OHIO — The National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program has added 31 new sites and programs that are dedicated to the history of the Underground Railroad Network. 

The Network to Freedom program was created by Congress in 1998 and highlights more than 800 places and programs. Each one is a true story about the men, women and children who helped themselves or others escape enslavement. There are program listings in 41 states, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Washington D.C. and Canada.

In Ohio, six new sites were recently added by the program. Some sites may be privately owned and not open to the public.

The sites include:

Lewis Adams Marker - Urbana, Ohio

A state historical marker commemorates the brave multigenerational story of Underground Railroad participation by Lewis Adams, his son David, Lewis’ father-in-law Frank Reno and his sons. The family helped freedom seekers escaping toward Lake Erie and Canada through the Ohio River. The route was previously known as the Bullskin Trace trail, but is now known as U.S. Route 68.

Bethel A.M.E. Church - Gallipolis, Ohio

The free Black community of Gallipolis, Ohio, founded Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in either 1818 or 1819. The congregation was inspired by the church's mission of liberation through faith and action helped freedom seekers.

Campbell House - Ironton, Ohio

The Campbell House served as a station on the Underground Railroad in Lawrence County. John and Elizabeth Campbell worked alongside other local abolitionists in the area.

Ironton African Methodist Church - Ironton, Ohio

The African Methodist Church of Ironton, Ohio, known as Quinn Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, was founded by Retta and Gabe N. Johnson. The Johnsons helped freedom seekers escape through the Hanging Rock Iron District.

Kirker Homestead - West Union, Ohio

The Kirker homestead in Adams County was a key station for the Underground Railroad in Ohio. Gov. Thomas Kirker and his family actively worked to help freedom seekers.

Pleasant Green Baptist Church - Portsmouth, Ohio

Pleasant Green Baptist Church, Portsmouth's oldest active Black Baptist congregation, was founded by formally enslaved individuals and their allies. The church has connections to the Underground Railroad in Appalachian Ohio.