His historic former residence Frederick Douglassof the African-American social reformer, author and politician, in Washington, D.C., has reopened to the public for the first time since 2020, according to the U.S. National Park Service.

The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, which has remained closed during the COVID-19 pandemic since March 2020, is open to the public starting July 4th, Independence Day.

The home in Anacostia, a neighborhood in southeast Washington, was renovated while a new heating and air conditioning system was installed, which was necessary as changing humidity levels can damage both historic oil paintings and furniture finishes.

They are kept there 3,000 items which belonged to Frederick Douglass.

The house was originally built between 1855 and 1859 for a Philadelphia architect. In 1877 Douglas, who was born a slave in 1818 before escaping, bought it and lived there until his death in 1895.

Visitors to the house, which Douglas named Cedar Hill, can see his library along with his personal belongings, such as the violin he played when his grandchildren and guests visited, the hat stand in the front entrance and the kerosene lamps that the family used throughout the house.

Frederick Douglass spent his life fighting for justice and equality. Born into slavery in 1818, he escaped as a youth and became a leading voice in the abolitionist movement.

“People everywhere continue to find inspiration today in his tireless struggle, brilliant words and inclusive vision for humanity,” the historic site’s website says.