NPS/Hanson Plass “The object of our Association is to extend a helping hand to all who may bid adieu to whips and chains, and by the welcome light of the North Star, reach a haven where they can be protected from the grasp of the man-stealer…” - The New England Freedom Association, 1845 Welcome to Boston: An Underground Railroad Hub, a digital exploration of Boston's long history as a center of Underground Railroad activity. Through an evolving array of interactive maps, videos, articles, and other features, we invite you to learn about the freedom seekers who escaped to Boston and the people here who assisted them. Discover incredible stories of how Bostonians organized to shelter and protect those who came looking for their freedom. Hear about amazing individuals and associations who not only protested the fugitive slave laws of the country, but also militantly responded to fugitive slave arrests in the city. Be inspired by the bravery of those who fled slavery and the collective action of Bostonians that helped them along their way to freedom. 
Learn about the integral role Boston and its citizens played on the Underground Railroad.
Through this self-guided audio tour, hear about Boston's role in the Underground Railroad.
Explore this interactive digital map that highlights places in Boston connected to the Underground Railroad.
Explore this exhibition that looks at the lives and activism of the more than two hundred members of the final Vigilance Committee.
This digital exploration highlights several key moments, people, and places that illustrate Tubman's decades-long relationship with Boston.
Learn about the contributions of the women who served as the heart of the free Black community on the north slope of Beacon Hill.
This seventeen minute film explores the rendition of Anthony Burns, told through those who witnessed the event in 1854.
Story Maps
William and Ellen CraftExplore a story map about William and Ellen Craft's remarkable journey to freedom from Macon, Georgia to Boston, Massachusetts and beyond. 
Elizabeth BlakeleyRead about Elizabeth Blakeley's escape to freedom on a vessel from North Carolina to Boston. 
Shadrach MinkinsLearn about Shadrach Minkins' escape from slavery and daring rescue from slave catchers in this story map. 
Thomas SimsInteract with this story map about Thomas Sims' path to emancipation, which took many years and several attempts. 
Anthony BurnsFollow Anthony Burns' path to freedom, which involved a failed courthouse rescue and a military takeover of downtown Boston. 
Jane JohnsonLearn about Jane Johnson's bold escape to freedom that led to her testifying against her enslaver in court. Network to Freedom
As of Spring 2023, National Parks of Boston has ten designated sites and programs on the Network to Freedom.
A Network to Freedom film that looks at the life and accomplishments of abolitionist Lewis Hayden.
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Last updated: November 3, 2026