Frederick Douglass at Canandaigua

History buffs will enjoy their time spent in the Finger Lakes this July with a visit to Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion State Historic Park, located just a thirty minute drive from Yale Manor.

Transport yourself back in time to the days of Frederick Douglass and his companions in the women’s rights movement. Besides escaping slavery in Maryland for a free life in New York, Frederick Douglass became a living counter-argument to slaveholders’ arguments that salves were intellectually inferior. This July, you can meet Douglass himself (under the guise of actor and scholar David Shakes) at Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion State Historic Park in Canandaigua.

The speeches Douglass made in Canandaigua were considered some of his most enduring and truth-filled passages. Following the excerpt reading, enjoy refreshments and an informal Q&A. The event is free with half-price gate fee to Sonnenberg Gardens. Besides exploring the past at the historic Queen Anne mansion, you can also enjoy the beautiful formal and informal gardens, beautiful views of Canandaigua Lake, and the Lord & Burnham greenhouse complex. The historic park is also home to the Finger Lakes Wine Center where visitors can enjoy wine tasting tours.

Click here for more information on the Frederick Douglass living history event and to register today or here for more information on the property from the New York State Parks, Rec., and Historic Preservation.

Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park
151 Charlotte Street
Canandaigua, NY 14424
585.394.4922