Frederick Douglass National Historic Site Tours

Overview:

The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site preserves the home and legacy of Frederick Douglass, a runaway slave, abolitionist, civil rights advocate, author and statesman.

In 2018, the historic site will celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Frederick Douglass. The anniversary will be celebrated with special events and programs throughout the year.

Born into slavery, Douglass escaped to spend his life fighting for justice and equality for all people. His life was a testament to courage and persistence, serving as an inspiration to all those who struggle for the cause of liberty and justice. Visitors to the site learn about his efforts to abolish slavery and his struggle to ensure the basic rights of all Americans.

The Douglass site covers 8.5 acres known as Cedar Hill, an area that includes the main house, gardens and an extensive collection of personal effects that both captivate and educate visitors about Douglass and his family.

Douglass moved to Cedar Hill in 1877 and lived there for 18 years. During that time, he served as U.S. Minister to Haiti and U.S. Marshal for the District of Columbia, continuing to write about and speak out for human rights and equality until his death on February 20, 1895.

A highlight for many visitors is a reconstruction of Frederick Douglass' "Growlery." It was a one room building with a stove, bed, and desk where Douglass could retreat to work and "growl" when he was in the mood.

Another popular draw to the site is The Douglass Library Collection. The collection includes books, monographs, pamphlets, serials, record books, bound government documents, rare photograph albums, and two bound volumes of The North Star, an abolitionist newspaper that Douglass published himself. Many volumes are signed by Douglass or bear his personal bookplate.

Visitors to Cedar Hill won't be disappointed by this historic site honoring the legacy of one of the most famous 19th century African Americans.

Summary of Fees - Frederick Douglass National Historic Site Tours

From I-295, take the exit for Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE. Follow for a few blocks and turn left onto W Street SE. Proceed three blocks to the Visitor Center parking lot on the right.

From I-495/95 Washington Beltway, take Exit 3 North onto Indian Head Highway/MD-210, which becomes South Capitol Street. Bear right onto Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue. Turn right on W Street SE and proceed three blocks to the Visitor Center parking lot on the right.

From Metrorail, take the Green Line to the Anacostia stop, then board the Mount Rainier B-2 Bus to the Douglass home on 1411 W Street SE.