Abolition Row Park is located in the Abolition Row Historic District, directly across the street from the Nathan and Polly Johnson House where Frederick Douglass spent his first years living as a freeman. This was the home of African-American abolitionists Nathan and Mary “Polly” Johnson and served as an active Underground Railroad station. Seventh Street also includes the original Quaker Meeting House and second Meeting House.
The Park includes a statue of Frederick Douglass by artist Richard Blake depicting him in the likeness of his years spent in New Bedford. There are a variety of plaques and educational panels throughout the park, which serves also as a community gathering space with a gazebo for special events.
For information about reserving park space for an event please contact the department of Parks Recreation and Beaches. www.NBPRB.com info.prb@newbedford-ma.gov (508) 961-3015
The Abolition Row Historic District includes 19 historic houses that were the homes of many of the city’s anti-slavery activists and conductors on the Underground Railroad, according to the New Bedford Historical Society.
