Network to Freedom adds Archer Alexander

Archer Alexander Burial Site at St. Peter’s Cemetery Recognized

The Network to Freedom Accepts New Listings

Date: September 10, 2023
Contact: network_to_freedom@nps.gov

Church Creek, MD – The National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom accepted the Archer Alexander Burial site at St. Peter’s Cemetery, in St. Louis, Missouri., as one of 23 new listings, from the 46th round of applications, representing sites and programs in 14 states across the U.S. and Canada. These new listings, alongside more than 750 sites, facilities, and programs already in the Network, provide insight into the diverse experiences of freedom seekers who bravely escaped slavery and allies who assisted them.

“Our national program has been dedicated to preserving and commemorating stories of freedom for the past 25 years.” says Ka’mal McClarin, acting National Program Manager. “Today, we find ourselves at a crucial turning point that marks the beginning of a new chapter in our journey to honor the bravery and resilience of countless known and unknown freedom seekers through various sites, programs, and facilities. This round of nominations highlights 19 unique locations and four new programs, casting light on the courageous journeys of those who sought their freedom and the allies who supported them. As we welcome these 23 new additions to our collection of over 740 stories, we are reminded that pursuing freedom is a tapestry woven with courage, resilience, and interracial unity. Together, we continue to uncover and celebrate the profound legacy of the Underground Railroad, inspiring future generations to uphold the values of liberty and justice for all.”

Archer Alexander, a freedom seeker enslaved in St. Charles, Missouri, was first captured in February 1863 when sixteen men made their attempt for freedom at Howell’s Ferry on the Missouri River. Alexander made his way to St. Louis and the home of an abolitionist named William Greenleaf Eliot, where his enslaver attempted to recapture him. As Missouri was under Marshall law, following a military investigation he was granted freedom, by September 24, 1863, through the provisions of Lincoln’s Second Confiscation Act. December 8, 1880, seventy-four-year-old Archer Alexander passed away, and following a funeral at Washington Metropolitan AME Zion Church was buried in an unmarked grave in St. Peters United Church of Christ Cemetery.

The National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom serves to honor, preserve, and promote the history of resistance to enslavement through escape and flight, which continues to inspire people worldwide. The Network currently represents over 740 locations in 40 states, plus Washington D.C. and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Through its mission, the Network to Freedom helps to advance the idea that all human beings embrace the right to self-determination and freedom from oppression.

https://www.nps.gov/ugrr