The Miller Family’s Connection to Sharswood Plantation: A Journey of Discovery

Background on Sharswood and Fred Miller

In southern Virginia lies a grand old house named Sharswood. This location, which sounds like the backdrop of a southern gothic tale, holds a rich history within its walls. As revealed in a 2022 report, this is not fiction — it is Fred Miller’s story, a 57-year-old Air Force veteran.

Fred Miller’s Motivation: Fred sought a property for his family’s gatherings back in his hometown. Unaware of Sharswood’s historical name or significance, he began an unexpected journey of discovery.

Family Life in Pittsylvania County

Pittsylvania County, Virginia is characterized by gentle hills and rural farm life. Once a leader in tobacco production, Fred’s family embraced the area’s community-focused lifestyle. Cousin Adam Miller fondly remembers gatherings filled with games and food competitions — primarily centered around cakes.

Fred decided to purchase the grandiose home near his family’s frequent meeting spots. His sister’s observation of a ‘for sale’ sign initiated the purchase process.

Buying Sharswood

Despite initial reluctance and doubts rooted in race-based discrimination, Fred made an offer slightly above the $220,000 asking price. His skepticism, stemming from his belief that the house wouldn’t be sold to a Black person, was proven unfounded when his offer was accepted.

Fred Miller’s acquisition included 10.5 acres and led to momentous realizations about the property’s history. His family, especially his sister Karen Dixon-Rexroth, became fervent researchers of Sharswood, uncovering surprises as they dug deeper.

Revelations About Sharswood

Uncovering Sharswood’s past disclosed its substantial ties to the era of slavery. Initially built around 1850 by a renowned New York architect, the property was the seat of a 1,300-acre plantation, sparking mixed emotions in Fred’s family once they realized they owned a former plantation.

Fred once considered the stunning property only as a family meeting spot. However, understanding its role in the county’s historical context of holding enslaved people shifted that perception significantly.

Historical Connections Unveiled

Fred and Karen’s research efforts revealed surprising connections to their family history. Guided by conversations and insights from relatives like Dexter Miller and genealogist Karice Luck-Brimmer, they explored lines soaring back past the Civil War.

The Miller family traced their lineage back to Sarah Miller, born in 1868 — just after the Civil War. Discoveries indicated that Sarah’s parents, David and Violet Miller, were likely enslaved at Sharswood.

With the verification provided by Karice Luck-Brimmer confirming Violet’s status as an enslaved woman at Sharswood, the Miller family’s ancestral connection to the property was fully unveiled.

Fred’s Reflections and Future Plans

While accepting the historical weight of his ownership, Fred embraced the importance of recognizing the tale of slavery tied to Sharswood. He plans on maintaining both the house and the slave quarters and has established the Sharswood Foundation to assist this vision utilizing grants.

Fred, along with his family, celebrated their newfound insights with reverence and broader gatherings, such as the Sharswood Juneteenth celebration with thousands in attendance.

The Broader Implications

This story underscores the personal and communal journey of discovery, unveiling intricate histories often left dormant. Fred’s commitment to preserving Sharswood reveals an enduring devotion to understanding and appreciation, forming a vital connection with the past.

Produced by Shari Finkelstein and Braden Cleveland Bergan; Associate producer, Collette Richards; Broadcast associate, Wren Woodson; Edited by Daniel J. Glucksman.