National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

In 1998, legislation titled the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Act of 1998 was passed, creating the Network to Freedom program. This program honors, preserves and promotes the history of resistance to enslavement through escape and flight, which continues to inspire people worldwide. Through its mission, the Network to Freedom helps to advance the idea that all human beings embrace the right to self-determination and freedom from oppression.

The program is a catalyst for innovation, partnerships, and scholarship connecting the diverse legacy of the Underground Railroad across boundaries and generations. The program consists of sites, programs, and facilities with a verifiable connection to the Underground Railroad. There are currently over 700 Network to Freedom locations in 39 states, plus Washington D.C. and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

We are currently in the process of transitioning information from our former Network to Freedom website. For updated NTF news and events, please visit: Underground Railroad (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov) We thank you for your patience. If you have a question or concern, please email network_to_freedom@nps.gov.


 

Graphic: Network to Freedom Online Application, learn more at go.nps.gov/ntfonlineapp
Questioning Conversations

Create an account and learn how to navigate our new online application system. Discover more on our Underground Railroad Subject Site.

Black and white photo of Frederick Douglass as a young man
People

Photo of Frederick Douglass as a young man

Color photo of an online map that shows the Network to Freedom Members on a map and describes them
Network to Freedom Interactive Map

Interactive GIS Map that educates the public on Network to Freedom Sites

Group photo of 8 people from Network to Freedom launch event in 2000.
Our History

Discover the origins of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom and its mission.

An illustration of freedom seekers escaping on the Underground Railroad.
Learn About the Underground Railroad

What is the Underground Railroad? Find out more about one of the most important moments in America's history.

Last updated: July 25, 2023