"From Enslavement to Empowerment: The Story of the Belmead on the James"

Join us on November 8th for a narrated tour of the historic Pump House in Richmond in addition to an inspirational and educational presentation by John Plashal called "From Enslavement to Empowerment: The Story of the Belmead on the James" that is symbolic of the beauty and the power of the human spirit. The Belmead on the James is a former plantation in central Virginia that ultimately transformed into a rural oasis characterized by a climate of intense intellectual, physical and spiritual growth for thousands of young African Americans over the course of seven decades. Made possible by the heiresses of the Drexel fortune, the life lessons learned by those that attended the St. Emma Military Academy and St. Francis de Sales School produced immeasurable moral values and guiding principles that have transcended generations of the alumni from both highly historic, but little known, schools - both of which were built in Powhatan on the grounds of a former Confederate General's plantation that once enslaved 130 individuals. This sharp juxtaposition of the property, made possible by a handful of saintly individuals, represents a monumental cultural achievement that deserves a permanent imprint on the continuum of African-American history.

100% OF THE PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED TO THE FRIENDS OF THE PUMP HOUSE TO HELP OFFSET THE COST OF IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS FOR THE HISTORIC PUMP HOUSE.

Located on the North Bank of the James River, the multi-use Pump House was constructed on the same site as the first canal lock system in the U.S. The downstairs was a public-use pumping station and the upstairs was a venue used for lavish events and dances until the mid-1920’s. A revitalized Pump House would be the crown jewel of the City of Richmond’s already stellar park system. However, the building needs significant repairs in order to become ADA-compliant and to earn a Certificate of Occupancy. These repairs include, but are not limited to, water and sewer hookups, major roof repairs and the installation of an outside elevator. Through your donations, our community can revitalize the Pump House to its former glory. Can you imagine?

As of September 2023, all 7 of the gothic arched windows in the boiler room have been restored, allowing light to flood into the building once again. They are now focusing on raising funds to restore the windows on the second floor. Twenty lucky and generous guests will have a unique opportunity to not only receive a personal tour of the inside of this architectural gem but also enjoy Plashal's "From Enslavement to Empowerment" presentation. JOHN WILL CONDUCT HIS STORYTELLING PROGRAM ON THE ICONIC OPEN AIR DANCE FLOOR ON THE 2ND FLOOR OF THE PUMP HOUSE.

This event is sure to entertain and educate our fellow Virginians while simultaneously raising money towards the revitalization of this historically significant structure. Proceeds will be donated to Friends of the Pump House.

Hardhats will be provided and are required during your visit.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Pump House Park, 1799 Pump House Drive, Richmond, United States