Black history is American history and worth celebrating longer than just Black History Month. But with Black History Month among us, many are considering how they can allocate some time to celebrating the rich Black history lying deep in American soil.

Celebrating Black history is crucial and not only a recognition of past achievements but also a commitment to fostering a more inclusive, equal, and understanding society for the future. If you’re in the DMV area or nearby, Alexandria, Virginia is a hidden gem filled with Black history and culture. The city has a rich history, with Black history playing an integral part of the city’s story.

For one, Alexandria has a long history of African American presence dating back to its founding in the 18th century, 1749 to be exact. It was enslaved and free Black individuals who contributed significantly to the city’s development.

During the Civil War, Alexandria became a crucial location due to its proximity to the nation’s capital. The city was occupied by Union forces, and as a result, many enslaved individuals sought refuge and freedom in Alexandria. The Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial commemorates this history.

After the Civil War, the Freedmen’s Bureau established schools and hospitals to assist newly emancipated individuals. The Roberts Memorial United Methodist Church, founded in 1834, played a significant role in providing education to African American children. The church has served a mostly Black community for almost two centuries and is listed on the National Historical Register.

The Alexandria Black History Museum, located in the Parker-Gray Historic District, showcases the history and contributions of African Americans in the city. It offers exhibits, programs, and educational resources. Parker-Gray Historic Districtwas historically an African American neighborhood and is named after the Parker-Gray School, which served as a segregated school for Black students. The district is now a reminder of the African American community’s resilience and contributions.

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Today, Alexandria continues to have a vibrant Black community that contributes to various aspects of the city’s culture, economy, and civic life. If considering a visit to any city in honor of Black History Month, Alexandria, Va is definitely worth your time.

Rich with Black visionary DNA, Alexandria birthed a self-taught mathematician who meticulously planned the nation’s capital, abolitionist sisters who collaborated with Frederick Douglass, and the inaugural Black player in the NBA. They all have profoundly influenced the history of Alexandria, Virginia, and the broader United States.

Situated just moments away from Washington, D.C., Alexandria is set to mark Black History Month in 2024 with distinctive opportunities for both residents and visitors. This celebration aims to honor the enduring impact, resilience, and enduring legacy of the Black community.

New temporary Freedom House Exhibit: The display, available until April 15, 2024, centers around the life of Gabriel, a young individual enslaved at Washington Seminary in 1829. Gabriel’s narrative offers a compelling perspective for delving into the intricacies of slavery and its lasting consequences.

Book Launch: African American Emancipation in an Occupied City: On February 3, listen to insights from editor Audrey Davis, Alexandria’s Director of African American History, and the authors of “African American Emancipation in an Occupied City.” This book recounts the experiences of formerly enslaved and self-emancipated individuals in a recently occupied city during the Civil War.

Ribbon Cutting: African American Heritage Trails: The African American Heritage Trails Committee extends an invitation to the community to participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 10, commemorating the unveiling of new interpretive signs along Alexandria’s Historic waterfront. Comprising 11 signs and 2 orientation panels, these installations shed light on the rich history of the African American community in Alexandria spanning several centuries.

Washington Revels Jubilee Voices Concert: Participate in an enlightening journey with Washington Revels Jubilee Voices on February 18 as they delve into the culture and life of the Gullah-Geechee community in St Simons Island, Georgia. The multimedia program, titled “Wade in the Water,” seamlessly weaves together songs and stories that illuminate the rich heritage of the Gullah Geechee. The event also showcases six student films, offering a poignant portrayal of the history, lives, and spirit of these proud people. Unfortunately, their numbers are dwindling due to various factors, including rising development.

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Manumission Tour Company Black History Bus Tour: Embark on a 90-minute guided bus tour with Manumission Tour Company in February, exploring diverse African American historic sites in Alexandria. Immerse yourself in narratives of both enslaved and free African Americans before the Civil War, gaining insights into the compelling stories behind some of Alexandria’s renowned African American historic sites.  

Beyond February, the celebration of Black history in Alexandria extends throughout the year. Visitors can honor Black heritage with continuous experiences, such as a self-guided African American history driving tour, exploring the Freedom House Museum or Alexandria Black History Museum, strolling along the African American Heritage Trail or the Duke Street Black History Trail, and joining Councilman John Chapman on a walking tour with the Manumission Tour Company.