September 25 – 27, 2026 – September is Underground Railroad Month, and although Sotterley has yet to discover any direct connections to the Underground Railroad, we do have stories of the pursuit of freedom and the self-emancipation of enslaved individuals. This weekend, Historic Sotterley will be offering its guided tours with an extra focus on the stories of strength and resilience that resulted in individuals finding their freedom.

Tours will be offered on Friday & Saturday at 10:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 2:00 pm and on Sunday at 12:30 pm and 2:00 p]m. For more information about our hours and pricing, check our visit page.

Historic Sotterley’s guided tours allow visitors an intimate perspective of the lives and cultures of those that owned, lived, and worked in the historic Manor House, enslaved or free, over three centuries of American history. Tours this weekend will have an extra focus on the history of slavery at Sotterley and the individuals that self-emancipated despite the unfathomable challenges.

The tour is on the ground floor and is approximately 45 minutes in length. The 18th Century Manor House doorways may not accommodate all wheelchairs or walkers in some rooms of the house. Please call in advance for full access details.

After the tour, Sotterley offers a Visitor Experience Center with a museum shop, beautiful trails, expansive gardens, access to a quiet creek, and additional exhibits to explore and learn from. Historic Sotterley is a “Leave No Trace” site, so please be prepared to pack out any trash and leftover food when you leave.