Weeksville Heritage Center in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, preserves the history of Weeksville, one of the first free Black communities in the United States. Founded in 1838, the community had its own schools, churches and associations. The Hunterfly Road Historic District is the center’s principal exhibit, with historic homes that help place that history in view. Exhibitions, guided tours, gardens with medicinal plants and heirloom vegetables, and public programs offer different ways to explore. Check whether restoration work affects access to the historic houses before planning your visit.
A free Black community founded in 1838
Weeksville was established in 1838, eleven years after New York abolished slavery. It became one of the first free Black communities in the United States and, before the Civil War, one of the largest African American towns of its kind. Its residents built schools and churches and formed community associations and benevolent organizations.
Weeksville also had a newspaper, which included reading exercises and prayers. The community was home to Black abolitionist leaders. These details offer a view of a self-organized neighborhood, not only a collection of surviving buildings.
The Hunterfly Road Historic District
The Hunterfly Road Historic District is the center’s principal exhibit. Its historic houses are among the few pre-Civil War African American sites still standing, and they are the only remaining homes from Weeksville. The buildings connect the neighborhood’s history to the physical place where community life took shape.
Tours and exhibitions help visitors explore that history. Smaller exhibitions address other subjects, including Rikers Island. The center also runs educational programs and activities for the public, with programs for public school students among its work.
Gardens and public programs
The grounds include gardens planted with medicinal plants, heirloom vegetables and ornamental flowers. Their plants connect the outdoor space with African American cultural heritage and offer another way to learn about the community’s history.
Weeksville is also a cultural center with events and community programs. Performances and gatherings have included Dance Africa tributes and festivals. Check the center’s current program before your visit if you want to plan around an event; the schedule and activities can change.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Weeksville Heritage Center?
It is at 158 Buffalo Avenue in Brooklyn, in the Crown Heights area.
What can you see at Weeksville Heritage Center?
The main exhibit is the Hunterfly Road Historic District, with the only remaining homes from Weeksville. The center also has exhibitions and gardens.
Can you take a guided tour?
Yes. The center offers tours, and individual headphones are available for guests on guided tours.
Should I get tickets in advance?
Advance tickets are recommended.
