I thought the Kennett Underground Railroad Center's open house at Kennett Friends Meeting this past Sunday would be just a drop-in affair. I was wrong, and thank goodness we got there at 2 p.m. sharp, because there was a full presentation by four KURC board members, complete with slides.
John O'Neal gave an overview of the center's activities, including their guided bus tours, and said he hopes the organization will be able to find a permanent home soon.
Michele Sullivan talked about her research into black and female abolitionists, whom she said are often overlooked.
Terry Maguire shared dramatic stories from Dr. Robert Smedley's "History of the Underground Railroad" book about the experiences of fugitive slaves in Chester and Lancaster counties.
Finally, Darleen Amobi told the story of Henry "Box" Brown's escape from slavery: he had himself shipped from Virginia to Philadelphia, spending 27 hours in a crate.
Several audience members emphasized how important it is to educate youths about slavery and the rich history of the abolitionist movement in our area.
In another Underground Railroad event, West Chester University Professor of History Tonya Thames Taylor will be talking about the role that women played in helping freedom seekers. Her talk will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 17, at the Parkesburg Free Library, 105 West Street.
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