Local Stories of the Underground Railroad
Sat, Feb 28 , 2026
15891 Paxton Avenue, South Holland, IL 60473
The stories, while not always fully documented in primary sources, reflect a local community’s quiet but vital role in the broader story of freedom and the Underground Railroad.
In the south-suburban Chicago region, including what is today South Holland, Illinois, the network of the Underground Railroad found unexpected local allies. Beginning in the 1830s and through the Civil War era, many freedom seekers fleeing enslavement in the South passed through the Calumet region on their way toward Canada.
Places to stay nearby...
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham - South Holland
South Holland
We’re conveniently located off Interstates 80 and 294 near the Midway International Airport.
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Best Western Plus - South Holland
South Holland
When you stay at Best Western Plus Chicago Southland in South Holland, you will be in the busy I80 corridor, 35 minute drive from Downtown Chicago,…
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Travelodge by Wyndham - South Holland
South Holland
Take a drive on Route 1 or I-57 into the center of Chicago, less than 30 miles away or, fly to the area from Chicago Midway…
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Underground Railroad Self-Guided Walks
Sand Ridge Nature Center • Feb 01 – Feb 28 @ 8AM
Join us for self-guided historical walks throughout February for Black History Month.
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Sand Ridge Nature Center Presents: If Walls Could Talk: Stories of the Underground Railroad Part I
Sand Ridge Nature Center • Feb 21 @ 11AM
Join us for indoor performances that blend stories and songs, celebrating the land and an African-descended genius of scientific discovery. Presented by Mama Edie. 11AM &…
Read more about Sand Ridge Nature Center Presents: If Walls Could Talk: Stories of the Underground Railroad Part I
Sand Ridge Nature Center Presents: If Walls Could Talk: Stories of the Underground Railroad Part II
Sand Ridge Nature Center • Feb 21 @ 1PM
Indoor performances of joy, power and determination, celebrating the African-descended genius of scientific and botanical discovery. Presented by Mama Edie, at 1PM.
Read more about Sand Ridge Nature Center Presents: If Walls Could Talk: Stories of the Underground Railroad Part II