Seneca Falls, New York

Women's Rights National Historical Park

In 1848, the first women's rights convention met in Seneca Falls' Wesleyan Chapel and adopted the Declaration of Sentiments, modeled on the Declaration of Independence.

Official visitor website

All landmarks

Photo: National Park Service, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The story

Civil Rights & Social Change
Founding, Independence & Government

Why it matters

In 1848, the first women's rights convention met in Seneca Falls' Wesleyan Chapel and adopted the Declaration of Sentiments, modeled on the Declaration of Independence.

Why it may matter to you

It took more than 70 years from this meeting until the 19th Amendment protected women's right to vote in 1920 — a reminder that rights can be expanded through peaceful, persistent effort.

The fuller story

The suffrage movement was divided over race, and many women of color were excluded or could not vote even after 1920.

Plan your visit

Hours, prices, reservations, and closures change. Check the official visitor website.

Time to allow: 2–3 hours (our estimate)
Setting: Indoor and outdoor
Tickets and reservations: Tickets or reservations may be needed at busy times. Check the official visitor website.
Getting there: Driving is easiest; Seneca Falls is in New York's Finger Lakes region.
With family: Small-town walking between sites.
Seasons and weather: Hours may be shorter in winter.
Accessibility: Accessibility information from the operator(opens nps.gov in a new tab)

Times are estimates and distances are straight-line. Citizen Navigator is an independent educational resource. Visitor access and conditions change. Confirm current details with the destination's official operator.