Georgetown College (later University) arranges the sale of 272 enslaved people, the largest known sale, from its southern Maryland plantations to two Louisiana buyers who agree to pay $115,000. It is among the largest and best documented sale of enslaved individuals in U.S. history. Georgetown University, founded in 1789, is the oldest Catholic institution of higher learning in America. Originally a part of Maryland, the town of Georgetown formally becomes a part of DC in 1871. The Jesuits hold 12,000 acres on five tobacco plantations that go back to 1711. The sale, after decades of controversy, is designed to pay for Jesuit education but instead pays for the University’s outstanding debts. The story again comes to public attention during university renovations in 2015. Descendants of the enslaved are brought together and reparations are initiated. Among other programs, the University is raising money for a Truth and Reconciliation Foundation.
John Brown hides out at Kennedy Farm, preparing to attack Harpers Ferry
John Brown leaves his 1859 hideout at the Kennedy Farm in Washington County, crosses Potomac with party of 22 to raid the Harpers Ferry Arsenal, intending to create a slave rebellion.
