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About the Freedom Center
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The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center opened in August 2004
on the banks of the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. The
museum's purpose is telling the story of the struggle for freedom in
the United States through exhibits that focus on America's battle to
rid itself of the ugly scourge of slavery and treat all its citizens
with respect and dignity. The museum's frame of reference is the
compelling drama of the Underground Railroad; not an actual railroad,
with tracks and cars and engines, but a secret network of escape routes
that existed in the years leading up to the Civil War. One major escape
route passed through the region in and around Cincinnati. These paths
were used by escaping slaves fleeing those states where slavery was
legal; along the way, they were often given food, shelter and guidance
by sympathetic citizens who opposed slavery. The National Underground
Railroad Freedom Center celebrates freedom's heroes -- historically and
in contemporary times - and reminds us that the path to freedom is a
constant struggle requiring courage, perseverance and cooperation among
people of diverse backgrounds willing to help one another.
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About the speakers
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Kevin Burke has received various awards for his work as a videographer and researcher. He recently worked on the documentary production, "Wade in the Water: Stories of Freedom, Slavery and the Underground Railroad in the Borderlands of the Ohio River Valley." Henry R. Burke is a researcher, author, and speaker-lecturer regarding the history of the Underground Railroad, primarily in Upper Ohio Valley area. Henry's original research contributions have been recognized by various organizations. He received the Ohio Underground Railroad Association's 'Conductor of the Year' award in 1999.
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| Parking & Directions |
There is a parking garage located directly beneath the Freedom Center in the Central Riverfront Garage (513-946-8100). Please note there is a $4.50 daily rate, cash only.
The public transportation services in Cincinnati serve the Freedom Center area. Nearly all of the METRO routes end in Government Square, located 3 blocks north of the Freedom Center. Many of the TANK routes cross the Ohio River on the Roebling Suspension Bridge and run directly by the Freedom Center. The Southbank Shuttle is the most common. For more information about public transportation options in Cincinnati, please visit METRO or TANK.
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