Please use this email for general inquiries.

Centered on the north slope of Beacon Hill, the African American community of 1800s Boston led the city and the nation in the fight against slavery and injustice. These remarkable men and women, together with their allies, were leaders in the Abolition Movement, the Underground Railroad, the Civil War, and the early struggle for equal rights and education.

The William Cooper Nell House

A close up image of flowers laid at the feet of the soldiers on the Shaw Memorial

Flowers at the Shaw Memorial

A four-story federal-style brick building with rows of arched windows on each floor.

Faneuil Hall in Spring

View from the pulpit at the African Meeting House

The African Meeting House

The entrance door into a red brick townhouse on Beacon Hill

The Lewis and Harriet Hayden House

A large bronze statue showing a man on horseback and soldiers walking alongside him

The Robert Gould Shaw Memorial

Boston African American

Boston African American National Historic Site rangers offer tours of the Black Heritage Trail seasonally. Please check the park calendar for available tours and programs.

Thanksgiving

Christmas

New Year's Day

Boston African American National Historic Site

The Museum of African American History is a partner of Boston African American National Historic Site. They operate the Abiel Smith School and the African Meeting House in conjunction with the National Park Service.

Museum of African American History

Guided Tours

Join a Park Ranger for a special guided tour.

These programs are free and open to the public.

A park ranger points out something on a historic 18th century gravestone

Nathan Die is Cast

The stories that define Boston are part of the unfinished legacy set into motion in the years leading up to and following the American Revolution. These ranger-led tours unpack themes and questions that originated with the founding generation. While some tours focus on the Revolutionary Period, others explore how later changemakers advocated to expand the ideals, values, and sacrifices from 1776 in order to move towards a more perfect union. <h2 style="text-align: center;">Fall Evening Walking Tours</h2> All programs being at 5:30 P.M. and last approximately 75 minutes. <h3 style="text-align: center;">August 28 - Desegregation in the Cradle of Liberty</h3> Beginning at the African Meeting House (meet at Smith Court in Beacon Hill) Address: 8 Smith Court, Boston, MA, 02114 <div> Boston earned its nickname as the “Cradle of Liberty” by fostering the revolutionary ideals and values that serve as the foundation of this country. And as the home to the oldest public school in America, Boston has historically considered access to education as one of these core values. Boston is therefore home to the longest ongoing struggle for equal education in the nation. Because when the doors opened to the Boston Latin School in 1635, a site marked on the Freedom Trail – to whom were those doors opened for?  The Black struggle for equal education in Boston began in the era just after the American Revolution, with Prince Hall’s petition to the Massachusetts Legislature in 1787. Learn more about the generations of Black Bostonians who have been involved in advocating and fighting for equal education from 1787 to 1976 and the legacy of advocacy and community activism that they left behind. Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-desegregation-in-the-cradle-of-liberty-tickets-1581720541719?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <h3 style="text-align: center;">September 4 - Boston: An Underground Railroad Hub</h3> Beginning at the African Meeting House, a one mile walk through Beacon Hill (meet at Smith Court in Beacon Hill) Address: 8 Smith Court, Boston, MA, 02114 Did you know that Boston played a central role in the Underground Railroad? Join a National Park Ranger to explore the inspiring stories of the freedom seekers who escaped to Boston and the people and organizations here that assisted them.  Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-boston-an-underground-railroad-hub-tickets-1581825274979?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <h3 style="text-align: center;">September 11 - Mysteries of the Mill Pond</h3> Beginning in the Faneuil Hall basement education space Address: 1 Faneuil Hall Square, Boston, MA 02109 In 1828, the Boston Mill Corporation completed its work filling in Boston's mill pond to make way for new housing. It built a new neighborhood on top of an old one. The city created a desirable residential district where formely there sat an unsanitary water reservoir that powered early Boston's industrial works. Since the founding of the town in 1630, Bostonians lived and worked around the mill pond. In the process, they created a community space with inhabitants and instiutions, creating a unique cultural identity. But the mill pond community and its identity ceased to exist when workers dumped the final load of landfill into the mill pond. This tour will explore the people and institutions that sprung up around the mill pond and gave it its character, and how the social and environmental history of this diverse area fits into Boston's larger historical narrative.  Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-mysteries-of-the-mill-pond-tickets-1581896778849?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <h3 style="text-align: center;">September 18 - Mystery, Mayhem, and Molasses - The Great Molasses Flood</h3> This tour will begin at Long Wharf by the Middle Passage Marker at the edge of Long Wharf.  Address: 66 Long Wharf, Boston, MA, 02110 On January 15, 1919 diaster struck as gallons of molasses flooded the streets of Boston. The Great Molasses Flood became a national tragedy that pushed World War I and the League of Nations out of newspaper headlines. Wrapped up in issuses of immigration, Anarchism, worker's rights and Prohibition, the Molasses Flood came crashing down, changing Boston forever. Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-myster-mayhem-and-molasses-the-great-molasses-flood-tickets-1582718075369?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <h3 style="text-align: center;">September 25 - Magic and Myth in Old Boston</h3> The tour begins at the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial on Boston Common and will end at Government Center Address: 24 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02133 Learn about the dark side of Old Boston - witchcraft, graveyards, and Puritains, visiting some of the oldest sites of folklore in the city. What can we gain from telling these stories today? Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-magic-and-myth-in-old-boston-tickets-1582855696999?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <h3 style="text-align: center;">October 2 - Taking the High Ground</h3> The tour begins at the flagpole in the Navy Yard and ends at the Bunker Hill Monument Address: 22 Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown, MA 02129 Taking the High Ground is a walking tour of the Bunker Hill Battlefield that uses modern landmarks to indicate troop position and movement. Approximately 1 mile walking and 75 mintes in length. Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-taking-the-high-ground-tickets-1607065479109?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite</a>. <h3 style="text-align: center;">October 9 - Pirates of Boston</h3> This tour begins outside of Faneuil Hall near the Sam Adams statue Address: 1 Faneuil Hall Square, Boston, MA 02109 Did you know that colonial Boston was a hub of activity for the 18th Century's most notorious pirates? During this "Golden Age of Piracy" pirates lived in Boston, were imprisoned here, and sometimes were executed here. This program examines what led to the era's explosion of piracy, as well as what motivated the values of priate crews. Were these swashbucklers simply sea-going criminals, or did their belief in economic, social, and racial equality not only predate, but influence the later American Revolution? This program examines the lives of several of the most famous pirates who walked streets of Boston, including Captain William Kidd, "Black" Sam Bellamy, Ned Lowe, and Willian Fly. Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-pirates-of-boston-tickets-1607165006799?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <h3 style="text-align: center;">October 16 - Occupied Minds: Becoming American During the Siege of Boston</h3> Beginning in the Faneuil Hall basement education space Address: 1 Faneuil Hall Square, Boston, MA 02109 During the Siege of Boston, an identity based on 18th century libery, equality, and intercolonial cooperation emerged. Learn how the events of 1775-1776 transformed Americans perspective from colonial dependents to American citizens on a 75-minute walking tour through historic Boston. Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-anxiety-and-distress-becoming-american-in-1776-tickets-1607186701689?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <h3 style="text-align: center;">October 23 - Pirates and Puritans: Cotton Mather and The Whydah Trial of 1717</h3> The tour will meet at the basement level of Faneuil Hall and will end at the Copp's Hill Burying Ground Address: 1 Faneuil Hall Square, Boston, MA 02109 In 1717, six pirates that survived a wreck off Cape Cod were tried for piracy in Boston. The puritan minister Cotton Mather (whose earlier views on witchcraft affected the Salem Witch Trials outcome) made his presence felt, both to condemn piracy, but also offer salvation to the condemned pirates. This tour will explore the collision of the Puritan world and piracy in early Boston. Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-pirates-and-puritans-cotton-mather-and-the-whydah-trial-tickets-1607195508029?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <hr />   </div>

Join a Park Ranger for a special guided tour exploring Boston's rich history as a city of revolutions.

Ranger's Choice Walking Tour

American Revolution

Military

US Navy

Monuments and Memorials

Social Movements

Reenactments

A Park Ranger in 1800s dress smiles as a kid signs the resolutions

Join a Historic Town Meeting

Make your voice heard by joining the National Parks of Boston for compelling reenactments of three historic town meetings! Inspired by real words spoken in historic town meetings in Faneuil Hall and around Boston, these programs encourage audience members to participate in debates from pivotal moments of Boston's history. Debate with your fellow audience members and vote on the issue. Have your voice heard in town meeting! <h3 style="text-align: center;">"The Destruction of the Tea" 1774 Town Meeting</h3> 250 years ago, to protest a tax placed upon tea, Bostonians loosely disguised themselves and boarded three tea ships at Griffins Wharf. They worked throughout the night to dump over 300 chests of tea into the harbor. In response to the destruction of over 90,000 pounds of East India Company Property, Parliament passed the Coercive Acts, closing the Port of Boston until the tea was paid for. How will Boston react? <h3 style="text-align: center;">"Rocking the Cradle" 1854 Town Meeting</h3> In May of 1854 Federal Marshals arrested <a href="https://cms.nps.gov/articles/-god-made-me-a-man-not-a-slave-the-arrest-of-anthony-burns.htm">Anthony Burns</a> under the <a href="https://cms.nps.gov/articles/000/fugitive-slave-laws-boston.htm">1850 Fugitive Slave Law</a>. Immediately following Burns’ arrest, Bostonians gathered at <a href="https://cms.nps.gov/places/faneuil-hall.htm">Faneuil Hall</a> to discuss whether they would abide by this federal law or appeal to a higher law of freedom and liberty for all. The eyes of the nation were firmly fixed upon Boston. How will Boston respond? <h3 style="text-align: center;">"Woman's Tea Party" 1873 Town Meeting</h3> On December 15, 1873 Boston’s suffragists held the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/boston-womens-tea-party.htm">New England Women's Tea Party</a>, a massive suffrage rally in the Great Hall of Faneuil Hall. Leading suffragists, including Lucy Stone, Frederick Douglass, and Mary Livermore, delivered rousing speeches to a crowd of more than three thousand, furthering the suffrage movement in Boston. Will Boston support women's suffrage?   <hr /> <div>For the 2025 season Rangers will lead one of the above Town Meetings Wednesday through Sunday at 2pm in the Great Hall of Faneuil Hall through August 31st.  </div>

Join National Parks of Boston Rangers as we recreate historic town meetings.

Join a Historic Town Meeting at Faneuil Hall

African American Heritage

Abolition Movement

Voting Rights and Suffrage

Women's History

This tour is best suited for individuals aged 8 and above.

The Black Heritage Trail® Tours typically lasts 1.5 hours.

An NPS Ranger speaking to a group of children in front of a monument, holding an image of soldiers.

Walking the Black Heritage Trail

Join a Park Ranger from the National Parks of Boston to explore the rich history of the Black community in 1800s Beacon Hill. The Black Heritage Trail® showcases residences and community buildings associated with a Black community that thrived on, and near, the north slope of Beacon Hill before, during, and after the American Civil War. Throughout that time, this community struggled and organized for equal rights and access to equal education. Community members championed the movement to abolish slavery and even housed freedom seekers on their journey along the Underground Railroad. This tour lasts approximately 90 minutes. Register for the tour in advance on <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-heritage-trail-tour-tickets-905004281167?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl">eventbrite</a>. It begins at the Massachusetts 54th Regiment across the street from the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/massachusetts-state-house.htm">Massachusetts State House</a> and ends at the <a href="https://www.maah.org/">Museum of African American History</a>, covering about 1.4 miles. <hr /> For the 2025 season from May 24 - September 28, Black Heritage Trail Tours will occur Wednesday through Sunday at 10am and 1pm. Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-heritage-trail-tour-tickets-153151587521?aff=ebdssbdestsearch">on Eventbrite</a>. If you have a group larger than five people, please <a href="mailto:boaf_mail@nps.gov">e-mail us</a> or call us at 617-429-6760. <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-heritage-trail-tour-tickets-153151587521?aff=oddtdtcreator">Reserve your spot here</a> *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided audio tour, see either <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/virtual-black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">The Virtual Black Heritage Trail</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/mobile-app.htm">NPS App</a>.

Pets are allowed while walking through Beacon Hill. The Museum of African American History only allows service animals into its buildings. Please visit our page on <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm">Accessibility</a> to learn more about <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm#General_Guidelines_for_Visitors_with_Service_Animals">General Guidelines for Visitors with Service Animals</a>.

Guided tours are offered in the summer and into the fall.  For the 2025 season from May 24 - October 13, Black Heritage Trail Tours will occur Wednesday through Sunday at 10am and 1pm. Register for the tour in advance on <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-heritage-trail-tour-tickets-905004281167?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl">eventbrite</a>. *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided audio tour, see either <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/virtual-black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">The Virtual Black Heritage Trail</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/mobile-app.htm">NPS App</a>.

Guided tours are offered in the summer and into the fall. For the 2025 season from May 24 - October 13, Black Heritage Trail Tours will occur Wednesday through Sunday at 10am and 1pm. Register for the tour in advance on <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-heritage-trail-tour-tickets-905004281167?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl">eventbrite</a>. *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided audio tour, see either <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/virtual-black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">The Virtual Black Heritage Trail</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/mobile-app.htm">NPS App</a>.

Join a Park Ranger from the National Parks of Boston on a Black Heritage Trail® Tour to learn about the Black community of Beacon Hill that thrived before, during, and after the American Civil War.

For the 2025 season from May 24 - October 13, Black Heritage Trail Tours will occur Wednesday through Sunday at 10am and 1pm. Register for the tour in advance on <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-heritage-trail-tour-tickets-905004281167?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl">eventbrite</a>. *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided audio tour, see either <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/virtual-black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">The Virtual Black Heritage Trail</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/mobile-app.htm">NPS App</a>.

Walk the Black Heritage Trail®

Enslavement

Religion and Spirituality

Churches

Schools and Education

Civil Rights

Trails

American Revolutionary War

Civil War

Hands-On

These activities are suggested for 8 - 12 year old children, but individuals of all ages are welcome to participate.

The activities range in time duration.

A kid sitting on the ground looking down at an activity he is working on.

Find Your Park Anywhere NPB

Find your park anywhere, from your home to your backyard, with activities spanning the National Parks of Boston. Click on the links to download the activites.  <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/kidsyouth/upload/A-Cleaner-Harbor-Accessible-508.pdf">A Cleaner Harbor</a>: Let's learn how the work of environmentalists helped Boston Harbor become clean enough to swim in!</li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/kidsyouth/upload/An-Island-For-All-Accessible-508.pdf">Create: An Island For All</a>: If you had the chance to create your own island park for everyone to enjoy, what would it be like?</li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/kidsyouth/upload/Contribution-Resolution-Accessible-508.pdf">Explore: Contribution Resolution</a>: Discover how your unique skills and interests can help others in your community today.</li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/kidsyouth/upload/Flotation-Innovation-Accessible-508.pdf">Create: Flotation Innovation</a>: All aboard! Design a ship using household materials and discover how workers in the Charlestown Navy Yard innovated during WWII. Want to follow along with a ranger? Check out this <a href="https://www.nps.gov/media/video/view.htm?id=71A372C5-D165-4F17-9AC2-D768934CE584">video</a>, and download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/upload/Flotation-Innovation-Activity-Sheet-Accessible.pdf">worksheet!</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/kidsyouth/upload/Mapping-Memories-Accessible-508.pdf">Explore: Mapping Memories</a>: Time to tell your story and consider how listening to the stories of others demonstrates compassion.</li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/kidsyouth/upload/Votes-for-Women-Accessible-508.pdf">Learn: Votes for Women!</a>: Explore and discuss how you can advocate for something you care about.</li> </ul> These activities were created in partnership with <a href="https://www.bostonharbornow.org">Boston Harbor Now</a>, <a href="https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-conservation-recreation">Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation</a>, and <a href="https://www.savetheharbor.org/">Save the Harbor/Save the Bay</a>.

Find your park anywhere, from your home to your backyard, with activities spanning the National Parks of Boston.

National Parks of Boston: Find Your Park Anywhere

Climate Change

Coasts, Islands and Atolls

Laborer and Worker

Oceans

World War II

Wilderness

Museum Exhibits

Three story brick building with white furnishes and a white and gilded cupola atop.

Faneuil Hall

Looking to plan your visit to Boston's historic sites? Visit the Cradle of Liberty, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/historyculture/fh.htm">Faneuil Hall</a>!  The City of Boston owns and operates Faneuil Hall. Since the establishment of Boston National Historical Park in 1974, National Park Service rangers interpret the stories of this historic building. Can't visit in-person or the Hall is closed? Experience Faneuil Hall through our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/faneuil-hall-virtual-tour.htm">virtual tour</a>!  <hr /> <h2>First Floor: Visitor Center and Marketplace</h2> Stop by the NPS Visitor Center located in the first floor of Faneuil Hall, where park rangers and volunteers are eager to provide general information and insider tips. While here, you can also find junior ranger books, maps, brochures, videos, exhibits, and information about sites along Boston's historic Freedom Trail®. You can also explore the different shops in the first floor market.  <h2>Second and Third Floor: Great Hall</h2> The second floor is home to the historic Great Hall. This gathering space has hosted meetings, orations, debates, and protests for over 275 years. Bostonians continue to use the Great Hall to this day. Political rallies, debates, concerts, and natruralization ceremonies are just some of the events that regularly take place here.  When open for public visitation, rangers offer informal Faneuil Hall talks about the history of the building and the Bostonians who have met here.  Take a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/faneuil-hall-virtual-tour.htm">virtual tour of Faneuil Hall</a> to learn more about the Great Hall. <h2>Fourth Floor: Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company</h2> The fourth floor of Faneuil Hall is home to the headquarters of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts. Their museum and meeting hall are independently operated. Please visit the <a href="https://www.ahac.us.com/">Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company website</a> for more information. Take a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/faneuil-hall-virtual-tour.htm">virtual tour of Faneuil Hall</a> to experience the headquarers of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company. <h2>Lower Level: Find Your Park Space</h2> In the "Find Your Park Space" in the lower level of Faneuil Hall, watch "Fighting for Freedom: Lewis Hayden and the Underground Railroad." This <a href="https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1205/index.htm">Network to Freedom</a> film follows the story of <a href="https://www.nps.gov/people/lewis-hayden.htm">Lewis Hayden</a> and his family as they seek freedom on the Underground Railroad and become activists living in Boston, Massachusetts, determined to crush the institution of slavery. The film runs for just over 17 minutes and has captions in English, Spanish, French, and simplified Chinese and Vietnamese, as well as audio descriptions. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/media/video/view.htm?id=BA117BF0-97CC-43C0-D0B9010B67E016EB">"Fighting for Freedom: Lewis Hayden and the Underground Railroad"</a> is also available online. During the summer, ranger-guided tours begin in the "Find Your Park Space" in the basement of the Visitor Center.

Service animals are allowed inside Faneuil Hall. 

Visit the Historic Cradle of Liberty's marketplace, Visitor Center, Great Hall, and Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company.

<h2>Faneuil Hall Visitor Center</h2> Winter Hours (October 28 - May 26): <ul> <li>Sunday: Open 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.</li> <li>Monday - Tuesday: Closed.</li> <li>Wednesday: Open 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.</li> <li>Thursday: Open 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM.</li> <li>Friday - Saturday: Open 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.</li> </ul> <h2>The Great Hall</h2> Winter Hours (October 28 - May 26): <ul> <li>Sunday: Open 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM.</li> <li>Monday - Tuesday: Closed.</li> <li>Wednesday: Open 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM.</li> <li>Thursday: Open 12:00 PM - 4:30 PM.</li> <li>Friday - Saturday: Open 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM.</li> </ul> Visit our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/planyourvisit/hours.htm#FH">operating hours and seasons</a> page for more information.

Visit Historic Faneuil Hall

Self-Guided Tours - Walking

Bronze medallion with words The Freedom Trail Boston set in a red brick sidewalk.

<h2>Select a Self-Guided Audio Tour</h2> Listen online or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/planyourvisit/app.htm">NPS App</a> to explore Boston with a FREE audio tour of your choice. Download the NPS app from the <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/national-park-service/id1549226484">Apple App</a> store or <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gov.nps.mobileapp">Google Play</a>. Once the app is installed, follow the tutorial. If you are already in Boston and turned on location access, Boston National Historical Park, Boston African American National Historic Site, and Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park will show up automatically. Otherwise simply tap "Find a Park" and search "Boston". Tap your preferred park unit and then begin to explore! <h3>Explore Boston's Trails to Freedom:</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/virtual-black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">Black Heritage Trail</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/freedom-trail-audio-tour.htm">Freedom Trail</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/freedom-trail-audio-tour-espa%C3%B1ol.htm">Freedom Trail Audio Tour - Español</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/freedom-trail-audio-tour-french.htm">Freedom Trail Audio Tour - Français</a></li> </ul> <h3>Explore Downtown Boston and Beacon Hill with the following tours: </h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/learn/uggr-bost-audio-tour.htm">The Underground Railroad in Boston Audio Tour</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/boha/learn/high-tide-trail.htm">High Tide Trail Audio Tour</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/learn/women-bh-audio-tour.htm">Women of Beacon Hill Audio Tour</a></li> </ul> <h3>Visit Bunker Hill and take a listen to the following tour: </h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/remembering-revolution.htm">Remembering Revolution: Bunker Hill Monument Audio Tour</a></li> </ul>

Explore Downtown Boston, Beacon Hill, and Charlestown with a self-guided audio tour!

Explore Boston with a Free Audio Tour

LGB American Heritage

Urban America

Living History

For this program, National Parks of Boston Rangers dress up in period clothing and present views on women's right to vote. Audience participation is encouraged through reading historically-based quotes on character cards.

This program is designed for ages 10 and up.

three adults in 1800s clothing stand in front of the stage Faneuil Hall as students look on.

Woman's Tea Party Program

This program is held in the Great Hall of Faneuil Hall during the summer.

Join National Parks of Boston Rangers in an interactive program based on the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/boston-womens-tea-party.htm">1873 Woman's Tea Party meeting</a>. On December 15, 1873 Boston’s suffragists held a massive suffrage rally in the Great Hall of Faneuil Hall. Leading suffragists, including Lucy Stone, Frederick Douglass, and Mary Livermore, delivered rousing speeches to a crowd of more than three thousand, furthering the suffrage movement in Boston. Join us in Faneuil Hall as we recreate this historic meeting! This program lasts approximately 30 minutes to 45 minutes in the Great Hall of Faneuil Hall. Stay tuned for more information on our 2025 program offerings.

Service animals are allowed inside Faneuil Hall.

Reservations are not normally required to attend this program.

The Woman's Tea Party program is held on weekends during the summer. Check back for information on the 2025 town meeting program schedule.

Join National Parks of Boston Rangers in an interactive program based on the 1873 Woman's Tea Party meeting.

Check back for information on the 2024 town meeting program schedule.

Raise Your Voice at the Woman's Tea Party

For this program, National Parks of Boston Rangers dress up in period clothing and present views supporting and opposing the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/fugitive-slave-laws-boston.htm">1850 Fugitive Slave Law</a>. Audience participation is encouraged through reading historically-based quotes on character cards.

This program is designed for ages 10 and older.

Interior of a large hall with 2 men and one woman in 1800s clothing, speaking to an audience.

Rocking the Cradle Town Meeting

In May of 1854 Federal Marshals arrested <a href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/-god-made-me-a-man-not-a-slave-the-arrest-of-anthony-burns.htm">Anthony Burns</a> under the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/fugitive-slave-laws-boston.htm">1850 Fugitive Slave Law</a>. Immediately following Burns’ arrest, Bostonians gathered at <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/faneuil-hall.htm">Faneuil Hall</a> to discuss whether they would abide by this federal law or appeal to a higher law of freedom and liberty for all. The eyes of the nation were firmly fixed upon Boston. Join National Parks of Boston Rangers as we recreate this historic meeting through an interactive program. This program lasts approximately 30 minutes to 45 minutes in the Great Hall of Faneuil Hall. Available for grades 5-12. Stay tuned for more information on our 2025 program offerings.

Reservations are not normally required to attend this program.

This program is usually offered during the summer season Check back for information on the 2025 town meeting program schedule.

Join National Parks of Boston Rangers in an interactive program that recreates the historic meeting of abolitionists who protested freedom seeker Anthony Burns' arrest.

Join the "Rocking the Cradle" Town Meeting

Junior Ranger Program

A matte gold ranger bade that has a silhouette of a drummer soldier marching in the center.

Junior Ranger BOAF

You may get a Junior Ranger book from the Visitor Center at Faneuil Hall. Limited supplies of the Boston African American National Historic Site Junior Ranger book are also available at the Museum of African American History and the Charlestown Navy Yard Visitor Center.

Explore! Learn! Protect! Become a Junior Ranger at Boston African American National Historic Site. Activities for all ages (even adults) makes becoming a Junior Ranger an experience for the whole family. Our Junior Ranger Activity Book introduces you to the sites along the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/explore-the-black-heritage-trail.htm">Black Heritage Trail®</a> here in Boston. Travel along the sites as you learn about the free Black community of the north slope of Beacon Hill and their fight for equal rights in the United States. When you come to the park, visit the Faneuil Hall Visitor Center.  A park ranger or volunteer can give you a copy of the Junior Ranger Handbook. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/learn/kidsyouth/upload/BOAFjr-ranger_508.pdf">Download a Jr. Ranger Book</a> <hr /> Or become a Junior Ranger virtually! Most activities in the Junior Ranger book can be completed by reading through the book and visiting the websites of our partners. You can also complete your Ranger guided program by coming along on a <a href="https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/museum-of-african-american-history-boston-nantucket">virtual tour of the Black Heritage Trail</a>, listening to Ranger Shawn discuss the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/learn/photosmultimedia/index.htm">Maritime Underground Railroad</a>, or learning about the story of <a href="https://www.nps.gov/media/video/view.htm?id=AAE83D11-93A0-23DB-A6F18A20263C4A7B">Anthony Burns</a>. Visit the Park's <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/learn/kidsyouth/junior-ranger.htm">Junior Ranger</a> page to get your virtual Junior Ranger badge and take the Junior Ranger oath.

Become a Junior Ranger at Boston African American National Historic Site by learning about the sites along the Black Heritage Trail Trail® here in Boston.

Become a Junior Ranger at Boston African American National Historic Site

An African American child holding up the "Liberty Junior Ranger Activity Book."

Become a Junior Ranger BOST

You may get a Junior Ranger book from any of the Park's Visitor Centers. You may also download a digital copy of the Junior Ranger book above or through the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/kidsyouth/junior-ranger.htm">Junior Ranger</a> page.

Explore! Learn! Protect! Become a Junior Ranger at Boston National Historical Park. Opportunities for all ages (even adults) makes becoming a Junior Ranger an experience for the whole family. The "Liberty" Junior Ranger Activity Book introduces you to the sites along the Freedom Trail® here in Boston. Travel along the sites as you learn about the early stirrings of the American Revolution. When you come to the park, visit the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/faneuil-hall.htm">Faneuil Hall</a> Visitor Center or the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/historyculture/cny.htm">Charlestown Navy Yard</a> Visitor Center. A park ranger or volunteer can give you a copy of the Junior Ranger Handbook. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/kidsyouth/upload/BOST-junior-ranger-book-2017_508.pdf">Download a Jr. Ranger Book</a> <hr /> Or visit virtually! Most activities in the Junior Ranger book can be completed by reading through the book and visiting the websites of our partners. You can also complete your Ranger guided program by coming along on a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/media/video/view.htm?id=296B3316-A7CB-59F3-5961B9E6357511BB">virtual tour of the Bunker Hill Monument</a> or <a href="https://www.nps.gov/media/video/view.htm?id=3310BDB2-F64C-6536-C8A5F35FAAC06D43">learn about the battle with Ranger Patrick</a>. Visit the Park's <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/kidsyouth/junior-ranger.htm">Junior Ranger</a> page to get your virtual Junior Ranger badge and take the Junior Ranger oath.

Become a Junior Ranger at Boston National Historical Park by learning about the sites along the Freedom Trail® here in Boston.

Become a Junior Ranger at Boston National Historical Park

Massacres

A white square sign on a lamp-post that states "Black Heritage Trail" and has an arrow pointing up.

Black Heritage Trail® Tour Boston

The Black Heritage Trail® consists of 10 sites, from the Robert Gould Shaw/Massachusetts 54th Regiment Memorial to the Museum of African American History.

Take a self-guided tour of the Black Heritage Trail®. Take a self-guided audio tour by visiting <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/virtual-black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">Virtual Black Heritage Trail Tour</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/mobile-app.htm">NPS App</a>, search Boston African American National Historic Site and select "Self-Guided Tours." Visitors can also get a brochure from the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/faneuil-hall.htm">Faneuil Hall Visitor Center</a> This trail explores the neighborhood of Beacon Hill, which served as a center for Boston's Black community in the 1800s. Learn about this community's integral role in the Abolition Movement and the fight for equal rights and access to education. Visitors can choose to start at either the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/robert-gould-shaw-massachusetts-54th-regiment-memorial.htm">Robert Gould Shaw/Massachusetts 54th Regiment Memorial</a> or the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/african-meeting-house.htm">African Meeting House</a> at the <a href="https://www.maah.org/boston_campus">Museum of African American History</a>. The trail weaves through the neighborhood of Beacon Hill, highlighting ten stops. Many of the stops are private residences today and are not open to the public. Please respect the privacy of the homeowners. <hr /> Interested in taking a tour led by a Park Ranger? Check out <a href="https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">Walk the Black Heritage Trail®</a> for times and availability. NOTE: Construction in the area may affect the trail route. Additionally, several of the sites on the trail are private residences and not open to the public. Please respect the privacy of homeowners.

Take a self-guided tour of the Black Heritage Trail® and learn about the contributions of Boston's Black Community in Beacon Hill.

NOTE: This trail goes through a neighborhood. Several of the sites on the trail are private residences and not open to the public. Please respect the privacy of homeowners.

Explore the Black Heritage Trail®

Park Film

People sitting on benches watching a movie on 3-paneled television screen which shows a wooden house

Fighting for Freedom Film

The Find Your Park Space is located in the lower level of Faneuil Hall.

Go to the "Find Your Park Space" in the lower level of Faneuil Hall to watch "Fighting for Freedom: Lewis Hayden and the Underground Railroad." This <a href="https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1205/index.htm">Network to Freedom</a> film follows the story of <a href="https://www.nps.gov/people/lewis-hayden.htm">Lewis Hayden</a> and his family as they seek freedom on the Underground Railroad and become activists living in Boston, Massachusetts, determined to crush the institution of slavery. The film runs for just over 17 minutes and has captions in English, Spanish, French, and simplified Chinese and Vietnamese, as well as audio descriptions. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/media/video/view.htm?id=BA117BF0-97CC-43C0-D0B9010B67E016EB">"Fighting for Freedom: Lewis Hayden and the Underground Railroad"</a> is also available online.

Service animals are allowed inside Faneuil Hall Visitor Center.

The film is available to watch regularly throughout the season. The film is also available online: <a href="https://www.nps.gov/media/video/view.htm?id=BA117BF0-97CC-43C0-D0B9010B67E016EB">"Fighting for Freedom: Lewis Hayden and the Underground Railroad."</a>

Watch a film that follows the story of Lewis Hayden and his family as they seek freedom on the Underground Railroad and become activists living in Boston, Massachusetts.

The film is available to watch regularly when the Visitor Center is open in Faneuil Hall. Check <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/planyourvisit/hours.htm">operating hours</a> for updated information. The film is also available online: <a href="https://www.nps.gov/media/video/view.htm?id=BA117BF0-97CC-43C0-D0B9010B67E016EB">"Fighting for Freedom: Lewis Hayden and the Underground Railroad."</a>

Watch "Fighting for Freedom: Lewis Hayden and the Underground Railroad"

The Museum is currently open with timed ticketing. Please visit the <a href="https://www.maah.org/boscovidhrs">Museum of African American History's website</a> to reserve tickets.

View from second story onto first floor of meeting house that has pews filled with kids.

Imagine listening to <a href="https://www.nps.gov/people/frederick-douglass.htm">Frederick Douglass</a> or <a href="https://www.nps.gov/people/maria-w-stewart.htm">Maria Stewart</a> speak while sitting in the pews of the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/african-meeting-house.htm">African Meeting House</a>. Or consider a student's experience at the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/abiel-smith-school.htm">Abiel Smith School</a>. These two historic buildings are home to the Museum of African American History's Boston Campus. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history of Beacon Hill's Black community by exploring these buildings and the stories held within. Built in 1806, the African Meeting House served as a church, school, and gathering place for the political activism and cultural life of Boston’s free Black community in the 1800s. Since placed in the care of the Museum, this space has continued to serve as a space for events and talks on a variety of topics that connect to the site's history. The Abiel Smith School opened in 1835 and acted as a focal point in the Black community’s struggle for equal school rights over the following decades. Today, it is home to the Museum of African American History's exhibit galleries. The exhibit <a href="https://www.maah.org/exhibits_detail/Selections-from-the-Collection">"Selections from the Collection"</a> highlights historical artifacts that help share the history of African Americans in Boston. For current hours of operation and to learn more about the Museum of African American History and its programs, please visit the <a href="https://www.maah.org/">Museum of African American History website</a>. The Museum of African American History operates the Abiel Smith School and the African Meeting House and is a partner of the National Parks of Boston.

At the Museum of African American History visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history of Beacon Hill's 19th century Black community by exploring this museum's historic buildings and the stories held within.

The Museum is currently open with timed ticketing. Please visit the <a href="https://www.maah.org/boscovidhrs">Museum of African American History's website</a> to reserve tickets.

Museum of African American History: Explore the Rich History of the 19th-Century Black Community on Beacon Hill

These programs are best suited for individuals aged 10 and above.

A group of African American Civil War veterans standing together in uniform.

Beyond the 54th Virtual Program

Interested in having a Ranger virtually speak with your class or group? The National Parks of Boston provides free virtual programs on a variety of topics. Explore the list of talks below. For more information, contact <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/contacts.htm">Boston African American National Historic Site</a> or <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/contacts.htm">Boston National Historical Park</a>. Virtual programs are available for groups of 10 people or more, subject to availability and staffing. Please check out Boston National Historical Park and Boston African American National Historic Site's <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/planyourvisit/calendar.htm">calendar</a>, or the <a href="https://www.bostonharborislands.org/calendar/">Boston Harbor Islands' calendar</a>, for other scheduled programming. <hr /> <h2>Virtual Tours</h2> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">Black Heritage Trail</a></li> </ul> <h2>Virtual Town Meetings</h2> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/woman-s-tea-party.htm">The Woman's Tea Party</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/vengeance-or-justice-town-meeting.htm">"Vengeance or Justice" Town Meeting</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/rocking-the-cradle.htm">"Rocking the Cradle" Town Meeting</a></li> </ul> <h2>Other Virtual Talks</h2> Click on the program titles to open a description. <details><summary>"Equal to the Occasion" Boston's Women and the Underground Railroad</summary> During the first half of the 19th century, countless men, women, and children escaped from enslavement via the Underground Railroad. This program examines the many ways the women of Boston became critical contributors to the Underground Railroad, forever changing the lives of the freedom seekers who sought refuge in their city. </details> <details><summary>Lucy Stone: Make the World a Better Place</summary> This program explores the lifelong fight of Massachusetts' own Lucy Stone to win equal voting rights for women and African Americans. Despite leading both the women's rights and abolitionist movements, Stone's name is often absent from the history. Join us in examining why this historical titan's work was so integral to the nation's evolution. </details> <details><summary>Monuments and Memory: A Confederate Marker in Boston Harbor</summary> In October of 2017, Massachusetts officials removed one of the only markers in the state dedicated to the Confederacy from Fort Warren on Georges Island. This program will explore the history of the marker, the organization that erected it, and the broader national dialogue about how we remember the American Civil War. </details> <details><summary>Pirate or Patriot</summary> Boston was one of the most important centers in colonial America of sea-borne trade, some legal and some illicit. Not surprisingly, Boston was a hub of piracy in the 18th Century. This program examines many of those who flourished in the 18th Century's "Golden Age of Piracy", including Edward Low, "Black" Samuel Bellamy, and Captain William Kidd, and their connection to colonial Boston. Furthermore, this program will pose the provocative question; were these individuals patriots or were they pirates? Did their character and their actions bespeak of only greed and plunder, or might they also be viewed befitting those who sought economic and social revolution? Penetrating the stereotypes of myth and Hollywood, this program delves into the mindset of those who sailed beneath the Jolly Roger and what they might have encountered ashore in colonial Boston. </details> <details><summary>Safe Harbor: Boston's Maritime Underground Railroad</summary> During the years preceding the American Civil War, Boston served as one of the most important stops on the Underground Railroad. Did you know that many of the fugitives escaping from enslavement came to Boston by stowing away on ships from southern ports? This program explores the untold stories of men and women making daring escapes to freedom through Boston Harbor. </details> <details><summary>Taxation Without Representation is Tyranny; the Woman's Tea Party of 1873</summary> This program will explore the organization, purpose, and execution of the Woman's Tea Party in Faneuil Hall on December 15, 1873. By considering the question "What is the duty of a citizen when facing injustice?" it will examine the ways in which the women of 1873 responded to the injustice of female disenfranchisement. </details> <details><summary>Those Who Would Be Free Must Strike the Blow: The 54th Massachusetts and Struggle for African American Citizenship</summary> The Boston alliance of African American and Abolitionists activists changed the Civil War into a struggle for black citizenship. Through a series of national and international recruitment speeches and rallies, the 54th Massachusetts, became a national symbol for black freedom. The assault on Fort Wagner was a step toward equality that continues in the 21st century United States. </details> <details><summary>The Woman's Era Club: A Story of Black Women's Activism</summary> In 1893, a group of Boston women founded the Woman’s Era Club, one of the first women’s clubs in the country led by African American women. With its journal, The Woman’s Era, this club’s mission of social activism reached national audiences. What causes were these women fighting for, and how did they view their roles as activists in their communities? In this talk, we will explore the stories of several women behind this little-known, yet influential club and publication. </details>

Since these are virtual programs, pets are allowed to watch the program.

These programs are for groups of 10 individuals or more. Please contact <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/contacts.htm">Boston African American National Historic Site</a> or <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/contacts.htm">Boston National Historical Park</a> for more information. These programs are subject to availability and staffing.

These programs are available all-year round depending on availability and staffing.

These programs are typically available during the day and evening and are subject to availability and staffing. Please contact <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/contacts.htm">Boston African American National Historic Site</a> or <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/contacts.htm">Boston National Historical Park</a> for more information.

National Parks of Boston Virtual Programming

Sculpture

Maritime

Piracy and Privateering

Wars and Conflicts

A boy and a girl lying on the grass working on junior ranger books.

BOHA Junior Ranger Books

Explore! Learn! Protect! Become a Junior Ranger at Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park. Opportunities for all ages (even adults) makes becoming a Junior Ranger an experience for the whole family. Our Jr. Ranger booklets introduce you to the wildlife, geography, and history of the islands. Through activities, you can identify marine life, interview a ranger, and discover all that these islands have to offer! You can download Jr. Ranger booklets on <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boha/learn/kidsyouth/upload/Spectacle-Island-Junior-Ranger-Activity-Booklet_508.pdf">Spectacle Island</a>, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boha/learn/kidsyouth/upload/Georges-Island-Junior-Ranger-Booklet_508.pdf">Georges Island</a>, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boha/learn/kidsyouth/upload/Peddocks-Island-Junior-Ranger-Booklet_508.pdf">Peddocks Island</a>, and the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boha/learn/kidsyouth/upload/Camping-Islands-Junior-Ranger-Booklet_508.pdf">Camping Islands</a> (Lovells, Grape, and Bumpkin Islands). Visit the <a href="https://www.bostonharborislands.org/kids-and-families/">Kids and Families page</a> on the Boston Harbor Islands Partnership website to download Jr. Ranger Booklets available in Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese, Vietnamese, and Haitian Creole.

Pets are not permitted on the islands, but they are welcome at the mainland sites and peninsulas. Service animals are welcome.

Boston African American

Overview

Hours

Fees & Passes

Map

Things To Do

Category

Ranger's Choice Walking Tour

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Join a Historic Town Meeting at Faneuil Hall

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Walk the Black Heritage Trail®

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National Parks of Boston: Find Your Park Anywhere

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Visit Historic Faneuil Hall

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Explore Boston with a Free Audio Tour

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