The map guide showcases a collection of sites, programs and facilities that have witnessed or now interpret the stories of freedom seekers along the Underground Railroad. Most of these places are part of the National Park Service’s Network to Freedom. Maryland is the first state in the nation to publish a map guide of its sites in the program. The Network to Freedom was mandated by Congress in 1998.
"This map guide...resulted from the need to bring the dramatic stories of these freedom seekers to light, and we are very proud to be the first in the nation to do so,” said Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. in a prepared statement to the press.“We are also pleased with the joint efforts of the National Park Service, state and local government, and private entities to preserve, interpret and present Maryland’s African-American history and heritage to the traveling public.”
The state also recently released a new booklet called "Maryland’s African-American Heritage Guide," a 32-page publication that serves as an introduction to the Maryland African-American experience from Colonial times up to the present.
Map guides will be distributed by the Maryland Welcome Centers, local tourism visitor centers, and at sites in the collection. Visitors may also call 800-719-5900 or order via visitmaryland.org.
This story was published on March 17, 2006.