ottawa’s underground railroad, uncovered
This tour can be driven or walked* approximately 1.5 hour* $35/peron
Embark on a captivating journey through Ottawa's profound Underground Railroad history. Choose between a leisurely 1.5-mile walking tour or opt for the comfort of our exclusive "History Machine" tour vehicle. Discover Ottawa's pivotal role in aiding potentially thousands of enslaved people in their quest for freedom in Canada, navigating a clandestine network of routes and safe havens.
Unearth the ingenious utilization of the Illinois & Michigan Canal in ferrying slaves, and delve into their perilous nocturnal journeys on foot. Explore a significant pre-Civil War legal record, the Federal Court Case of John Hossack & James and Joseph Stout, concerning the Fugitive Slave Law.
The exploration doesn't conclude here. Learn about the local Sundown Towns and Ottawa's feature in The Green Book, an African American Travel guide. Encounter former slaves who dared to defy the shackles of oppression and found refuge in Ottawa. This enlightening tour spans 1.5-2 hours and can be driven aboard our "History Machine” tour vehicle or you can choose to walk along a 1-1.5 mile easy path.
Homes were “stations”
on the underground railroad and Ottawa had no shortage of “stations” manned by citizens who were willing to risk life and freedom to assist enslaved people in their quest for freedom.
The courage
of escaped enslaved people who braved the Underground Railroad was a testament to their unyielding determination for freedom, risking their lives in pursuit of a better future.
Escaped enslaved people used the I&M Canal
as part of the Underground Railroad. Its strategic location made it a useful pathway for escaping enslaved individuals seeking freedom in northern states or Canada. Ottawa was well positioned to aid these brave people.