This peaceful lane is called Mulberry Row. Long ago, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello slaves lived along the left side of this path. It is still painful to reflect on the effects slavery and racial injustice have had on the United States, especially when the Founding Fathers stressed liberty and human rights.
One way to make sure that the lessons of history stay with us is to visit museums, homes, churches and cemeteries that help us see the history and achievements of African-Americans, achievements which deserve recognition especially because African-Americans faced seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia are wonderful destinations for anyone interested in African-American heritage travel. You can see the home of Frederick Douglass or head to Baltimore to learn about his work at the city docks, or tour the Virginia home of Dr. Charles R. Drew, who revolutionized medical treatment by developing a method for preserving blood and plasma; blood banks are commonplace now, but we would not have had them during World War II without Dr. Drew's work.
During February, which is African American History Month, consider visiting a museum or historic site to find out more about the struggles and achievements of African-Americans.
Photo © Payton Chung / Creative Commons
There is a Buffalo Soldiers Museum near my home that I’ve never visited. I’ve resolved to try to make it this February.