News Release

John Brown and Frederick Douglass: A Legacy of Freedom

Courtesy Nathan M. Richardson

News Release Date: May 14, 2026 Harpers Ferry National Historical Park (NHP) invites you to join “John Brown and Frederick Douglass: A Legacy of Freedom” on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Discover the powerful connection between Harpers Ferry and two influential abolitionists who shared a commitment to ending slavery, but pursued different paths in their fight for freedom in the United States.

Event Schedule

11:00 a.m. John Brown’s Raid. Learn about John Brown’s plan to seize the US Armory and Arsenal in Harpers Ferry and spark a slave uprising. Discover how the 1859 raid exposed deep national divisions over slavery in the years leading up to the Civil War. Historic Lower Town.  

12:00 p.m. John Brown Monuments and Mythology. Explore how monuments influence the way we remember history. Harpers Ferry NHP is home to three monuments connected to John Brown’s raid. Discover the stories they tell and the perspectives they represent. Meet on the Green, Historic Lower Town.

1:00-2:00, 3:00-5:00: Harpers Ferry Park Association book sales. Browse a selection of books and gifts related to Harpers Ferry, John Brown, Frederick Douglass, and African American history. Anthony Hall, first floor.

1:00-2:00, 3:00-5:00: Storer College Room Open House. Step inside the historic Storer College Room and explore exhibits highlighting student life at one of the nation’s first schools for formerly enslaved people. View original library materials, historic photographs, and school memorabilia. Storer College Room, Anthony Hall.

2:00-3:00: Frederick Douglass' Speech reenactment. Experience Frederick Douglass’ powerful 1881 speech about John Brown, brought to life by author and performance poet Nathan M. Richardson. The reenactment will take place on the same grounds where Douglass delivered his original address. Anthony Hall lawn.

3:30-4:30: The Power of Place: Lockwood House. Join a ranger-led program exploring the history of Lockwood House, the first building in Harpers Ferry used to educate formerly enslaved people. Discover how this historic place became a symbol of education, opportunity, and freedom after the Civil War.

Throughout 2026, the park and its partners will offer programs that bring America’s stories to life and highlight how past events in this small town continue to shape the nation.  All programs are included with park admission unless otherwise noted. More details are available at nps.gov/hafe and harpersferryhistory.org. Sponsored by the Harpers Ferry Park Association and Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.

Celebrating Our Nation’s 250th Anniversary 

The National Park Service is playing a leading role in the celebration and commemoration of the 250th anniversary of American independence. These efforts support Executive Order 14189 -Celebrating America's 250th Birthday, which calls for "a grand celebration worthy of the momentous occasion of the 250th anniversary of American Independence on July 4, 2026."  Throughout the country, national parks will host hundreds of 250th anniversary programs, events, and exhibits, including many sites with direct connections to the formation of the country.