[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 161 (Friday, October 11, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1267]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





  HONORING THE LEGACY OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN BATEAUMEN OF THE JAMES 
                                 RIVER

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. A. DONALD McEACHIN

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 11, 2019

  Mr. McEACHIN. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and remember the legacy 
of the African American Bateaumen of the James River. These men played 
critical roles in establishing the economy of colonial Virginia, and it 
is imperative we honor and remember their work.
  The James River Bateau, a series of flat-bottomed wooden cargo 
vessels first used in the 1770's, was the primary means of transporting 
goods on the James River until 1840. Crews of men performed the 
difficult, dangerous, and physically demanding work of moving tobacco 
and other goods and services up and down the river, connecting Richmond 
to the wider world. Their efforts helped make the City of Richmond a 
regional hub for industry and commerce.
  I am pleased that the Commonwealth is recognizing the profound impact 
of the African American Bateaumen of the James River with a historical 
highway marker designation from the Virginia Department of Historic 
Resources. By highlighting the experiences of these men, this highway 
marker helps us achieve a more inclusive understanding of our shared 
history.
  Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring the legacy 
of the African American Bateaumen. Their contributions to colonial 
Virginia were formative in growing the Commonwealth's economy, and I am 
grateful for their work. This landmark designation will help us 
remember the important work they did and preserve their legacy for 
future generations.

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