First conceived in 2009 by Bill Ayers, a Quaker who was public works director for the Village of Vandalia, Underground Railroad Days celebrates the heritage of Vandalia as part of the Underground Railroad. URSCC and Vandalia partner in the weekend celebration the second weekend in July. The Village sponsors a soul food dinner, a classic car show and arts and crafts booths. URSCC conducts guided tours of UGRR sites telling the story of the Kentucky Raid, hosts displays and presentations about various aspects of the UGRR; and schedules music, poetry, art and crafts at the “Ramptown Cabin” in Milo Barnes Park . There is a Civil War Living History Encampment that includes the 102nd Colored Troops, an outdoor Community Church Service on Sunday morning, and the Bonine House is open for tours. The weekend starts with “Opening Night” on Friday evening with a play created and acted by Dr. Von and Fran Washington at Ross Beatty High School. UGRR Days is fun, interesting and educational for the whole family. We hope you’ll join us the second weekend in July.
Funding for the Great Michigan Stories program is provided by Michigan Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of Michigan Humanities or the aforementioned entities.
