You are invited on a journey of discovery aboard an Underground Railroad pilgrimage - a journey exploring sites and history of the Underground Railroad in SE Iowa and a journey within ourselves.
In the mid-1800s Iowa, a free state, experienced ramifications from systemic slavery practiced in the southern states, including Missouri. One ramification was some enslaved people attempting to make their way to freedom using routes through SE Iowa that lead to more northern cities and Canada. Networks of people dedicated to helping the freedom seekers formed, and some of these networks came to be called the “underground railroad”.
A pilgrimage is different than a tour.
“Pilgrimage is a spiritual exercise, an act of devotion to find a source of healing, or even to perform a penance. Always, it is a journey of risk and renewal. For a journey without challenge has no meaning; one without purpose has no soul.” — Phil Cousineau
This pilgrimage will explore circumstances and issues associated with the Underground Railroad and visit three actual sites on the “Network to Freedom”. Stories can help give a clearer picture of the practice of enslavement then; as well as now. While not an easy topic, one begins to appreciate the courage and commitment of the freedom seekers and abolitionists in Iowa’s early history.
We will share deep conversations and understandings as we open ourselves to Spirit, to the stories, and to the impact on our lives today.
GENERAL SCHEDULE
Friday, Oct 3, 2025
8:30 am gather at New Song in Coralville
Travel to Salem and Keosauqua
Overnight in Keosauqua
Saturday, Oct 4, 2025
Travel to Bentonsport and Bonaparte
Home 3:00 pm
COSTS
Pilgrimage fee: $70 covers the gathering room, breakfast, honoraria and materials.
Participants pay for their own hotel room (about $100+ at the Hotel Manning in Keosauqua www.hotelmanning.com); two lunches, one dinner and travel (tbd)
10 SPOTS AVAILABLE
Registration deadline: Mon, Sept 22, 2025
Online orientation: Tues, Sept 23, 2025 7PM
Sponsored by Beloved Community Initiative