"The Ol' Auction Block"

Most everyone has heard of that sorry chapter of American history known as slavery. Millions of people, men, women and children, climbed small wooden stairs to stand on stone blocks to be appraised for value by the patrons of auction houses. The physical existence of such an auction block helps one appreciate that actual families were sold apart from upon these blocks.

This artifact was recognized by amateur historian, Fred Hinson of Virginia, USA. He led a successful effort to have the stone commemorated.

The "Ol' Auction Block" in Luray, Virginia.

Update: And yes, Hinson was opposed by those who claimed a historical association with the Confederacy.