Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site

Bethune Council House in Spring time full bloom!
Mary McLeod Bethune achieved her greatest recognition at the Washington, DC townhouse that is now this National Historic Site. The Council House was the first headquarters of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and was Bethune’s last home in Washington, DC. From here, Bethune and the NCNW spearheaded strategies and developed programs that advanced the interests of African American women.
Map showing location of park.
A view of the parlor at Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site, featuring a glowing chandelier and piano on red carpet.
National Park Service to Rehabilitate Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site
The National Park Service will close the Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site on September 9, 2026, to complete a rehabilitation project. The House is expected to reopen to visitors in early 2027, after rehabilitation of the home’s exterior and interior and cleaning of its historic artifacts.
MAMC
Photo by NPS Photo/Kenneth Chandler
Table with glass table top and wooden chairs
Photo by NPS
A room with ornate furniture, crystal chandelier, large mirror, and large portrait of Mrs. Bethune
Photo by NPS
A desk and chairs roped off with other furnishings and objects mounted on the walls
Photo by NPS
A historic photo of the parlor room is held up in front of the same view today.
Photo by NPS