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Poets, Shoemakers and Freedom Seekers

Essex county in the 19th century was the home to many abolitionists who actively sought the end of slavery and took the risk of providing shelter and transportation for those runaways entering the county seeking to live as free people. Blacks and whites worked together to secretly assist freedom seekers and fought slavery publicly through formal societies, meetings, lectures and publications. Well documented areas and people involved in the UGRR in MA were identified by Professor Wilber Siebert in his 1936 book of the same name. Salem Maritime NHS staff and community members sought verification and solicitation for new information within Essex county. The information culminated in the 2005 publication which visually identified those sites extant today. Poets, Shoemakers and Freedom Seekers was created to accompany the publication. The program highlights the work of significant people and freedom seekers who traveled through Essex county.

Visitor Information: Currently open to public.

Location: Salem Maritime NHS, 160 Derby St, Salem, Essex, 01970

National Park Unit: Yes

Ownership: Patricia Trap

Location Type: Program

People/Organizations Associated with the site: Wilbur Siebert

Freedom Seekers: Frederick Douglass