“I am convinced that pilgrimage is still a bona fide spirit-renewing ritual. But I also believe in pilgrimage as a powerful metaphor for any journey with the purpose of finding something that matters deeply to the traveler.”
—Phil Cousineau
The Beloved Community Initiative and Three Rivers Chapter invite you to join others from the Three Rivers Chapter in a pilgrimage, a journey exploring sites and history of the Underground Railroad in SE Iowa; and an opportunity to deepen relationships with others in your chapter.
In the mid-1800s Iowa, a free state, experienced ramifications from systemic slavery practiced by the southern states, particularly Missouri. Enslaved people attempted to make their way to freedom through many routes in Iowa which led to more northern cities and even Canada. Networks of people dedicated to helping the freedom seekers formed and many of these networks came to be called the “underground railroad”. Due to the nature of this activity not much information was recorded. We know of it through the stories that have survived. This pilgrimage will explore the circumstances and issues associated with the Underground Railroad and visit two actual sites on the network to freedom. These understandings contribute to a clearer picture of the practice of enslavement and how it is tied into all the ways racism is expressed today. While not an easy topic, one begins to appreciate the courage and commitment of the freedom seekers and abolitionists in Iowa’s early history. There will be plenty of time for conversations and pondering.
Brief Schedule
Sat. April 25, 2020
8:30 gather at Old Brick in Iowa City Introductions, orientation with African American Museum
Travel to Salem, Lewelling House tour
Travel to Keosauqua, Pearson House tour
Overnight at Hotel Manning, Keosauqua
Sun. April 26, 2020
Eucharist Lunch in Bonaparte
Optional – fundraiser for Lewelling House
Return
Costs:
Pilgrimage fee = $70 Covers meeting room, 2 meals and snacks, materials, honorariums
Hotel room = $72.80 or $99.68 based on the building . Two beds per room
Two lunches on the road
For information and to register, contact:
Lewelling House, Salem, Iowa