The History of Black Georgetown

Overview

*Starting in February 2025, tour is offered the first and third Saturday of the month at 2pm.

Someone visiting Georgetown today may see it as another wealthy enclave in a continuously gentrifying Washington, DC. However, this charming area has a diverse history. Originally a busy port for the export of tobacco, it was also the site of an active slave trade, and at one point African Americans counted as 30% of the Georgetown population. Descendants of those enslaved peoples and black free folk have lived in Georgetown for generations, but their contributions to its history do not often receive the same recognition. This tour will reveal the stories of the black citizens who made their mark on one of DC’s oldest neighborhoods.

The tour starts at 3206 O Street NW DC and ends at the Mt. Zion Cemetery, at 2501 Mill Rd. NW. There is a half-way stop at Thomas Sweet Shop for a bathroom break and refreshment.

City: Washington DC

Thu 17 Jul

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $30.00

Make a reservation

Thu 17 Jul

Starting at $30.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Over 2 hours of historic information offered by an experienced guide.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

What To Expect

Georgetown University

The gothic-style Healy Hall was built at the direction of, and named for, Georgetown University's only black President, Patrick Healy.

Rose Park

This historic park was the site of numerous political rallies and community gatherings for the black community in Georgetown.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (20)

M4129GMdebraw

May 2024

This was my second tour with Off The Mall Tours, and once again, it was informative, fun, and a great way to learn more about DC. Katie knows DC and its hidden historical secrets. It was an easy walk, and even though we had rain, it did not impede our enjoyment of the sights. I would highly recommend booking a tour with Katie once you have done the "big" DC stuff. It is a great way to learn about this beautiful and vital city.

Adventurer475981

May 2024

Katie is a source of history and the tour is excellent. She got in many different places and details that make the tour an unforgettable experience. Recommended for those that really want to know a bit more and have a different experience.

KLATLAALANLA

Apr 2024

Tour guide Katie Kilpatrick offers this walking tour of beautiful Georgetown loaded with stories of its Black residents, both free and enslaved and many very accomplished - including the first Black President of Georgetown University. Katie is full of information and high energy, appreciates questions and offers a friendly, personal tour that is exceptionally fun and informative.