Government: Politics

This is an image of Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the most famous African American of the 19th Century. Frederick Douglass' life spanned nearly eighty years, from the time that slavery was universal in American states to the time it was becoming a memory. Douglass freed himself from slavery, and through decades of tireless efforts he helped to free millions more. His life was a testament to courage and persistence that continues to serve as an inspiration to those who struggle in the cause of liberty and justice.

Frederick Douglass lived and worked in Rochester, NY for most of his public career. After the close of the Civil War he moved to Washington, DC to publish a New National Era, to carry on his work on behalf of African Americans. He served Washington in many ways, in international affairs, in the Council of Government for the District of Columbia, and finally as US Marshal for the District. In 1877 he purchased the home which he named Cedar Hill, the location of the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site. The Site consists of Douglass' Home, and an interpretive Visitor Center.

This website provides access to information about the life of Frederick Douglass, as well as the material and document holdings of the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site.