While the exhibit is hosted in the Bloomington-Normal area, there are numerous programs to expand the city’s understanding of the Underground Railroad story in the community. Take advantage of the wonderful opportunities noted below.

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All events will be held at the Bloomington Public Library

The Underground Railroad in McLean County


Thursday, September 3, 2026, 6:30-8:30 pm

Join us as we examine a pivotal chapter in U.S. history too long obscured by bogus stories and myth making. Bill Kemp from the McLean County Museum of History will note local legends and delve into real, documented stories of freedom seekers passing through McLean County on the Underground Railroad, separating fact from fiction.
Join us at 6:30pm in person in Community Room 2 or watch the livestream on the BPL YouTube page. This program is presented in partnership with the McLean County Museum of History.

Heather Feezor from Looking for Lincoln will provide introductory remarks to promote the opening of the Journey to Freedom: Illinois’ Underground Railroad traveling exhibit, a project by The Abraham Lincoln Heritage Coalition, also known as Looking for Lincoln. The exhibit will be available for viewing September 3 – November 30, 2026 in the library’s Community Room 1.

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Lucy Pettengill, Underground Railroad Operator


Thursday, October 15, 2026, 6:30-7:30 PM

Meet Lucy Pettengill, resident of Peoria, Illinois, during March of 1857, and learn about the struggles she and her fellow abolitionists encountered while assisting freedom seekers on their travels north. Hear accounts of the efforts of the underground railroad activities during this costumed portrayal of someone who was there! Mrs. Pettengill will share with you the details of the abolitionist movements and actions in western Illinois and why her work was not only secret, but dangerous.

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Joseph Rodney: Freedom Seekers on the IC Railroad


Saturday, November 14, 2026, 2-3 PM

This presentation will share the story of Joseph who was enslaved on a plantation in Mississippi County, Missouri, and of his escape to Cairo, Illinois, in 1855. Joseph dodged slave catchers while his enslaver, Thomas Rodney, followed him to Chicago. Joseph and Thomas met on the street outside the train station in Chicago, but Joseph was able to escape to freedom with the help of “friends” on the Underground Railroad.

Thomas Rodney brought suit against the Illinois Central Railroad Company for selling Joseph a ticket in a court case that reached the Illinois Supreme Court. The significant decision of the court was that all persons in Illinois are assumed to be free regardless of skin color. Passengers on railroads in the state did not have to prove their freedom before obtaining a ticket.

This presentation will help the audience better imagine the flight of Joseph by viewing records of his enslavement in Missouri and photographs from his time of individuals and places significant to his story. Modern photographs help bridge the past with the present and help viewers connect with the story of Joseph, a freedom seeker.
Join us at 2 pm in person in Community Room 2 or watch the livestream on the BPL YouTube page.

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