Mary McLeod Bethune Council House

The Mary McLeod Bethune Council House served as headquarters for the National Council of Negro Women from 1943 to 1966. This site commemorates the life of Mary McLeod Bethune, an African American woman who grew up in poverty in South Carolina, yet rose to become an influential educator, presidential advisor, and political activist.

The Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site was Bethune’s last Washington, DC residence and the first headquarters to the organization that she founded, the National Council of Negro Women. The carriage house is the current headquarters for the National Archives for Black Women's History.

Bethune was the first African American woman to hold a high office in the federal government. She was appointed Director of the Division of Negro Affairs of the National Youth Administration by President Roosevelt. She also founded Bethune-Cookman College in Daytona Beach, Florida and served as an advisor on African American affairs to four presidents.

Address

1318 Vermont Avenue NW Washington, DC 20005 (202) 673-2402

Hours

Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Tours

The Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site is an historic house museum featuring original furniture, photographs, and historic documents. Walk in visitors are welcome.

The National Park Service provides school visits and educational programs. Tours may be arranged for groups of all ages.