About
The Booker T Washington Monument is a commemorative site dedicated to the life and times of one of America’s most renowned African Americans. The monument area comprises 239 acres and is situated on the site of the original Burroughs tobacco plantation. The facility features a replica 1850s tobacco farm and slave quarters.
Booker T. Washington was born into slavery in 1856. Like other children his age, he labored in the tobacco fields alongside his parents and siblings. When Booker was nine years old, slavery was abolished. But, according to his written records, the jubilation of freedom lasted but an hour, as the ramifications of instant freedom without remuneration became clear. The slaves were free, but had no money and nowhere to go for sustenance or shelter.
With his family, Booker traveled to Malden, WV, to live with an uncle. As Booker grew into adulthood, he obtained an education but never forgot his roots. He became the face of emancipation and stood up for racial equality throughout his life.
The Booker T. Washington Monument stands, not only for one man, but for all the slaves. It helps to educate visitors about how these slavery plantations worked and illuminates the day-to-day suffering of African Americans of those times.
Booker T Washington Monument: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Happily, there is no admission fee to get into the Booker T. Washington Monument. It’s an absolutely free destination that you can enjoy with your family and friends. Once inside, you can freely enjoy the many exhibits, videos, tours and special events on the property.
If you're part of a group and would like a guided tour, that can also be arranged as long as you book in advance. If you have a group and you just want to walk around freely without a guided tour, you don’t need special permission.
The Booker T. Washington Monument is open to the public seven days a week, from 9 AM to 5 PM. They close on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Years Day.
There are restrooms, free, abundant parking, and trails with posted signage and plaques to educate you along the way.
Bring the stroller, water bottle, and food. There is a fountain by the Visitor Center to fill up your containers.
The Booker T. Washington Monument will enhance your Smith Mountain Lake getaway.