October 24, 2009 – Activist Joan Southgate (left) recounts historic walk for AAGS

Goal: Retrace the path of slavery to freedom through the Underground Railroad. Mission accomplished.

On October 24, activist Joan Southgate, a local celebrity known for walking the trail of the Underground Railroad from Cincinnati to Canada (total 519 miles), recounted her experiences for AAGS. Ms. Southgate explained her training and preparation, shared insights of her invigorating journey, showed maps, and presented highlights from this amazing feat. She also spoke of ‘Restore Cleveland Hope’ (the project to preserve the historical Cozad-Bates House) and of plans to establish an Underground Railroad Resource Center.