Mendota After Hours: Abolitionists of Southeast Minnesota

Dates

  • Friday, August 21, 2026 | 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

About

In the decades preceding the US Civil War, abolitionists from the eastern states moved westward to prevent the spread of slavery into the “free” territory. Among the early American settlers in Minnesota during the 1850s were these dedicated abolitionists. Some were radical activists involved in the Underground Railroad before making their home here. Join us for an engaging session with Sara Holger, who will share captivating stories gathered through oral history interviews with descendants of the abolitionists who lived in southeast Minnesota prior to the abolition of slavery in America.

Sara Holger has been a naturalist since 1994, having spent most of her career as an Interpretive Naturalist for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources with the Division of State Parks and Trails. During her time at Whitewater State Park, she led many tours focused on the history of the Whitewater Valley.

Space is limited, so please register at https://dakotahistory.org/events/1090-aug-21-mendota-after-hours-abolitionists-of-southeast-minnesot.... This is being offered as an in-person event, drinks and light refreshments will be served.

What's Nearby

Sibley Historic Site

Visit some of Minnesota's oldest buildings and explore the early 1800s, when Mendota was a major…

Axel's Restaurant

This upscale classic style restaurant is located in the Historic Village of Mendota and features…

Stand Up Minnesota

Stand Up MN is the one and only organization providing guided tours on the Mississippi River. We…

Historic Fort Snelling

This National Historic Landmark resides on Dakota homeland, at the sacred confluence of rivers…