African-Americans in the Civil War Era

May 2012

African-American Civil War Memorial: Located on U Street, the memorial honors the African Americans who served in the war efforts.
Frederick Douglass House: The restored Anacostia estate of the abolitionist, statesman and advisor to Lincoln offers a glimpse into life during the war era.
Elizabeth Keckley “History on Foot” walking tour: Learn more about Lincoln’s life through the eyes of Mary Todd Lincoln’s seamstress and confidant, Elizabeth Keckley, in this specialty walking tour.
Emancipation Statue: This tribute to Lincoln was paid for by freed slaves.
Asbury United Methodist Church: Founded in 1836 by slaves and freed slaves, it’s the oldest black congregation in DC that still worships on its original site.
Decatur House: The historic home on Lafayette Square, next to the White House, explores the lives of slaves at the time of emancipation through its restored slave quarters.
Ebenezer UMC: The first public school for colored students opened here in 1864.
Old City Hall: It’s here where slaves were declared free in the District of Columbia. The statue of Lincoln located just outside was the first tribute to the former president in DC, paid for by DC residents.
St. John’s Episcopal Church: This Georgetown church counted many Union sympathizers among its members and even opened a school for the children of freed slaves in its basement in 1864.
Arlington National Cemetery: The southern portion of the land now occupied by the cemetery was used during and after the Civil War as a settlement for freed slaves. More than 1,100 freed slaves were given land at Freedman's Village by the government, where they farmed and lived during and after the Civil War.