JAAHM HISTORY

UNDERGROUND RAILROAD

Jacksonville played a pivotal role in the Underground Railroad—both before and after the Civil War—serving as a hub for conductors, safe houses, and community resistance in support of freedom seekers.

Rev. Andrew W. Jackson

Early African American Leader in
Jacksonville, Illinois

Benjamin Henderson

Underground Railroad Conductor in
Jacksonville, Illinois

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Woodlawn Farm

Historic Farm and Underground Railroad Site Near Jacksonville, Illinois

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Robert and
Emily Logan

A Fight for Freedom in Jacksonville, Illinois

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Mount Emory Baptist Church

One of Illinois’ Oldest African American Churches

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“Little Africa”

Jacksonville’s Historic African American Community

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Asa Talcott House

Underground Railroad Site and Home of the Jacksonville African American History Museum

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notable residents

Jacksonville has produced many prominent figures across entertainment, health and medicine, public service, and civil rights. Today, the museum brings these stories together in one place, preserving and sharing the legacy of a community whose impact continues to shape the present.

Dr. Alonzo Homer Kenniebrew

Founder of the New Home Sanitarium in
Jacksonville, Illinois

Ken Norton

World Heavyweight Champion from Jacksonville, Illinois

Judge Phyllis J. Hamilton

Federal Judge from Jacksonville, Illinois

Creston Whitaker

Multi-Sport Athlete and NFL Player with Jacksonville Roots

Ruth Linear

Archivist and Co-Founder of the Jacksonville African American History Museum

Arthur “Art” Wilson

Co-Founder of the Jacksonville African American History Museum