Escape to the Great Dismal Swamp

In this documentary, we explore the Great Dismal Swamp: an uninhabitable wasteland, covering parts of Virginia and North Carolina. The swamp was hated and feared by settlers until well into the 19th century. A treacherous den of poisonous water snakes, blood sucking insects, spiders and predators like black bears and lynxes. But some had no other option except braving these dangers, like fugitive slaves, who needed a way to escape the cruelty of their white masters. For hundreds of years, there have always been whispers that these slaves found refuge in the Great Dismal Swamp.

Historical Archaeologists Daniel Sayers and Becca Peixotto are convinced that the evidence they are looking for is still hidden somewhere. Their team finally uncovers the truth behind these old rumors, finding proof that an entire thriving city of escaped slaves existed in the swamp.