Midnight: Detroit & the Underground Railroad
When: July 15, 2025, 6 p.m.
Where: 60 W. Wattles Rd. Troy, Michigan 48098
Midnight: Detroit & the Underground Railroad
Tuesday July 15, 6-7:30pm
FREE - Donations are accepted online and at the door.
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Codenamed Midnight, Detroit was a vital station on the Undergrounds Railroad. Thousands crossed the river to freedom in Canada from Detroit. Detroit abolitionists helped freedom seekers from the south evade slave catchers and local law enforcement on their way to Canada. Detroit’s abolitionist community were fierce in their support of runaways in the face of severe local opposition. Despite this opposition, Detroit’s abolitionists persisted.
This presentation will be given by Billy Wall-Winkel, Field Curator at Detroit Historical Society.
What to Expect
When you arrive, please head through the gate on the side of the Main Building (the large brick building) and follow the sidewalk to the Old Troy Church to check in.
The presentation will be given in the Old Troy Church. Inside the Church are pews and standard wooden chairs to sit during the presentation. The building has a ramp entrance and accessible bathrooms inside. Assisted listening devices are available, please ask a staff member if you would like to use one.
If you have accessibility questions, please click here to visit our accessibility page or contact us at info@thvmail.org and we will be happy to help!
At the end of your program, you will exit through the same gate on the side of the Main Building.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will I be able to get around easily using my wheelchair or walker? Yes! The Village offers three accessible parking spaces in our west parking lot. All buildings have wheelchair-accessible entryways. Buildings are connected by a wide paved pathway. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available inside the Old Tory Church. For more information, please contact us at info@thvmail.org.
- Will food or drink be available? No, Troy Historic Village does not sell food, nor do we have water fountains. However, you are welcome to bring a bottle of water.
- Is this event held rain or shine? Yes, this event will be held rain or shine because it is held indoors. If it is raining, you may want an umbrella for the walk from the parking lot to the Old Troy Church.
- Can I bring my dog? Only service animals are allowed at the Village. We strive to make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable, so please leave your pets at home.
- Do I need to register in advance? No, but we would appreciate it!
- Will a be able to explore the rest of the Village? No, all of the other buildings will be closed during this program. Click here to find out how you can visit during another time.
Parking & Directions
Troy Historic Village is located at 60 W. Wattles Road, Troy MI 48098 (northwest corner of Wattles and Livernois). There are two parking lots at the Village and you can park in either one. After you park, please head through the gate on the side of the Main Building (the large brick building) and follow the sidewalk to the Old Troy Church to check in for the program. We will have green and white signs to direct your path.