Frederick Douglass c. 1877 (Source: Library of Congress) — Frederick Douglass spent plenty of time in Washington before the Civil War, but didn't become a permanent resident until 1872. (Photo source: Library of Congress)

Frederick Douglass's Career in D.C. Government

Richard Brownell

Frederick Douglass spent time in Washington, D.C. during his career as an abolitionist, writer, and orator, but he was never a permanent resident until his Rochester, NY home was destroyed by fire in 1872. Douglass took up permanent residence in the District, buying Cedar Hill in Anacostia. It was his home base as he continued his activities in politics and government until his death in 1895.