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Shedd Aquarium

Freedom to Equality Shuttle Tours

200 Piasa St., Alton, IL 62002

Historic Sites

Discover the Underground Railroad, abolitionists, Civil Rights leaders and the legacy of Miles Davis along the breathtaking Mississippi River in Alton, IL.

Explore Black History in the historic Mississippi River community of Alton, IL on this new guided shuttle tour where stories and songs are used to bring the city’s history to life! Dive in to the past and learn about Alton’s significance on the Underground Railroad, discover the legendary abolitionists who fought against slavery and follow the stories of local Civil Rights leaders who made their mark on the city and the nation.

Sites Included on the Tour:

* Rocky Fork Church – located in the historic African American settlement of Rocky Fork and an Underground Railroad site. It is a verified Underground Railroad location.

* Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument – a martyr to the early abolitionist movement in the U.S.

* Union Baptist Church – Established in 1836 by ex-slaves and free Blacks, the church hosted a statewide colored convention in 1856.

* Miles Davis Statute – This is the only statue to the jazz legend in the North - American continent. Miles Davis was born in Alton, IL. The Statue was sculpted by artist Preston Jackson.

Important Information:
* This tour has steps and uneven terrain.
* The shuttle is not ADA accessible.
* All sales are final

Tours are available upon request. Contact Jared Hennings to schedule a tour: jaredhenn@yahoo.com or 618-920-9756.

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