Boston African American National Historic Site

National Historic Site · MA

Boston African American National Historic Site

Centered on the north slope of Beacon Hill, the African American community of 1800s Boston led the city and the nation in the fight against slavery and injustice. These remarkable men and women, together with their allies, were leaders in the Abolition Movement, the Underground Railroad, the Civil War, and the early struggle for equal rights and education.

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Photos

A yellow wooden house on Beacon Hill — This is the home of education activist, abolitionist, and historian William Cooper Nell.

A close up image of flowers laid at the feet of the soldiers on the Shaw Memorial — Flowers laid at the feet of the soldiers on the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial.

A four-story federal-style brick building with rows of arched windows on each floor. — For over 275 years, Bostonians have gathered in Faneuil Hall to assert their rights and to work for a better future.

View from the pulpit at the African Meeting House — The African Meeting House served as the religious, educational, and political center of Boston's 19th century African American community.

The entrance door into a red brick townhouse on Beacon Hill — Lewis and Harriet Hayden used their home as an Underground Railroad safe house to shelter those running away from slavery.

A large bronze statue showing a man on horseback and soldiers walking alongside him — The Robert Gould Shaw Memorial honors Colonel Shaw and the Massachusetts 54th, the first African American regiment from the North to fight in the Civil War.

Activities

Guided Tours
Self-Guided Tours - Walking
Junior Ranger Program
Museum Exhibits