Fact Sheet: African Burial Ground National Monument

A Sacred Space in Manhattan

Established: February 27, 2006

Location: 290 Broadway, 1st Floor, New York, NY 10007

Overview: The African Burial Ground was preserved as a National Monument by President George W. Bush through Presidential proclamation on February 27, 2006. The mission of the African Burial Ground National Monument is “to promote understanding of related resources, encourage continuing research, and present interpretive opportunities and programs for visitors to better understand and honor the culture and vital contributions of generations of African and Americans of African descent to our Nation…” .

The African Burial Ground was a cemetery in the 1600's and 1700's, which was unearthed in 1991 during the construction of the Ted Weiss federal building, located in lower Manhattan at 290 Broadway. The re-discovery of the African Burial Ground deeply impacted the descendant and broader community and at the same time renewed awareness in cultural significance and historical preservation. In 1993 the site was designated as a National Historic Landmark by the Secretary of the Interior.

Park Purpose: To preserve and protect the approximately 15,000 square feet of land and its associated resources— including those interred and reinterred—the memorial, collections, and archives on the corner of Duane and Elk Streets in Lower Manhattan. This parcel is part of the larger 7-acre national historic landmark commemorating the area that— from approximately 1650 to 1795—served as a burial place for free and enslaved Africans.

Exhibits/Tours: The Visitor Center, located inside the building at 290 Broadway, is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day. This center exhibits historical and contemporary images related to the African Burial Ground. Also displayed are replicas of some of the artifacts that were found in the burials, such as shroud pins, buttons and beads.

Please note that those entering the building will be required to go through airport-style security.

The memorial, located on Duane Street between Broadway and African Burial Ground Way (Elk Street), is open weather permitting, Tuesday through Saturday 10am to 5pm, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day.

Visitor Information: [phone]

Web Site: www.nps.gov/afbg
Reserve Tours: www.recreation.gov