May 17, 2015 1 min read

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy, in partnership with Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and the NAACP Jefferson County, W.Va., Branch, will host the fourth annual African-American History Hike in celebration of National Trails Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 6.

The hike will begin at the ATC Visitor Center, 799 Washington St., and will be led by National Park Service rangers and historians.

Participants will learn about Storer College, one of the nation’s first institutions of higher learning open to African-Americans; the Niagara Movement, considered to be the cornerstone of the modern civi-rights era; and John Brown’s Raid, an attempt by the abolitionist to start an armed revolt to end slavery.

Participants also will be given the rare opportunity to view the inside of Curtis Freewill Baptist Church and the Lockwood House, where the college’s first classes were held.

Hikers are encouraged to bring water and wear sturdy footwear.

The event is free, but registration is required by visiting www.appalachiantrail.org/events.