On April 18, as part of Franklin County's celebration of America's 250th, the county's Visitors Bureau is sponsoring several events involving over 70 groups, highlighted by a parade. And. in conjunction with the parade, the Bureau will also publish a commemorative booklet featuring stories from Franklin County's history, from colonial-era settlements through contemporary developments like […]
Join us and our speakers from the Kennett Underground Railroad Center to learn about abolitionists like Thomas Garrett, Isaac and Dinah Mendenhall, John and Hannah Cox, and Dr. Bartholomew Fussell — all of whom risked much for the cause of freedom. Their narratives feature accounts of freedom seekers who were often pursued by slave catchers, […]
This guided bus tour highlights key sites from both of our African American Heritage walking tours, exploring Underground Railroad history and community life across Lancaster. Seating is limited and advance registration is required; visit our Tours page to purchase tickets. Experience the most significant sites from both of our African American Heritage walking tours in […]
Explore new primary source sets illuminating 19th-century Black civil rights from the collections of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania and the Library of Congress. Showing how ideas and news shaped Black communities across the nation, this two-part workshop helps educators dive into the related records. It also equips participants with research skills to uncover local […]
This tour is focused on the Underground Railroad and includes four authenticated Underground Railroad sites. Because the Underground Railroad was by necessity secret, uncovering the details of its existence has required a great deal of detective work. This tour includes the latest research and recent discoveries which further reveal the rich fabric of African American […]
Living the Experience is a spiritual, interactive reenactment of the Underground railroad. Patrons get a chance to step inside the shoes of Africans seeking their freedom in the 1800's in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The production is the first Underground Railroad reenactment in Central Pennsylvania and has been sharing the story for 27 years. Each includes our […]
Discover Lancaster County’s critical role in the Underground Railroad with historian Scott Mingus. This lecture provides a compelling overview of resistance networks across the Susquehanna River region, highlighting the individuals and communities who helped shape one of the most important movements in American history. As part of the nationwide America 250 commemoration, this program highlights […]
