During the nineteenth century, the city of Norwich was home to a vibrant abolitionist movement. Residents such as David Ruggles played an active role in the Underground Railroad and the Harris Sisters attended Prudence Crandall’s controversial “Young Ladies and Little Misses of Color” school in Canterbury.

On this tour, you’ll hear incredible stories about colonial era blacksmith, Guy Drock, who earned his freedom and fugitive slave, shoemaker, minister and author, James L. Smith. Please join us as we explore the rich history in the Jail Hill National Register Historic District.

This special Second Saturday tour is apart of Otis Library’s Harris Sisters Month and will be co-led by the Norwich Historical Society and the Norwich Branch NAACP. Please note this walk is very strenuous and has very steep hills. The guided tour is comprised of stops from the Walk Norwich Freedom Trail.

Begin: City Hall, David Ruggles Freedom Courtyard, 100 Broadway, Norwich, CT
Parking – City Hall Garage
1.5 hours. 1.5 miles.
Sponsored by: Otis Library, Norwich NAACP Branch & the Norwich Historical Society