In 1996, historian Anthony Cohen set out on an 8-week journey to explore the Underground Railroad, the secret network to freedom of enslaved self-liberators. Cohen traced the steps of freedom-seekers along wilderness trails and waterways, traveling by foot, boat, and rail across 5 states and 1,200 miles, from Maryland to Canada. He stopped at towns along the way, visiting historic safehouses, African American communities, and Quaker sanctuaries, to chronicle stories of freedom through artifacts, documents, and oral accounts.
In 2026, on the 30th anniversary of his walk—and to mark the 250th celebration of the nation's founding—Cohen will retrace his historic trek to Canada, by foot, once again. He shares stories and images from his 1996 expedition and discusses his plans and aspirations for 2026’s journey of remembrance.
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