore families apart and stands as a dark chapter in U.S. history.
Historians note that heavy rains during the auction led to the name, as if the skies wept for the suffering. Today, the site sits on industrial land, but its story draws attention from those seeking to preserve African American heritage.
Recent discussions link this to broader movements, like national talks on reparations and memorials for slavery’s victims, similar to sites in Montgomery, Alabama.
Current Push to Purchase the Land
A coalition including Black historian Kwesi DeGraft-Hanson and local activists is leading the charge to buy the property. They plan to transform it into a memorial with museums, lakes, and spaces for reflection.
Real estate listings from August 2025 marketed the land as an industrial spot, but the sales page vanished earlier this year, sparking hope among advocates. Fundraising involves community donations, grants from academic groups, and possible city support.
The Weeping Time Coalition, a nonprofit focused on the site’s preservation, has shared concept art showing green spaces and educational centers. Their website outlines ways for people to contribute, from online pledges to events in Savannah.
This effort builds on past attempts, including legal fights over development plans like a proposed homeless shelter in 2022, which the group halted in court.
- Key players: Local leaders, descendants of enslaved people, and historians like DeGraft-Hanson.
- Goal: Raise enough funds to outbid developers and create a lasting tribute.
- Timeline: Efforts ramped up in late 2025, with updates shared on social media platforms.
Challenges Facing the Memorial Project
Buying the land faces hurdles, including high costs and competing interests. Experts estimate the property’s value in the millions, given its location near Savannah’s ports and industrial zones.
The city, under Mayor Van Johnson, weighs financial priorities for current residents against historical honors. Budget constraints from recent events, like economic shifts in 2025, add pressure.
Advocates worry about developers turning the site into warehouses, erasing its history. Past sales, such as a 2021 deal involving a former agriculture secretary’s company for far below market value, highlight how land deals can overlook heritage.
Legal battles continue, with some pushing for zoning changes to protect the area. Community support is strong, but raising funds in a tough economy tests resolve.
Potential Impact on Savannah’s Black History
If successful, the memorial could elevate Savannah as a key spot for Black history tourism, joining sites like the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum. It might draw visitors interested in stories of resilience and reconciliation.
Local economy could benefit from jobs in construction and operations, plus increased tourism revenue. In 2025, Savannah saw a rise in heritage tours, with data showing a 15 percent jump in visitors to historical sites.
Educators see it as a tool for teaching about slavery’s legacy, tying into national curricula updates on U.S. history.
| Aspect | Details | Potential Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Economic | Fundraising targets millions; could create 50+ jobs | Boosts local tourism by 10-20 percent based on similar sites |
| Cultural | Honors 400+ enslaved individuals | Fosters community healing and education |
| Historical | Preserves 1859 auction site | Adds to Savannah’s Black history landmarks |
Looking Ahead for the Weeping Time Site
Plans include a landscape design with paths for contemplation and exhibits on the auction’s human cost. DeGraft-Hanson envisions a place where people of all backgrounds confront the past and build unity.
With 2026 approaching, the group aims to secure funds by mid-year, possibly with help from state grants or federal historic preservation programs. Recent national focus on racial justice, sparked by events like the 2025 anniversary of key civil rights laws, could aid their cause.
Supporters track progress through updates from groups like Georgia Public Broadcasting, which reported on the efforts just days ago.
As this story unfolds, share your thoughts in the comments below or spread the word on social media to help raise awareness and support for preserving this vital piece of history.
