Madison Black History Walking Tour

media release: Select Thursdays | 5 PM–6:45 PM: June 18, 2026

Select Saturdays | 1 PM–2:45 PM: May 30 & June 13, 2026

How Black Communities Shaped Madison Through Time 

In the years following the Civil War and into the 20th century, Madison was a growing and dynamic city. Working and living within this changing environment were Black residents who established a vibrant community around the East Dayton-North Blount-East Johnson Streets in downtown Madison—and in doing so, left a lasting and historic mark on the Badger State. 

During the Madison Black History Walking Tour—which starts at East Dayton & North Blount and ends at the Capitol Square—you’ll learn firsthand about the individuals, families, and organizations that formed the bedrock of this community and left a powerful legacy for future generations. 

What You’ll Experience   

• An expanded understanding of Madison's history from the mid-1800s to modern day, providing insight into the experiences of active and dedicated African Americans in Wisconsin's capitol city
• Viewing of historic images, maps and other resources that illustrate the depth of Black history in Madison

Cost

Adult (18-64): $20Teen (13-17): $20Senior (65+): $20Child (5-12): $20Children under 5: Free 

Society members receive a 10% discount, please verify your membership where prompted to receive discount at check out.

About the Location

An active, community-focused space that hosts school groups, pop-up exhibits, author talks, public programs and more; located in the US Bank Building on Madison's Capitol Square.  

History Maker Space   

1 S. Pinckney Street 

Madison, WI 53703 

Know Before You Go

• Although the tour is based out of the Wisconsin History Society (WHS) History Maker Space, the starting location of the tour is the corner of E. Dayton Street and N. Blount Street. The tour ends on the Capitol Square, at the corner of S. Carroll Street and W. Main Street.  
• Please arrive at the corner of E. Dayton Street and N. Blount Street approximately 15 minutes prior to tour start time to check-in with a WHS staff member to confirm your tour reservation.  
• The guided tour is approximately 1 mile in length and covers some paved, but hilly terrain. Comfortable shoes for walking are strongly recommended.  
• Tour participants are encouraged to bring water with them as the tour will be taking place entirely outdoors and shade will vary.   
• Walking tours will happen rain or shine. In the case of inclement weather, consider bringing an umbrella.  
• There are public parking options available in downtown Madison. There is a public parking garage, Capitol Square North Garage located about a 10-minute walk from the tour’s starting location and end location. In addition, there is street parking information on the City of Madison website.   
• Tour participants with questions about the tour content, or with mobility concerns are encouraged to contact Jenny Pederson at jennifer.pederson@wisconsinhistory.org or (608) 669-5160. 

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