My 2015 new year’s resolution was to travel someplace once every month – domestic or international. It didn’t matter. I’m proud to say that I’ve traveled every month. Last night I stayed at the Motor City Hotel Casino and explored Detroit as a tourist.
The highlight of my night was going to the Journey to Midnight Detroit Underground Railroad Lantern Walking Tour. It was fantastic!
There is so much history in my city. Many of the key players in the Underground Railroad either had roots in Detroit or settled here. On the walking tour, we retraced the steps of Freedom Seekers as Detroit was the final stop to freedom being that Canada is right across the river. I learned so much about how the city was instrumental in abolishing slavery. We heard incredible stories of the brave people who risked their lives escaping the horrors of slavery, prominent abolitionists who helped them, and notable politicians who courageously raised their voices against it and changed the course of history as told through passionate actor portrayals. We also were taught negro spirituals that we sang along our journey.
The walking tour was excellent. We started the tour at Second Baptist Church which was a safe haven for runaway slaves and ended at the International Underground Railroad Memorial on the Riverfront. If you are ever in Detroit, I’m advising you to sign up for a Hometown History Tour and learn something new. Or check out my post about the 7 Must See Detroit Tourist Attractions. This advice is for wherever in the world you visit. Make it a priority to learn about its history. You will come back with more of a connection to the city you visited.
Also, note that sometimes all you need is a small getaway to reinvigorate yourself. I encourage you to take time to explore your hometown.
