Museum of South Texas History to Host Reception for “Walking Southern Roads to Freedom” Participants 

By Sandy Pollock, Communications Officer, Museum of South Texas History  

EDINBURG, Texas – The Museum of South Texas History is honored to host a special reception for participants of “Walking Southern Roads to Freedom,” a historic 60-mile journey bringing attention to the Underground Railroad to Mexico. This powerful initiative, taking place from March 3 to 9, 2025, unites advocates, historians, and descendants of enslaved people to commemorate an often-overlooked chapter of Black and Latino history. 

Honoring the Legacy of Freedom Seekers 

The “Walking Southern Roads to Freedom” event highlights the Underground Railroad to Mexico, a lesser known but vital route used by enslaved individuals who sought refuge in Mexico, where slavery was abolished in the 1830s. 

Participants—including faith leaders, artists, and historians from across the country—will embark on a week-long walk, beginning at La Sal del Rey in Hidalgo County and passing through historic sites tied to this movement. The journey will culminate in McAllen, Texas, with a special stop in Mexico to honor the country’s role in providing sanctuary to freedom seekers. 

“We are proud to host the participants of this historic journey,” said Francisco Guajardo, Chief Executive Officer of the Museum of South Texas History. “This event is a powerful opportunity to engage in dialogue, honor the resilience of freedom seekers, and reflect on the deep connections between African American and Latino histories.” 

A Gathering of Scholars, Descendants, and Advocates 

The reception at the Museum of South Texas History will offer participants a space to share their experiences, discuss the significance of the walk, and engage with the local community. Guests will include: 

• Historians and scholars specializing in the Underground Railroad to Mexico. 
• Descendants of those who escaped slavery through South Texas. 
• Representatives from the Harriet Tubman Museum and Educational Center in Maryland. 
• Artists and faith leaders committed to preserving this history. 

Why This Matters 

The event is the result of groundbreaking research led by Roseann Bacha-Garza, program manager for the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s Community Historical Archaeology Project with Schools (CHAPS). Her work has played a key role in raising awareness of South Texas’ connection to the Underground Railroad, particularly through sites like Jackson Ranch Church and Martin Jackson Cemetery in San Juan, Texas. These locations recently received a National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom designation from the U.S. National Park Service. 

Event Details 

Date: March 7, 2025 
Location: Museum of South Texas History, Edinburg, TX 
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM 
Admission: Free and open to the public 

The Museum of South Texas History invites the public to join this historic gathering, learn about South Texas’ role in the Underground Railroad, and connect with those dedicated to preserving this vital history. 

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