Montgomery County History and Archives, Fonda, NY

Montgomery County listed in the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE NETWORK TO FREEDOM DESIGNATES LOCAL SITE

Montgomery County History & Archives Accepted As New Listing

FONDA, N.Y.—Montgomery County’s Department of History and Archives has been accepted to the National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. The department is one of nine new listings being added to the network which includes more than 700 sites, programs and facilities in 39 states, plus Washington D.C. and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

“Getting the Department of History & Archives listed as a research facility on the National Park Service’s Network to Freedom is an exciting development — it signifies the National Park Service’s recognition that Montgomery County, NY has a commitment to preserving and making accessible our place in Underground Railroad history,” Montgomery County Historian Kelly Farquhar said.

The Montgomery County Department of History and Archives is listed as a facility that welcomes researchers to use their substantial collection of materials related to Underground Railroad history.

This collection includes primary sources, such as birth records, bill of sales, manumissions, and legal documents about enslaved people in Montgomery County. In addition, they have local newspapers with articles on abolitionist activity, secondary sources on the Underground Railroad, and a cultural resources survey identifying sites in Montgomery County.

“This designation illustrates our County Historian’s efforts to teach and highlight important stories and research regarding the bravery of local freedom seekers involved in the anti-slavery movement,” County Executive Matthew L. Ossenfort said. “It’s a testament to Kelly’s dedication to ensuring the Department of History & Archives will be utilized for years to come as a site committed to preserving history and increasing public knowledge.”

For more information regarding the Underground Railroad in Montgomery County, please contact the Montgomery County Department of History & Archives at 518-853-8186.