The ULCC History & Archives Subcommittee and 2nd Act Lunch Group open registration to Caxton Club members who would like to attend a live program – Discover Onward to Chicago: Freedom Seekers and the Underground Railroad in Northeastern Illinois with Larry A. McClellan
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Onward to Chicago re-frames the traditional stories of the Underground Railroad in Illinois by not only introducing readers to early freedom seekers, but also illustrating that those who bravely aided them were Black and white, men and women. Through deep research into local sources, McClellan will present the deeply personal stories of freedom seekers’ courage and perseverance and of the activists in Chicagoland who supported them.
This event is hosted by the Union League Club of Chicago, 65 W. Jackson Blvd. Registration and book sales will start at 11:30AM. Lunch will be served at noon followed by the program. The charge for lunch and the program is $40. Reservations are required and the reservation policy is in effect. Advance registration is mandatory for this live event, and prepayment must be received by noon on 9/18/2024. No reservations will be accepted or refunded after this time.
Books will be available for purchase.
Dr. McClellan is Emeritus Professor of Sociology and Community Studies of Governors State University that he helped to create in 1970. His consulting, research, and writing focus is on freedom seekers and the Underground Railroad, and on African American and regional history south of Chicago. His major publications include 25 articles in the Encyclopedia of Chicago [2005]; The Underground Railroad South of Chicago [2019], co-author of To the River, The Remarkable Journey of Caroline Quarlls, a Freedom Seeker on the Underground Railroad [2019]. In 2022 he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Illinois State Historical Society for his contributions to Illinois history and, in 2024, they gave Onward to Chicago their Award for Superior Achievement.
Register today.
Transportation to the Union League Club at 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago.
The Union League Club is easily accessible through many public transportation methods. Additionally, the following options are available for those who wish to travel by cab or car.
The Union League Club front desk offers a connection to cab service through Curb. The desk will call cabs for members and all guests while allowing riders to remain inside until the cab arrives. No curb side wait. Cabs will accept all payment forms, following the payment procedures you experience with a street-hailed cab.
Spot Hero is an independent parking option, generally offering spots at the 318 S. Federal Street garage adjacent to the Union League Club. You may reserve and pay for a guaranteed parking spot through the Spot Hero app or website (spothero.com).
This program is one of many to which Caxtonians have access as a benefit of our ongoing collaborations with similar cultural and historical organizations. It is not designed or funded by the Caxton Club.