150th Anniversary of Frederick Douglass in Newburgh

In 1870, Frederick Douglass traveled through the Hudson Valley delivering a speech that endorsed the ratification of the 15th Amendment, providing the right for African Americans to vote. Specifically, on August 11, Frederick Douglass came to Newburgh and delivered his speech at the Opera House, a now demolished historic structure.

In the spirit to commemorate the 150th anniversary and the legacy of Frederick Douglass, Newburgh will be hosting a mural unveiling next to the AME Zion Church, reenactment of Frederick Douglass by local actor Oliver King, a City Council proclamation of this anniversary, and a panel discussion about the legacy of Frederick Douglass and its relevance to today’s contemporary realities.

Visitors will also receive a “Frederick Douglass in Newburgh” map featuring historical sites of significance to Newburgh’s African American history, purchase a Boys & Girls Club Broadside poster printed locally, and a table to sign up for voter registration.