Wayne County Community College District (WCCCD) achieved a remarkable milestone as it received a historic National Designation for its Underground Railroad Historic programming from the National Park Service’s Network to Freedom. The honor marks a profound recognition of WCCCD’s dedication to preserving and sharing the history of the Underground Railroad. This secret Network played a pivotal role in guiding more than 1,000 freedom seekers to safety during a tumultuous period in American history.
The Underground Railroad was far more than a literal railroad; it was a network of individuals, both Black and white, who were committed to the cause of freedom. The “railroad” consisted of secret routes and safe houses, often concealed in plain sight, where freedom seekers could find refuge and assistance on their treacherous path to liberty. From covert hideaways in basements to well-concealed tunnels, these clandestine stations provided moments of respite and a glimmer of hope for those on their journey.
This remarkable system of secret routes and safe houses was utilized by enslaved individuals in the 19th century to escape to freedom in the North or Canada. These brave individuals, known as freedom seekers, risked everything for the chance to live a life free from the shackles of slavery. These courageous trips led right to our city, providing a new beginning for many, and are a significant piece of Detroit’s history.
Detroit’s role in the Underground Railroad is often underestimated, but efforts like these are vital to ensuring that the city’s rich history of supporting freedom and justice is preserved and shared with future generations. As Janese Chapman aptly puts it, “We’re trying to make sure that we, in the city of Detroit, include all of that history.” Recognizing sites like 501 Third Avenue as part of the Network to Freedom is a step towards achieving that goal and illuminating a crucial aspect of Detroit’s past.
The Network to Freedom program is organized by the National Park Service and is dedicated to preserving, documenting, and promoting the history of the Underground Railroad. Since its inception in 1998, the program has identified over 700 Network to Freedom sites nationwide, thanks to the collaborative efforts of community members and local historians.
The Wayne County Community College District/Detroit Underground Railroad Site Historic District was officially designated by the City of Detroit on November 23, 2021. This district encompasses the Curtis L. Ivery Central Educational Complex, strategically located at Third and Fort Streets. In the 19th century, this area played a pivotal role in the Underground Railroad network, with Detroit serving as a code-named “Midnight,” providing a place of refuge for freedom seekers before they embarked on the final leg of their journey to Canada, code-named “Dawn.”
A key location within this district is the Michigan Central Railroad’s Third Street Depot, which played a crucial role in aiding freedom seekers. Its proximity to the Detroit River made it an ideal gateway for abolitionist activity and solidified Detroit’s place in the annals of Underground Railroad history.
WCCCD’s inclusion in the Network to Freedom’s National Park Service Historic designation is a monumental achievement. The 23 new listings from the 46th round of applications represent sites and programs in 14 states across the United States and Canada, expanding the reach and impact of the Network to Freedom. The addition of WCCCD’s Underground Railroad District History programming underscores the enduring importance of the Underground Railroad and its historical significance.
Dr. Curtis L. Ivery, Chancellor of WCCCD, expressed his pride and gratitude for this historic designation, stating, “We are honored to receive this historic designation and gratified that it will help us expand our continued mission of educating, inspiring, and fostering a deeper understanding and connection with the Underground Railroad’s enduring legacy and celebrating the triumph of the human spirit over adversity and the pursuit of freedom for all.”
The National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom is a crucial initiative dedicated to preserving this significant chapter in American history. With over 700 sites, facilities, and programs already included in the Network to Freedom, WCCCD’s addition represents a significant contribution to the preservation of this vital history. The Network spans 40 states, along with Washington D.C. and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and continues to grow, ensuring that the stories of freedom seekers and their allies will never be forgotten.
Wayne County Community College District’s commitment to preserving the memory of the Underground Railroad stands as a powerful example of how history can be a compelling teacher. The historic designation serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by those who sought freedom and underscores the importance of never forgetting the past as we strive towards a more just and equal future. For those interested in learning more about WCCCD and its Underground Railroad programming, please visit www.wcccd.edu.
About Post Author
