Journey to Freedom

Beginning in the 17th century and continuing through the mid-19th century in the United States, enslaved African Americans resisted bondage to gain their freedom through acts of self-emancipation. The individuals who sought this freedom from enslavement, known as freedom seekers, and those who assisted along the way, united together to become what is known as the Underground Railroad. The National Park Service and members of the Network to Freedom tell these stories of escape to demonstrate the significance of the Underground Railroad in the eradication of slavery as a cornerstone of the national civil rights movement. 

Questioning Conversation title screen
Questioning Conversation

Explore the Questioning Conversation video series

Photograph of Black man sitting at three quarter profile in a suit.
People

Learn more about freedom seeker Robert Smalls and others . Image Credit Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division.

Photograph of person kayaking in the Blackwater Wildlife Refuge in Maryland.
Community Storytelling

The Harriet Tubman Byway audio guide connects visitors with Tubman's story across Maryland. Learn about more stories.

Color Screenshot of map
Explore Network Members

Learn more about Network to Freedom Members using our Interactive Map!

NTF Logo with yellow star and face looking North
Join the Network to Freedom

Explore our new electronic application and instructions to apply

African American soldiers in the Revolutionary War marching down a dusty road with rifles
Claiming Freedom

Learn about enslaved individuals seeking freedom in the Revolutionary Era ("Brave Men as Ever Fought" painting by Don Troiani)