easy
1.5 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to walk and stand for up to 90 minutes with breaks.
Join a 1.5-hour walking tour through Boston’s Beacon Hill to explore the stories of Black writers who challenged slavery and racial injustice in the 19th century. Discover history where it happened.
Step into Boston’s Beacon Hill neighborhood on a compelling 1.5-hour walking tour brought to you by Boston By Foot. This private outdoor experience, "Black Voices: Writers for a 19th Century Revolution," shines a light on the bold Black writers who used their words to confront slavery, racism, and injustice during the 1800s. As you stroll through historic streets and landmark sites, you'll learn about figures like David Walker, whose incendiary writings called for abolition and equality, and Pauline Elizabeth Hopkins, a pioneering novelist and editor who advanced Black cultural identity. Each stop offers a powerful narrative of resilience and activism, connecting you intimately with the places where these writers lived, worked, and inspired change. Ideal for history buffs, literature lovers, and those passionate about social justice, this tour offers a fresh perspective on Boston’s rich cultural legacy. The knowledgeable guides provide engaging stories that highlight the intersection of race, literature, and activism, making the past vividly relevant today. Whether you're visiting Boston for the first time or returning for a deeper dive, this journey fills a unique niche in outdoor educational adventures, combining walking with storytelling in one of the city's most historic settings.
The tour covers paved but uneven sidewalks in Beacon Hill, so sturdy and comfortable footwear is recommended.
Carry water especially in warmer months to stay hydrated during the walking tour.
Tours proceed rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather and bring rain gear if needed.
Private tours ensure a more intimate experience—book early to secure your preferred date and time.
Boston’s Beacon Hill was a center of abolitionist activism and Black cultural life in the 19th century, where many writers and activists lived and worked.
Efforts in Beacon Hill focus on preserving historic architecture and promoting sustainable tourism to protect this culturally rich neighborhood.
Provides support and comfort on uneven sidewalks throughout the tour.
Stay hydrated during warmer months as the tour involves walking outdoors.
summer specific
Adjust your layers to stay comfortable with changing temperatures along the route.
fall specific
Protect yourself from spring showers to keep the experience enjoyable.
spring specific