Frederick Douglass National Historic Site


Frederick Douglass spent his life fighting for justice and equality. Born into slavery in 1818, he escaped as a young man and became a leading voice in the abolitionist movement. People everywhere still find inspiration today in his tireless struggle, brilliant words, and inclusive vision of humanity. Douglass's legacy is preserved here at Cedar Hill, where he lived his last 17 years.

The site can be reached by car, public transportation, or on foot. See the directions page of the website for more detailed information.

  • Guided Tours
  • Self-Guided Tours - Walking
  • Junior Ranger Program
  • Park Film
  • Museum Exhibits
  • Shopping
  • Bookstore and Park Store

  • African American Heritage
  • Enslavement
  • Incarceration
  • Reconstruction
  • Social Movements
  • Abolition Movement
  • Civil Rights
  • Voting Rights and Suffrage
  • Wars and Conflicts
  • Civil War

Cedar Hill

Visitors take photos in front of a historic house

Rangers guide daily tours of the historic house at scheduled times.

The Growlery

A tiny stone cabin surrounded by fall foliage

Frederick Douglass retreated to this stone cabin to read, write, and think in seclusion.

View of Washington, D.C.

View of downtown Washington, D.C., including the Washington Monument and U.S. Capitol

Frederick Douglass's view from Cedar Hill continues to impress visitors today.

Bust of Frederick Douglass

A plaster bust of Frederick Douglass

Hundreds of original objects, such as this bust, furnish the historic house.

Frederick Douglass Bicentennial Weekend

A park ranger gestures to a group of people outside the Frederick Douglass home.

A park ranger speaks to park visitors.