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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / History

Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site

The former residence of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the "Father of Black History," this Victorian row house served as the headquarters for the early Black History Movement in Washington, D.C.

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What is the Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site known for?

It preserves the home of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the "Father of Black History," and interprets his life, legacy, and the early Black History Movement. The site also served as the headquarters for the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH).

Where is it located?

The site is located at 1538 9th Street NW in the Shaw neighborhood of Washington, D.C. The National Historic Site boundaries also include adjacent properties at 1540 and 1542 Ninth Street NW.

What is the history of the house?

Built in the 1890s as a Victorian row house, the red-brick structure served as Dr. Woodson's residence from 1922 to 1950. During this time, he lived on the second floor while the ASALH operated from the basement and first floor.

Is it a recognized landmark?

Yes, the house was designated a National Historic Landmark and listed in the National Register of Historic Places on May 11, 1976.

Who was Carter G. Woodson?

Known as the "Father of Black History," Dr. Woodson was the second African American—and the only one of slave parentage—to earn a PhD from Harvard University in 1912. In 1926, he started Negro History Week, which is now observed as Black History Month.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Located at 1538 9th Street NW in the Shaw neighborhood, the Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site preserves the residence of a pioneering scholar. The red-brick, 3,380-square-foot structure was built in the 1890s and stands as an authentic example of the Victorian Row House architectural style. Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who became the second African American and the only person of slave parentage to earn a PhD from Harvard University in 1912, resided on the second floor of this house from 1922 until 1950. While he lived upstairs, the basement and first floor served as the operational headquarters for the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASALH), which Woodson founded. This site was the epicenter of the early Black History Movement. It was here in 1926 that Woodson established Negro History Week, a celebration that evolved into the modern observance of Black History Month. The home functioned as a hub for research and the preservation of rare collections concerning African American and African Diaspora History. Recognized for its immense cultural significance, the house was designated a National Historic Landmark on May 11, 1976. It later became a unit of the National Park System in 2006, specifically the 389th unit, ensuring the preservation of the legacy of the man who dedicated his life to educating the nation on its own history and culture.

Visitor tips

  • Look for the red-brick Victorian facade to identify the home on 9th Street NW.
  • Allow at least an hour to explore the different levels, including the former ASALH headquarters in the basement.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the site is located within the walkable Shaw neighborhood.

Nearby context

The site is situated in the heart of the Shaw neighborhood at 1538 9th Street NW. The National Historic Site boundaries extend slightly beyond the main house to include the adjacent properties at 1540 and 1542 Ninth Street NW.

Sources

Evidence and links