Yates Freedom Journey

Register today!

Starting February 1, the Yates County History Center will present the Yates Freedom Journey, a virtual learning experience. Track your miles in any way you travel on our virtual map and learn facts about freedom seekers, abolitionists, the Underground Railroad and slavery along the way.

This virtual event is inspired by a Penn Yan resident, John Thomas. In 1835, John Thomas ran from slavery in Leesburg, Virginia to freedom in Penn Yan, New York. While we are not using the exact path he took, we are using his starting and ending points. You are going to use a more direct route: a 325-mile journey which follows along today’s Route 15 corridor.
Freedom Seekers traveled by any means they could. This included walking, running, swimming, traveling by wagons, on horses, in trains and by boat. As the Freedom Seekers used whatever was available to them, we are asking you to do the same thing. Your challenge is to complete 300 miles by walking, running, biking, driving, etc. For this event we are asking you to keep track of your miles no matter what mode you use. Remember this is not a race, there are no prizes for 1st, 2nd or 3rd place.
During your travels on this journey, you will not encounter the dangers Freedom Seekers faced. Traveling the Underground Railroad was a life threatening and life changing experience. The goal was to reach freedom. Some made it, some did not. Some made it to freedom, only to be captured later and returned to slavery. The goal of this event is to build a deeper respect and understanding for the brave freedom-seeking people that attempted this journey North

This virtual event will go from February 1 to June 19, 2022, and costs $50.00. Registration will end May 15, 2022, and the event will close June 19, 2022. Sign up by registering at Yates Freedom Journey: 300 Miles of History (runsignup.com)

A portion of the money raised from this event will be donated to Safe Harbors of the Finger Lakes. They provide confidential services, at no charge, for individuals, children and families who have experienced sexual assault, domestic violence and human trafficking in Ontario, Seneca and Yates Counties in New York.
If you have any questions, please contact us at YatesFreedomJourney@gmail.com.