First African Arrival

In 1619, the ship carrying the first enslaved Africans in the New World reached the shores of North America at Point Comfort, now Fort Monroe. Far from their home in Angola, these farmers, blacksmiths, herders andartisans survived capture and displacement and helped a fledgling nation survive.

The Contraband Decision

During the Civil War, Fort Monroe became known as “Freedom’s Fortress” based on the Contraband Decision of 1861 when three fugitive slaves sought refuge at the fort. Just two years later, President Abraham Lincoln delivered the Emancipation Proclamation guaranteeing freedom for all persons held as slaves.

The Black Cultural Tour

Follow the historical connection between African Americans and Fort Monroe by taking the Black Cultural Tour. From Engineer Wharf, marking the first landing of Africans at Old Point Comfort, to the “Contraband Hospital” site where, in 1863, Harriet Tubman served as a nurse and cook, you can take an enjoyable and informative eight-stop walking or driving tour.

Mark Your Calendar

Join us for the 400th Anniversary Commemorative Weekend August 23-25 including the Commemoration Ceremony and preview of the Fort Monroe Visitor and Education Center Saturday, August 24! Following is a list of 400^th Commemoration events here at Fort Monroe. Additional events for Commemoration Weekend may can be found at: firstafricanlanding.com 2019 will be a year to remember at Fort Monroe. We invite you to join us.