In 1963 George & Rembert Washington, grocery store owners experienced the full assault of the citizens counsel when they decided to support the Civil Rights Movement by allowing George Raymond, then director of C.O.R.E. in Canton, MS to rent a house now known as The Freedom House on George Washington Ave. to live and work in. The segregationists would retaliate by instituting what was called the first boycott of a black-owned business in Canton. They moved the gas pumps and forbade all wholesalers to sell and deliver groceries and dry good to their store.
George Raymond from New Orleans, LA, a freedom rider would be considered the most committed leader of the movement in Canton representing C.O.R.E. He opened up the movement to young people in the community and led the march for freedom, justice and equality risking his all.
Freedom House Canton, Inc. is the last standing Freedom House in Mississippi that was used by C.O.R.E. This house represents many struggles that took place in the 1960s and is considered historical due to its function as the operational headquarters for C.O.R.E. and the Madison County Movement. It was here that numerous decisions and strategies were initiated that significantly impacted Madison County and surrounding areas within the state and country.
We have more rich history to share. Come by and see us. You will be amazed.
We love our visitors, so feel free to visit during normal business hours.
838 George Washington Ave, Canton, Mississippi 39046, United States
Mon | 9:00 am – 4:00 pm |
Tue | 9:00 am – 4:00 pm |
Wed | 9:00 am – 4:00 pm |
Thu | 9:00 am – 4:00 pm |
Fri | 9:00 am – 4:00 pm |
Sat | By Appointment |
Sun | Closed |