"Rappahannock River, Va. Fugitive African Americans Fording The Rappahannock (U.S. Civil War)" This artwork depicts a historical event during the U.S. Civil War, specifically the crossing of the Rappahannock River by fleeing African-American slaves. The scene takes place in Virginia, where the river served as a significant boundary between Union and Confederate territories. As Union forces approached, many slaves sought freedom and crossed the treacherous waters to reach the safety of Union lines. This artwork serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles and resilience displayed by African-Americans during this tumultuous period in American history.