Walking in Their Footsteps: Experiencing the Underground Railroad firsthand

Walking in someone else’s shoes can be a profound way to learn about another. Each year, ORNFC conference organizers work closely with historians, heritage site managers, preservationists and local communities to create an unforgettable experience for attendees through guided tours. In the past, these full day excursions have included visits to the Old Washington Historic District of Maysville, KY, the birthplace of Colonel Charles Young in May’s Lick and the hilltop home of John Rankin in Ripley, Ohio, which served as a beacon for the thousands of freedom seekers who passed through its doors. Participants have also visited the National Underground Railroad Museum and the Kentucky Gateway Freedom Center where attendees had the opportunity to research or simply browse the shelves of the extensive genealogical-historical library. Check out the slideshow for highlights from the 2015 and 2016 conference tours.