On Saturday, January 13, 2024, the Taber Museum hosted a program entitled “Reprise: Use of Coded Spirituals in the Underground Railroad – and in the Making of North Star,” featuring portions of the documentary Follow the North Star to Freedom. The creator of the film, Karen Frock, discussed her award winning film with a very large crowd of guests.
Created by writer and film-maker Karen Frock a quarter-century ago, the groundbreaking documentary tells the story of efforts here to help enslaved persons reach freedom via the Underground Railroad. The excerpts featured the Ebenezer Baptist Choir and soloists performing portions of some songs that were used as codes in the Underground Railroad. The Historical Society actively participated in the creation of the film by providing images, artifacts and information in its production. It has been used widely in educational programs at all levels, received a Mid-Atlantic Emmy nomination, and received Preservation Pennsylvania’s Education Initiative award.
The documentary also provided an introduction to Black History Month, celebrated February 1 through March 1.
