Between the late 17th century and the end of the American Civil War in 1865, the area played a major role in the history of slavery in the United States, serving as the second-largest domestic slave trade site in the country, second to New Orleans. Profits from the trade in human beings fueled the creation of wealth for Southern whites and drove the economy in Richmond, leading 15th Street to be known as Wall Street in the antebellum period, with the surrounding blocks home to more than 69 slave dealers and auction houses.
Between the late 17th century and the end of the American Civil War in 1865, this area was a major hub for the slave trade in the United States, second only to New Orleans. The profits from this trade fueled the wealth of Southern whites and helped drive the economy of Richmond, making 15th Street known as Wall Street during that period.  The surrounding blocks were home to over 69 slave dealers and auction houses.