Underground Railroad Days, the eighth annual collaboration between the Village of Vandalia and the Underground Railroad Society of Cass County celebrating the history and legacy of the Underground Railroad in the area, was a great success.

Thousands of visitors from all over the region attended the celebration.

More than 250 packed Ross Beatty auditorium Friday evening for the premier of Vandalia’s Sally Jo Conner’s “The Kentucky Raid — A Documentary.”

Visitors to Vandalia on Saturday and Sunday enjoyed guided tours of the Kentucky Raid sites,

UGRR presentations, period crafters and entertainment all day at the Ramptown Cabin in the park. The 102nd US Colored Troops held everyone enthralled with their stories and descriptions of life in the Union army.

The Bonine House and newly opened first floor of the Carriage House were packed.

The soul food dinner got rave reviews.

The outdoor church service on Sunday morning on the Vandalia Village green was overflowing with worshippers.

The weather was glorious and visitors were happy to learn the history of this area.

Underground Railroad Days is a unique festival that celebrates a history we all should be proud of. This was a community that did what was right when the risk was great, and danger was real.

URSCC thanks the Village of Vandalia and the many volunteers  involved in Underground Railroad Days. We look forward to our ninth annual festival the second weekend in July 2018.

Cathy LaPointe

Treasurer, URSCC