The Fredericksburg Area Museum (FAM) is pleased to announce new dates for Black Businesses & Entrepreneurship in Fredericksburg, 1787 – Present. Developed in association with the Historic Fredericksburg Foundation, Inc, the walking tour features stories of African American business owners and entrepreneurs throughout Fredericksburg’s history. Led by Dr. Gaila Sims, FAM Curator of African American History and Special Projects, the tour begins in the eighteenth century with John DeBaptiste and the establishment of French John’s Wharf, continues with industrious builder Henry Deane and the development of Liberty Town following the Civil War, touches on thriving Black businesses on Princess Anne Street in the mid-twentieth century, and culminates with contemporary favorites scattered across the city. Grounded in historical documentation, archival research, and individual stories, this walking tour explores Fredericksburg’s unique contributions to the history of Black enterprise.
Disclaimer: This walking tour runs about two hours and includes twelve stops. Please ensure that you are comfortable traveling that length of time before purchasing tickets. The FAM will soon offer a digital version of the tour for those unable to join in person.