African Burial Ground National Monument | New York

The African Burial Ground National Monument is a profoundly important historic site located in Lower Manhattan, New York City, at 290 Broadway, near the Civic Center and Foley Square. It commemorates and honors the lives of free and enslaved Africans buried there during the 17th and 18th centuries, making it one of the oldest and largest known African burial sites in the United States.

Historical Background

Establishment of the Burial Ground: From the late 1600s through the late 1700s, the area now known as the African Burial Ground served as a burial site for New York’s African community. During this period, slavery was a significant part of New York’s economy and society.

Rediscovery: The burial ground was forgotten for centuries, overlaid by urban development. It was rediscovered in 1991 during construction excavation for a federal office building, when hundreds of skeletal remains were unearthed.

Significance: This discovery brought to light the critical role African Americans played in the city’s history and economy, highlighting the often overlooked contributions and suffering of enslaved and free Africans.

The Monument and Memorial

National Monument Designation: In 2006, the site was officially designated the African Burial Ground National Monument by the U.S. government, recognizing its historical and cultural importance.

Memorial Sculpture: The monument features a powerful black granite and glass memorial sculpture designed by artist Ed Hamilton. It includes a striking abstract representation symbolizing the African spirit and the journey from slavery to freedom.

Visitor Center and Exhibits: The monument includes a visitor center with exhibits that interpret the history of the burial ground, African life in early New York, and the ongoing legacy of African Americans in the city.

Features and Educational Programs

Exhibits: Displays include artifacts recovered from the site, historical documents, and multimedia presentations that explore the lives, culture, and contributions of the African community in colonial New York.

Guided Tours and Events: The monument offers guided tours, educational programs, and commemorative events to raise awareness about African American history and heritage.

Cultural Significance: It serves as a place of reflection, honoring those buried there and educating visitors about the realities of slavery, resilience, and the rich cultural history of African Americans.

Location and Accessibility

Address: 290 Broadway, New York, NY 10007, near the intersections of Duane and Elk Streets in Lower Manhattan.

Hours: The site is generally open to the public during daytime hours; specific hours may vary depending on season and events.

Admission: Free to visit.

Accessibility: Fully accessible to visitors with disabilities.

Nearby Landmarks

City Hall: The New York City Hall is located nearby, serving as the center of city government.

World Trade Center: The 9/11 Memorial and Museum are within walking distance.

Federal Hall and Trinity Church: Both historic sites are close by, creating a rich historic and cultural neighborhood.

Summary

The African Burial Ground National Monument is a sacred and vital site preserving the memory of African Americans who shaped New York’s early history under extraordinary hardship. It offers powerful insights into the city’s past, honors those who were long forgotten, and stands as a symbol of resilience and cultural pride. It is an essential destination for understanding the full narrative of America’s history.