African American Civil War National Memorial

The African American Civil War Memorial is located in the U Street neighborhood of Washington, D.C., in the District of Columbia. This memorial serves as a tribute to the thousands of African American soldiers who fought in the American Civil War.

The historical background of the African American Civil War Memorial dates back to the Emancipation Proclamation in 1862, which allowed African Americans to serve in the Union Army. Over 200,000 African American soldiers and sailors fought in the Civil War, contributing significantly to the Union's victory. However, their contributions were often overlooked or downplayed by mainstream historical narratives.

The African American Civil War Memorial was dedicated in 1998 and was designed by sculptor Ed Hamilton. The centerpiece of the memorial is a bronze statue called "The Spirit of Freedom," depicting a black Union soldier holding a rifle and standing on a base inscribed with the names of famous African American Civil War units. The names of 209,145 soldiers and sailors are etched on bronze plaques surrounding the statue, representing those who fought for the Union.

Visitors to the African American Civil War Memorial can appreciate the artwork and learn about the contributions and sacrifices of African American soldiers during the Civil War. The memorial is often a site for ceremonies, wreath-layings, and other commemorative events. Nearby, visitors can explore the African American Civil War Museum, which provides further historical context and exhibits related to the African American experience during the war.

The U Street neighborhood, where the memorial is located, has a vibrant culture and history. Known as "Black Broadway," the area was a center of African American arts and entertainment during the early 20th century. Visitors can take a stroll along U Street to find various restaurants, jazz clubs, and historic landmarks. The nearby Howard University, a historically black university, also offers a rich educational and cultural experience.

In summary, the African American Civil War National Memorial in the District of Columbia pays tribute to the African American soldiers and sailors who fought in the American Civil War. Filled with historical significance and artistry, visitors can learn about the contributions of African Americans during this pivotal period in American history. Additionally, the U Street neighborhood and its surrounding attractions offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the cultural and historical context of African American heritage.

The African American Civil War National Memorial is situated in the heart of Washington, D.C., the capital city of the United States. Nestled within the historic neighborhood of Shaw, the memorial occupies a prominent position on U Street, a vibrant and culturally significant avenue. Its strategic location pays tribute to the countless African American soldiers and sailors who fought valiantly during the American Civil War. Surrounded by lush greenery and carefully manicured gardens, the memorial stands tall and dignified, inviting visitors to reflect upon the bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of those who contributed to the nation's history.

Address & Contact

1925 Vermont Avenue Northwest
Washington, DC 20001
Driving Directions
Phone: 2024266841
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit the African American Civil War National Memorial would be during the months of April to June. During this time, the average maximum temperatures range from 68°F to 86°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The average minimum temperatures range from 47°F to 67°F, ensuring comfortable conditions. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation ranges from 3.2 to 5.2 inches, indicating a moderate amount of rainfall which should not significantly hinder outdoor activities.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in African American Civil War National Memorial are: Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking

Topics

Learn about these topics at African American Civil War National Memorial: African American Heritage Monuments and Memorials Wars and Conflicts Civil War

Visitor Centers

Sheep Camp

Sheep Camp is nestled in the mixed oak/pine/fir woodlands with nearby access to numerous trails and is a great launching point for treks up the 6,199' Shasta Bally, the highest point in Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. This campsite is closed during the winter. All sites are in partial shade and feature a bear-proof storage locker, picnic table, lamp pole, fire pit with swing-arm BBQ grill, with a shared ADA accessible vault toilet. Each site has a maximum occupancy of six people and two vehicles.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Sheep Camp.

Campsites within or near African American Civil War National Memorial

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near African American Civil War National Memorial

Windsor Inn Hotel

With a stay at Windsor Inn Hotel in Washington (Dupont Circle), you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Lincoln Theater and Dupont Circle. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage.
Address: 1842 16th St Nw, Washington, District of Columbia 20009
Web: Link

Cambria Hotel Washington, D.C. Convention Center

A stay at Cambria Hotel Washington, D.C. Convention Center places you in the heart of Washington, within a 5-minute drive of Walter E. Washington Convention Center and Howard University. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel features 1240 square feet (115 square meters) of event facilities. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 899 O Street NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20001
Web: Link

Duo Housing Hostel

With a stay at Duo Housing Hostel in Washington (Downtown Washington D.C.), you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Walter E. Washington Convention Center and CityCenterDC. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage.
Address: 1223 11th Street NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20001
Web: Link

DC International Hostel 1

A stay at DC International Hostel 1 places you in the heart of Washington, within a 15-minute walk of Walter E. Washington Convention Center and Howard University. Featured amenities include express check-out, luggage storage, and laundry facilities.
Address: 1610 7th St NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20001
Web: Link

DC International Hostel 2

Located in Washington (Downtown Washington D.C.), DC International Hostel 2 is within a 15-minute walk of Walter E. Washington Convention Center and Howard University. Featured amenities include luggage storage, laundry facilities, and microwave in a common area.
Address: 1418 9TH St NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20001
Web: Link

Beautiful Furnished Bedrooms in DC

A stay at this condo places you in the heart of Washington, within a 5-minute drive of Lincoln Theater and Embassy of Australia. A roundtrip airport shuttle is provided for a surcharge (available 24 hours).
Address: T Street Northwest, Washington, District of Columbia 20009
Web: Link

Ledroit Park Renaissance B&B

With a stay at Ledroit Park Renaissance B&B in Washington (Northwest), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Howard University and Lincoln Theater. Featured amenities include a computer station and luggage storage.
Address: 210 T Street NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20001
Web: Link

BLACK SWAN - Liz DC - Executive Flat

A stay at BLACK SWAN - Liz DC - Executive Flat places you in the heart of Washington, within a 5-minute drive of Lincoln Theater and Lafayette Square.
Address: 1360 R Street Northwest, Washington, District of Columbia 20009
Web: Link

Shaw Convention Center Apartments Stays

Located in Washington (Northwest), this apartment is within a 15-minute walk of Howard University and Lincoln Theater.
Address: 750 S Street Northwest, Washington, District of Columbia 20001
Web: Link

NW DC Luxury Apts

Located in Washington (Downtown Washington D.C.), this apartment is within a 15-minute walk of Lincoln Theater and Lafayette Square.
Address: 1400 14th Street Northwest, Washington, District of Columbia 20005
Web: Link