In a seemingly innocuous photograph of two young men, one black and one white, lies a profound narrative that intertwines friendship, betrayal, and the harsh realities of post-Civil War America.

This image, taken in 1889, captures Thomas Whitmore and Marcus Freeman, whose lives were deeply affected by the systemic injustices of their time.

What initially appears as a simple portrait of camaraderie reveals a dark secret that historians have only recently begun to uncover.

The journey to unveil the story behind this photograph began in September 2024 when James Rivera, a curator at the National Museum of African-American History and Culture, opened a box of donations from an estate sale in Richmond, Virginia.

Among the items was a studio photograph labeled “Anderson and Sons Photography, Richmond, Virginia, 1889.

” The image featured Thomas Whitmore, a white man, and Marcus Freeman, a black man, both dressed in identical suits, standing closely together.

Their posed friendship was striking, especially considering the social climate of the time, marked by Jim Crow laws and racial segregation.

As Rivera examined the photograph, he noticed details that suggested a more complex relationship than mere friendship.

The grip of Thomas’s hand on Marcus’s shoulder was tense, and Marcus’s smile did not reach his eyes.

Furthermore, the backdrop of a refined library included a subtle but ominous chain, hinting at the darker realities of their lives.

To understand the photograph’s significance, Rivera delved into historical records.

He discovered that Thomas Whitmore was the son of William Whitmore, a former plantation owner who had maintained a system of illegal labor practices known as *penage*.

This exploitative system trapped many freed black workers, including Marcus Freeman, who had worked on the Whitmore plantation after the Civil War.

Marcus Freeman had been born into slavery but remained bound to the Whitmore family through fraudulent labor contracts even after emancipation.

These contracts often left black workers in a cycle of debt and dependency, making it nearly impossible for them to achieve true freedom.

Rivera learned that Thomas had returned home from university to find Marcus still living under these oppressive conditions.

The pivotal moment came when Thomas decided to confront his father about the injustices occurring on their plantation.

His findings led him to gather evidence of his father’s illegal practices, which he intended to use in a legal case against him.

On September 10, 1889, just four days before the photograph was taken, Thomas filed a counterclaim against William Whitmore, accusing him of maintaining illegal contracts that enslaved Marcus and others.

The inscription on the back of the photograph, “May God forgive us for what we have done,” took on new meaning in light of this revelation.

It suggested that Thomas was aware of the potential consequences of his actions and the risks he was taking for the sake of his friend.

Just weeks after the photograph was taken, Thomas Whitmore was found dead under suspicious circumstances, officially ruled as an accidental shooting.

However, evidence later revealed that he had been murdered by his father, who sought to protect his reputation and the family’s legacy.

Marcus Freeman, who witnessed Thomas’s last moments, fled the plantation, fearing for his life.

He carried with him legal documents that Thomas had prepared to secure his freedom.

Marcus’s escape led him to Philadelphia, where he rebuilt his life as a carpenter and became an advocate for labor rights.

Years later, he testified before Congress about his experiences under illegal *penage*, ensuring that Thomas’s sacrifice would not be forgotten.

The photograph, once a mere representation of friendship, evolved into a powerful symbol of resistance against oppression.

It encapsulated the courage of two young men who defied the social norms of their time, risking everything for justice.

Their story illustrates the complexities of race relations in America and the ongoing struggle for equality.

In 2025, the National Museum of African-American History and Culture opened an exhibition titled “The Photograph That Testified,” showcasing the photograph alongside documents and artifacts related to Marcus and Thomas’s lives.

The exhibition aimed to educate visitors about the realities of *penage* and the importance of remembering those who fought against systemic injustice.

The story of Thomas Whitmore and Marcus Freeman is a poignant reminder of the power of friendship and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of justice.

Their legacy continues to inspire future generations to challenge injustice and recognize the shared humanity that transcends racial divides.

As we reflect on their story, we are reminded of the importance of uncovering hidden histories and honoring those who dared to stand against oppression, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.