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. It begins at the Robert Gould Shaw and Massachusetts 54th Regiment Memorial, across the street from the Massachusetts State House and ends at the Museum of African American History, covering about 1.4 miles. Boston's Black Heritage Trail® navigates some of the oldest streets and neighborhoods in the city. Sidewalks can often be narrow and uneven. Many of the sidewalks have curb-cuts and crosswalks, and those with stoplights have signals.
If tours are CANCELLED due to inclement weather, we will send an email notifying you of the cancellation. If cancelled an indoor option will be offered in the basement of Faneuil Hall in the Find Your Park Space.
*If you have a group larger than five people, please reach out at boaf_mail@nps.gov or 617-429-6760.
