African-Canadian Heritage Tour

1 night, 2 days – Spring/Summer/Fall

The North Shore of Lake Erie was the destination when fugitive slaves followed the North Star to Canada and to Freedom. This overnight excursion to the northern terminus of the secret network of activists and abolitionists who helped thousands of enslaved African Americans escape from the southern United States is also a journey about the innate desire to be free. This package can be used whether your approach is through the Detroit gateway or from the Niagara gateway using historic Talbot Trail. Included in this history-packed package are six Underground Railroad sites, an “Erie Soul” themed dinner and many opportunities to come in contact with this significant part of North American history through the words and memories of those whose ancestors traveled the path to freedom not so many decades ago.*

Buxton Homecoming

African-Canadian Heritage Tour
2 nights, 3 days – Fall

In 1849 Reverend William King arrived in Buxton from Louisiana with strong convictions, unmitigated determination and 15 American slaves. Together they built a community that was the home to over 2000 people. After the Civil War many stayed on and the community, although somewhat smaller, still thrives to this day. Every Labour Day weekend the community of North Buxton hosts a Homecoming celebration. On this very special weekend, thousands of people from all over North America come to celebrate North Buxton’s rich past. Included in this true country celebration are an old fashioned church dinner, a “memory walk” and a roadside seat for a “calithumpian” parade that is longer than the village itself.*

Elgin, Dawn and Chatham

African-Canadian Heritage Tour
Daytrip – Spring/Summer/Fall

These were the three main settlement areas in southern Canada that provided a place of welcome and refuge for the weary travelers that found their way to freedom on the Underground Railroad. They are all important historical sites. The Chatham settlement was promoted as a Mecca with plenty of business and employment opportunities. Josiah Henson established the Dawn Settlement and lived out his life on the farm that was to become the Uncle Tom’s Cabin Historic Site. The Buxton National Historic Site and Museum puts special emphasis on the history and accomplishments of the settlement’s original settlers. Each of the sites has on display many original artifacts. This day package takes you to all three of these very special sites and includes an “Erie Soul” lunch and a step on guide.*