Take the full Ontario Underground Railroad Tour. You’ll visit Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Buxton National Historic Site & Museum, and the Black Mecca Museum. Hear authentic stories of the hardships and triumphs runaway slaves endured as they ran north to freedom. This region became home in the mid 1800s to successful black settlements and the greatest populace of former slaves in Canada. For a full understanding of how Chatham-Kent was a destination for freedom seekers.For information, go to www.chatham-kent.ca/Tourism/things-to-see/underground-railroad • 519-360-1998
Step into Rev. Josiah Henson’s cabin, smokehouse, sawmill and visit the Henson family cemetery, all at the Uncle Tom’s Cabin Historic Site. Josiah Henson lived in the cabin during much of his time in the area, from 1841 until his death in 1883. Henson was the inspiration for Harriet Beecher Stowe’s anti-slavery novel, Uncle Tom’s Cabin. The 5-acre complex is part of the original 200 acres of land purchased in 1841 to establish the Dawn Settlement, a community for escaped slaves.
Uncle Tom’s Cabin: 29251 Uncle Tom’s Road, Dresden • 519-638-2978
Be inspired by achievements made by those who overcame the shackles of slavery to build Buxton, the most successful planned Black settlement in Canada, founded in 1849. The Buxton National Historic Site & Museum is truly a hands-on experience. Tour the last standing schoolhouse built by slaves and a museum displaying original shackles worn by children and adults.
Buxton Museum: 21975 A. D. Shadd Road, Chatham • www.buxtonmuseum.com
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