Black History in Lafayette Park

When Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser had a two-block long section of 16th Street, NW christened Black Lives Matter Plaza, she guaranteed that it would forever be connected to the history of American racial injustice and civil rights. 16th Street terminates at Lafayette Park, a seven-acre public space overlooking the White House. African Americans have been making history here since the nation’s capital was founded; long before #BlackLivesMatter, Black lives were an influential, dynamic and forceful presence in Lafayette Park. This walking tour will recount the stories of
- Paul Jennings, enslaved by President James Madison;
- James Wormley, proprietor of one of Washington’s most successful hotels;
- Freedman’s Savings Bank, founded after the U.S. Civil War;
- Charlotte Dupuy, who sued her enslaver, Secretary of State Henry Clay, for her freedom;
Plus other Lafayette Park sites associated with the Black lives that constitute our collective history--the history of D.C. and the United States.
Led by Washington Walks founder Carolyn Crouch.
Be sure to also join us for the Black History Month companion Virtual Experiences:
Walter Pierce and the Story of Community Park West on Wednesday, February 9, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. and Lost and Found: Mt. Pleasant Plains Cemetery at Walter Pierce Park on Wednesday, February 23, 2022 at 7:00 p.m.
People who liked this tour also liked: U Street and Memorials: The Journey to Civil Rights
Saturday, February 19, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. - SOLD OUT
Also available for private and group tour bookings - please email info@washingtonwalks.com for more information.
- Complimentary tickets available to members at the Patron level. Join here.
- $30 discounted tickets available to members at the Friend level beginning on February 2nd. Join here.
- $50 tickets will be available to the general public beginning on February 12th. Subject to availability.
Also available for private and group tour bookings - contact us for a quote.