Abolitionist Statue - Florence, MA

Recently, I visited part of the African American Heritage Trail in Florence, MA.  Florence is a former Mill Town next to Northampton, near Springfield, MA.  Originally, Florence was a “village” comprised mostly of African Americans who sought refuge and peaceful living in addition 
to their association with the radical Garrison views on abolition.  Florence was significant in that for a few short years, it boasted the largest population of self-emancipated former slaves, more than Springfield, New Bedford or Boston.

A number of very famous abolitionists resided in Florence as well as continued their anti-slavery movement, including Sojourner Truth, Frederick Douglass, David Ruggles, William Lloyd Garrison and Wendell Phillips. 

The African American Heritage Trail encompasses history on former slaves and equal rights activists from 1840-1860.  The trail begins in the center of town at the Sojourner Truth Memorial, a large bronze statue depicting this brave advocate of anti-slavery, social justice and women’s rights.  The easy walk along the Trail wanders for 1.5 miles, showcasing parks, statues, homes and two museums; http://www.sojournertruthmemorial.org, and the Historic Northampton Museum, http://www.historic-northampton.org. 

I bought a great map of the Trail at the Historic Northampton Museum for $3; however, the entrance to the museum itself was free. 

I would recommend taking a drive to Western Massachusetts where you can visit both Florence and Northampton, learn about the very famous abolitionist’s who shaped our country and enjoy beautiful scenery and great food at the many establishments in these historic towns.