The Underground Railroad, Canada: Day 2

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Along some of our route this morning we saw these signs.  I never saw any Underground Railroad signposts (except once on the Little Miami Trailnear Milford, OH) in the 2,000 miles I cycled on it in the United States!

Our morning  "adventure." The detour took us on several miles of gravel roads, which we managed to navigate successfully. 

Harvest season in Ontario!

The highlight of our day.  An excellent exhibit, including a short video, interpretive displays, outstanding guided tour and restored 19th century buildings.

The Dawn settlement (now the town of Dresden, Ontario) was founded by Josiah Henson for the purpose of educating and training those who escaped slavery in the U.S.  Ontario had outlawed slavery in 1793.

Josiah Henson was the inspiration for Uncle Tom in Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin (which was the most read book besides the Bible in the 1800s). Canada has recognized Henson as a significant person in its history. 

"Uncle Tom's Cabin," the final home of Henson in Dresden.  He is buried on this property. 

The last 25 miles of today's ride was on a dedicated bike path along the St. Clair River, which connects Lake Huron to Lake Erie.  A shipping vessel is making it's way upstream. 

 

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