< Return to Search Results

Caroline Escape Marker

In 2008, the Indiana Historical Bureau (IHB) erected a marker to commemorate the escape of Caroline at the Kingston Cemetery in Decatur County, Indiana. Caroline, a fugitive enslaved woman from Trimble County Kentucky, escaped with her four children (ages 2-12) on October 31, 1847, from George Ray. They crossed the Ohio River near Madison, IN (Jefferson County). They were conveyed via the Underground Railroad from there to Decatur County. While in Decatur County the family was recaptured by Woodson Clark, a pro-slavery resident of the area. But with the help of black and white abolitionists, the family escaped again and were helped further north through Underground Railroad stations in northern Decatur County, Rush, and Union Counties. After the escape, George Ray successfully brought a civil case against Luther Donnell, a member of the community who had assisted in the escape. According to William M. Hamilton's account, written many years later, Caroline and her children made it safely to Canada and wrote a letter to Luther Donnell, thanking him for his efforts.

 

Visitor Information: Currently open to public.

Location: 4783 East County Road 280 North, Greensburg, Decatur, 47240

National Park Unit: No

Ownership: Indiana Historical Bureau, State of Indiana

Location Type: Site