Highlights: The Civil War on Beacon Hill

This tour involves multiple short uphill walks. Please consider any health conditions before choosing this tour.

The African Meeting House

The center of debate in Boston’s black community and the recruitment center for the Massachusetts 54th regiment.  The meeting house will also serve as a haven for those afraid of capture by slave catchers.

The Hayden House

Former slave Lewis Hayden uses his home as a hiding place on the Underground Railroad.  Over Thanksgiving Dinner in 1862 Lewis Hayden will present Governor Andrew with the plan for a black regiment.

The Louisa May Alcott Home

The Alcotts continue their work with the Underground Railroad.  Louisa May Alcott serves as a nurse in the Civil War.  She will write “Hospital Sketches” based on her experience.

The Home of Julia Ward Howe and Samuel Howe

The residence of Julie Ward Howe, author of the Battle Hymn of the Republic, and Samuel Howe, an outspoken abolitionist and funder of John Brown’s raid on Harper’s Ferry.

The Homes of Charles Francis Adams & Charles Sumner

Learn how their decisions led to the abolition of slavery and the Union victory.

The Haunts of Nathaniel Hawthorne & Herman Melville

Learn how the war haunted them and profoundly affected their classic writing.