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Heritage Gathering Conference and Programs

Heritage Gathering Conference and Programs

A monument honoring those who worked on the Underground Railroad.

Since 2018, the Michigan Freedom Trail Commission and the Michigan History Center have marked September, International Underground Railroad Month, with programs that bring together people from a variety of disciplines, industries, organizations and walks of life to discuss and explore the history and legacy of the Underground Railroad in Michigan.

Each September, the Michigan Freedom Trail Commission hosts a Heritage Gathering. The gathering offers individuals and communities with the opportunity to learn about Michigan's Underground Railroad heritage through presentations and networking.

2026 Heritage Gathering

Save the date for the 2026 Heritage Gathering! Join us on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, at the Detroit Public Library Main Branch for a day of learning and community. 

This year's theme is "Battle Creek and Beyond." The gathering will explore the strong Underground Railroad network in the Battle Creek area, plus stories of freedom seekers, rescues and liberation. 

The registration fee is $16 and covers the cost of lunch.

Register today!

For questions or more information, contact Sheri Giffin at GiffinS@michigan.gov. 

 

Programs and Presentations

Learn more about the 2026 Heritage Gathering presentations below.

  • Ain’t I A Woman?: Sojourner Truth, Detroit, and the Freedom Networks of the Underground Railroad
    Exploring the life and legacy of Sojourner Truth through both historical and genealogical perspectives, highlighting her connection to Michigan and the broader freedom networks that supported the Underground Railroad. Presented by Dr. Carolyn Carter.
  • Beyond the Crosswhite Case: Reframing Underground Railroad Narratives in Marshall and Battle Creek
    Eratus and Sarah Hussey are integral to the history of Battle Creek, just as Adam and Sarah Crosswhite are central to the history of Marshall. Desmet will examine the Underground Railroad histories in both Battle Creek and Marshall—two nearby communities that, despite their proximity, developed very different Underground Railroad narratives. Presented by Sara Desmet.
  • Dr. Nathan Thomas, a station on the Underground Railroad, Schoolcraft, Michigan
    Highlighting the story of local residents, this presentation will share the life and work of Dr. Nathan and Pamela Thomas, who assisted freedom seekers on their journey through Kalamazoo County. Presented by David LaLiberte. 
  • Fight for Freedom: Violence in the Underground Railroad
    Often the success stories of the Underground Railroad overlook the violence that happened during the journey. Jordan will explore the more violent aspect of the resistance movement. Presented by Jamon Jordan. 
  • Preservation at Home
    The panel will demonstrate the methods of preserving family records and photographs, conducting genealogical research, and self-publishing for the lay person. Presented by Jennifer Evans and Dr. Carolyn Carter.