On Friday, April 17, 2026, the Fredericksburg community is invited to come together for a powerful and meaningful event. The Fredericksburg Area Museum and the City of Fredericksburg will host The Journey of Freedom: A Community Gathering Honoring Anthony Cohen. This special program will shine a light on history, courage, and the ongoing story of freedom in America.
Anthony Cohen is a historian whose work focuses on retracing the paths taken by freedom seekers along the Underground Railroad. Through research, storytelling, and travel, he helps bring these important stories to life. His work reminds us that history is not just something we read about. It is something we can learn from and connect to in real ways.
This community gathering will feature several inspiring moments. Attendees will hear remarks from Anthony Cohen himself and learn from presentations by local speakers. There will also be time to reflect on the legacy of Harriet Tubman and the impact of the Underground Railroad. One of the highlights of the event will be the display of the Harriet Tubman “The Journey to Freedom” statue, offering a powerful visual reminder of strength and determination.
The event is free and open to the public, making it a great opportunity for students, families, and community members to come together and learn.
Anthony Cohen’s work has an incredible story behind it. In 1996, when he was just 32 years old, he set out on a journey from Maryland to Canada. With a backpack and a passion for history, he followed the route of the Underground Railroad to better understand the experiences of those who sought freedom. That journey changed his life. It even led to national attention, including an appearance on Oprah, and helped shape his career as a historian.
Now, nearly 30 years later, Cohen is preparing to make the journey again. His 2026 trip, called #FreedomWalk2026, will cover 750 miles from Maryland to Canada. Starting on May 4 at the Sandy Spring Slave Museum, he will travel through several states before reaching Toronto on July 4, 2026. His message is simple but powerful. As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, he encourages everyone to take pride in the past while working toward a better future together.