04/07/2026
Discover powerful stories of courage, resilience, and the pursuit of freedom.
The Jacksonville Area Museum presents Journey to Freedom: Illinois’ Underground Railroad, a new exhibit highlighting the courageous stories of freedom seekers and the multi-racial conductors who assisted them along the Underground Railroad. The exhibit is presented by the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area (Looking for Lincoln).
The exhibit opens Saturday, April 11 and will be on display through August 1, 2026. It is free and open to the public and may be viewed every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday.
📍 Jacksonville Area Museum
301 E. State Street, Jacksonville
In addition to the exhibit, several free public programs will be offered:
• Songs of the Illinois Freedom Road – Folk musician Chris Vallillo
Saturday, April 11 at 6 p.m.
The Chapel (corner of East College & S. Clay Streets)
• “Priscilla ‘Mother’ Baltimore: The Harriet Tubman of the Midwest” – Re-enactor Kathryn Harris
Saturday, May 9 at 6 p.m.
Centenary United Methodist Church, 331 E. State Street
• Underground Railroad Panel Discussion
Friday, June 19 (Juneteenth)
Details to be announced
• “Walk with Heroes” Cemetery Tour of Underground Railroad Conductors – Presented by Chad Boehlke
Saturday, July 11 at 6 p.m.
Diamond Grove Cemetery
All programs are free and open to the public.