Frederick Douglass National Historic Site Tours

The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site preserves the home and legacy of Frederick Douglass — a runaway slave, abolitionist, civil rights advocate, author and statesman. 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, and visitors to the site learn about his efforts to abolish slavery and his struggle to ensure the basic rights of all Americans. In 2018, the historic site will celebrate the 200th anniversary of his birth with special events and programs throughout the year. 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," 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 is The Douglass Library Collection, which 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.