Black Heritage Trail

The African American community of 19th century Boston led the city and the nation in the fight against slavery and injustice. Tour the historically significant sites situated in scenic Beacon Hill and learn about the Abolition Movement, the Underground Railroad, the Civil War

The Black Heritage Trail is a 1.6 mile walk through the heart of Boston's Beacon Hill neighborhood. The 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. Sites along the trail include:

  • Robert Gould Shaw Memorial
  • George Middleton House
  • Phillips School
  • John J Smith House
  • Charles Street Meeting House
  • Lewis and Harriett Hayden House
  • John Coburn House
  • Smith Court Residences
  • Abiel Smith School
  • African Meeting House

Learn more about the trail and listen to audio descriptions here