Read more about these special weekends.
On the first day, the book discussion series will feature open dialogue in the model of the nationally acclaimed "animating democracy forums" to generate town hall meetings by discussing a book chosen specifically for each of the four weekends.
On the second day, scholars and first person living history personae will guide audiences and visitors through a tour of historic sites that relate to that weekend's featured book.
The weekend doesn’t stop there. Participants are encouraged to continue exploring on their own in the present-day communities that were so deeply affected by the Civil War and Underground Railroad trails through cultural and leisurely activities.
The 2009 Live & Learn series are based on selected books that explore race and culture through the lens of four themes: flight, resistance, social change and self-empowerment. Selected works and experiences reflect the essence of the state of independence. These books are listed below along with the dates and locations where they will be featured.
Visit the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission’s (PHMC) online bookstore to order each Live and Learn Weekend featured book or pick up a copy at participating Borders bookstores across Pennsylvania or at the events.
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On the second day, scholars and first person living history personae will guide audiences and visitors through a tour of historic sites that relate to that weekend's featured book.
The weekend doesn’t stop there. Participants are encouraged to continue exploring on their own in the present-day communities that were so deeply affected by the Civil War and Underground Railroad trails through cultural and leisurely activities.
The 2009 Live & Learn series are based on selected books that explore race and culture through the lens of four themes: flight, resistance, social change and self-empowerment. Selected works and experiences reflect the essence of the state of independence. These books are listed below along with the dates and locations where they will be featured.
Visit the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission’s (PHMC) online bookstore to order each Live and Learn Weekend featured book or pick up a copy at participating Borders bookstores across Pennsylvania or at the events.
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For more information on event weekends and to register, click on the region of the event you wish to attend.
FEATURED BOOK
The Radical and the Republican: Frederick Douglass, Abraham Lincoln, and the Triumph of Antislavery Politics by James Oakes
Friday, February 6
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Temple University
Walk Auditorium in Ritter Hall
12th & Montgomery Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19122
Cost: Free
Additional Info: A scholarly presentation and living history program that is presented in conjunction with the 6th Annual Underground Railroad and Black History Conference at Temple University. Dr. Robert F. Engs will moderate a discussion on Lincoln on Emancipation. The Civil War Museum of Philadelphia will then present The Lincoln & Other Douglass Debate living history program. Visitors will witness two of the country’s greatest agents of change converge on issues of slavery, race and democracy. James Oakes, author of the featured book and winner of the prestigious 2008 Lincoln Prize, will lead a post-performance discussion with the audience. Programming Partners: Civil War Museum of Philadelphia, Center for the Humanities at Temple University, African American Studies Department at Temple University, Temple University’s Center for Civil War & Emancipation, African American Museum in Philadelphia, National Constitution Center, Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation.
The first 25 people to sign up for this event will receive a free copy of the book at the event.
Saturday, February 7
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: National Constitution Center
525 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Cost: See below.
Additional Info: Live & Learn Weekend continues with a tour of the world premier exhibition, American I AM: The African American Imprint. Tavis Smiley, television personality and brainchild of radio, presents a sweeping look at the impact of African-Americans over 400 years of history, from pre-colonial times to today. Visitors will also have the opportunity to become part of the exhibit through what organizers are calling the largest oral history project in U.S. history.
Live & Learn Weekend participants will receive a coupon for half off admission to this exhibition ($8.75), FREE admission to the multimedia production, Freedom Rising and a guided tour of the National Constitution Center when they attend the Friday program or sign up for the Quest for Freedom newsletter at gophila.com/questforfreedom.
Friday, February 6
Time: 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Chambersburg Heritage Center
100 Lincoln Way East
Chambersburg, PA
Cost: Cost of the weekend is $35/person or $50/couple. Be sure to mention this promotion and receive a complimentary copy of The Radical and the Republican.
Additional Info: Enlightening and stimulating discussion of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass and their roles in America's quest for freedom. Evening reception includes hors d'oeuvres, music, and scholar-led book discussion.
Saturday, February 7
Time: 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Location: Wilson College
1015 Philadelphia Avenue
Chambersburg, PA
Cost: Cost of the weekend is $35/person or $50/couple. Be sure to mention this promotion and receive a complimentary copy of The Radical and the Republican.
Additional Info: 8:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.: Doors open for continental breakfast
9 a.m. - 11 a.m.: Presentation and discussion of Alexander McClure. McClure, a strong political ally of Abraham Lincoln, was instrumental in helping Lincoln claim Pennsylvania in the election of 1860. The tract of land on which Wilson College resides was owned by McClure and includes his home, Norland Hall, which was rebuilt after the 1864 Confederate burning.
11 a.m. - 12 p.m.: Tour of Norland Hall, former home of Alexander McClure.
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.: Depart Wilson College and view Chambersburg sites associated with Martin Delany, Frederick Douglass, and John Brown.
1:00 p.m. Arrive at Angelic Inn, home of Cumberland Valley Railroad president and Pennsylvania Railroad vice president Moorhead C. Kennedy, for lunch and tour of this historic property.
2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.: Randy Harris presentation: “What is the Role of the Rail in the Underground Railroad?”
Friday, February 6
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Hosted by The LeMoyne House at
Washington & Jefferson College - Old Main Building
60 S. Lincoln St.
Washington, PA 15301
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Join us for a reception and introductory talk, as Mary Peck Bond, daughter of noted abolitionist John Peck, hosts President Abraham Lincoln and scholar Veronica Watson, Associate Professor and Director, of the Frederick Douglass at Institute Indiana University Pittsburgh.
The first 50 people to sign up for this event will receive a free copy of the book at the event.
Saturday, February 7
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Hosted by The LeMoyne House at
Washington & Jefferson College - Old Main Building
60 S. Lincoln St.
Washington, PA 15301
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Live & Learn Weekend continues at a continental breakfast with President Lincoln and Mary Peck Bond, followed by dramatic readings and lively discussions centered on the featured book. Come and learn about the lives of those who made this era one of the most notable in our nation’s history
The Radical and the Republican: Frederick Douglass, Abraham Lincoln, and the Triumph of Antislavery Politics by James Oakes
Philadelphia Weekend Information - 
Friday, February 6
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Temple University
Walk Auditorium in Ritter Hall
12th & Montgomery Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19122
Cost: Free
Additional Info: A scholarly presentation and living history program that is presented in conjunction with the 6th Annual Underground Railroad and Black History Conference at Temple University. Dr. Robert F. Engs will moderate a discussion on Lincoln on Emancipation. The Civil War Museum of Philadelphia will then present The Lincoln & Other Douglass Debate living history program. Visitors will witness two of the country’s greatest agents of change converge on issues of slavery, race and democracy. James Oakes, author of the featured book and winner of the prestigious 2008 Lincoln Prize, will lead a post-performance discussion with the audience. Programming Partners: Civil War Museum of Philadelphia, Center for the Humanities at Temple University, African American Studies Department at Temple University, Temple University’s Center for Civil War & Emancipation, African American Museum in Philadelphia, National Constitution Center, Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation.
The first 25 people to sign up for this event will receive a free copy of the book at the event.
Saturday, February 7
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: National Constitution Center
525 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Cost: See below.
Additional Info: Live & Learn Weekend continues with a tour of the world premier exhibition, American I AM: The African American Imprint. Tavis Smiley, television personality and brainchild of radio, presents a sweeping look at the impact of African-Americans over 400 years of history, from pre-colonial times to today. Visitors will also have the opportunity to become part of the exhibit through what organizers are calling the largest oral history project in U.S. history.
Live & Learn Weekend participants will receive a coupon for half off admission to this exhibition ($8.75), FREE admission to the multimedia production, Freedom Rising and a guided tour of the National Constitution Center when they attend the Friday program or sign up for the Quest for Freedom newsletter at gophila.com/questforfreedom.
Chambersburg Weekend Information -
Friday, February 6
Time: 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Chambersburg Heritage Center
100 Lincoln Way East
Chambersburg, PA
Cost: Cost of the weekend is $35/person or $50/couple. Be sure to mention this promotion and receive a complimentary copy of The Radical and the Republican.
Additional Info: Enlightening and stimulating discussion of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass and their roles in America's quest for freedom. Evening reception includes hors d'oeuvres, music, and scholar-led book discussion.
Saturday, February 7
Time: 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Location: Wilson College
1015 Philadelphia Avenue
Chambersburg, PA
Cost: Cost of the weekend is $35/person or $50/couple. Be sure to mention this promotion and receive a complimentary copy of The Radical and the Republican.
Additional Info: 8:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.: Doors open for continental breakfast
9 a.m. - 11 a.m.: Presentation and discussion of Alexander McClure. McClure, a strong political ally of Abraham Lincoln, was instrumental in helping Lincoln claim Pennsylvania in the election of 1860. The tract of land on which Wilson College resides was owned by McClure and includes his home, Norland Hall, which was rebuilt after the 1864 Confederate burning.
11 a.m. - 12 p.m.: Tour of Norland Hall, former home of Alexander McClure.
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.: Depart Wilson College and view Chambersburg sites associated with Martin Delany, Frederick Douglass, and John Brown.
1:00 p.m. Arrive at Angelic Inn, home of Cumberland Valley Railroad president and Pennsylvania Railroad vice president Moorhead C. Kennedy, for lunch and tour of this historic property.
2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.: Randy Harris presentation: “What is the Role of the Rail in the Underground Railroad?”
Pittsburgh Weekend Information -
Friday, February 6
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Hosted by The LeMoyne House at
Washington & Jefferson College - Old Main Building
60 S. Lincoln St.
Washington, PA 15301
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Join us for a reception and introductory talk, as Mary Peck Bond, daughter of noted abolitionist John Peck, hosts President Abraham Lincoln and scholar Veronica Watson, Associate Professor and Director, of the Frederick Douglass at Institute Indiana University Pittsburgh.
The first 50 people to sign up for this event will receive a free copy of the book at the event.
Saturday, February 7
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Hosted by The LeMoyne House at
Washington & Jefferson College - Old Main Building
60 S. Lincoln St.
Washington, PA 15301
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Live & Learn Weekend continues at a continental breakfast with President Lincoln and Mary Peck Bond, followed by dramatic readings and lively discussions centered on the featured book. Come and learn about the lives of those who made this era one of the most notable in our nation’s history
FEATURED BOOK
Song Yet Sung by James McBride
Friday, April 10
Time: 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Senator John Heinz History Center
1212 Smallman Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Decoding the Past: Encoding the Future – Join historical characters Martin R. Delaney, Pittsburgh newspaper publisher, physician, author, and abolitionist, and Mary Peck Bond, daughter of noted abolitionist John Peck for a reception followed by an abolitionist-style town hall meeting. Scholar Veronica Watson, Associate Professor, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, will help lead the conversation on understanding the secret codes of the past and looking towards encoding the future. James McBride’s novel Song Yet Sung will be featured throughout the event. The first 50 people to sign up for this program will receive a free copy of the featured book.
Saturday, April 11
Time: 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: Senator John Heinz History Center
1212 Smallman Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Return with the historic characters Mary Peck Bond and Martin R. Delaney and our scholar for a continental breakfast and a journey to discovering the facts and fiction of coded messages that figured so prominently in the featured book Song Yet Sung. Fabric artist and quilt collector Christine Bethea is the special guest. A unique performance piece you won’t want to miss will finish out this weekend visit to the past!
Friday, April 17
Time: 6 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: PA Dutch CVB Theatre
501 Greenfield Road
Lancaster, PA 17601
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Book discussion with scholar.
Saturday, April 18
Time: 8:30 a.m
Location: Pick up location is at PA Dutch CVB Theatre
501 Greenfield Road
Lancaster, PA 17601
Cost: $20
Additional Info: Live and Learn Bus Tour, Lancaster to Gettysburg: Tour Gettysburg Visitor's Center.
Friday, April 17
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Location: Erie County Historical Society's Watson-Curtze Mansion
356 W 6th St
Erie, PA 16507
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Join first-person interpreters and immerse yourself into another time as you learn about the significant history of Erie during this era. Participants will be guided in a discussion of this history and an introduction to the featured book, as they are led through the African American Experience exhibit by scholar Sarah Thompson, collaborator on Journey from Jerusalem, and past Director of Education for the Erie County Historical Society.
Saturday, April 18
Time: 10:00 – Noon
Location: Erie County Historical Society's Watson-Curtze Mansion
356 W 6th St
Erie, PA 16507
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Gather with first-person interpreters and scholar Sarah Thompson for a delicious continental breakfast and a insightful interactive journey through the featured book. This weekend’s immersion experience will conclude with a special musical presentation.
Friday, May 1
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Location: Song Yet Sung Salon
National Archives Records Mid-Atlantic Region
900 Market Street (entrance on Chestnut Street between 9th and 10th Streets)
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Join in an engaging conversation that explores the legacy of slavery in the United States, based on best-selling author James McBride’s novel Song Yet Sung. Investigate how the young heroine’s struggle to gain freedom resonates with the contemporary challenges and issues facing our nation today. The Pennsylvania Past Players historical characters and humanities scholar Robert Engs are catalysts for the discussion. Food and live music are all part of this "salon" experience, which is free and open to the public. The evening is hosted by the National Archives, which is celebrating its 75th Anniversary, and features Elusive Freedom: 1808-1860, which chronicles the little known story of American public and governmental actions that crippled the effectiveness of the 1808 slave trade ban by Congress that was authorized in the U.S. Constitution. Also, the Atwater Kent Museum of Philadelphia will display some of its rare artifacts from the museum’s Quest for Freedom program.
Saturday, May 2
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: America I AM: The African American Imprint exhibition
National Constitution Center
525 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Cost: See below.
Additional Info: On Saturday, guests have a last-chance opportunity to tour the world premier exhibition,American I AM: The African American Imprint, at the National Constitution Center. Tavis Smiley, television personality and brainchild of radio, presents a sweeping look at the impact of African-Americans over 400 years of history, from pre-colonial times to today. Visitors also have the opportunity to become part of the exhibit through what organizers are calling the largest oral history project in U.S. history.
Live & Learn Weekend participants will receive a coupon for discounted admission to this exhibition ($5.50) and FREE admission to the multimedia production, Freedom Rising at the Friday program. Dr. Robert Engs and V. Chapman-Smith of the National Archives Mid-Atlantic Region will lead this tour along with special guests from the PA Past Players. The discounted admission will also be made available to participants when they sign up for the Quest e-newsletter on Gophila.com.
The Pennsylvania Quest for Freedom Live & Learn Weekends are presented by the Pennsylvania Tourism Office, the Pennsylvania Humanities Council (PHC), and the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation (GPTMC).
Friday, May 8
Time: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Dickinson College
Cost: Free
Additional Info: A book discussion of Song Yet Sung by James McBride. Dr. LaTonya Thames-Taylor, Frederick Douglass Scholar and history professor at West Chester University will lead the discussion. Evening reception includes hors d’oeuvres, music and scholar-led book discussion.
Includes a FREE copy of the featured book for the first 25 registered participants. Seating is limited and preregistration is required.
Saturday, May 9
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Dickinson College
Cost: $30/person or $50/couple.
Additional Info: Google Earth virtual UGRR field trips. The House Divided Project at Dickinson College has created fascinating new virtual field trips using Google Earth and Google Sketch Up that allow people to see and learn about Underground Railroad landmarks across Pennsylvania and the eastern United States. Users can recreate the journey of Henry “Box” Brown who escaped from slavery in 1849 inside of a crate shipped from Richmond to Philadelphia. They can also see three-dimensional representations of buildings associated with the Underground Railroad, including some no longer standing. Also included in the day’s events are: Underground Railroad guided tour around Historic Carlisle; lunch with Thaddeus Stevens and Mary Peck Bonds; and a Cumberland County Historical Society museum tour.
Song Yet Sung by James McBride
Pittsburgh Information -
Friday, April 10
Time: 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Senator John Heinz History Center
1212 Smallman Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Decoding the Past: Encoding the Future – Join historical characters Martin R. Delaney, Pittsburgh newspaper publisher, physician, author, and abolitionist, and Mary Peck Bond, daughter of noted abolitionist John Peck for a reception followed by an abolitionist-style town hall meeting. Scholar Veronica Watson, Associate Professor, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, will help lead the conversation on understanding the secret codes of the past and looking towards encoding the future. James McBride’s novel Song Yet Sung will be featured throughout the event. The first 50 people to sign up for this program will receive a free copy of the featured book.
Saturday, April 11
Time: 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: Senator John Heinz History Center
1212 Smallman Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Return with the historic characters Mary Peck Bond and Martin R. Delaney and our scholar for a continental breakfast and a journey to discovering the facts and fiction of coded messages that figured so prominently in the featured book Song Yet Sung. Fabric artist and quilt collector Christine Bethea is the special guest. A unique performance piece you won’t want to miss will finish out this weekend visit to the past!
Lancaster Weekend Information -
Friday, April 17
Time: 6 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: PA Dutch CVB Theatre
501 Greenfield Road
Lancaster, PA 17601
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Book discussion with scholar.
Saturday, April 18
Time: 8:30 a.m
Location: Pick up location is at PA Dutch CVB Theatre
501 Greenfield Road
Lancaster, PA 17601
Cost: $20
Additional Info: Live and Learn Bus Tour, Lancaster to Gettysburg: Tour Gettysburg Visitor's Center.
Erie Weekend Information -
Friday, April 17
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Location: Erie County Historical Society's Watson-Curtze Mansion
356 W 6th St
Erie, PA 16507
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Join first-person interpreters and immerse yourself into another time as you learn about the significant history of Erie during this era. Participants will be guided in a discussion of this history and an introduction to the featured book, as they are led through the African American Experience exhibit by scholar Sarah Thompson, collaborator on Journey from Jerusalem, and past Director of Education for the Erie County Historical Society.
Saturday, April 18
Time: 10:00 – Noon
Location: Erie County Historical Society's Watson-Curtze Mansion
356 W 6th St
Erie, PA 16507
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Gather with first-person interpreters and scholar Sarah Thompson for a delicious continental breakfast and a insightful interactive journey through the featured book. This weekend’s immersion experience will conclude with a special musical presentation.
Philadelphia Weekend Information -
Friday, May 1
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Location: Song Yet Sung Salon
National Archives Records Mid-Atlantic Region
900 Market Street (entrance on Chestnut Street between 9th and 10th Streets)
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Join in an engaging conversation that explores the legacy of slavery in the United States, based on best-selling author James McBride’s novel Song Yet Sung. Investigate how the young heroine’s struggle to gain freedom resonates with the contemporary challenges and issues facing our nation today. The Pennsylvania Past Players historical characters and humanities scholar Robert Engs are catalysts for the discussion. Food and live music are all part of this "salon" experience, which is free and open to the public. The evening is hosted by the National Archives, which is celebrating its 75th Anniversary, and features Elusive Freedom: 1808-1860, which chronicles the little known story of American public and governmental actions that crippled the effectiveness of the 1808 slave trade ban by Congress that was authorized in the U.S. Constitution. Also, the Atwater Kent Museum of Philadelphia will display some of its rare artifacts from the museum’s Quest for Freedom program.
Saturday, May 2
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: America I AM: The African American Imprint exhibition
National Constitution Center
525 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Cost: See below.
Additional Info: On Saturday, guests have a last-chance opportunity to tour the world premier exhibition,American I AM: The African American Imprint, at the National Constitution Center. Tavis Smiley, television personality and brainchild of radio, presents a sweeping look at the impact of African-Americans over 400 years of history, from pre-colonial times to today. Visitors also have the opportunity to become part of the exhibit through what organizers are calling the largest oral history project in U.S. history.
Live & Learn Weekend participants will receive a coupon for discounted admission to this exhibition ($5.50) and FREE admission to the multimedia production, Freedom Rising at the Friday program. Dr. Robert Engs and V. Chapman-Smith of the National Archives Mid-Atlantic Region will lead this tour along with special guests from the PA Past Players. The discounted admission will also be made available to participants when they sign up for the Quest e-newsletter on Gophila.com.
The Pennsylvania Quest for Freedom Live & Learn Weekends are presented by the Pennsylvania Tourism Office, the Pennsylvania Humanities Council (PHC), and the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation (GPTMC).
Carlisle Weekend Information -
Friday, May 8
Time: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Dickinson College
Cost: Free
Additional Info: A book discussion of Song Yet Sung by James McBride. Dr. LaTonya Thames-Taylor, Frederick Douglass Scholar and history professor at West Chester University will lead the discussion. Evening reception includes hors d’oeuvres, music and scholar-led book discussion.
Includes a FREE copy of the featured book for the first 25 registered participants. Seating is limited and preregistration is required.
Saturday, May 9
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Dickinson College
Cost: $30/person or $50/couple.
Additional Info: Google Earth virtual UGRR field trips. The House Divided Project at Dickinson College has created fascinating new virtual field trips using Google Earth and Google Sketch Up that allow people to see and learn about Underground Railroad landmarks across Pennsylvania and the eastern United States. Users can recreate the journey of Henry “Box” Brown who escaped from slavery in 1849 inside of a crate shipped from Richmond to Philadelphia. They can also see three-dimensional representations of buildings associated with the Underground Railroad, including some no longer standing. Also included in the day’s events are: Underground Railroad guided tour around Historic Carlisle; lunch with Thaddeus Stevens and Mary Peck Bonds; and a Cumberland County Historical Society museum tour.
FEATURED BOOK
Fleeing for Freedom: Stories of the Underground Railroad as told by William Still and Levi Coffin by George and Willene Hendrick
Friday, June 19
Time: 6 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: PA Dutch CVB Theatre
501 Greenfield Road
Lancaster, PA 17601
Cost:
Additional Info: Fleeing for Freedom: Stories of the Underground Railroad as told by William Still and Levi Coffin by George and Willene Hendrick. A valuable condensation of two classic narratives of the Underground Railroad, Coffin and Still’s works include some of the classic escape narratives like the stories of Henry Box Brown, who had himself shipped as freight, and of the Gateses, who disguised themselves as a young master (the light-skinned wife) and her body servant (the darker husband). Throughout the history of the escape network, both black and white persons risked their lives in the South and, once the Fugitive Slave Act was passed, in the North as well. The Christiana, Pennsylvania, shootout described by Still goes far to explain how much damage that odious Act and the slave-catchers it let loose in the North did, and the book as a whole illustrates the emerging crisis over slavery in human terms.
Saturday, June 20
Time: Juneteenth Community Celebration: Noon to 3 p.m.
Location: Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
750 E. King Street
Lancaster, PA 17601
All activities will be held on the front lawn off King Street.
Cost: Juneteenth speech and music is free. Food event is $15.
Additional Info: A community program featuring speakers and music will be held from noon until 3:00 p.m. Guest speakers, performances by the Bright Side Men’s Choir, the Bethel AME Choir, Abandoned Lyrics and the PA Past Players.
From 12:30 – 2:30 p.m., Lancaster’s community leaders will be offering attendees samples of their culinary specialties in the “Men Who Cook” event. Some of the participants will include Pedro Rivera, Superintendent of the School District of Lancaster; Ted Darcus, community leader; Craig Lehman, Lancaster County Commissioner; Keith Sadler, Chief of the Lancaster City Police Department; Rev. Roland Forbes, of Ebenezer Baptist Church; Tim Gregg, Lancaster City Fire Chief; and Paul Culbreth, Director of Multicultural Affairs of Thaddeus Stevens College to Technology.
Admission to the Juneteenth speeches and music is free; admission to the “Men Who Cook” food event is $15.00. All are invited to attend this fundraiser for Crispus Attucks. Tickets may be purchased in advance, or obtained at the entrance to the event. Parking is provided on site, with an entrance off Broad Street. In case of rain, the event will be held in Jones Dining Hall on campus.
Saturday, June 20
Time: Living the Experience: 1 p.m.
Location: Lancaster’s Bethel AME Church
450-512 E. Strawberry Street
Lancaster, PA 17602
All activities will be held on the front lawn off King Street.
Cost: See below.
Additional Info: A compelling story of a mother (Esther) and her two children (Elijah and Letty) and events leading up to the day of June 19, 1865, when they learn for the first time that they are free, free indeed. The story is set on the Andrews plantation in Galveston, Texas. The events of this family will make you cry, laugh, fume and be compassionately more aware of how precious life and family are. Come witness a live auction block experience, and see the Union Soldiers as they try and uphold the Emancipation Proclamation of 1863, giving freedom to Africans. Join us for dinner after the show for a time of fellowship and then a discussion about the mental and emotional reaction to the Juneteenth story and what it means to be a free American today.
A limited number of complimentary tickets for this stirring performance are available, by contacting Alice Sanders at (717) 917-6917. See a short video and learn more about Bethel AME Church.
Friday, June 26
Time: See event contact info below.
Location: Allenberry Playhouse
1559 Boiling Springs Road
Boiling Springs, PA 17007
Cost:
Additional Info:
Saturday, June 27
Time:
Location: Allenberry Playhouse
1559 Boiling Springs Road
Boiling Springs, PA 17007
Cost:
Additional Info:
Friday, June 26
Part I
Time: Hidden City Event: 6 p.m.
Location: Mother Bethel AME Church
419 South 6th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Part II
Time: UrbanPhilly.com Reception: 7 p.m.
Location: Reef Caribbean Lounge
605 S. 3rd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Cost: Book discussion is free.
Additional Info: Join visual and performing artist Sanford Biggers at Mother Bethel AME Church as he discusses Constellation, his art installation project for the Hidden City Philadelphia program. Constellation demystifies the secret symbols of the Underground Railroad in Philadelphia and depicts safe houses as stars on a map, creating a constellation in which Mother Bethel is the North Star.
Live & Learn scholar Dr. Veronica Watson will moderate the discussion in context to George and Willene Hendrick’s Fleeing for Freedom: Stories of the Underground Railroad as told by Levi Coffin and William Still (2004).
After the discussion, join UrbanPhilly.com for a reception with the artist at Reef Caribbean Lounge on nearby South Street.
Saturday, June 27
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: The African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Cost: See below.
Additional Info: Be among the first to experience The African American Museum in Philadelphia’s new permanent exhibition, Audacious Freedom: The History of African Americans in Philadelphia, 1776-1876. Pennsylvania Past Players Frances Harper and Thomas Chester will lead this insider’s tour of the interactive exhibition, where participants will listen to life-sized 3D characters speak about their lives, beliefs and aspirations in 18th-century Philadelphia; explore an interactive timeline; and discover whose descendants still call the region home.
Live & Learn Weekend participants will receive discounted admission to this exhibition.
Adults: $8
Youth (4-12 years old): $6
Students (with I.D.): $6
Senior Citizens: $6
Friday, September 4
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Location: Erie County Historical Society
419 State Street
Erie, PA 16501
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Reception and brief history talk with scholar.
Saturday, September 5
Time: 10:00 – Noon
Location: Erie County Historical Society
419 State Street
Erie, PA 16501
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Book discussion with scholar; tours of local UGRR sites.
Friday, September 11
Time: See event contact info below.
Location: Blairsville UGRR Museum
116 E. Campbell Street
Blairsville, PA 15717
Cost: Free
Additional Info:
Saturday, September 12
Time:
Location: Blairsville UGRR Museum
116 E. Campbell Street
Blairsville, PA 15717
Cost: Free
Additional Info:
Fleeing for Freedom: Stories of the Underground Railroad as told by William Still and Levi Coffin by George and Willene Hendrick
June 26 – 27
Boiling Springs
Philadelphia
September 4 – 5
Erie
September 11 – 12
Pittsburgh (Blairsville)
Boiling Springs
Philadelphia
September 4 – 5
Erie
September 11 – 12
Pittsburgh (Blairsville)
Lancaster Weekend Information -
Friday, June 19
Time: 6 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: PA Dutch CVB Theatre
501 Greenfield Road
Lancaster, PA 17601
Cost:
Additional Info: Fleeing for Freedom: Stories of the Underground Railroad as told by William Still and Levi Coffin by George and Willene Hendrick. A valuable condensation of two classic narratives of the Underground Railroad, Coffin and Still’s works include some of the classic escape narratives like the stories of Henry Box Brown, who had himself shipped as freight, and of the Gateses, who disguised themselves as a young master (the light-skinned wife) and her body servant (the darker husband). Throughout the history of the escape network, both black and white persons risked their lives in the South and, once the Fugitive Slave Act was passed, in the North as well. The Christiana, Pennsylvania, shootout described by Still goes far to explain how much damage that odious Act and the slave-catchers it let loose in the North did, and the book as a whole illustrates the emerging crisis over slavery in human terms.
Saturday, June 20
Time: Juneteenth Community Celebration: Noon to 3 p.m.
Location: Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
750 E. King Street
Lancaster, PA 17601
All activities will be held on the front lawn off King Street.
Cost: Juneteenth speech and music is free. Food event is $15.
Additional Info: A community program featuring speakers and music will be held from noon until 3:00 p.m. Guest speakers, performances by the Bright Side Men’s Choir, the Bethel AME Choir, Abandoned Lyrics and the PA Past Players.
From 12:30 – 2:30 p.m., Lancaster’s community leaders will be offering attendees samples of their culinary specialties in the “Men Who Cook” event. Some of the participants will include Pedro Rivera, Superintendent of the School District of Lancaster; Ted Darcus, community leader; Craig Lehman, Lancaster County Commissioner; Keith Sadler, Chief of the Lancaster City Police Department; Rev. Roland Forbes, of Ebenezer Baptist Church; Tim Gregg, Lancaster City Fire Chief; and Paul Culbreth, Director of Multicultural Affairs of Thaddeus Stevens College to Technology.
Admission to the Juneteenth speeches and music is free; admission to the “Men Who Cook” food event is $15.00. All are invited to attend this fundraiser for Crispus Attucks. Tickets may be purchased in advance, or obtained at the entrance to the event. Parking is provided on site, with an entrance off Broad Street. In case of rain, the event will be held in Jones Dining Hall on campus.
Saturday, June 20
Time: Living the Experience: 1 p.m.
Location: Lancaster’s Bethel AME Church
450-512 E. Strawberry Street
Lancaster, PA 17602
All activities will be held on the front lawn off King Street.
Cost: See below.
Additional Info: A compelling story of a mother (Esther) and her two children (Elijah and Letty) and events leading up to the day of June 19, 1865, when they learn for the first time that they are free, free indeed. The story is set on the Andrews plantation in Galveston, Texas. The events of this family will make you cry, laugh, fume and be compassionately more aware of how precious life and family are. Come witness a live auction block experience, and see the Union Soldiers as they try and uphold the Emancipation Proclamation of 1863, giving freedom to Africans. Join us for dinner after the show for a time of fellowship and then a discussion about the mental and emotional reaction to the Juneteenth story and what it means to be a free American today.
A limited number of complimentary tickets for this stirring performance are available, by contacting Alice Sanders at (717) 917-6917. See a short video and learn more about Bethel AME Church.
Boiling Springs Weekend Information -
Friday, June 26
Time: See event contact info below.
Location: Allenberry Playhouse
1559 Boiling Springs Road
Boiling Springs, PA 17007
Cost:
Additional Info:
Saturday, June 27
Time:
Location: Allenberry Playhouse
1559 Boiling Springs Road
Boiling Springs, PA 17007
Cost:
Additional Info:
Philadelphia Weekend Information -
Friday, June 26
Part I
Time: Hidden City Event: 6 p.m.
Location: Mother Bethel AME Church
419 South 6th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Part II
Time: UrbanPhilly.com Reception: 7 p.m.
Location: Reef Caribbean Lounge
605 S. 3rd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Cost: Book discussion is free.
Additional Info: Join visual and performing artist Sanford Biggers at Mother Bethel AME Church as he discusses Constellation, his art installation project for the Hidden City Philadelphia program. Constellation demystifies the secret symbols of the Underground Railroad in Philadelphia and depicts safe houses as stars on a map, creating a constellation in which Mother Bethel is the North Star.
Live & Learn scholar Dr. Veronica Watson will moderate the discussion in context to George and Willene Hendrick’s Fleeing for Freedom: Stories of the Underground Railroad as told by Levi Coffin and William Still (2004).
After the discussion, join UrbanPhilly.com for a reception with the artist at Reef Caribbean Lounge on nearby South Street.
Saturday, June 27
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: The African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Cost: See below.
Additional Info: Be among the first to experience The African American Museum in Philadelphia’s new permanent exhibition, Audacious Freedom: The History of African Americans in Philadelphia, 1776-1876. Pennsylvania Past Players Frances Harper and Thomas Chester will lead this insider’s tour of the interactive exhibition, where participants will listen to life-sized 3D characters speak about their lives, beliefs and aspirations in 18th-century Philadelphia; explore an interactive timeline; and discover whose descendants still call the region home.
Live & Learn Weekend participants will receive discounted admission to this exhibition.
Adults: $8
Youth (4-12 years old): $6
Students (with I.D.): $6
Senior Citizens: $6
Erie Weekend Information -
Friday, September 4
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Location: Erie County Historical Society
419 State Street
Erie, PA 16501
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Reception and brief history talk with scholar.
Saturday, September 5
Time: 10:00 – Noon
Location: Erie County Historical Society
419 State Street
Erie, PA 16501
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Book discussion with scholar; tours of local UGRR sites.
Pittsburgh Weekend Information -
Friday, September 11
Time: See event contact info below.
Location: Blairsville UGRR Museum
116 E. Campbell Street
Blairsville, PA 15717
Cost: Free
Additional Info:
Saturday, September 12
Time:
Location: Blairsville UGRR Museum
116 E. Campbell Street
Blairsville, PA 15717
Cost: Free
Additional Info:
FEATURED BOOK
My Confederate Kinfolk: A Twenty-First Century Freedwoman Discovers Her Roots by Thulani Davis
Friday, October 16
Time: 6 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Wheatland Mansion
1120 Marietta Avenue
Lancaster, PA 17603
Cost:
Additional Info: Live and Learn reception and celebration.
Saturday, October 17
Time: 9 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: PA Dutch CVB Theatre
501 Greenfield Road
Lancaster, PA 17601
Cost:
Additional Info: Book discussion with scholar.
Friday, October 23
Time: 5:30 – 6:00 p.m. View the African American Museum’s new permanent exhibit: Audacious Freedom: The History of African Americans in Philadelphia 1776 – 1876
6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Evening program
Location: African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Join members of the African American Museum in Philadelphia’s book club for a roundtable discussion about the role of African Americans before and during the Civil War and throughout Reconstruction. Excerpts will be read from Thulani Davis’ memoir, My Confederate Kinfolk: A Twenty-First Century Freedwoman Discovers Her Roots, a gripping tale that chronicles her family’s lineage, ties to slavery, and the making of ‘race’ in America. Following the discussion, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in a genealogy workshop to trace their own family tree, using various research methods and techniques.
The first 25 people to sign up for this program will receive a free copy of the book at the event.
Saturday, October 24
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Additional Info: Visitors take a self-guided tour of the Quest for Freedom heritage trail throughout the Philadelphia area. Using the new Pennsylvania Quest for Freedom: Philadelphia brochure, start at the African American Museum in Philadelphia’s newest exhibit, Audacious Freedom: The History of African Americans in Philadelphia 1776 – 1876, and visit sites such as Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church, the National Constitution Center, the Liberty Bell Center in Independence National Historical Park, the Underground Railroad Museum at Belmont Mansion, the Johnson House Historic Site and Cliveden in Germantown and more historic treasures.
Friday, November 6
Time: See event contact info below.
Location: Mercersburg Academy
300 East Seminary Street
Mercersburg, PA 17236
Cost:
Additional Info:
Saturday, November 7
Time: See event contact info below.
Location: Mercersburg Academy
300 East Seminary Street
Mercersburg, PA 17236
Cost:
Additional Info:
Friday, November 13
Time: See event contact info below.
Location: Senator John Heinz History Center
1212 Smallman Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Cost: Free
Additional Info:
Saturday, November 14
Time: See event contact info below.
Location: Senator John Heinz History Center
1212 Smallman Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Cost: Free
Additional Info:
The scholars for each location are:My Confederate Kinfolk: A Twenty-First Century Freedwoman Discovers Her Roots by Thulani Davis
October 16 – 17
Lancaster
October 23 – 24
Philadelphia
November 6 – 7
Mercersburg
November 13 – 14
Pittsburgh
Lancaster
October 23 – 24
Philadelphia
November 6 – 7
Mercersburg
November 13 – 14
Pittsburgh
Lancaster Weekend Information -
Friday, October 16
Time: 6 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Wheatland Mansion
1120 Marietta Avenue
Lancaster, PA 17603
Cost:
Additional Info: Live and Learn reception and celebration.
Saturday, October 17
Time: 9 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: PA Dutch CVB Theatre
501 Greenfield Road
Lancaster, PA 17601
Cost:
Additional Info: Book discussion with scholar.
Philadelphia Weekend Information -
Friday, October 23
Time: 5:30 – 6:00 p.m. View the African American Museum’s new permanent exhibit: Audacious Freedom: The History of African Americans in Philadelphia 1776 – 1876
6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Evening program
Location: African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Join members of the African American Museum in Philadelphia’s book club for a roundtable discussion about the role of African Americans before and during the Civil War and throughout Reconstruction. Excerpts will be read from Thulani Davis’ memoir, My Confederate Kinfolk: A Twenty-First Century Freedwoman Discovers Her Roots, a gripping tale that chronicles her family’s lineage, ties to slavery, and the making of ‘race’ in America. Following the discussion, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in a genealogy workshop to trace their own family tree, using various research methods and techniques.
The first 25 people to sign up for this program will receive a free copy of the book at the event.
Saturday, October 24
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA
Cost: Free
Additional Info: Additional Info: Visitors take a self-guided tour of the Quest for Freedom heritage trail throughout the Philadelphia area. Using the new Pennsylvania Quest for Freedom: Philadelphia brochure, start at the African American Museum in Philadelphia’s newest exhibit, Audacious Freedom: The History of African Americans in Philadelphia 1776 – 1876, and visit sites such as Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church, the National Constitution Center, the Liberty Bell Center in Independence National Historical Park, the Underground Railroad Museum at Belmont Mansion, the Johnson House Historic Site and Cliveden in Germantown and more historic treasures.
Mercersburg Weekend Information -
Friday, November 6
Time: See event contact info below.
Location: Mercersburg Academy
300 East Seminary Street
Mercersburg, PA 17236
Cost:
Additional Info:
Saturday, November 7
Time: See event contact info below.
Location: Mercersburg Academy
300 East Seminary Street
Mercersburg, PA 17236
Cost:
Additional Info:
Pittsburgh Weekend Information -
Friday, November 13
Time: See event contact info below.
Location: Senator John Heinz History Center
1212 Smallman Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Cost: Free
Additional Info:
Saturday, November 14
Time: See event contact info below.
Location: Senator John Heinz History Center
1212 Smallman Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Cost: Free
Additional Info:
Philadelphia: Dr. Robert Engs of University of Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh: Veronica Watson, Assistant Dean of Indiana University of Pennsylvania’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences and Director of the Frederick Douglass Institute
Lancaster: Dr. Louise Stevens of Franklin and Marshall College
Erie: Sarah Thompson, former Director of Education for the Erie County Historical Society
Chambersburg/Carlisle: Latonya Thames-Taylor of West Chester University
Regional Contact Information
Chambersburg/Carlisle - Janet Pollard: (717) 709-7204 or jkpollard@co.franklin.pa.us.
Erie - Terri Blanchette: (412) 454-6411 or tsblanchette@hswp.org.
Melinda Meyer: (814) 454-1815 ext. 24.
Lancaster County - Alice Sanders: (717) 917-6917 or asanders@padutchcountry.com.
Philadelphia - Almaz D. Kinder: (215) 599-2295, quest@gptmc.com or visit gophila.com/questforfreedom.
Pittsburgh - Terri Blanchette: (412) 454-6411 or tsblanchette@hswp.org.
Quest for Freedom and Live and Learn Weekends are projects of the Pennsylvania Tourism Office. Jump Street, Pennsylvania Humanities Council (PHC) and Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) are co-sponsors of the Quest for Freedom Live and Learn Weekends. Jump Street will provide tour guides to Underground Railroad sites as well as trained facilitators and first-person living history personas. PHC will curate and facilitate the selection and distribution of books, the orientation of sites and the evaluation of the overall program. PHMC assists sites in the evaluation of their historic assets and provides articles on the Underground Railroad through their Heritage Magazine.
Pick up a book at participating Borders Book Stores across Pennsylvania. Borders Books Inc, WITF-89.5 FM, American Urban Radio Network, and The New Pittsburgh Courier have also provided promotional support for this project.
Pennsylvania is proud to be a partner with the National Park Services Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. The Network to Freedom program is a diverse collection of resources comprised of historic sites, facilities and programs that have a verifiable association to the Underground Railroad; and, tells the story of resistance against the institution of slavery in the United States through escape and flight. Pennsylvania has over 30 sites, facilities and programs certified by the Network to Freedom.
Pick up a book at participating Borders Book Stores across Pennsylvania. Borders Books Inc, WITF-89.5 FM, American Urban Radio Network, and The New Pittsburgh Courier have also provided promotional support for this project.
Pennsylvania is proud to be a partner with the National Park Services Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. The Network to Freedom program is a diverse collection of resources comprised of historic sites, facilities and programs that have a verifiable association to the Underground Railroad; and, tells the story of resistance against the institution of slavery in the United States through escape and flight. Pennsylvania has over 30 sites, facilities and programs certified by the Network to Freedom.
