Mary McLeod Bethune's Legacy

Mary McLeod Bethune achieved her greatest recognition at the Washington, DC townhouse that is now this National Historic Site. The Council House was the first headquarters of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and was Bethune’s last home in Washington, DC. From here, Bethune and the NCNW spearheaded strategies and developed programs that advanced the interests of African American women.

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Three national parks in Washington, DC, celebrate the contributions of three of the most influential Americans of all time - Frederick Douglass, Mary McLeod Bethune, and Dr. Carter G. Woodson. The NPS is working to preserve their homes so they can be enjoyed today and by future generations.

Tour the Mary McLeod Bethune Council House NHS
Tour the Historic House

The Bethune Council House is open to the public for tours on Thursdays and Fridays. Learn more here!

Desk and chairs
A National Headquarters for Change

The Council House served as the first national headquarters of the NCNW from 1943-1966. Learn more about the home's history.

Who was Mrs. Bethune?
"The First Lady of Negro America"

Mary McLeod Bethune was a world-renowned educator, civil rights champion, leader of women, presidential adviser, and public servant.

Image suggesting 360-degree view of Bethune House.
Virtual Tour

Can't tour the house? Launch the virtual tour to see inside the house and learn more about Mrs. Bethune and her work.

People
Women United

Mrs. Bethune was a mentor to many. Learn about her successors and the many other women who entered the threshold of the Council House.

Large crowd of people gather outside in front of a large statue.
The Mary McLeod Bethune Memorial

In 1974, the National Council of Negro Women erected this memorial to honor their founding president in D.C.'s historic Lincoln Park.

Access Archives for Black Women's History
Collections

The Council House also stewards the National Archives for Black Women's History. Learn more here.

Access the park
Accessibility

Learn how you can access the Mary McLeod Bethune Council House NHS.

Explore nearby historical sites and parks in the Washington, D.C. area
Nearby Attractions

Explore nearby historical sites and parks in the Washington, D.C. area.

Last updated: July 16, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site
1318 Vermont Avenue NW

Washington, DC 20005

Phone:

771-208-1583

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