Josiah Henson Museum and Park Video Tour
In the News
The Josiah Henson Museum and Park is located on the grounds of the former plantation
where Henson was enslaved. The site includes a Visitor Center, historic house with
attached log kitchen, and a 4-acre landscaped park.
Exhibits and Experience
- Visitor Center – Guests begin their visit at the Visitor Center, which includes an 80-person multipurpose theater featuring a 12-minute orientation film, My Name is Josiah Henson, indoor and outdoor interpretive exhibits, and an eclectic museum shop.
- Historic Riley-Bolton House – Visitors continue to the Riley-Bolten House where they embark on a self-guided tour of interactive exhibits and artifacts. Key moments of Henson’s life story, from enslavement to freedom, are brought to life through dramatic illustrations.
- Log Kitchen – Attached to the house, the log kitchen which dates to 1850, provides a poignant glimpse into the daily lives of those who were enslaved on the plantation. An interactive audio display allows visitors to hear accounts of individuals that experienced bondage in settings like this one.
- Landscaped Park – The tranquil park area surrounding the buildings features mature trees, including a Montgomery County Champion dogwood, green lawns, picnic tables, and an accessible paved pathway with outdoor interpretive exhibits that highlight the site’s archaeological findings.
Accessibility: The grounds and building interiors are fully accessible; however, several historical elements may not be physically accessible. Parks staff will assist in providing equivalent interpretation when requested.
Getting Here
By Car:
Parking is Only Available Across the Street at
Shriver Aquatic Center & Wall Local Park
5900 Executive Boulevard, North Bethesda
The entrance to the parking lot for the Aquatic Center and Wall Park is located at the intersection of Executive Blvd and Marinelli Road.
Walking Path from Parking Lot to Museum
Follow the accessible pathway from the parking lot to Nicholson Lane; at Nicholson Lane, turn right and cross over Old Georgetown Road. Continue walking south on Old Georgetown Road for about one block and you will arrive at the museum. The Visitor Center is where you will enter the museum to buy your tickets.