The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site was established in 1988 and preserves the home and estate of Frederick Douglass, one of the most prominent African Americans of the 19th century. Douglass lived in this house, which he named Cedar Hill, from 1877 until his death in 1895.   His legacy is preserved here at Cedar Hill.   

The home is Perched high on a hilltop, with a sweeping view of the U.S. Capitol and the Washington D.C. skyline.  It has now been restored to its 1895 appearance and furnished with original objects that belonged to Frederick Douglass and other family members.  The site of the home was originally purchased by John Van Hook about 1855. He built the main portion of the present house soon after taking possession.  In 1877 Douglass purchased the home and expanded its 14 rooms to 21, including the two-story library and kitchen wings. The house has an "L" shape.   In 1878, Douglass bought an additional 15 acres around the property.

A typical visit  to the home lasts about 1.5 hours. You must be on a guided tour for your visit.  Because space is limited, reservations are strongly encouraged.