Underground Railroad First in Wayne County Parks Educational Series

Michigan was a key link along the Underground Railroad, the route that took slaves to freedom during the Civil War Era. (Photo via Creative Commons)

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Wayne County Parks is offering a series of 90-minute local history presentations on select Saturdays throughout the year. For ages 12 and up, all programs are held at the Nankin Mills Interpretive Center in Westland.

“Learning is a lifelong process and it is important that we continue to exercise our brains,” said Wayne County Executive Warren Evans. “Wayne County Parks offers a variety of educational programs and I hope residents take advantage of these fun learning opportunities.”

Feb. 28,1 – 2:30 p.m.

Underground Railroad in Michigan

Local Underground Railroad history and the key role Michigan played in the “Flight to Freedom” will be presented along with the fascinating lore from this important era.

March 7, 1 – 2:30 p.m.

Native American History Part I: Prehistoric Era

The story of the earliest days of human history in North America will be presented, including some of the earliest cultures in Michigan the Copper Culture and Hopewell mound builders.

April 18, 1 – 2:30 p.m.

Native American History Part II: Historic Era

The tribal cultures we are most familiar with today arrived in the Great Lakes after the Hopewell Culture disappeared. Learn about the many tribes that settled in the Great Lakes and how they lived.

June 20, 1 – 2:30 p.m.

First Settlement Families of Nankin Township

Local settlers Marcus Swift and William Osband brought their families to wilds of Michigan in 1825. They became prominent figures in the formation of Nankin Township, building the first schools, churches, anti-slavery societies and homes. Their lives are a fascinating story of perseverance in the face of many hardships, as well as an inspiration.

Aug. 29, 1 – 2:30 p.m.

French Fur Trading

The French arrived in the Great Lakes as early as the 1500s. Learn about their influence here and why Michigan was significant in the fur trade.

Sept. 12, 1 – 2:30 p.m.

Henry Ford’s Village Industries

As part of his “Village Industry Project,” Henry Ford developed 20 different sites along rivers in southeastern Michigan. Nankin Mills was the first site purchased in 1918 for this “decentralization of industry” concept. Learn about this fascinating piece of Ford History, including a visit to the Ford exhibit in the Nankin Mills Interpretive Center.

Advance registration and prepayment is required. The program fee is $2 per adult for Wayne County residents and $3 for out-of-county residents.

The Nankin Mills Interpretive Center is located at 33175 Ann Arbor Trail, Westland.

If you have any questions regarding these programs or would like to register by phone, please call (734) 261-1990.