History Students Explore New York and Washington, D.C.
A group of 26 History students went on an unforgettable trip to New York City and Washington, D.C. in February, experiencing firsthand the historical landmarks and cultural richness of both cities.
The trip featured an incredible itinerary, offering students the opportunity to deepen their understanding of key moments in history.
In New York, students took a guided LGBTQ+ history walk through Greenwich Village and the East Village, just hours after the removal of ‘QT’ from the LGBTQ+ acronym on the Stonewall Inn website—an event that underscored the evolving nature of history. Other highlights included a tour of Harlem, a scenic walk along the High Line, and a visit to the iconic New York Public Library, where they discovered hidden historical treasures. Students also took in breathtaking city views from the Empire State Building and explored the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum, learning about the experiences of past immigrants.
The journey continued with a train ride to Washington, D.C., allowing students to see Philadelphia and Baltimore along the way. They visited the National Museum of African American History and Culture, an immersive museum that brought key themes of their studies to life. They also stood on the very steps of the Lincoln Memorial where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech, reflecting on its historical significance.
Here’s what some of the students had to say:
Poppy L: “My favourite part was visiting the Lincoln Memorial after learning about so many historic events that happened there.”
Griffin: “Exploring Times Square at night was surreal. My highlight was the National Museum of African American History and Culture—the museum’s design made the experience incredibly immersive.”
Grace B: “Visiting the Lincoln Memorial was unforgettable. Standing where MLK gave his speech and thinking about the millions who had stood there before us was a powerful moment.”
Lara M: “The Empire State Building at night and Central Park in the snow were breathtaking. I made lifelong memories with my friends!”
The trip provided a unique opportunity for students to witness history come alive, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for the people, places, and events that have shaped the past and continue to influence the present.
A big thank you to teachers Jorja Bullock, Helen Sweeney and Chris Knowles for accompanying the students on the trip.
