Special to 1808Delaware
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the very first Heritage of Freedom Trail in the state at Alum Creek State Park, which commemorates Ohio’s history related to the Underground Railroad.
“Ohio played a pivotal role in the path of the Underground Railroad leading many enslaved people to freedom,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “With the opening of Ohio’s first Heritage of Freedom trail today, we honor and preserve an important piece of history through nature for generations to come.”
“The Underground Railroad is a key part of Ohio’s history,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “This Heritage of Freedom Trail serves as a visual history lesson and provides an immersive way to see what freedom seekers faced in Ohio’s natural environment during this time in history.”
The trail head is located near the Galena Boat Ramp at Alum Creek State Park. The trail is a natural surface loop that is just under three-quarters of a mile. It features informative signage that calls on visitors to observe the nature around them while absorbing the history of the area. The trail is designed for visitors of all ages.
By walking the trail, visitors can learn about the local history of the Underground Railroad, which includes the 19th century community of Africa, Ohio, a historic free Black community. The trail will also feature signs highlighting ways in which freedom seekers interacted with nature, such as navigating using the stars in the night sky and foraging for food.
Partners who assisted in the project include Mayor of Westerville Kenneth Wright, WeRise for Greater Westerville President James Prysock, and the Westerville Historical Society.
The trail at Alum Creek State Park is the first Heritage of Freedom Trails in the state. Additional Heritage of Freedom Trails are planned for East Fork and Portage Lakes state parks. A fourth trail location is to be determined. Community members, educators, and historians will collaborate to ensure the stories are accurate, respectful, and impactful.
Source, Photo: ODNR
