As a runaway slave on the move in the night in 1830s Indiana, where do you go, who do you trust? There is one way to find out -- experience it.

Come learn first-hand about how the Underground Railroad functioned in 19th-century America and what it meant to those willing to risk everything for freedom. Follow the North Star was created with the help of a special advisory committee, in addition to Conner Prairie’s African American advisory group, and piloted by community leaders and members of the general public. And after two years of research, Conner Prairie developed one of the most dramatic, interactive public programs available at any museum. As a participant, you will leave the comfort of the world you know and take on the role of a fugitive slave journeying through the Indiana countryside.

It's dark. You're outside. A gun is fired and someone's yelling "Get on your knees! Keep your eyes down!"

Your experience will stay with you for days, weeks, possibly years. Don’t miss this rare opportunity. Take a glimpse into our shared past – a glimpse that jolts and affects you in ways that reading a book or watching a movie about this painful part of America’s history cannot.

But your eyes desperately want to search the clear night sky for that symbol of freedom: the North Star.

This outdoor, historical experience uses Conner Prairie’s landscape and setting to dramatize the perilous journey of escaped slaves. The museum’s historic houses and barns become an unfamiliar environment where Indiana’s free citizens – black and white – help, hinder or prey upon the runaways.

Conner Prairie has immersed you into their history lesson

During the program, Conner Prairie’s interpretive staff portrays roles that help re-create the 19th-century social and racial mood. Participants, playing the parts of runaways, encounter a wide range of people and events, including a slave sale, a belligerent transplanted Southerner, a reluctantly helpful farm wife, a slave hunter motivated by financial rewards, a Quaker family and a free black family.

Public programs (ages 12 and up recommended; minors must be accompanied by an adult) are offered from 6:30pm-8:30pm and groups of 12-15 participants leave every 15 minutes. The 90-minute program includes a brief orientation and film in the Museum Center, a one-hour role-playing experience and a closing question and answer period. Cost: $19 per person ($16 for members). Reservations are required, call 317.776.6006 or 800.966.1836.

Follow the North Star IS NOT FOR EVERYONE. The program takes place outside in all kinds of weather and participants walk approximately one mile on rough terrain. Keep in mind also that the emotional impact is strong. Participants are treated as slaves and are told to keep their eyes down and not to speak unless spoken to.

Because Follow the North Star requires participants to adopt a completely unfamiliar viewpoint and to see themselves as part of a group of runaways that must depend upon each other, it is also a very effective tool for civic, church or corporate groups seeking unique and powerful diversity training experiences.

Although a free state in 1836, Indiana could be as harsh to blacks as any plantation in the Deep South. Free blacks were required to post a $500 bond to ensure they would not become “burdens” on the state. Indiana law further prohibited helping runaway slaves and required the return of escaped slaves to their masters. Captured runaways would often face harsh dehumanizing treatment in Indiana and severe punishment upon their return to the South.

FREEDOM…What are you willing to sacrifice for the sake of your freedom?

# # #