The Midwest Underground Railroad Network is organizing an educational hike and community picnic at Schubert’s Woods near Park Forest on July 11. This event will shed light on the historical significance of the Sauk Trail. Originally a Native American trail, it traversed Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan and served as a route for enslaved people seeking freedom in Canada, explained coordinator Tom Shepherd.
Shepherd noted that the Underground Railroad, as it operated, had one of its paths running through the region. Many indigenous peoples traveled this trail over the centuries. The route included areas such as Park Forest, Richton Park, and Crete.
The Midwest Underground Railroad Network collaborates with the Crete Historical Society for this event. Some members of the society are descendants of Crete-area abolitionists. The event, beginning around noon, will feature Larry McClellan, a professor and Underground Railroad researcher, who will present on the area’s history. Additionally, a representative from the Crete Historical Society will share insights about local Underground Railroad figures and activities. According to a news release, the event is free, but attendees need to bring their own lunch and chairs.
An optional hike to the former McCoy Homestead site will precede the picnic. This site served as a station along the route. Shepherd remarked that the McCoys hosted many freedom seekers. Those interested in the hike should arrive by 10:30 a.m.
The Midwest Underground Railroad Network is working on an application to the National Park Service for site recognition. A historical marker was unveiled during a dedication event at the former Ton Farm along the Little Calumet River and 134th Place on September 24, 2022. This site is part of the National Park Service’s Network to Freedom, highlighting locations of the Underground Railroad.
The network focuses on unearthing the Underground Railroad history through Chicago and the south suburbs, including the Ton Farm site on Chicago’s far south side. In comparison, the Sauk Trail route has received less attention. Shepherd mentioned that recent presentations in Richton Park have revealed more research on the Underground Railroad, identifying new sites that should be recognized.
Recently, network members visited the former homestead site with the Illinois Archeological Society. Their aim is to eventually install kiosks with historical information in the area. Shepherd expressed that this part of the Underground Railroad story is underrepresented and little known.
If you go…
When: July 11, hike at 10:30 a.m., picnic and presentation from noon to 2 p.m.
Where: Schubert’s Woods Pavilion, about four blocks east of Western Avenue on Sauk Trail
Bring: Food and chairs; snacks and drinks will be provided
For more information, contact [email protected].
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