A Historic Milestone: NYC Landmark Designation

On June 18, 2024, Frederick Douglass Memorial Park was officially designated a New York City Landmark by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission—a powerful recognition of the Park’s cultural, historical, and architectural significance.

This designation affirms what generations have always known: Frederick Douglass Memorial Park is sacred ground. It is a place where history lives, where legacies are honored, and where the stories of Black life, leadership, and community in New York continue to be told.

Landmark status brings both honor and responsibility.

As we look ahead, Frederick Douglass Memorial Park is committed to preserving its historic landscape while expanding its role as a site of education, remembrance, and community engagement. Our plans include:

  • Restoration and conservation of historic sections

  • Enhanced signage and interpretive programming

  • Digital archives and storytelling initiatives

  • Infrastructure improvements to better serve visitors and families

This next chapter ensures that future generations will not only remember—but experience—the significance of this space.

A Celebration of Legacy: 90 Years Strong

On Saturday, June 22, 2025, our community came together to honor a powerful legacy. The 90th Anniversary and Landmark Designation Celebration of Frederick Douglass Memorial Park was more than an event—it was a historic gathering of hearts, voices, and generations.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all who joined us: elected officials, community leaders, descendants, supporters, and neighbors. Your presence helped mark this sacred space not only in memory but in movement—toward preservation, recognition, and continued service.

A special thank you to the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission, New York Landmarks Conservancy, and all of our project partners whose dedication helped make this designation possible.

We are proud to say this land is now an officially recognized landmark—but more importantly, it remains a living testament to Black dignity, history, and resilience.

Thank you for celebrating with us. Thank you for remembering. And thank you for walking with us into the next 90 years.

—The Board and Leadership of Frederick Douglass Memorial Park

Support the Capital Campaign

To realize this vision, we have launched a Capital Campaign dedicated to preservation, restoration, and growth.

Your support will help us:

  • Protect and maintain landmark-designated features

  • Improve accessibility and visitor experience

  • Expand educational programming and public engagement

  • Sustain the legacy of Frederick Douglass Memorial Park for generations to come

Every gift—large or small—plays a vital role in this work.

Support the Campaign

Join us in preserving history.
Honoring legacy. Building the future.

Purchase a Commemorative Brick and demonstrate your support of this historic cemetery.

PURCHASE