News Release

Jacob Cummings and His Route to Freedom – A Kayak Tour - 2024

Date: August 2, 2024
Contact: Kim Coons, 706-866-9241, ext. 139

Fort Oglethorpe, GA: On Saturday, August 17, at 9 am, Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, in partnership with Outdoor Chattanooga, will conduct a FREE, 4-hour, historical kayak tour. In late July 1839, Jacob Cummings liberated himself from slavery on the banks of Moccasin Bend and paddled his way to freedom in a small canoe. National Park Partners will sponsor this special kayak tour of Cummings’ escape from slavery. Participants will paddle the route he followed and learn about his role as both passenger and agent on the Underground Railroad. Kayaking equipment and instruction are provided by Outdoor Chattanooga. The following reservation and paddler requirements must be met prior to tour participation.

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

To make a reservation, please visit www.outdoorchattanooga.com or call 423-643-6888. Participants will receive directions to the launch site once reservations are confirmed.

PADDLER REQUIREMENTS

• Participants must be 14 years of age or older

• No experience is necessary as Outdoor Chattanooga programs are instructional. Some paddling experience is recommended due to the duration and distance of this program.

Outdoor Chattanooga and the National Park Service reserve the right to cancel a trip at any time at their discretion, due to weather or water conditions. Participants will be notified as soon as possible if there is a cancellation. If you must cancel your reservation for any reason, please try to do so with a minimum of 24 hours’ notice. Please call between the hours of 8 am – 5 pm, Monday – Friday to cancel a reservation.