Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Rangers guide daily tours of the historic house at scheduled times.
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.
Map showing location of park.
Announcing the Winners for the 2024 Frederick Douglass Oratorical Contest
The National Park Service announces winners for the 2024 Frederick Douglass Oratorical Contest. The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site hosts an annual oratorical contest for students ages 6 to 18.
Visitors take photos in front of a historic house
Photo by NPS Photo / Nate Johnson
A tiny stone cabin surrounded by fall foliage
Photo by NPS Photo / Nate Johnson
View of downtown Washington, D.C., including the Washington Monument and U.S. Capitol
Photo by NPS Photo / Nate Johnson
A plaster bust of Frederick Douglass
Photo by NPS Photo / Nate Johnson
A park ranger gestures to a group of people outside the Frederick Douglass home.
Photo by NPS / Rachel Hendrix