The visitor center at Booker T. Washington National Monument is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM, except for Thanksgiving, December 25, and January 1. Grounds and restrooms are open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Admission to Booker T. Washington National Monument is free, with no entrance pass or fees required.
From Roanoke, take US-220 South to Booker T. Washington Highway, a 22-mile journey through Virginia’s rolling hills, leading you to a historic tobacco farm and the birthplace of a legendary figure.
Parking is available in a lot near the visitor center, accommodating cars, smaller RVs, and motorcycles. No overnight parking or fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
In the rolling hills of Virginia’s Piedmont, the Booker T. Washington National Monument stands as a poignant reminder of America’s complex history and the resilient spirit of its most influential figures. Located in Franklin County, this 223.92-acre site is where Booker T. Washington was born into slavery on April 5, 1856, on a small tobacco plantation owned by the Burroughs family.
The monument is a meticulously preserved 19th-century tobacco farm, complete with a reconstructed slave cabin, smoke house, blacksmith shop, and other period outbuildings. Visitors can wander through the meadows and woodlands on two looping walking trails, gaining insight into the harsh realities of life as a slave and the broader context of slavery in the region.
The landscape is dotted with historical markers, including three small cemeteries and two archeological sites. The visitor center, housed in a former school building, offers exhibits and a film that delve into Washington’s life and legacy. Guided tours and interpretive programs provide a deeper understanding of the African American experience during the post-Civil War era.
As the seasons change, the site transforms: spring brings vibrant blooms in the period gardens, summer offers the warmth of interpretive programs and educational activities, autumn paints the rolling hills with hues of gold and crimson, and winter adds a serene quiet to the historic grounds. While the monument itself is the main attraction, nearby Roanoke and its artisan towns offer additional allure, with local outfitters and businesses ready to enhance your visit.
Special events, such as curriculum-based educational programs for K-12 students and various historical reenactments, make this site a must-visit for history buffs, educators, and families alike. The Booker T. Washington National Monument is a place where the past comes alive, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the powerful story of one of America’s most enduring figures.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 20 000
- Established year
- 1956
Top 3 Facts about Booker T. Washington National Monument
Booker T. Washington was born into slavery on this site in April 1856 and spent his first nine years there before the Emancipation Proclamation freed him. The monument features a 1.5-mile trail that allows visitors to walk through the historic farm and garden areas, giving insight into life on the farm during the 1850s.
This historic landscape, once a tobacco farm, now teems with life. Over 200 species of vascular plants thrive here, including mature pine and diverse hardwoods. The area is home to 26 mammal species, 122 bird species such as the wild turkey and eastern bluebird, and 9 amphibian and reptile species. Streams host 38 fish species, while ebony jewelwing damselflies dance along the water’s edge. Butterflies like swallowtails and pearl crescent flit around historical plantings, adding a touch of vibrancy to this scenic tapestry.
This historic site is set amidst a 207-acre landscape, where visitors can stroll through rolling hills and wooded trails, immersing themselves in the natural beauty that once surrounded a young Booker T. Washington. The area’s gentle slopes and scenic vistas offer a serene backdrop, with temperatures ranging from crisp autumn mornings to warm summer afternoons, reflecting the seasonal rhythms of the Virginia countryside.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scouting Partnerships
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a summer visit, packing sunscreen and comfortable shoes. Start at the visitor center for orientation, then explore the Plantation Trail and Jack-O-Lantern Branch Heritage Trail. Check for events like “Beyond the Slave Cabin Door” and bring meals as options are limited. Rest often on the varied terrain.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for varying weather, sturdy footwear, and a waterproof bag. Bring a map, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. For longer stays, include camping gear, water filters, and a portable charger. Check the season for specific essentials like warm hats or bug spray.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid stressing animals. Never feed them and dispose of trash properly to preserve their natural habits. Stay on designated trails and respect the environment as you would your own backyard.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, watch for weather changes, and keep a safe distance from wildlife and water. Follow park signs and alerts. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 540-586-4357. Exercise caution near ledges and hot springs if present.
Seasons
In spring, enjoy mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and blooming landscapes. Attend the Beyond the Slave Cabin Door event in May, a poignant walking tour. Comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen recommended. Ideal time for outdoor exploration and historical immersion.
Summer brings warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and occasional thunderstorms. Visit in June for the Juneteenth celebration, honoring freedom and heritage. Humid days are balanced by lush landscapes, making it a vibrant time to explore.
– Assumed information as specific details about Booker T. Washington National Monument were not provided in the sources.
Visit in the fall, when crisp temperatures (50s-70s°F) and golden foliage enhance the historic landscape. Attend the Legacy Event in April, though fall brings special events and mild weather, making it an ideal time to explore the 19th-century tobacco farm and walking trails.
Visit from December to March, when crisp temperatures (30s-50s°F) and potential snow enhance the historic landscape. Despite possible closures due to inclement weather, the serene winter setting offers a unique glimpse into a pivotal figure’s early life. Grounds and restrooms remain open from 9am-5pm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Booker T. Washington National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the monument is Rocky Mount, Virginia, which is approximately 16 miles southwest. Roanoke, Virginia, is also nearby, about 25 miles northwest.
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Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash of 6 feet or less and under the owner’s control. Owners must clean up after their pets using disposable waste pickup bags available at the park.
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Parking is free at this national monument. There are no admission or parking fees. Visitors can explore the site without any entrance or parking costs.
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Yes, guided tours are available. Walking tours last 30 minutes to one hour and can be reserved by calling (540) 721-2094. There is no fee for the program.