
Erie County Pennsylvania served as a vital segment of the Underground Railroad. Erie's location on the northern boundary of the U.S. became a natural hub. Once in Erie, freedom seekers could then continue north across Lake Erie into Canada or head east through the state of New York. Some opted to remain in the region. Abolitionists and the free black community provided freedom seekers with a safe place to stay, new clothes, and a quick change of appearance at the local barbershop. The Journey to Freedom educational program was created to help tell this story. Journey to Freedom is an interactive Underground Railroad program for Erie County. A component of the interactive program consists of pre and post-visit activities. The activities include Methods of Escape, Escape Routes, Narratives, Erie's Abolitionists and a Timeline Creation. The Program incorporates historical photographs and documents, role-playing activities and games.
Visitor Information: Currently open to public.
Location: Erie County Historical Society, 419 State Street, Erie, 16501
National Park Unit: No
Ownership: Melinda Meyer
Location Type: Program