Sat, Apr 26
|Outside of Amherstburg Library
Beyond the River: The Underground Railroad & Black Community in Amherstburg
Jane's Walk: Step back in time and explore the rich Black history of Amherstburg on this guided walking tour.. Along the way, you will learn about the Underground Railroad, the Black residents who built a thriving community and the notable businesses and individuals who shaped Amherstburg’s history.
Time & Location
Apr 26, 2025, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Outside of Amherstburg Library, 232 Sandwich St S, Amherstburg, ON N9V 2A4, Canada
About the event
Beyond the River: The Underground Railroad & Black Community in Amherstburg
Host: Mary-Katherine Whelan (Curator/Administrator) & Irene Moore Davis (Interim Assistant Curator) of the Amherstburg Freedom Museum
Contact Host: curator@amherstburgfreedom.org
Please note: Registration for this event is full.
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich Black history of Amherstburg on this guided walking tour. As you journey through the town and down to the banks of the Detroit River, you will walk in the footsteps of those brave men and women who escaped enslavement and persecutive laws in the United States to find freedom in Canada. Along the way, you will uncover stories of the Underground Railroad, the resilient Black settlers who built a thriving community, and the pioneering individuals and businesses that helped shape Amherstburg’s identity.
From farmers and educators to skilled tradespeople and entrepreneurs, Black residents established essential businesses—including general stores, tailoring shops, and boarding houses—that contributed to the town’s growth and prosperity. Their enduring legacy continues to inspire future generations, serving as a testament to the strength, courage, and determination that have left an indelible mark on Amherstburg’s history.
This walk is for all ages but we recommend children ages 9 and up for the best understanding of the content.
Event location: The walk will start and end in front of the Amherstburg Branch - Essex County Library, 232 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg
Type of Event:
Jane's Walk - Guided walking tour
Accessibility notes:
Easy walk (using paved pathways with no hills).
Wheelchair-friendly
Baby stroller-friendly
Is there a bathroom nearby?
Public bathroom available at starting location
Where can attendees park?
Free street parking around the starting/ending location
Free parking lot within 1-2 blocks
How much walking is involved?
Approximately 1.5 km of walking
Photo source: https://swoda.uwindsor.ca/node/2639