The House last week approved nearly $1 million for rehabilitation efforts under way at Frederick Douglass’ Southeast Washington residence, home to the abolitionist from 1877 until his death in 1895.

The Frederick Douglass National Historic site is undergoing a three-year, $2 million renovation. Congressional funding, now pending approval in the Senate, will help with roofing and structural repairs, painting and the preservation of Douglass’ 1,200-strong collection of books, among other improvements.

“As a former history teacher, I am honored to have had the opportunity to lend a helping hand to ensure students now and in the future will be able to fully experience and appreciate the positive, permanent imprint of Frederick Douglass on the very grounds where his story was written,” said Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.), who introduced legislation authorizing the funding in the House.

The $955,000 appropriation was approved as part of the fiscal 2004 Interior spending bill, which funds the National Park Service.

The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site is one of only 12 sites within the park system specifically dedicated to preserving the black experience.

— Bree Hocking