The main crop on the plantation where Booker T. Washington was born was tobacco. This photograph shows a man with draft horses preparing to plow a field.
Booker T. Washington National Monument
National Monument · VA
Booker T. Washington was born a slave in April 1856 on the 207-acre farm of James Burroughs. After the Civil War, Washington became the first principal of Tuskegee Normal and Industrial School. Later as an adviser, author and orator, his past would influence his philosophies as the most influential African American of his era. Come explore his birthplace.
Park report
Current Alerts
How this is rated
Good: no active alerts or closuresNo active alerts
Entrance Fee
How this is rated
Good: free entryFree — no entrance fee
Visitor Centers
Good1 visitor center
Activities Available
How this is rated
Good: many activities available14 activities
Park Name
InfoBooker T. Washington National Monument
Designation
InfoNational Monument
State(s)
InfoVA
Phone
Info5406820173
bowa_rangers_3@nps.gov
Operating Hours
InfoThe park grounds and restrooms are open daily from 9:00 am-5:00 pm. Visitor Center Hours: The Visitor Center is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. The Visitor Center is closed on Monday and Tuesday. Booker T. Washington National Monument will be closed for Thanksgiving Day, December 24 after 2 p.m., December 25 all day, and January 1 all day. The park may close early on December 31. The park closes sometimes due to inclement weather. Call the park at 540-682-0173 for more information.
Campgrounds
InfoNo campgrounds listed
Visitor Center: Visitor Center
InfoSee park for hours
Themes & Topics
InfoAfrican American Heritage, Birthplace, Enslavement + 9 more
Weather Info
InfoPlease contact the park at 540/682-0173 during inclement weather conditions to find out about closures.
Getting There
InfoThe monument is located on VA 122 (Booker T. Washington Highway), 22 miles southeast of Roanoke, VA. From I-81 take I-581, then U.S. 220 south from Roanoke to VA 122. From the Blule Ridge Parkway take
Location
Info37.1152° N, -79.7319° W
Data from official federal recreation records. Updated periodically. Park conditions change — always verify with the park before visiting. Verify on official park website