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

Wed 16 Jul

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $30.00

Make a reservation

Wed 16 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)

Amy_DCA

Feb 2024

Katie's tour covered spots we had been to/by many times but had no idea about the history held in them, from the 1600s to current day. She augmented what we were seeing and hearing ourselves with historical photos for reference. We're looking forward to joining more of her tours soon!

C1547DKmichaelag

Sep 2023

This was a fantastic tour. Katie is an amazing guide! She made the information she was presenting interesting, relevant, accessible, and engaging. This would be a great tour for both someone visiting from out of town or a long time resident of the district. I am a graduate student studying history - as well as a long time history teacher - and Katie introduced me to many figures and events I had never heard of before. The legacies and stories of Black individuals in Washington DC / Georgetown have been underappreciated for far too long. I highly recommend going on this tour to learn more about these stories!

ladanabadger

Jul 2023

It was a great tour!!!! The tour guide was knowledgeable and personable. Very relevant to events that are happening in present day. Would definitely purchase other tours from this company.