Underground Railroad
The story of the Underground Railroad is intimately tied to New York's canals.
Many African Americans used the Erie, Champlain, Oswego, and Cayuga-Seneca Canals as routes for escaping from slavery. For some, the canals became pathways to freedom in Canada. Other African Americans settled in canal towns. Many Americans kept safe houses near the canals to assist people who escaped from slavery on the Underground Railroad.
Throughout the Corridor, you'll discover travel routes, hiding places, safe houses, and destinations for African Americans seeking freedom from slavery in the 1800s.
Preserving the past, engaging youth, and telling the story of the Underground Railroad in Albany, NY. Learn more
Uncovering Peyton Harris
Learn about the life and legacy of Peyton Harris, a leading figure in Buffalo's 19th century African American community. Researcher Dr. Yao Kahlil Newkirk conducted extensive research bringing new insight into Harris' story as a formerly enslaved person, War of 1812 veteran, canal boat owner, and dedicated member of the Michigan Street Baptist Church.
Uncovering Peyton Harris: Entrepreneur, Abolitionist, and Pioneer of Buffalo's Black Community by Dr. Yao Kahlil Newkirk
Dr. Yao Kahlil Newkirk takes you behind the scenes as he researches Harris and sheds new insight on his life.
This project was made possible in part by a grant from the National Park Foundation.