Culpeper, a small Virginia town about 75 miles from Washington, D.C., is home to a fascinating yet often overlooked Black history. But thanks to a recent initiative, visitors can now delve into the town’s little-known narratives from the era of segregation.

Launched in 2022 by writer and historian Zann Nelson and the African American Heritage Alliance (AAHA), Right the Record aims to highlight the significant contributions of African Americans in Culpeper.

The initiative consists of a self-guided walking tour along East Davis Street, which brings to life six historic sites through interpretive plaques and QR codes. Key highlights include the medical office of Dr. Elijah Barber, who became the first and only African-American doctor for Culpeper’s Black community in 1931, and the Jennings Lunch and Pool Room, a social hub for African Americans during segregation. Additionally, Skinny Love’s Barber Shop is commemorated not just as a place for haircuts but also as a center for mentorship and community connections. 

Nelson, who recently helped the State of Virginia resolve a nearly 100-year-old case after dedicating almost two decades to the effort, believes it’s essential to document, share, and teach Black history to correct long-standing misrepresentations. Shelly Tutt, chair of AAHA, concurs and told Travel + Leisure, “Right the Record shines a light on the full spectrum of Culpeper’s history, uncovering the inspiring stories of African American resilience and achievement that have long gone untold.” She believes the initiative is a pathway to a more complete understanding of the city’s shared past.

Culpeper is also close to finishing a larger initiative called “Uncovered,” with Right the Record as one of its key projects. This program will spotlight the untold stories of diverse groups, including women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ individuals. 

According to Tutt, including these untold stories in Culpeper’s historical records provides a fuller, more accurate portrayal of history. Tutt also stresses the need for community involvement, stating, “By embracing these stories, we’re preserving history and fostering a stronger, more inclusive future.”