Although I wasnt able to do the guided tour of the Black Heritage Trail, due to the partial government shutdown, I had a wonderful time at the museum itself. The Frederick Douglass exhibits take up two floors and is worth seeing. Michael, the guide that day, gave us a great tour of the church and school. He was extremely knowledgeable and because our group was very small (3 people), we were able to have an enhanced and up-close experience. We kind if lost track of time;) The young man at the front desk/cashier (I hate that I forgot his name) is really passionate about his work and shared a lit of his knowledge with me after the tour. If you visit Boston, go to this place!
Went with my wife. Lots of cool American history not found on the Freedom Trail. Worth the time to check out if youre in town. Also check out the Black Heritage Trail tour by the National Park Service.
Definitely worth a visit, especially if you like history. Ill just give some practicalities here. This historic site, part of the Black Heritage Trail, actually consists of several significant buildings related to African American history in Boston. Of those sites, the two buildings at this pinpointed location (namely, the Abiel Smith School and the African Meeting House) are the only ones that the public can visit, for a small admission fee. The other sites are all private property, but you can always take photos of them from the outside.The Abiel Smith School, the first public school for African Americans in the country, now houses a small museum with special exhibitions. The museum admission fee includes a 30-minute guided tour of the African Meeting House, a former church that was also a center of anti-slavery and abolitionist activism. Call ahead for the guided tour schedule. You will need at least an hour if you want to visit these two sites.
Highly informative and gives a great historical view on a highly gentrified neighborhood.
Great Museum and I love it!! I am so glad that the City of Boston has an African American Museum. Brought my uncle to this museum when he was visiting from London, England and he loved it!!!
Fantastic 2-story museum about Bostons African American history, which is centered in the Beacon Hill neighborhood. Make sure to get a tour of the African Meeting House.
Significant historical memorial, very well presented. Well worth the visit.
Well worth the trip, very educational
My family and I had the most memorable experience. We loved it.
Not what I thought it would be. Two floors all on frederick Douglass
Wonderfully done, and a valuable trip. Definitly recommend.
Must see this inspiring part of African American history in Boston!!
Whether youre a tourist or a local, this Museum is a MUST SEE. Youll learn so much about American history that you werent taught in school. Be sure to drop a donation in the box by the door, and sign the guest book.
A great place to learn about who I am.
Informative tour with Park Ranger
Good info
Very very small in size and also hidden
Its a must see pre-war museum of African American community, filled with rich history of free African American who helped lead the change against slavery.
One of the most greatest monuments for African Americans (before the Civil War) in America.
Super interesting