Watch Now: Hayner Library Hosts Presentation About Local Underground Railroad History

Charlotte E. Johnson on the Underground Railroad in the Alton Area

ALTON - The Hayner Genealogy and Local History Library welcomed a full house at their recent talk about the Underground Railroad’s local history.

On Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, renowned historian Charlotte E. Johnson shared information about the Underground Railroad in the Alton area as a companion program to “Journey to Freedom: Illinois’ Underground Railroad Exhibit.” In her lecture, Johnson highlighted local landmarks and people who were a part of the Underground Railroad.

“Journey to Freedom: Illinois’ Underground Railroad Exhibit” will be housed at Alton City Hall through the end of the year. Community members can stop by whenever City Hall is open to view stories from freedom seekers and conductors.

Several local people and buildings are spotlighted in this exhibit, which travels around Illinois. The goal is to educate the public about Illinois’ place on the Underground Railroad.

Hayner Public Library District helped bring the exhibit to Alton. The library also hosted a few companion programs in October to further inform people about the historical importance of the Underground Railroad. Johnson’s lecture was one of those companion programs.

Johnson is an award-winning Illinois historian who also served as a project advisor and memory keeper for the exhibit. Hayner Public Library District officials noted that they wanted to ensure Johnson’s knowledge was recorded, which led to the filming of the presentation on Oct. 24.

While Johnson’s lecture was completely full, the library and RiverBender.com are eager to share the video. Click here to watch Johnson’s presentation and learn more about the Underground Railroad in Alton and beyond.

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