Any time is a great time to visit the William C. Goodridge Freedom Center and Underground Railroad Museum in York, Pennsylvania. But given how this just so happens to be Black History Month, though, it makes for an even more befitting day trip consideration. Not only is it the only African American-themed museum in York, but it’s also a most alluring, multifaceted venue comprising a wealth of fascinating facts, engaging exhibits, detailed displays, and even living history programs brought to life by seasoned and skilled reenactors.
Who Was William C. Goodridge?
The museum is located in what was once the home of William C. Goodridge—a most appropriate site and ambiance for learning more about this remarkable man. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1806, Goodridge’s mother and grandmother were the slaves of plantation owner Charles Carroll—one of the original signers of the Declaration of Independence. His mother was black, but it’s highly speculated that his unknown white father was either one of the Carrolls of a physician from Baltimore, known to have purchased Goodrich’s mother shortly after his birth.
By law, Goodridge could not be sold into slavery. He could, however, be indentured. Therefore, in 1811, he was apprenticed to a York-based tanner named Rev. Michael Dunn. It was under Dunn that he learned the tricks of the trade and received crucial education in other ways, too. After Dunn’s business failed in 1821, though, Goodridge was granted his freedom at just 16 years of age—five years earlier than expected. It was around this time that he moved to Marietta, Pennsylvania, and took on the barber trade.
That was where his new chapter as an entrepreneurial, enterprising individual began. In the years to follow, Goodridge would get married, start a family, and become one of South Central Pennsylvania’s wealthiest African American businessmen. He would also serve as an active conductor on the Underground Railroad. While it is not known just how many fugitive slaves Goodridge helped to freedom, it was, in fact, many. This was a risky feat for a man of his time to be taking. Other claims to fame on Goodridge’s storied reputation include introducing daily newspaper sales to the community and being one of the first people in York credited with having adorned a Christmas tree.
The Museum’s Mission
The William C. Goodridge Freedom Center and Underground Railroad Museum was established to enlighten folks about the life and legacy of this remarkable man, with a special emphasis on his contributing work as an Underground Railroad conductor. At its core, the goal is to inspire folks in connecting the past and present while exploring the meaning of freedom in today’s society.
Features and Exhibits
Living history programs are presented to offer firsthand engagement opportunities to visitors. Presentations are done in an innovative way to encourage learning about the life and times centering on Goodridge and his family. Those leading as guides are knowledgeable, authentic representatives, making it easy to believe you’ve transcended back in time. In addition to appearances by William C. Goodridge, some other living history interpreters to expect include Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, Lydia Hamilton, and Thaddeus Stevens, among others.
Tours are available on Wednesdays and Saturdays between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Each one is an hour long and must be scheduled in advance.
The museum’s holdings span a vast abundance of unique exhibits and displays, including a life-size statue of William C. Goodridge right out front. Other site highlights include the Goodridge family’s early work in photography, previously on display at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and a compilation of permanent and temporary showcases and artifacts alike. One of the most amazing features is, of course, the Secret Hideaway on the Underground Railroad.
The Goodridge Freedom Center is owned and operated by Crispus Attucks York, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The museum site is also formally recognized as part of the National Park Service’s Network to Freedom.
You will find the William C. Goodridge Freedom Center and Underground Railroad Museum at 123 E. Philadelphia St, York, PA 17401. Admission costs $5 a person. To find out more, visit the website at www.goodridgefreedomcenter.org.