(COLUMBUS, Ohio, September 26, 2024) – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, the Ohio Department of Development and TourismOhio have announced the expansion of the Ohio Historical Underground Railroad Trail in honor of September’s designation as International Underground Railroad Month.

“The path of the Underground Railroad through Ohio was pivotal in leading many enslaved African Americans toward freedom, and we must ensure that this history continues to be passed down to future generations,” said Governor DeWine. “By nearly doubling the number of must-see historic sites along Ohio’s Underground Railroad Trail, we hope more residents and visitors will explore the parts of the state where this history was made.”

The statewide trail debuted in 2023 with 25 stops across the state. This year’s iteration of the Ohio Historical Underground Railroad Trail has expanded to include 40 locations. As with last year's trail, additional relevant sites and places of interest are mentioned on the trail map to encourage visitors to extend their stay and explore new branches of Ohio’s Underground Railroad history.

The Shores & Islands Ohio region has many locations included on the state’s trail. In Sandusky, there is the “Path to Freedom” sculpture at Facer Park. This statue, by local artist Susan Schultz, symbolizes the courageous journey of individuals breaking free from enslavement, surrounded by pedestal displays paying tribute to those who shaped Sandusky's Underground Railroad narrative. The Follett House Museum of Sandusky Library and Erie County Historical Society walking tours are also included. Newly added in 2024 is the Seymour House at Historic Lyme Village in Bellevue. The John Seymour House is an 1836 Greek Revival house which is documented as a stop on the Underground Railroad.

“Supporting the preservation and celebration of Ohio’s rich history is a key focus for us,” said Lydia Mihalik, Director of the Ohio Department of Development, which oversees TourismOhio. “The Ohio Historical Underground Railroad Trail is a testament to the dedication of organizations and destinations working to honor our past. Whether you’re new to Ohio or a longtime resident, this trail offers an opportunity to uncover and appreciate a vital part of our state’s history.”

“Ohio’s communities each have their own unique connections to the broader story of the Underground Railroad,” said State Tourism Director Sarah Wickham. “TourismOhio is proud to partner with local organizations throughout the state, ensuring that these significant historical stories are preserved and shared.”

Local and county convention and visitor bureaus were consulted for recommendations after the initial launch of the trail in September 2023. Sites were selected based on their focus on Ohio’s Underground Railroad or direct relation to either the Underground Railroad or known abolitionists in Ohio. Additional consideration was given to sites that are open to the public, host tours, and provide educational or experiential elements for visitors. Historical markers, Civil War sites, private homes, and/or sites not open to the public were not considered for the trail.

“Having local sites acknowledged as part of this state-wide initiative further reinforces the importance of the Shores & Islands Ohio region to the Underground Railroad movement. We’ve long known the Sandusky and surrounding communities were an important gateway to freedom for formerly enslaved individuals. Shores & Islands Ohio offers a self-guided Underground Railroad tour of local connections, and some of the stops are included in our Heritage Trail as well,” said Jill Bauer, Public Relations Manager for Shores & Islands Ohio.

Shores & Islands Ohio introduced the Heritage Trail earlier this year to encourage visitors and locals to seek out museums and historical sites in the region. Heritage Trail participants can download a mobile passport on their phone, which they can use to digitally check in to these locations when visiting. Upon checking in to 15 of these trail locations, participants can earn a Heritage Trail Journal, which can be redeemed at either of the Shores & Islands Ohio Welcome Centers. Search for the S&IO Heritage Trail under “Things to Do” at SHORESandISLANDS.com for more information.https://www.shoresandislands.com/

Those interested in learning more about Ohio’s Underground Railroad legacy can visit the trail’s page at Ohio.org/UGRRTrail or download the map directly, here.

Operating within the Ohio Department of Development, TourismOhio works to showcase all Ohio has to offer as a place of adventure, a place of promise, and the place for you.  

The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio’s people, places, and businesses. Learn more about their work at development.ohio.gov.

Shores & Islands Ohio is the destination marketing organization for Erie and Ottawa counties in Ohio. This coastal destination boasts 152 miles of Lake Erie shoreline, the best fishing on the Great Lakes, welcoming communities, rich history, a wine/craft beer trail, and an abundance of family-friendly attractions.

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