They Came for Freedom – Walking Tour Highlights Underground Railroad in Allentown

Did you know that Allentown New Jersey was a stop on the Underground Railroad?  Even if you do, you’ll want to take this year’s tour to learn about the new stops and additional information unearthed by our town’s history sleuths.  Local historian John Fabiano will tell the amazing story during a 90 minute walking tour sponsored by The Allentown Village Initiative (TAVI) on Saturday, June 17, 2023 beginning at 10 a.m. in Pete Sensi Park, Main Street Allentown, NJ. With Mr. Fabiano’s introduction, “They Came for Freedom” will lead participants past historic homes, shops, cemeteries and landmarks which played a part in helping escaped slaves from the South reach freedom in the North. 

A long-time Allentown resident, Mr. Fabiano serves as the Executive Director of the Monmouth County Historical Commission and is an avid local history expert. He has conducted extensive research on Allentown history and is a frequent presenter, sharing a wealth of knowledge with our community. Allentown's Underground Railroad history is unique thanks to documented sources of this activity, which are rare due to the secrecy kept. Please register in advance for a timed tour start at www.allentownvinj.org  Registrants will be assigned timed starts in 30 minute intervals beginning at 10 a.m., Saturday, June 17, 2023. Tour materials will be available online and as “hard copies” – a donation of $5 per tour group is suggested.  

    Juneteenth Walking Tour Registration