UpRooted: A Walking Tour of Enslavement and Abolition

Nearly every acre of Philadelphia contains evidence of the lives of early Black residents, and the historic mansions in Fairmount are no exception. Alongside the stories of the wealthy white men and women who owned these estates, we can find the stories of Africans and African-Americans, raising families, fighting for freedom, working in a great variety of jobs, and building communities. Recent research has revealed many fascinating details that humanize their lives and struggles, and gives us insight into the tragic institution of slavery in “freedom’s capitol” and the fight against it.

This tour and hike will visit the sites of Mount Pleasant, Woodford, and Strawberry Mansion, connected by the Boxers Trail, a ridge line tracing the path of the Schuylkill River. Walking on this well traveled trail under the cover of nature will evoke the experience of the freedom seeking enslaved person, making a harrowing journey on foot. Together the houses detail people held in bondage and seeking their freedom while advocating for the legal changes to guarantee it. Meet some of the people who have worked to research and preserve these stories as well as those who work to ensure Black homeownership today.

The tour will conclude with a picnic lunch reception at Strawberry Mansion’s beautiful back patio. Lunch boxes (sandwich, chips, cookie, and a drink) provided by Joshua’s Catering are available for purchase.

This tour is organized in conjunction with the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, WeWalk PHL, GirlTrek, Black Docents Collective, Woodford Mansion, and Historic Strawberry Mansion.

TICKET PRICES: Free without boxed lunch (donations appreciated). $15 with boxed lunch.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

• Please dress according to weather conditions.
• Please wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking.
• Bring water and a snack (no drinking fountains in the park).
• Bring bug spray and sunscreen.
• There are nearby bathrooms (port-a-potties).

PARKING: There is plenty of free parking in the park. As always, NEVER leave valuables in your car!

PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a loop hike! It’s a one way hike beginning at Mount Pleasant Mansion and ending at Historic Strawberry Mansion. Vehicles can be left at Mount Pleasant parking area and it’s an easy 10 minute walk back from Strawberry Mansion along Reservoir Drive. However, we strongly recommend arriving with Uber, Lyft, Indego Bike Share, or public transportation, such as taking SEPTA’s Route 32. Also, at 33rd St & Oxford St there’s an Indego dock and bus stop. From there, it’s a 10 minute walk into the park along Reservoir Drive.

• Starting Location: Mount Pleasant Mansion – 3800 Mt Pleasant Dr. Philadelphia, PA 19121
• Ending Location: Historic Strawberry Mansion – 2450 Strawberry Mansion Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19132