The purposes of African Burial Ground National
Monument are to:
• Preserve and protect the approximately 15,000 square feet of land and its associated resources—including those interred and reinterred—the memorial, collections, and archives on the corner of Duane and Elk Streets in Lower Manhattan. This parcel is part of the larger 7-acre national historic landmark commemorating the area that—from approximately 1690 to 1790—served as a burial place for free and enslaved Africans.
• Encourage and foster opportunities for research, public understanding and appreciation, dialogue, education, and interpretation of- the culture, heritage, legacy, and contributions
of Africans and Americans of African descent to New York City and our nation
- Africans and Americans of African descent as integral and fundamental to American history - the way in which science and scientific exploration can help to rediscover lost and
hidden history - related resources and sites in New York City, including the national historic landmark.
• Provide a place for quiet contemplation, commemoration, and ceremony to honor the spirit and legacy of Africans and Americans of African descent, both free and enslaved, to our nation and the greater global community.
