Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Exploring the Historic Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Like other parts of the South, the Washington metropolitan area – which includes Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. – was once home to numerous plantations that profited off the labor of enslaved African Americans. To learn more about one of the region's most famous former slaves, visit the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in the district's Anacostia neighborhood.

Frederick Douglass: From Slavery to Freedom

At this historical site, you'll learn all about Frederick Douglass, who was born into slavery in 1818 and fled from Maryland to New York City in 1838. After becoming a free man, Douglass devoted his life to speaking against slavery, producing abolitionist newspapers, and writing about his experiences as a slave. In 1872, Douglass and his wife, Anna, moved to Washington, D.C. The couple moved into the house known as Cedar Hill in 1878. Following Anna's death in 1882, Douglass married Helen Pitts in 1884 and continued living in the house until his death in 1895.

Touring Cedar Hill

You can tour Cedar Hill when you visit the site. Inside the restored structure, you'll find artifacts that belonged to Douglass and his loved ones, including diaries from Douglass and his second wife, Helen. Additionally, you can explore 8 acres of the original estate's grounds and watch a film about Douglass.

This historic site offers a welcome break from the district's more crowded attractions while providing an excellent overview of Douglass. You can expect informative guides and well-maintained grounds. However, the complimentary tour tickets, which are required to go inside the house, run out fast (especially during the peak summer season), so consider paying $1 to reserve your spot online in advance. Also, be aware that climbing steps is required to reach the house as well as its second floor.

Visitor Information

Hours and Reservations

If you don't reserve a tour ticket at least one day before you arrive, you can get one on a first-come, first-served basis at the on-site visitor center. Tours last about 30 minutes and are available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. The last tour begins at 3:30 p.m. during the offseason or at 4 p.m. from April through October. The visitor center and grounds are open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 or 5 p.m. depending on the season. You can visit the property on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays (excluding select federal holidays).

Getting There

Plan on driving and parking for free in the lot by the visitor center. Alternatively, you can take the Metro's Green Line to Anacostia Station – the property is approximately 3/4 miles east. Learn more by visiting the National Park Service website.