28. The Bronx
Of the five boroughs, the Bronx has the least documented Underground Railroad history, though there are some tidbits of information suggesting the borough played a significant role. According to a Spectrum News article citing Lloyd Ultan, a Bronx historian, fugitive slaves would cross the Harlem Bridge (now the 3rd Avenue Bridge) and stop at a villa on 143rd Street and 3rd Avenue. A lawyer owned the home and used his basement as a hiding spot.
Escaped slaves would journey up to 163rd Street, then up Boston Road to the Mapes Farm. The Mapes family would assist people by transporting them secretly on wagons, covering them with blankets, and traveling at night. The route would take them through the present-day Bronx Zoo into Westchester.
Next, check out 36 Black History Sites to Discover in NYC!