underground railroad programs and events!

Date:  Sunday, October 27, 2024

Time: 2pm - 3pm

Location: Gather Place Museum

188 So. Canal Street, Yardley, Pa 19067

Join us for this “Walkie Talkie” Tour!

Walk with us as we explore Yardley Borough's historic connections to the Underground Railroad through this captivating event. As a Quaker village, "Yardleyville" (Est 1682), was a safe haven for escaped slaves, with a little-known African American community thriving here. Its "Colored Church", first established in 1817 for worshippers in a hay barn. With Yardley's proximity to the Delaware River provided direct access to Trenton, New Jersey, and routes further north. Learn about the impact of the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850, which mandated the return of escaped slaves and expanded the Underground Railroad up to Canada. Discover Yardley's role in this critical part of history.

 Date: Saturday, November 9, 2024

Time: 2pm - 3pm 

Location: Gather Place Museum

188 So. Canal Street, Yardley, Pa 19067

Join us for this one-hour first-person presentation by Shirley Lee Corsey as Harriet Tubman; her early life, escape from slavery to Philadelphia & beyond! Also, about the "Freedom Fighters", her life as a Civil War spy & nurse, and women's right to vote activist. 

>>>Check out our program trailer!

>>>Check out our program reviews!

Date:  Sunday, December 8, 2024

Time: 2pm - 3pm

Location: Gather Place Museum

188 So. Canal Street, Yardley, Pa 19067

Discover the crucial role of Bucks County in the Underground Railroad including focus on Yardley Borough and other sites around Bucks County! This presentation explores the early Quaker village’s proximity to the Delaware River and unveils documented and speculated stops. From the early 1800s to 1865, Quakers, free African Americans, and abolitionists facilitated escapes northward, even to Canada. Despite its name, the Underground Railroad utilized various transportation methods. The bravery of figures like Harriet Tubman is highlighted. The event concludes with a tribute to African American Civil War veterans buried at Lower Makefield Township’s Slate Cemetery, emphasizing their enduring legacy.