Ohio Family Helping Freedom Seekers Topic Of Museum Lecture
(From The Hancock Historical Museum)
The Hancock Historical Museum invites the community to its upcoming Brown Bag Lecture on Thursday, June 4th, at 12:00 PM. This month’s presentation, “The Bullskin Trace (St. Rt. 68) and the Underground Railroad,” offers an insightful look at the multigenerational story of how one Ohio family helped freedom seekers travel north toward Lake Erie and Canada.
The lecture will be presented by Mark T. Evans, the 4th great-grandson of Lewis and Susan Adams, noted Underground Railroad conductors active from 1816–1864 in Champaign County, Ohio. Evans, a graduate of Wittenberg University, has a professional background in engineering, research, and development. He is also a dedicated researcher and historian of the Underground Railroad and Indigenous American studies.
The program will explore the extensive history of the Bullskin Trace trail. Originally formed by migrating buffalo and other animals traveling to Kentucky’s salt licks, the path evolved over time into a pioneer route, an Underground Railroad corridor, and eventually part of today’s State Route 68. Stretching from the Ohio River north to Detroit, this route played a crucial role in the movement of freedom seekers. Evans will highlight how Lewis Adams, his son David, and Lewis’ father-in-law Frank Reno and his sons contributed to this vital network.
As a proud community hub for the America 250 celebrations, the Hancock Historical Museum is committed to connecting local stories to the broader national narrative. The lecture will last approximately 45 minutes to an hour, followed by time for questions and discussion. Guests are welcome to bring their lunches. Admission is free for museum members and $5 for non-members.
This event is ideal for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the courageous efforts of Ohioans who aided freedom seekers during times of crisis. Doors open at 11:30 AM, and seating is limited—early arrival is recommended.
The Brown Bag Lecture Series takes place on the first Thursday of each month at the Hancock Historical Museum, located at 422 West Sandusky Street, Findlay. Each lecture highlights topics of historical and cultural significance to Hancock County and Ohio.
No registration is required. For more information, please contact the Hancock Historical Museum at (419) 423-4433 or visit www.hancockhistoricalmuseum.org.