Long before "Black Lives Matter," courageous residents of the Midwest helped shelter fellow human beings escaping slavery. Hear true stories of freedom seekers who fled through Illinois and other northern states. View photos of the abolitionists and the safehouses they used. Some of these safehouses are still standing.
Presented by Gloria Van Hof, who has researched and written extensively on the Underground Railroad in Illinois and surrounding states.
The 1501 Ellinwood Street library building is the realization of a longheld dream of the library board, staff and community partners. Located in the heart of downtown Des Plaines, the four story, 82,000 square foot building represents the community's commitment to reading, lifelong learning, and a center for family activities. A grand central staircase and large windows provide a wealth of natural light and illuminate the building at night.