Journey to Freedom: Play at Massillon's Spring Hill Home Reveals Underground Railroad Stories

A Unique Historical Experience at Spring Hill Historic Home

The upcoming "Underground Railroad Experience" at Spring Hill Historic Home is more than just a historical reenactment. It's an immersive journey that brings to life the stories of freedom seekers and those who helped them along their path to liberty. This event, held annually, has become a significant celebration of the past and a tribute to the resilience of those who fought for freedom.

This year’s event, titled "The 20th Annual Underground Railroad Experience: A Celebration of the Life and Lineage of the Forebears for Freedom," will take place on Saturday, September 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attendees can expect a variety of activities, including the award-winning reenactment "One Stop On The Road To Freedom." The play, which features both actors and audience members moving through the historic grounds, aims to highlight African cultural heritage and the role of Spring Hill as a key station on the Underground Railroad.

Kathleen Bachtel, the historic site director of Spring Hill, also serves as the director of this year’s performance. She explained that there will be three 40-minute walking performances, along with an accessibility performance on the porch of the house. For the accessibility performance, audience members will be seated, and American Sign Language interpreters and closed captioning will be available to ensure inclusivity.

Honoring the Past

A special feature of this year’s event is the Ancestor Tree dedication and a proclamation by Massillon Mayor Jamie Slutz. This ceremony will honor not only Thomas and Charity Rotch, who opened their home to runaway slaves, but also all those who passed through on their journey to freedom—both named and unnamed.

The play “One Stop On The Road To Freedom” features a cast of local actors portraying historical figures. Robert Berens plays Thomas Rotch, while Michele McNeal portrays Charity Rotch. Gwen Baker takes on the role of Arvine Wales, and Duane Dodson plays Rev. John Henry Ross. Other notable actors include Rosalyne Martin as Sarah, Daryl Robinson as Israel, Chiara Power as Mary Kimberly, Amy Balsinger as Martha, Schasta Flowers as Edy Duncan, and Tyler Bailey as DeCamp.

The script, originally written by then-director Lee Lavery, has remained largely unchanged over the years. However, Bachtel noted that some updates have been made based on new research, ensuring that the experience remains fresh for returning attendees.

Additional Activities and Cultural Highlights

In addition to the main performance, several other attractions will enhance the anniversary experience. The Djapo Cultural Arts Institute will demonstrate African drum making and host drumming circles, while Dr. Tameka Ellington will present a program on West African art. An exhibit titled "The Forebears to Freedom" will explore the abolitionist movement in the Kendal/Massillon community, and a "choose your path" interactive game called "On the Run" will allow participants to engage with the history in a new way.

Food trucks and community partner information booths will be available throughout the day, alongside live music and stress release sessions provided by Luvih Yoga Studios of Massillon. These sessions are designed to offer emotional release, not just entertainment, according to Bachtel.

Emotional Impact and Community Response

Feedback from previous performances has shown that the event can have a profound impact on attendees. Some view it as a history lesson, while others internalize the themes of trauma and generational struggle presented in the play. Bachtel noted that the stories told are real and often resonate deeply with those who attend.

There have been numerous emotional reactions to the event. One Black family, after attending the play, discovered they were descendants of slaves. A white woman, who had never seen the play before, was moved to tears by the performance. Bachtel emphasized that the theme of love and respect is central to the stories shared, highlighting how these values guided people toward freedom.

Event Details and Accessibility

The 20th annual Underground Railroad Experience is a rain or shine event. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for students (ages 7-17), and free for children 6 and younger. They can be purchased online at the Spring Hill website or by calling 330-833-6749.

Throughout the day, Spring Hill Historic Home will be open for tours, except during the accessibility performance. While the building is not handicapped accessible, efforts have been made to ensure the event is inclusive for all attendees.

This event continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the past and a tribute to those who sought freedom. It offers a unique opportunity to learn, reflect, and connect with history in a meaningful way.