Lowell Walks: Lowell’s Black History with the Free Soil Arts Collective

Join the Free Soil Arts Collective for a free 90-mintue walking tour exploring locations significant to the experience of Black people throughout Lowell’s past and present. This tour will be led by Bob Forrant and Maritza Grooms. Meet at Lowell National Historical Park Visitor Center (246 Market Street). This tour will begin at 12 p.m. Please plan to arrive at the Visitor Center 10 minutes before the tour starts for facilities and logistics. Plan ahead, dress for the weather and remember to bring water!

PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Please visit https://bit.ly/freesoilwalkingtour to reserve your spot(s).

Free parking for program participants is available at the Hamilton Canal Innovation District Garage (350 Dutton Street).

Mask guidelines: Consistent with CDC guidance regarding areas of high transmission, visitors to Lowell National Historical Park, regardless of vaccination status, are required to wear a mask inside all park buildings. While you do not need to wear a mask on the outdoor walking tour, anyone planning to enter the Visitor Center before or after the program must wear a mask.

This event is part of a Free Soil Arts Collective’s 2nd Annual Juneteenth Celebration. Join Free Soil Arts Collective on Sunday, June 19th from 11AM-5PM is a day-long festival highlighting Lowell’s Black history and Black artistry. This event will take place on Market Street in downtown Lowell, MA and feature a mainstage highlighting Black musicians and performers, poetry readings, food, and Black artisan vendors. For more information, visit About | Free Soil Juneteenth.

Lowell Walks are a series of guided tours in and around downtown Lowell that explore the unique history and stories of our city. This year’s lineup will include tours exploring Lowell’s Black History, the life and writings of Jack Kerouac, the city’s founding, and many more. Visit https://www.nps.gov/lowe for the complete list of walks.