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

Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Explore the final home of Frederick Douglass, a former slave who rose to become a world-renowned abolitionist, statesman, and champion of equal rights in this serene 8.5-acre estate.

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Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
Walter Smalling for the Historic American Buildings Survey, Public domain

What is the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site known for?

The site preserves the home and legacy of Frederick Douglass, who was born enslaved and became an abolitionist, statesman, author, and advocate for equal rights.

How much does it cost to visit?

Admission and tours at the Frederick Douglass Home are free.

What are the hours?

The park is open daily except for January 1, December 25, and Thanksgiving. Seasonal hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from April 15 to October 15, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from October 16 to April 14.

Where is it located?

The historic site is located at 1411 W Street SE in Washington, D.C. 20020.

What can I see at the site?

The site includes an 8.5-acre property known as Cedar Hill, featuring a Greek Revival and Italianate-style residence, gardens, and a collection of personal effects belonging to the Douglass family.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site preserves the final residence of Frederick Douglass, a man born enslaved who escaped slavery to become a pivotal abolitionist, orator, and statesman. The site is centered around Cedar Hill, an 8.5-acre estate that Douglass acquired in 1877 and inhabited for 18 years until his death on February 20, 1895. This private retreat allowed him to connect with nature and entertain guests, serving as a sanctuary for the champion of equality. The estate features a residence established in the 1850s, designed in Greek Revival and Italianate styles. The grounds include meticulously maintained gardens and a collection of personal effects belonging to the Douglass family, offering a window into the private life of a public figure. The property's significance was recognized early, with Congress chartering a nonprofit group to preserve his legacy in 1900. Following its transition to the National Park Service in 1962, the site was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1966 and later redesignated as a National Historic Site in 1988. Visitors today can explore the home and grounds, learning about Douglass's contributions to the Union during the Civil War, including his role as an advisor to President Abraham Lincoln and his efforts to recruit African American regiments. To experience the site fully, guests should start at the visitor center to collect brochures and tickets. The experience is mixed, combining indoor tours of the home and outdoor exploration of the the gardens and the 8.5-acre property.

Visitor tips

  • Start your visit at the visitor center to pick up tickets and brochures from a ranger or volunteer.
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tour time, or 15 minutes for groups.
  • Tours and admission are free, but reservations are required for groups of 10 or more.
  • Plan your visit around seasonal hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in spring-summer and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in fall-winter.

Nearby context

Located at 1411 W Street SE, this historic site is a quiet retreat from the city's center, providing a deep dive into the 19th-century struggle for equality and human rights.

Sources

Evidence and links