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**NATIONAL UNDERGROUND RAILROAD**

**NETWORK TO FREEDOM**

# 

# APPLICATION (OMB #1024-0232)

# 

# INSTRUCTIONS 

**Table of contents**

I. National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

-   What is the underground railroad?

-   What is the National Park Service's National Underground Railroad
    Network to Freedom Program?

-   What is the Network to Freedom?

-   What types of elements are listed in the Network to Freedom?

-   What types of underground railroad associations are recognized in
    the network?

-   What are the criteria for Network to Freedom eligibility?

-   Is a separate application required for a site that is already listed
    in the National Register to be included in the Network to Freedom?

-   What are the benefits of being listed in the Network to Freedom?

II\. Completing the Application

-   Before you begin your application

-   Instructions for completing the application form

-   Cover page

-   Sites

-   Where to start

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-   Completing the form for sites

-   Facilities

-   Where to start

-   Completing the form for facilities

-   Programs

-   Where to start

-   Completing the form for programs

III\. Putting it all Together

-   Applying to the Network through the internet

-   Applying to the Network without the internet

-   Attachments

-   Photographs

-   Maps

-   Videos

-   Documents, pamphlets, newspaper clippings, and other items

-   Packaging and mailing the application

IV\. Process

-   What is the NPS application review process?

-   When is Network listing status re-evaluated?

Appendices

A.  Regional coordinators, National Underground Railroad Network to
    Freedom Program, National Park Service

B.  Internet links to State Historic Preservation Officers (SHPOs)

C.  Where to find help documenting sites and reconstructing the stories
    of the underground railroad movement

D.  Becoming a network partner

E.  Sample letter of owner consent

**Privacy Information**: The Network to Freedom was established, in
part, to facilitate sharing of information among those interested in the
Underground Railroad. Putting people in contact with others who are
researching related topics, historic events, or individuals or who may
have technical expertise or resources to assist with projects is one of
the most effective means of advancing Underground Railroad commemoration
and preservation. Privacy laws designed to protect individual contact
information (i.e., home or personal addresses, telephone numbers, fax
numbers, or e-mail addresses), may prevent NPS from making these
connections. If you are willing to be contacted by others working on
Underground Railroad activities and to receive mailings about
Underground Railroad-related events, please add a statement to your
letter of consent indicating what information you are willing to share.

**Paperwork Reduction Act Statement:** This information is being
collected for applications to the National Park Service's National
Underground Railroad Network to Freedom to nominate properties,
facilities, and programs to the Network to Freedom. A Federal agency may
not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a
collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB
control number. Response to this request is required for inclusion in
the Network to Freedom in accordance with the National Underground
Railroad Network to Freedom Act (P.L. 105-203).

**Estimated Burden Statement**: Public reporting burden for this form is
estimated to average 15 hours per response including time for reviewing
instructions, gathering and maintaining data, and completing and
reviewing the form. Direct comments regarding this burden estimate or
any aspect of this form to the National Coordinator, National
Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, NPS, 601 Riverfront Drive,
Omaha, Nebraska 68102.

**I. National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom**

**[What is the Underground Railroad?]{.underline}**

The Underground Railroad refers to efforts of enslaved African Americans
to gain their freedom by escaping bondage. Wherever slavery existed,
there were efforts to escape, at first to maroon communities in remote
or rugged terrain on the edge of settled areas. Their acts of
self-emancipation made them "fugitives" according to the laws of the
times, though in retrospect "freedom seeker" seems a more accurate
description. While most freedom seekers began their journey unaided and
many completed their self-emancipation without assistance, each decade
in which slavery was legal in the United States saw an increase in
active efforts to assist escape. In many cases the decision to assist a
freedom seeker may have been a spontaneous reaction as the opportunity
presented itself. However, in some places, particularly after the
Fugitive Slave Act of 1850, the Underground Railroad was deliberate and
organized.

**[What is the National Park Service's National Underground Railroad
Network to Freedom Program?]{.underline}**

Public Law 105-203 the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom
Act of 1998 directs the National Park Service (NPS), to establish a
program that tells the story of resistance against the institution of
slavery in the United States through escape and flight. This story is
illustrative of a basic founding principle of this Nation, that all
human beings embrace the right to self-determination and freedom from
oppression. Through this National Underground Railroad Network to
Freedom Program, NPS is demonstrating the significance of the
Underground Railroad not only in the eradication of slavery, but as a
cornerstone of our national civil rights movement.

The Program is coordinating preservation and education efforts
nationwide, and is working to integrate local historical sites, museums,
and interpretive programs associated with the Underground Railroad into
a mosaic of community, regional, and national stories. There are three
main components to the Program:

-   Educating the public about the historical significance of the
    Underground Railroad;

-   Providing technical assistance to organizations that are
    identifying, documenting, preserving and interpreting sites,
    approximate travel routes and landscapes related to the Underground
    Railroad, or that are developing or operating interpretive or
    educational programs or facilities; and

-   Develop a Network of sites, programs, and facilities with verifiable
    associations to the Underground Railroad, referred to as the
    "Network to Freedom" or the "Network".

One of the principal objectives of the program is to validate the
efforts of local and regional organizations, and make it easier for them
to share expertise and communicate with the NPS and each other.

**[What is the Network to Freedom?]{.underline}**

The Network to Freedom is a significant but distinct part of the NPS'
National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program. It is a
diverse collection of elements comprised of historic sites, facilities
and programs that have a verifiable association to the Underground
Railroad. Individuals and organizations themselves are not eligible for
the Network, but rather they can nominate the sites, programs and
facilities that they work with. The Network incorporates a broad range
of listings that have been nominated and evaluated for their association
to the Underground Railroad and have met certain established criteria.

Inclusion in the Network does not guarantee that a threatened site will
be protected or that preservation will occur. Nor does it guarantee that
a program or facility will receive financial assistance for planning or
development. However, by including an element in the Network, the NPS
acknowledges its verifiable association to the Underground Railroad.
This recognition may be used by advocates to draw support for their
preservation and commemorative efforts.

Each listing in the Network is authorized to display the Network logo,
which will tell the public and all interested entities that the NPS has
evaluated the site, program, or facility and acknowledges its
significant contribution to the Underground Railroad story.

**[What types of elements are listed in the Network to
Freedom?]{.underline}**

In addition to preserving historic sites associated with the Underground
Railroad, the NPS, through the Network to Freedom, attempts to tell a
comprehensive story of the people and events associated with the
struggle for freedom from enslavement. Much of the historic physical
evidence of places---the buildings and landscapes---important to the
Underground Railroad have been altered or destroyed. To convey the
magnitude of this history, it is necessary to recognize commemorative
and interpretive efforts, in addition to identifying and preserving the
sites that remain. Consequently, the Network was designed to include not
only sites, but facilities and programs.

By law, the Network includes the following categories or "elements":

-   All units and programs of the National Park Service determined by
    the Secretary of Interior to pertain to the Underground Railroad;

-   Other Federal, State, local, and privately owned properties
    pertaining to the Underground Railroad that have a verifiable
    connection to the Underground Railroad and that are included on, or
    determined by the Secretary to be eligible for inclusion on, the
    National Register of Historic Places; and

-   Other governmental and non-governmental facilities and programs of
    an educational, research, or interpretive nature that are directly
    related to the Underground Railroad.

The last category, "governmental and non-governmental facilities and
programs" is much more flexible and invites the inclusion of a variety
of different categories of listings. Facilities and programs in the
Network can have an educational, research, or interpretive scope, as
long as they are directly related to, and verifiably associated with,
the Underground Railroad. Facilities can include, but not be limited to,
archives and libraries, research centers, museums and museum
collections, and cultural or commemorative centers. Programs can be even
more diverse in nature. They can include, but not be limited to, tours,
interpretive talks, travelling exhibits, theater productions, living
history presentations, and educational programs.

Finally, there are a multitude of Underground Railroad-related sites
around the United States that have suffered the impacts of prolonged
negligence or developments inconsistent with the historical character of
the site. For whatever reasons, these past activities may have left the
site ineligible for the National Register of Historic Places.
Nonetheless, these sites are often integral parts of the Underground
Railroad story. Their significance should not be lost, so the Network to
Freedom is designed to include these impacted sites, with the provision
that they must be associated with some type of documentation and
interpretation.

**[What types of Underground Railroad associations are recognized in the
Network?]{.underline}**

## 

## Through its definition of the Underground Railroad as resistance to enslavement through flight, the Network to Freedom Program seeks to focus more attention on the freedom seekers themselves. Associations or connections to the Underground Railroad can encompass various activities. Common Underground Railroad associations include places of enslavement from which escapes occurred, water or overland routes, natural areas such as swamps or caves that were used as hiding places, churches with congregations active in the Underground Railroad (even if they were not used as safe houses), the location of legal challenges to the Fugitive Slave Act, maroon communities, destination settlements, and even locations where the kidnapping of freedom seekers occurred. These are just some of the possible associations that define Underground Railroad activity. The definition is meant to be fluid to incorporate and encourage new and original investigations, interpretations, and commemorative activities around the country. 

While the Underground Railroad existed in the context of abolitionism
and anti-slavery thought, those associations alone are not sufficient to
include a site, facility, or program in the Network to Freedom.
Participation in the Underground Railroad---escaping from enslavement or
assisting the freedom seeker---was a violation of the federal fugitive
slave acts and hence illegal. Through their acts of civil disobedience,
these individuals demonstrated a higher level of commitment to the
principles of freedom and self-determination. It is this level of
commitment that is recognized in the Network to Freedom. The line
between general abolitionism and specific support of the Underground
Railroad can be difficult to discern. Underground Railroad activity
would certainly include activities such as sheltering a freedom seeker
on one's property or transporting them between safe havens. However, it
might also include actions such as taking specific steps to assist
freedom seekers or divert pursuers; raising or donating money, food, or
clothing; facilitating communications among participants; or assisting
in the establishment of destination communities.

**[What are the criteria for Network to Freedom
eligibility?]{.underline}**

> The criteria for inclusion in the Network to Freedom are meant to
> establish a certain level of legitimacy, accountability, and accuracy
> in telling the Underground Railroad story. They have been designed,
> however, to be inclusive and flexible to include as wide a range of
> elements as possible.

-   Any element nominated to the Network must **have a verifiable
    association to the Underground Railroad.** These associations to the
    Underground Railroad must be verified using professional methods of
    historical research, documentation, and interpretation. Supporting
    evidence must be documented in the application through specific
    citations that would allow the reader to recreate the research.

-   Any site, facility, or program that applies for inclusion in the
    Network must have **the consent of the owner, manager, or
    director.** Public-owned properties must \[also\] have consent from
    the site manager. A letter of consent from the property owner must
    accompany each application.

####### Sites

-   Places that are ineligible for the National Register or that do not
    have a determination yet, may be eligible for the Network if they
    have a demonstrated and verified association to the Underground
    Railroad, **and** some type of interpretation such as a
    commemorative or interpretive marker, educational program, brochure,
    or site bulletin. The purpose of this requirement is to provide the
    public with some sort of contextual reference for understanding the
    significance of the site. The site must be identified by name and a
    statement that identifies its Underground Railroad association.
    Interpretation at a site that lacks integrity for eligibility to the
    National Register can take many forms:

-   interpretation by skilled guides

-   interpretive wayside exhibits

-   plaques

-   brochures

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-   Sites on the National Register of Historic Places are **not**
    required to have an interpretive component to be eligible for
    inclusion in the Network. Because they physically look like historic
    places, they are able to convey a sense of the history better than a
    place where a completely modern building has been constructed on the
    site. Although not required, sites that are listed in the National
    Register are encouraged to develop interpretive signs or materials.

####### Facilities and Programs

Facilities and programs nominated to the Network to Freedom must exceed
a minimum level of

##### 

-   **accuracy**

The NPS attempts to ensure that the history of the Underground Railroad
is portrayed accurately by members of the Network to Freedom.
Consequently the source materials on which interpretation and
presentation of information are based, must be delineated in the
application. Sources should include primary materials[^1]---letters,
diaries, autobiographies, official records---where possible and
scholarly publications. The sources should be as specific to the story
presented in the program or facility as possible. This is, perhaps, the
most important aspect of the application for supporting inclusion of the
facility or program in the Network to Freedom, and often is the aspect
most overlooked.

-   **professionalism**

> The NPS recognizes that many facilities and programs around the
> country operate on a volunteer basis and rely on scarce resources.
> Therefore, rather than require professional qualifications for staff,
> the Network to Freedom focuses on a professional approach to
> activities such as interpretation, or curation that will indicate a
> high-quality presentation of the history of the Underground Railroad.

For example, basic professional standards that museums, archives, and
libraries should meet are

-   a **catalog system** for their collections such as a finding aid or
    index for collections, and

-   an ability to demonstrate the **provenance**, or origin, source,
    authenticity, acquisition history, and ownership of their
    collections.

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-   **Operation**

All facilities and programs must be in operation and not solely in the
planning stages. To this end, they must be able to demonstrate a past
and ongoing commitment to interpreting or studying the Underground
Railroad. Programs must have occurred at least once in the past, and
have a schedule for future activities.

####### Facilities

Due to their specialized nature, facilities must meet an additional
requirement.

-   **accessibility**

> A goal of the Network to Freedom is to increase public knowledge and
> understanding of the Underground Railroad. Therefore, access to
> information, broadly defined, is a critical component of facilities.
> Facilities such as libraries, archives, and museums, must demonstrate
> a willingness to share information with the general public and
> researchers. They must either have regular hours of operation or be
> open by appointment. To the extent that it is feasible, consideration
> of Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility issues should be
> addressed.

######## Facilities\--Research centers

Research centers must meet two additional criteria. They should be able
to demonstrate that

• the center director or key staff members have an appropriate level of
**training**, which is usually recognized as at least having earned a
Masters degree in an associated field of study, and

• a record of operations through a measurable **output**, such as a past
and ongoing production of a journal or reports.

######### Programs

Due to their specialized nature, programs must meet two additional
requirements.

-   Applications must demonstrate that the program has a record of
    **consultation** with appropriate partners, and community or
    regional support. Consultation is a critical stage in the
    development of any interpretation program. It is beneficial to
    consult with local residents and discuss potential impacts of new
    tours or programs on the area. It is important to include the
    perspectives of various local groups on Underground Railroad
    history. "Ownership" and interpretation of history is often a matter
    at issue.

-   A system must be established for the **evaluation** of the program's
    effectiveness. The goal of any interpretive or educational program
    is to increase knowledge and understanding of the audience. In order
    for program staff to ascertain whether the presentation of the
    information is accomplishing the educational objectives, a
    systematic method of feedback is essential. Insights gained from the
    evaluations should be used to refine the program in the future.
    Analyses of, and samples from, evaluations also assist NPS staff in
    reviewing program applications.

**[Is a separate application required for a site that is already listed
in the national register to be included in the Network to
Freedom?]{.underline}**

It is quite possible that an interested site, facility, or program has
received some type of official recognition at the local, State, or
federal level in the past. However, Network to Freedom listing is a
distinct recognition bestowed by a separate and independent program of
the NPS. It is necessary, therefore, to document the case for inclusion
according to Network standards.

As sites, programs, and facilities are added to the Network to Freedom,
a unique database of the many stories and people of the Underground
Railroad will be created. These applications will become part of a
public record documenting the little known aspects of the Underground
Railroad. Completed applications form part of the Network's larger
collection of sites, programs, and facilities associated with the
Underground Railroad. This information is available to the public for
research. As new information is added to the Network, scholarly
interpretation of this important subject may be revised. The Network to
Freedom also serves as a significant vehicle for presenting and
publicizing the special stories associated with a site nationally and
internationally.

The information presented in a completed Network to Freedom application
should be self-contained and self-explanatory. The information should be
clear and understandable to an individual who has no familiarity with,
or has never seen the site, program, or facility described. While
applications do not need to be lengthy, they should tell the full story
of the Underground Railroad associations of the site, program, or
facility.

**[What are the benefits of being listed in the Network to
Freedom?]{.underline}**

Specific advantages of inclusion in the Network include:

-   National recognition of the verifiable association of historic
    sites, programs, and facilities with the Underground Railroad.

-   Inclusion in a Network database featured on the Program's web site,
    which will include standard information on every site, program, and
    facility that has been reviewed and accepted into the Network.

-   Eligibility for Network to Freedom grants, when funds are
    appropriated, and assistance in locating project funding. The
    Network to Freedom Program is working with partners to identify
    funding sources and raise funds to support interpretation and
    commemoration efforts.

-   The use and display of the National Underground Railroad Network to
    Freedom logo.

-   Inclusion in a nationwide system of comparable sites, programs, and
    facilities that fosters networking and coordinating educational,
    preservation and commemorative activities.

####### II. Completing the Application

**[Before you begin your application]{.underline}**

Applicants are encouraged to consult with their Regional Coordinator
before and during the application process. While Network staff are not
in a position to conduct research or to write applications, we are
prepared to provide technical assistance and guidance. Your Regional
Coordinator can discuss the proposed site, facility, or program to
advise on which category to select and how best to focus the
application.

In many cases, an applicant may wish to apply under more than one
category. For example, many historic sites may also offer interpretive
programs. NPS will evaluate each aspect separately on their own merits.
Consequently, a separate application is required for each category
(site, facility, or program) the applicant chooses. If you are applying
for more than one category, you should submit multiple applications.
Conversely, you should only address the section of the application
relevant to the category that you have selected.

The application must be as complete, intelligible and comprehensive as
possible. **Use a typewriter, word processor, or computer to complete
the form; handwritten forms will not be accepted.** The information
presented in a completed Network to Freedom application must be
self-contained and self-explanatory. The information should be clear and
understandable to an individual who has no familiarity with, or has
never seen, the site, program, or facility described. It is acceptable
to extract text from attachments, (whether formal curricula, pamphlets,
mission statements, National Register nomination, etc.), but the
information must be inserted into the application form itself as part of
a narrative describing the nominated entity and its association with the
Underground Railroad. Please present facts that best illustrate your
argument and avoid including information that does not directly address
the entity's connection to the Underground Railroad.

The National Park Service retains all of the material submitted in the
application process. When accepted, these materials become available for
public use. If an application is not accepted, the materials are kept
for NPS use for future reference, particularly if an application is
re-submitted.

####### [Instructions for Completing the Application Form]{.underline}

**Answers to questions on the application form are not limited to the
space provided on the form**. Additional pages and supporting
information may be attached as necessary but be sure to identify the
element name and item number addressed on each additional sheet or piece
of supplemental material and to number the pages. The form is also
available from the NPS electronically, and may be completed on a
computer. The information on the application cover page may also be
submitted directly through the program website. The remainder of the
form, which requires more extensive text, can be downloaded along with
instructions for completing application process. For further
information, visit the program website at <http://www.cr.nps.gov/ugrr>
and check the link for "Explore the Network".

Please complete the application according to the instructions for each
section.

**Cover page**

Please address each item on the cover page.

**Type:**

Select only one element type for each application.

**Name:**

Enter the name of the entity being nominated to the Network to Freedom.

-   Name sites for the historic figure(s) or events associated with the
    Underground Railroad history. The historic name is preferred for
    general reference because it continues to be meaningful regardless
    of changes in ownership or use and most often relates to the
    property's significance to, or association with, the Underground
    Railroad. This practice helps to commemorate and honor these
    historic people.

-   The name should reflect the program, site, or facility, not the
    organization, company, or institution that owns or manages it.

**Address:**

Enter the physical street address or location of the site or facility
being nominated. A post office box address is not sufficient for sites
or facilities.

-   For programs, enter the address at which program management or staff
    receive mail.

**City, State, Zip:**

Enter the city, state and zip code associated with the address listed
above.

-   Nine digit zip codes, if they are available, are preferred.

**County:**

Enter the county in which the site, facility, or program is located.

## **Congressional District:**

## 

## Enter the congressional district corresponding to the address given for the site, facility, or program. This information will be used to provide notification of acceptance in the Network.

**Physical Location of site/facility (if different):**

-   If a property does not have a specific address, give the names of
    the nearest roads and describe if possible the property's
    relationship to the roads, e.g. 1 mi. w. of jct. US 1 and Middletown
    Rd.

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-   For neighborhoods, districts, large rural properties containing
    multiple physical features (architectural, archeological, or
    landscape components), use this space to provide either inclusive
    street address numbers for all components or a rough description of
    the boundaries, e.g. "12-157 Main St.," or "Roughly bounded by
    Smithfield Lake, North and Lowell Avenues, and I-73," or "Three
    blocks in downtown Athens centered around State St."

-   For institutional or government-owned properties, enter the name of
    the institution, district, forest, preserve, park, or other
    organizational division identifying the location of the property,
    e.g., "Clifty Falls State Park," "Camp Warren Levis," "Wayne
    National Forest," or "Minute Man National Historical Park."

## **Address not for publication:**

## 

## To protect fragile properties, particularly those subject to looting and vandalism, the NPS will withhold information about the location and character of the property from the public. If this item is checked, please provide an explanation.

**Date submitted:**

Please enter the date that the application is submitted to the NPS.

**Summary:**

In 200 words or less, describe what is being nominated, summarize what
makes the entity verifiably associated with the Underground Railroad,
and describe what makes the program, facility, or site significant.

-   Providing a clear abstract is crucial to acceptance of a nomination.
    It should be a concise and clear summary of the "case" being made
    for association with the Underground Railroad.

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-   Statements made in the abstract should be as definitive or
    authoritative as possible. Be mindful that statements must be
    documented and supported in the body of the application.

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-   The abstracts will be posted on the Network to Freedom web site.
    Technical considerations require the abstracts to be limited to
    approximately 200 words.

-   Writing tip: It may be helpful to prepare the abstract after you
    have completed the rest of the application.

**Owner or Manager (Name, address, city, state, zip, phone, fax,
e-mail):**

Provide the name and contact information for the owner or manager of the
site, facility, or program. Three address blocks are included in the
case of multiple owners.

-   A complete and current address is required for notification
    purposes. Please inform NPS of any address changes that occur after
    acceptance of an application.

-   Nine digit zip codes, if they are available, are preferred.

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-   Regional coordinators use phone, fax, and e-mail information to
    contact the owner/manager during the review process or to discuss
    the status of the listing.

**Privacy Information**: The Network to Freedom was established, in
part, to facilitate sharing of information among those interested in the
Underground Railroad. Putting people in contact with others who are
researching related topics, historic events, or individuals or who may
have technical expertise or resources to assist with projects is one of
the most effective means of advancing Underground Railroad commemoration
and preservation. Privacy laws designed to protect individual contact
information (i.e., home or personal addresses, telephone numbers, fax
numbers, or e-mail addresses), may prevent NPS from making these
connections. If you are willing to be contacted by others working on
Underground Railroad activities and to receive mailings about
Underground Railroad-related events, please add a statement to your
letter of consent indicating what information you are willing to share.

**Application Preparer (Name, address, city, state, zip, phone, fax,
e-mail):**

Provide the name and contact information of the individual(s) who
prepared the application if different from the owner.

-   A complete and current address is required for notification
    purposes. Please inform NPS of any address changes that occur after
    acceptance of an application.

-   Nine digit zip codes, if they are available, are preferred.

-   Regional coordinators use phone, fax, and e-mail information to
    contact the applicant during the review process or to discuss the
    status of the listing.

**Privacy Information**: The Network to Freedom was established, in
part, to facilitate sharing of information among those interested in the
Underground Railroad. Putting people in contact with others who are
researching related topics, historic events, or individuals or who may
have technical expertise or resources to assist with projects is one of
the most effective means of advancing Underground Railroad commemoration
and preservation. Privacy laws designed to protect individual contact
information (i.e., home or personal addresses, telephone numbers, fax
numbers, or e-mail addresses), may prevent NPS from making these
connections. If you are willing to be contacted by others working on
Underground Railroad activities and to receive mailings about
Underground Railroad-related events, please add include a brief letter
with the application package indicating what information you are willing
to share.

**[Sites]{.underline}**

**Where to start?**

Before beginning to prepare the application form documenting the
significance of the historic site, you should gather available
information about the property or the community in which it is located.

Applicants are encouraged to consult with their Regional Coordinator
(See Appendix A.) before and during the application process. While
Network staff are not in a position to conduct research or write
applications, we are prepared to provide technical assistance in the
preparation and submission of applications. Your Regional Coordinator
may be able to suggest local, State, and federal sources of information
of which you may not have been aware. Likewise, they may help you
network with organizations or individuals in your area specializing in
Underground Railroad research.

Applicants should contact the [State Historic Preservation Officer
(SHPO]{.underline}) for the State in which the property is located, to
determine what information on the property the State can provide. See
Appendix B for the internet address to obtain the list of SHPOs (or
contact your Regional Coordinator). The SHPO can help the applicant

-   determine if the property is listed in the National Register of
    Historic Places or included in a State survey and if so, the SHPO
    can provide a copy of the National Register or State survey forms
    documenting the property's historic significance

-   determine if the property has any other local, state, or federal
    historic designations or is already protected by a local or State
    ordinance

-   learn how the property relates to any historic \"themes\" or
    \"historic contexts\" prepared by the SHPO.

Information available from the above sources may relate to many of the
application questions and may be helpful in completing the application.

There is a growing bibliography on the practice of documenting
Underground Railroad sites. See Appendix C for a list of publications
available from the NPS as well as a discussion, "Reconstructing the
Stories of the Underground Railroad Movement," on what constitutes
sufficient documentation to authenticate Underground Railroad
associations.

**Completing the form for Sites**

In addition to the responses to each question, applications must also
include the following attachments. (See section III for specific details
regarding attachments, including photographs and supplemental
materials.)

-   **Letters of consent** for inclusion in the Network to Freedom from
    all property owners

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-   **Property owners must consent to including their properties in the
    Network to Freedom.** Applicants should include a letter(s) of
    consent for inclusion in the Network from the property owner(s).
    Remember that for sites comprised of multiple property owners, each
    property owner must be notified, and a majority must consent to
    inclusion in the Network. Although property owners must consent to
    including their properties in the Network to Freedom, public access
    to the site is [not]{.underline} required for inclusion.

-   **Privacy Information**: The Network to Freedom was established, in
    part, to facilitate sharing of information among those interested in
    the Underground Railroad. Putting people in contact with others who
    are researching related topics, historic events, or individuals or
    who may have technical expertise or resources to assist with
    projects is one of the most effective means of advancing Underground
    Railroad commemoration and preservation. Privacy laws designed to
    protect individual contact information (i.e., home or personal
    addresses, telephone numbers, fax numbers, or e-mail addresses), may
    prevent NPS from making these connections. If you are willing to be
    contacted by others working on Underground Railroad activities and
    to receive mailings about Underground Railroad-related events,
    please add a statement to your letter of consent indicating what
    information you are willing to share.

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-   Text and photographs of all site markers

-   Photographs of site applying for inclusion in the Network.

-   Submit original photographs which illustrate the current condition
    of the site, showing significant features. Historic photographs, if
    available, are also encouraged.

-   Maps showing the location of the site.

-   Include a sketch map or site map that shows the site in the context
    of its surroundings and nearby features such as roads, waterways,
    etc.

-   For large or complex properties, indicate on the map the boundaries
    of what is included in the application.

-   Maps are highly recommended as they assist in understanding and
    evaluating the site in its geographic context and in determining
    what is nominated for inclusion in the Network listing.

S1. Site type:

Check the site type that best describes the element. (If unsure, then
check "Other" and describe.)

**A building** is a construction created principally to shelter any form
of human activity; "building" may also be used to refer to a
historically and functionally related unit, such as a house and barn, or
a courthouse and jail. Network listing will include the entire building,
not simply a part of a building, such as the interior, facades,
individual rooms, or hiding places. If a building has lost its basic
structural features, e.g. it has three walls and no roof, it is
considered a ruin and is categorized as a site.

-   Examples of buildings: carriage house, church, hotel, house, school,
    shed, stable, store, train station, city or town hall

**An object** is a construction that is primarily artistic in nature and
is associated with a specific setting or environment. Small moveable
\"objects\" not designed for specific locations are normally not
eligible under this category**.** To be eligible for the Network to
Freedom, objects should be located in a public space or visible and
accessible to the public.

-   Examples of objects: fountain, monument, sculpture, statuary

**A district (neighborhood)** is a significant concentration, linkage,
or continuity of sites, buildings, structures, or objects united
historically or aesthetically by plan or physical development. This
definition includes neighborhoods and large rural properties containing
multiple physical features (architectural, archeological, or landscape
components). A district must be a definable geographic area that can be
distinguished from surrounding properties. The defined boundary for a
district must be based upon a shared relationship between the properties
constituting the district. A district can contain buildings, structures,
sites, objects, or open spaces that do not contribute to the
significance of the district. For purposes of applying to the Network
for a district significant for its association with the Underground
Railroad, contributing properties must have been present during the time
period in which the district played a role in Underground Railroad
history. While districts may encompass components such as buildings or
landscapes constructed after that time period, they are not considered
to contribute to the district's historic significance**.**

-   Examples of districts: business districts, college campuses, estates
    and farms with large acreage/numerous properties, residential areas,
    industrial complexes, waterfronts, rural villages, rural historic
    districts

**A structure** is a functional construction made usually for purposes
other than creating human shelter. Network listing will include the
entire structure, not simply its parts. If a structure has lost its
historic configuration through deterioration or demolition, it is
considered a \"ruin\" and is categorized as a site.

-   Examples of structures: boat or ship, bridge, canal, corncrib, dam,
    grain elevator, lighthouse, railroad grade, silo, tunnel

**A landscape or natural feature** is a natural landmark associated with
a significant historic event.

-   Examples of landscapes or natural features: battlefield, cemetery,
    cave, river ford, ferry crossing site, swamp, grove of trees, road,
    trail

-   For purposes of the Network to Freedom, the critical factor for a
    landscape is being able to document that this is the location where
    a significant event happened, even if the land use has changed over
    time.

**An archeological site** is the location of a significant historic
event, occupation or activity, or a ruined or vanished building or
structure, where the location itself possesses the potential to yield
information through an archeological examination of cultural remains,
usually requiring excavation or remote sensing techniques.

-   Examples of archeological sites: battlefield, campsite, cemetery
    significant for information potential, ruins of a building or
    structure

**S2. Is the site listed in the National Register of Historic Places?
What is the listing name?**

Check with the appropriate State Historic Preservation Office, Network
to Freedom Regional Coordinator or the National Register (see
appendixes).

-   If the site is listed in the National Register, check the blank for
    Yes.

-   Enter the name as it appears in the listing.

**S3. Ownership of site:**

Check the ownership category that best describes the element.

-   If there are multiple owners, check all categories that apply.

**S4. Describe the site's association and significance to the
Underground Railroad. Provide citations. Supplemental chronologies are
encouraged.**

In Section S4 you are asked to write a narrative, with citations,
describing the site's association with and significance to the
Underground Railroad. Identify what type of activity occurred at the
site, the period of significance to the Underground Railroad, dates of
significant events, and the names of noteworthy people associated with
the site. A supplemental chronology in chart or list form is often
helpful to clarify the narrative.

**S4a. Type(s) of Underground Railroad Association**

Choose the type of association from the following list that the site has
with the Underground Railroad. Check all associations that apply.

**Types of associations that sites may have with**

**Underground Railroad activity can include, but not be limited to:**

-   **[Stations]{.underline} on the Underground Railroad**. These are
    locations where freedom seekers were harbored and their use as such
    has been documented. This could include buildings or natural
    features such as caves or swamps if their use can be verified.
    Stations are entire buildings or structures, not individual rooms or
    parts of larger buildings. Often, a station could be a farmstead,
    and may include outbuildings such as barns or corncribs. It is not
    necessary that stations have tunnels, hidden rooms, trap doors, or
    other secret hiding places. Many stations never had any of these,
    and unless their use for Underground Railroad purposes can be
    clearly demonstrated, it is best to avoid relying on hiding places
    for purposes of verification and site interpretation.

**Properties associated with [prominent persons]{.underline}**. These
include those individuals or groups who were actively involved in
harboring freedom seekers or aiding them in other ways, or sites
associated with known freedom seekers. Every property associated with a
person significant in the history of the Underground Railroad may not be
eligible for the Network. If there are several properties associated
with the significant individual, they should be evaluated to determine
which sites best represent the person's historic Underground Railroad
contributions. Communities or states may contain several properties that
are eligible for their association with the same important person, if
each property represents an important aspect of the person's involvement
in the Underground Railroad.

**[Rebellion sites]{.underline}**. Unlike in the Caribbean and South
America, slave rebellions were usually not successful in the United
States due to the small slave population compared to the majority white
population, and the lack of adequate weaponry used to overthrow the
oppressors. However, the rebellions that took place are significant and
did have some measure of "success". For example, more than 75 enslaved
people eventually took part in the 1739 Stono Rebellion. These rebels
attempted to gain liberation by making their way from South Carolina to
Spanish Florida. The majority of the rebels (about 50) were eventually
captured by colonial authorities and executed, however some managed to
avoid capture and successfully escaped. In another example, more than
400 enslaved people participated in the 1811 Revolt that took place
outside of New Orleans. Although most of the rebels were captured and
executed, about 17 did gain their freedom. These rebellions are
historically significant examples of the centuries-long struggle for
freedom. In many instances, the records of the suppression of the
revolts and subsequent trials provide eloquent testimony to the
conditions from which enslaved people sought to escape.

**Properties associated with the [legal challenge to
slavery]{.underline}.** The struggle over the enforcement of the
fugitive slave laws led many times to legal confrontations. Places
associated with these cases tell part of the story of the resistance to
enslavement. These will most often be courthouses, but may also include
places where enslaved people or those who aided freedom seekers resided
or were detained awaiting trial, or law offices where legal briefs and
court strategy were prepared. Court records and trial transcripts
provide a rich source of information about operations of the Underground
Railroad in different communities, and often include mention of local
conductors.

-   **Properties associated with [documented escapes]{.underline}.**
    These include plantations from which freedom seekers successfully
    escaped. They may be documented in plantation records, newspaper
    notices, slave narratives or other writings. Like rebellion sites,
    an examination of plantation life lends context to the conditions
    from which enslaved individuals were fleeing. Places associated with
    those who remained behind and assisted others to begin their journey
    may also be recognized. These might include plantation quarters, or
    the urban residences of enslaved people or free blacks.

**Properties associated with [documented rescue attempts]{.underline}.**
These may include homes of individuals who were primary figures in
rescues, as well as the locations at which freedom seekers were rescued
and places where they were subsequently harbored. Rallying places where
crowds gathered or demonstrated in support of taking action to rescue
freedom seekers may also be eligible.

**Sites associated with [kidnappings]{.underline}**. These include
locations\--buildings, sites, or structures---associated with documented
kidnappings, either of freedmen being forced into slavery or escaped
freedom seekers captured by slave catchers.

**[Maroon]{.underline} communities**. Small groups of runaways were
sometimes successful in forming small settlements. These were often in
remote areas with marginal land such as swampy, rocky, or hilly terrain.
These settlements were often active in assisting freedom seekers.
Because these communities frequently were temporary, few properties
associated with them are extant, and they are difficult to document.
However, descendants of the people who formed these settlements may
often still reside nearby. These descendants may have oral traditions
passed down through their families which can provide clues to assist in
documenting the sites.

**[Destination]{.underline} sites**. A location where a freedom seeker
settled may be eligible for the Network. These sites may be in the
United States or in another country. Prior to 1850, especially, freedom
seekers often settled in northern states or sparsely settled areas.
After the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 made their situation more tenuous,
many of these people moved again to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean or
other countries.

-   **[Churches associated with congregations active]{.underline} in the
    Underground Railroad**. A distinction must be made between
    congregations which supported the abolition of slavery, and those
    (fewer in number) which went further and actively supported the
    Underground Railroad. A distinction should also be made between
    churches where the congregation participated as a group, and
    churches associated with Underground Railroad participants who may
    have worshipped at them. In the later case, the church may be the
    best place to recognize the Underground Railroad contributions of
    the individual, but is not necessarily recognized for the
    congregation. Although freedom seekers were probably not often
    harbored in churches, church congregations often provided monetary
    or other direct assistance. Congregations often used different
    buildings over time, and the current location may not be where the
    Underground Railroad activity took place. However, the current
    location of a congregation clearly descended from one active in the
    Underground Railroad may be recognized.

**[Archeological sites]{.underline}.** A property associated with the
Underground Railroad, where archeological survey or study has been
undertaken, may be eligible for its potential to provide important
information on Underground Railroad activities.

**[Cemeteries]{.underline}.** Many times the only tangible connection to
persons involved with the Underground Railroad are the cemeteries where
they are buried. Sometimes cemeteries may be documented as locations
where freedom seekers hid.

**[Military sites]{.underline}.** Military-related sites are also
noteworthy parts of the Underground Railroad story, and can include
sites of famous battles associated with the flight of the enslaved or
forts occupied by Federal forces that provided refuge to the enslaved.
Prior to the Civil War, military service was one means by which enslaved
people could attempt to gain their freedom. Consequently, military sites
from all periods prior to 1865 should be evaluated for Underground
Railroad associations.

**[Historic districts or neighborhoods]{.underline}**. Often there will
be sections of a town or a concentration in a rural area that was known
for Underground Railroad activity. There may be several specific houses
or buildings that can be documented as associated with the Underground
Railroad and several others that date from the time period. Generally,
these areas should be distinguishable from surrounding properties and
have a shared relationship with each other.

**[Commemorativ]{.underline}e sites or monuments.** Since the late
nineteenth century, there have been efforts to commemorate the
Underground Railroad with monuments, statues, and markers. These efforts
are often significant in their own right, and may be nominated to the
Network to Freedom. To be considered for the Network, the commemorative
object must be in a public space, visible and accessible to the public.
Public buildings or facilities named in honor of a participant in the
Underground Railroad, such as a Harriet Tubman School, are not eligible.

-   **[Transportation routes]{.underline}**. If general direction of
    fugitives from slavery can be traced and a specific route that was
    followed can be identified and documented, they may be eligible. The
    flight from slavery generally left no physical imprint on the
    landscape, and specific routes may be difficult to define. However,
    in some places these routes may be known. Transportation corridors
    such as roads or waterways are by their nature dynamic and may have
    often changed considerably since the time of the Underground
    Railroad. These routes, if they can be documented, and if they can
    be shown to follow the same corridor, can be considered for the
    Network to Freedom. Transportation routes such as roads or waterways
    are by their nature dynamic and have often changed considerably
    since the time of the Underground Railroad. Maps, both historic and
    current, are critical documentation to illustrate the routes.

**Other sites.** Properties related to the Underground Railroad in some
other way may include, for example, resources associated with William
Still and Wilbur Siebert, two early historians of the Underground
Railroad. Or, a building that served as the headquarters of an
abolitionist newspaper that was sympathetic to aiding freedom seekers
might also be eligible.

These are just some of the possible associations that define Underground
Railroad activity. The definition is meant to be fluid to incorporate
new investigations, interpretations, and commemoration activities around
the country.

> **Writing a narrative of site significance**

Keep in mind the following general principles when preparing this
narrative statement of significance:

-   There is no prescribed length for documenting the site. The
    narrative should be thorough, describing the site's significance and
    association with the Underground Railroad. The explanation of the
    property's historical significance should be written for a general
    audience that may never have heard of the property before and not be
    familiar with its story. Remember, the Network application is an
    opportunity to widely publicize the unique history of the site and
    add to the collective knowledge of the Underground Railroad.

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-   Begin with a summary paragraph, simply and clearly stating how the
    site is associated with the Underground Railroad, and what is the
    significance of that association. This paragraph may be an
    amplification of the abstract.

-   Using the summary paragraph as an outline, make the case for
    significance in subsequent paragraphs. Begin by providing a brief
    chronological history of the property, then discuss the facts and
    circumstances in the property's past that give it significance in
    Underground Railroad history.

-   Include brief descriptive, geographical, and historical information
    about the area where the property is located to help orient the
    reader to the property's surroundings and the kind of community or
    place where it functioned in the past. Again, focus on facts that
    help explain the property's role and illustrate its importance.

-   Since the reader may have limited knowledge of the property or the
    area where it is located, consider providing a map(s) showing the
    location of the site in relation to identifiable geographic features
    (nearby towns and rivers, for instance).

-   A supplemental chronology is often helpful to clarify the narrative
    and as a reference for the reader.

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-   For districts or neighborhoods, provide a general boundary
    description and a list of what properties are included, noting
    whether they contribute to the Underground Railroad association of
    the area.

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-   Be concise and selective about the facts. Consider whether they
    directly support the significance of the property. Avoid narrating
    the entire history of the property. Focus on the events and
    activities associated with the Underground Railroad that make the
    property historically significant.

-   Be specific in all references to history or geography. Give dates
    and proper names of places and people associated with the property,
    citing where this information was obtained.

-   **Identify sources, with page numbers, as clearly as possible so
    that anyone reading the application may retrace the applicant's
    research. In so doing, use a standard footnote, endnote, or citation
    style such as that found in *The Chicago Manual of Style,* *A Manual
    for Writers* by Kate L.Turabian, the Modern Language Association
    style sheet, or an accepted style guide from a scholarly journal
    like *American Antiquity*. For example, see below**[^2] **for a
    footnote reference using the Chicago Manual of Style format.
    Citations following the same format and included at the end of the
    document are endnotes.**

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-   In addition to using notes to cite references, consider them for
    explanatory purposes---to identify individuals, explain
    relationships, discuss conflicting sources, and otherwise provide
    information supporting, but tangential to your main argument.

**S5. Provide a history of the site since its time of significance to
the Underground Railroad, including physical changes, changes in
ownership or use of the building(s) or site.**

Provide a brief narrative of the use of the site since its time of
association with significant events in Underground Railroad history.

-   Describe other, alternative, or previous names of the site. Identify
    the current name of the site, if different from the historical name.

-   For buildings, structures, objects, and designed landscapes,
    identify date of construction and describe how the site has changed
    over time to its current appearance and condition.

-   Describe in general terms what the historic uses of the site were
    and what the site is used for now.

-   Note if the setting, or surrounding area, has changed and what the
    site's context is today in relation to its surroundings.

S6. Describe current educational programs, tours, markers, signs,
brochures, or plaques at the site. Include text and photographs of
markers.

Describe current educational programs, tours, brochures, or markers at
the site related to the history of the Underground Railroad. Include
text and photo(s) of markers.

-   Many Underground Railroad sites are interpreted to the public
    through tours, brochures, or markers. While fully developed
    interpretive programs may also apply to the Network separately as a
    program, this question is aimed at determining what interpretation,
    if any, is available for the site.

-   If there is a brochure or site bulletin for the site, you are
    encouraged to enclose a copy with your application.

**S7. Identify historical sources of information, Include a
bibliography.**

Provide citations for all references and sources used to complete this
application, especially for all sources mentioned in S4 (even if they
have been previously noted).

Cite the sources as clearly as possible so that anyone reading the
application may retrace the applicant's research.

Applicants are encouraged to make use of as wide a variety of sources as
possible, including oral traditions. Primary sources such as newspaper
accounts from the time period, journals, letters from the time period,
first-hand accounts, census data, etc., are highly recommended if
available.

See Appendix C for information regarding what is sufficient
documentation. Generally speaking, more than one source should be used,
and the information should be corroborative. In combination the sources
used should be strong enough to support the claim for Underground
Railroad association.

Do not include general reference works unless they provide specific
information about the property or unless such works have assisted in
evaluating the property's significance.

Use information from the internet very cautiously. Internet sites by
major university libraries, the Library of Congress or other
organizations that include scanned primary documents are fairly
reliable. Most other sites contain interpretations of information that
should be analyzed like any other source.

Provide an annotated analytical assessment of the veracity of sources
used: is the source generally considered accurate and authoritative, or
should it be used with caution and only when verified by other sources?
Where and when did these sources obtain their information?

Use a standard bibliographical style such as that found in *The Chicago
Manual of Style,* *A Manual for Writers* by Kate L.Turabian, the Modern
Language Asssociation style sheet, or an accepted style guide from a
scholarly journal like *American Antiquity*.

**Guidelines for Bibliographical References**

-   For **all published materials (books, pamphlets, imprints)**, list
    the author, full title, location and date of publication, and
    publisher.

-   Filler, Lewis. [The Crusade Against Slavery, 1830-1860]{.underline}.
    New York: Harper Torchbooks, 1960.

-   For **articles**, list the name, volume, and date of the publication
    (journal, newspaper, or magazine).

-   Example: Fruehling, Byron D., and Smith, Robert H. "Subterranean
    Hideaways of the Underground Railroad in Ohio: An Architectural and
    Historical Critique of Local Tradition." [Ohio History]{.underline},
    102 (1993): 98-117

-   For **unpublished papers (manuscripts, letters, diaries)** cite the
    name of collection and repository. (Information about when a
    document was produced is very helpful, if it can be determined.)

-   Seibert, Wilbur papers. Ohio Historical Society, Columbus, Ohio.

-   Hawley, A.T. Daily Account Book No. 2.

> In the possession of Jane Doe in Middletown, California.

-   For **government documents** cite the type of records and
    repository.

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-   City and federal census manuscripts on microfilm. Missouri
    Historical Society Archives. St. Louis, Missouri.

-   U.S. Bureau of the Census. 1860 Illinois and Madison County
    sections. Washington: Government Printing Office.

-   St. Louis Criminal and Circuit Court Records. Missouri State
    Archives Court Records Curation Project. St. Louis, Missouri.

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-   For **interviews**, include the date of the interview, name of the
    interviewer, name and title (if any) of the person interviewed, and
    the location where the tapes, transcripts, and notes of the
    interview are stored.

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-   Kennedy, Clementine. Interviewed by Charlotte Johnson. Alton,
    Illinois: May 1999. Audiocassette and notes in the collection of the
    Interviewer in Alton, Illinois.

**S8. Describe any other local, state, or federal historic designations,
records, signage, or plaques the site has.**

Such recognition may include designations by local historical
commissions or historical societies, local zoning ordinances, or state
historical designations. Federal recognition, might include listing in
the National Register of Historic Places, National Historic Landmark
designation, or recordation by the Historic American Buildings
Survey/Historic American Engineering Record. Your SHPO (See Appendix B.)
may be able to supply this information or direct you to the appropriate
contacts.

**S9. Is the site open to the public and under what conditions?**

Public access to sites is not a requirement for inclusion in the
Network. This is particularly true for such places as the interior of
private buildings or sensitive archeological sites. The applicant should
identify the level of access to the site, and any restrictions.
Accessibility may include hours of operation, entrance fees, parking,
restroom facilities, etc.

Be sure to identify if there are any provisions for handicapped access
and if access is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

**S10. Describe the nature and objectives of any partnerships that have
contributed to the documentation, preservation, commemoration, or
interpretation of the site.**

By working with other partners, applicants demonstrate the level of
local, regional, or State support for the efforts to help preserve,
commemorate, or interpret Underground Railroad sites. The NPS strongly
encourages resource stewardship through partnerships and cooperative
endeavors. Identify any assistance the site may have received from the
State Historic Preservation Officer, the National Park Service, or some
other federal, state, or local entity for the preservation or
interpretation of the site. Note if the site has received assistance
from a private foundation or perhaps corporate sponsorship. Identify
contributions to the preservation, upkeep, or staffing of the site, from
such groups as volunteers, educational facilities, scouts, etc.

**S11. Additional data or comments. (optional)**

Applicants may include additional information pertinent to the site's
inclusion in the Network \-- for example, site pamphlets or published
articles about the site.

Required Attachments:

**[Facilities]{.underline}**

**Where to Start?**

Before beginning to prepare the application form for a facility, you
should have any information that has already been gathered about the
facility:

-   its mission statement;

-   collection(s) policy(ies) and description(s) (including information
    on acquisition, conservation, lending, and photoduplication);

-   visitation (numbers, types of visitors, length of visit, etc.);

-   staffing (management, current size and type, needs, qualifications
    and training, accreditation);

-   publications, reports and outreach programs;

-   and partnerships and funding.

Applicants are encouraged to consult with their Regional Coordinator
(See Appendix A.) before and during the application process. While
Network staff are not in a position to write applications, we are
prepared to provide technical assistance in the preparation and
submission of applications. In particular, applicants may wish to
discuss whether to apply under the facility or program category. For
example, research centers or museums may apply for inclusion in the
Network to Freedom as either a facility or a program. The application
preparer should consult with the facility's staff, as well as with the
NPS regional coordinator to determine which element type is most
appropriate. If the research center or museum is applying for inclusion
both as a facility and on the basis of its programs, a separate
application form must be filled out of each element type (i.e. one
application for the facility and one application for each program).

**Completing the form for Facilities**

In addition to the responses to each question, applications must also
include a letter of consent for inclusion in the Network to Freedom from
the facility owner or manager.

-   **Privacy Information**: The Network to Freedom was established, in
    part, to facilitate sharing of information among those interested in
    the Underground Railroad. Putting people in contact with others who
    are researching related topics, historic events, or individuals or
    who may have technical expertise or resources to assist with
    projects is one of the most effective means of advancing Underground
    Railroad commemoration and preservation. Privacy laws designed to
    protect individual contact information (i.e., home or personal
    addresses, telephone numbers, fax numbers, or e-mail addresses), may
    prevent NPS from making these connections. If you are willing to be
    contacted by others working on Underground Railroad activities and
    to receive mailings about Underground Railroad-related events,
    please add a statement to your letter of consent indicating what
    information you are willing to share.

F1. **Facility type**:

Check the facility type that best describes the element. (If unsure,
then check "Other" and describe.)

An **archive** is a repository for original documents from the past. It
may also serve as a **library** by having secondary sources and
reference tools.

A **museum** is a facility that has collections, conducts research, but
also sponsors exhibits and educational programs.

A **research center** is an institution that produces scholarly
publications and reports, and otherwise disseminates its research on the
Underground Railroad to the public. It may mentor or sponsor
researchers.

**F2. Provide a general description of the facility and its purpose or
mission.**

Provide the facility's mission statement or primary purpose. Briefly
describe the physical facility itself and the scope of services.
Characterize the facility's over-all collection or collections if
appropriate.

**F3. Characterize the holdings or collections, detailing their
significance to the Underground Railroad.**

Provide a brief, general description of that portion of the facility's
collection or collections or mission that are related to the history of
the Underground Railroad. Explain how the collections or mission are
significant to, or directly associated with the Underground Railroad.
What percentage of the facility's total holdings do these Underground
Railroad related items represent? What percentage of the facility\'s
research is related to the Underground Railroad? How is the Underground
Railroad being defined?

**F4. List or catalog the Underground Railroad or slavery-related
collections or materials the facility has.**

Specify the types of Underground Railroad or slavery-related objects or
materials (provide examples) that the facility has in its collection or
collections. If the collections are archival, describe what is related
to Underground Railroad research.

Types of objects or materials may include, but not be limited to:

-   Original historical artifacts

-   Reproductions of historical artifacts

-   Permanent exhibitions containing Underground Railroad materials

-   Original archival or manuscript collections (including original
    historical architectural or cartographic records, moving images,
    photographic collections or sound recording)

-   Reproductions of archival or manuscript materials

-   Rare books

-   Rare or out-of-print serials

-   Rotating Underground Railroad exhibits

**F5. Identify and describe the types of documents the facility has to
identify the provenance of its collections.**

Describe the facility's method of ascertaining and recording the origin,
source, authenticity, and ownership history (the provenance) of its
collection or collections.

Documents that establish provenance may include, but not be limited to:

-   Deeds of Gift

-   Written Historical Provenance Information such as Authentic
    Histories of Creation, Ownership, and Custody of Items/Collections

-   Attribution or Appraisal Documentation

-   Copyright Ownership Documentation

-   Research into Collections by a Scholar

> Requirements for showing provenance are directed primarily to
> facilities that maintain collections of artifacts or unique rare
> documents or volumes. Facilities that maintain collections of books,
> copied documents, or replica materials, should describe general
> procedures they follow for acquisition. Applicant must identify if the
> facility has copyright authority over material in its collection(s).

**F6. Identify and describe the types of guides or indexes that are
available for the facility's collections.**

In order to use an archives, museum collection, or research center, it
is necessary to have an easy form of access to the inventory of objects,
documents, and publications.

-   Describe the types of guides or indexes that are available for the
    facility's collections. Finding aids and catalogs are standard,
    minimum requirements for any collections facility. These may
    include, but not be limited to:

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-   Online Public Access Catalog

-   Finding Aids for Archival Collections

-   Published Card Catalog

-   Microfilm copies in the National Registry of Microfilm Masters

-   Encoded Archival Description Finding Aids on the Web

-   In National Union Catalog of Manuscript Collections

-   Other Web-based Access

-   Published Exhibition Catalogs

-   Museum Catalog

**F7. Describe the facility's management and staff, and levels of
training or certifications.**

Describe the facility's management. Who runs the facility? How is it
funded? Is it a non-profit organization? Is the staff comprised of
volunteers, consultants, paid employees, university or other students?

What is the staff's level of professional experience, education, and
training? Are they certified in any way, such as by the Academy of
Certified Archivists, the Association of Archivists and Records
Managers, the American Association of Museums, and any regional or local
organizations? Is experience required for staff? And if so, what type of
experience?

Is there on-going training for the staff?

Does the facility have trained curators or archivists on staff or
available as volunteers or for consultation? Does the facility have a
trained reference staff?

Be sure to describe any professional organizational affiliations (such
as a local, state or national association of museums, archives and
libraries) to which the facility belongs or has been accredited by.

**F8. Describe the types of publications, reports, or services the
facility performs or produces.**

List publications, reports, or services related to the Underground
Railroad that the facility publishes, produces or performs. Does the
facility host or sponsor interns or provide fellowships? Does it sponsor
lectures on its research or post information on a web site?

For inclusion in the Network, Research Centers must show a record of
on-going commitment to researching or providing information about the
Underground Railroad. This may include such things as publication of a
journal that includes Underground Railroad or slavery-related articles,
or various types of reports on these related themes.

Facilities that are not applying for inclusion as research centers
should answer this question with either a negative response or with a
description of relevant activities, including any interpretive programs
the facility offers.

**F9. Identify and describe the conditions of public access to the
facility, including handicapped access.**.

Identify and describe the conditions of public access to the facility.
Facilities in the Network must be accessible to the public. They should
be open on a scheduled basis or accessible by appointment. This question
addresses not only public access but also the capacity of a facility to
serve researchers. Be sure to address the following issues. How many
hours a week is the facility open to the public? Or, if access is by
appointment only, approximately how many appointments can be
accommodated in a month? Describe access use and policies and any
special conditions of access. Are there any major preservation or
stabilization issues with the Underground Railroad materials that might
limit access? For example, do the collections include deteriorating
nitrate film, leather bound rare books with red rot, or manuscripts with
iron gall ink or brittle paper? And finally, is the facility handicapped
accessible and in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act?

**F10. Describe visitation workload at the facility.**

Describe visitation at the facility. This may include actual visits to
the facility, inquiries via phone, fax, or e-mail, copying requests, or
research requests. Provide approximate numbers of visits or inquiries
received in a week. For example, does the facility receive less than
five visitors or questions per week? Five to twenty-five? Twenty-five to
seventy-five? More than one hundred per week? How many of these visits
are for Underground Railroad related purposes.

Provide an estimate of the facility\'s \"capacity.\" Is it overwhelmed
by demands on staff, seating, and collections? Are there preservation
risks to the collection caused by demand for using documents?

**F11. Describe the facility\'s traveling exhibit, interlibrary-loan,
and photocopying or duplication policies and capabilities.**

Does the facility design and maintain traveling exhibits available to
other institutions on a regular basis? Under what terms and cost is this
service available? Does the facility participate in (share information
and materials through) a formal or informal interlibrary loan
arrangement? How does one borrow information? What are the terms of the
loan (including time limits, renewals, and costs)? Indicate if the
facility offers photocopying services, photographic reproductions of its
collections, microfilming of documents, etc. Also indicate the terms and
costs for these service. Identify any restrictions the facility has in
copying its materials. Include both copyright restrictions and limits on
copying items such as rare books, large-format maps, etc.

**F12. Describe the nature and objectives of any partnerships that have
contributed to the operation of the facility.**

By working with other groups as \"partners,\" applicants demonstrate the
level of local, regional, or state support for their efforts to help
preserve, commemorate, or interpret the history of the Underground
Railroad. Describe the nature and objectives of any partnerships that
have contributed to the acquisition, cataloguing, conservation,
interpretation and/or exhibition of the collection or collections
associated with the Underground Railroad, or that have contributed to
the maintenance and/or staffing of that portion of the facility, itself,
related to the Underground Railroad. Identify any financial assistance
or cooperating organizations. This may include, but not be limited to,
financial support received from local, state or federal entities,
corporate or foundation sponsorship, professional organizations or
academic institutions, volunteer staffing, or cooperative management
practices. (Refer to groups previously identified in item F7).

**F13. Additional data or comments. (*Optional*)**

Applicants may include any additional information they think is
pertinent to the facility's inclusion in the Network. This may include a
discussion of the facility's environmental controls, security,
housekeeping, gift shops, education programs, etc.

**[Programs]{.underline}**

**Where to Start?**

Before beginning to prepare the application form for an educational or
interpretive program, you should have any information that has already
been gathered about the program.

-   Program frequency

-   Attendance

-   Underground Railroad themes conveyed

-   Sources of historical documentation on which the program is based

-   Program learning objectives (e.g., What do those who attend or
    participate actually learn)

-   Program planning and consultation with stakeholders from all
    appropriate audiences

Interpretation is a form of education that seeks to facilitate a
connection between the interests of the visitor and history of the
resource, event or person to make connections between historic places
and history, between the lives we live today and the lives of the past.

Effective interpretation requires thought and study. Whether decisions
are made in an office, a boardroom, or around a kitchen table, it is
important to take the time to ask a few questions and record the answer.
Consider the nature of the story you have to tell and the audience or
audiences you hope to serve. Interpretive planning leads to effective
programming.

Effective educational programs require close collaboration with
educators and local school systems, universities, or continuing
education programs. Again, consider the nature of the story and your
audience. Have there been trial runs of the program? Is there a system
for soliciting feedback from scholars, educators, children and adult
audiences? Is there a process for incorporating the results of this
feedback into improving the program? Are there pre- and post-program
follow-through? Does the program relate to existing school curricula?

**Completing the form for Programs**

In addition to the responses to each question, applications must also
include the following attachments:

• A letter of consent for inclusion in the Network to Freedom from the
owner or manager of the program.

-   **Privacy Information**: The Network to Freedom was established, in
    part, to facilitate sharing of information among those interested in
    the Underground Railroad. Putting people in contact with others who
    are researching related topics, historic events, or individuals or
    who may have technical expertise or resources to assist with
    projects is one of the most effective means of advancing Underground
    Railroad commemoration and preservation. Privacy laws designed to
    protect individual contact information (i.e., home or personal
    addresses, telephone numbers, fax numbers, or e-mail addresses), may
    prevent NPS from making these connections. If you are willing to be
    contacted by others working on Underground Railroad activities and
    to receive mailings about Underground Railroad-related events,
    please add a statement to your letter of consent indicating what
    information you are willing to share.

• Letters of support from people or community groups consulted in the
development of an educational or interpretive program.

• An example of an audience feedback card or questionnaire, or other
audience feedback mechanism.

-   A video of the program or a sample of the program for evaluation
    purposes.(optional)

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-   Particularly for performances, living history, and tours, video
    excerpts will help reviewers understand and evaluate the program.

-   The National Park Service retains all of the material submitted in
    the application process. When accepted, these materials become
    available for public viewing. Therefore, do NOT send videos that you
    do not wish the public to have access to. If you have any questions,
    please contact your regional coordinator.

**P1. Program type:**

Check the program type that best describes the element. Books, plays,
artworks, websites, and similar items are not eligible by themselves.
(If unsure of the program type, then check "Other" and describe.)

An **interpretive program** uses **\"**personal\" or \"non-personal\"
techniques to help tell the story of an historic place, event or person.
Personal techniques include talks, guided walks, and tours and
non-personal include World Wide Web, travelling exhibits, traveling
trunks, and videos.

A **tour** is a guided presentation of a series of sites, a landscape,
or the interior of an historic house. Tours can be self guided or led by
an interpreter; they can be vehicle based or walking.

An **educational** program is often geared toward school groups, camps,
or other targeted audiences (Elderhostel, educators, special interest
groups). Examples of educational programs include curriculum-based field
studies, workshops, seminars, lectures, and discussions.

A **living history** program is presented by interpreters, often in
period clothing and keeping to historically accurate modes of thought,
who enliven the story they are telling with demonstrations of
activities. Interpreters seek to bring the past to life before the
audience's eyes.

P2. **Describe the Underground Railroad theme or message of the program,
and how it is conveyed to the audience.**

## What ideas do you want visitors to take away with them?

Be sure to describe what methods, objects, or sites are used to convey
the Underground Railroad themes. How are the ideas presented? For
example, is the program interactive, or does the presenter use props?

**P3. Describe the consultation and planning process through which the
program's themes were identified**?

It is beneficial to consult with local residents and discuss potential
impacts of new tours or programs on the area. It is important to include
the perspectives of various local groups on Underground Railroad events.

Consultation is a critical stage in the development of any
interpretation program. Be sure to identify partners such as local,
grass-roots organizations or scholars that were consulted, the
consultation process, and the outcomes of consultation. For example, in
the case of tours, identify sites and people consulted. It is beneficial
to consult with local residents and discuss potential impacts on the
area. For education programs, identify schools or other entities
consulted. Provide documentation such as letters of support from people
consulted.

Please provide documentation such as letters of support from people and
organization consulted.

**P4. Identify historical sources of information and how they were used
to develop the program. Include a bibliography.**

Please provide a narrative of the Underground Railroad history from
which the program was developed. What is the history of the event,
individual or site that the program describes? An explanation of the
program\'s historical significance can be direct and to the point as
long as it provides a perspective from which to evaluate the program's
relative importance. The explanation of the historical significance
should be written for a general audience that may never have heard of
the event, individual or site before.

Programs need to demonstrate a commitment to historical accuracy in
their interpretation of Underground Railroad activity. Provide a
bibliography of sources consulted in the development of the program. To
identify primary documents, cite the sources as clearly as possible so
that anybody reading the application can go directly to the original
document. Applicants are encouraged to make use of as wide a variety of
sources as possible, including oral histories and folklore. The
bibliography generally should include more than one source and the
sources should be corroborative. While children's books can be very
helpful, particularly in developing programs for children, they should
not be the only types of sources consulted. Provide an assessment of the
validity of sources used by following this basic guidance: is the source
generally considered valid, or should it be used with caution and only
when verified by other sources?

Do not include general reference works unless they provide specific
information used in the program. If the program highlights local events,
sites, or people, use sources with information specific to the area,
such as newspapers, letters, local tax or census records, etc.

Use a standard bibliographical style such as that found in *A Manual of
Style* or *A Manual for Writers* by Kate L.Turabian, both published by
the University of Chicago Press. (See instructions for S7 for examples
of bibliographic formats.)

**P5. Describe the educational objectives of the program, tour, or
performance.**

Describe what you intend for the audience to learn from the program in
specific terms. For example, \"By the end of the tour the child will be
able to define the Underground Railroad, list five means of escape, and
use a map to follow routes often used by local freedom seekers.\"

What is the program striving to attain \-- the goals? What are the
educational objectives of the program, tour, or performance? What are
the desirable interpretive outcomes?

**P6. For whom is the program intended?**

Describe who comprises the [target audience,]{.underline} that is the
age and demographic group you intend to reach. Identify such
characteristics as age groups, facility with English, types of groups
(civic, family, etc) and level of familiarity with the Underground
Railroad.

Does the program require athletic ability or will handicapped be unable
to enjoy it? Does the program key into school requirements for state or
local history at a certain grade level or for scout badges?

**P7. Describe the geographic area of program presentation or
activity.**

Describe where the program has been presented. Does the presenter travel
to the audience; does the audience visit a specific site? As
specifically as possible, describe geographic areas where the program
has occurred or occurs. Plans to expand the geographical area of
activity should be identified as intended areas of activity.

Tours should identify geographic area included in the tour and beginning
and ending points. Remember that tours must also show proof of
consultation with owners or managers of sites or programs included in
tours.

**P8. Describe how the program is evaluated.**

How is the program's success and quality evaluated? Be sure to identify
techniques used for audience feedback. Also note how often evaluation
occurs and by whom. Include an example of the mechanism chosen for
determining audience feedback. This might include an audience
questionnaire or feedback card. Audience feedback can provide
information that can be used to improve a program. Is there evidence
that the audience is learning the desired information from the program?

**P9. How long has the program existed and what are the future plans for
the program.**

Programs included in the network must be operational and have a track
record of interpreting the Underground Railroad. At a minimum, they must
have occurred at least once in the past, and have a schedule for future
activities. How long have you been presenting or operating this program?
What are future plans for program presentation or operation? Past
commitment to interpreting the Underground Railroad may also be
demonstrated through the program's products. In this case, describe any
publications, audio-visual presentations, multimedia programs, or
special curricula produced by the program and designed specifically for
instruction and public presentation on the Underground Railroad.

For exhibits, how long has it been open to the public? Describe future
plans for its showing, will it travel, etc?

**P10. Describe program's management and staff, and levels of training
or certifications**.

Who runs the program? Is it a non-profit organization? Is the staff
comprised of volunteers, paid employees, university or other students?
Is there a training program for staff? Is experience required for staff?
And if so, what kind? How many people are involved in the program? Be
sure to describe any staff society or association affiliations or
certification, such as by a local association of tour guides or the
National Association of Interpreters.

**P11. Describe the nature and objectives of any partnerships that have
contributed to the program.**

By working with other partners, applicants demonstrate the level of
local, regional, or State support for the efforts to help preserve,
commemorate, or interpret Underground Railroad sites. Describe the
nature and objectives of any partnerships that have contributed to the
preservation, commemoration, or interpretation of the site. For example,
identify if the element has received assistance from the State Historic
Preservation Officer, the National Park Service, or some other federal,
state, or local entity for the program. Note if the program has received
assistance from a private foundation or perhaps corporate sponsorship.
Identify contributions from such groups as volunteers, educational
facilities, scouts, etc.

Refer to groups that were consulted in the development of the program if
they were identified in item P3. Identify any financial assistance or
cooperating organizations. This may include, but not be limited to,
financial support received from local, federal, or state entities,
corporate or foundation sponsorship, volunteer staffing, or cooperative
management practices.

**P12. Additional data or comments. (optional)** Living history and
performance programs are strongly encouraged to submit a video of the
presentation described in the application. Videos will assist the
reviewers in understanding and evaluating the program to determine
historical accuracy. Applicants may include additional information
pertinent to the program's inclusion in the Network \-- for example,
tour brochures or pre/post visit materials.

**III. Putting it all Together**

There are two ways to submit applications to the NPS for consideration
for the Network to Freedom. Applicants may begin the process through the
internet or they may submit the entire application in hard copy through
the mail.

**[Applying to the Network through the Internet]{.underline}**

## 

## The Network to Freedom Program has developed an internet site that provides information on the Underground Railroad and also a database of Network to Freedom listings and candidates. Applicants can begin the application process and download the form and instructions from the website.

To begin the on line application process:

-   Logon to the Network to Freedom Website
    (<http://www.cr.nps.gov/ugrr>).

-   Follow the link to "Explore the Network" and then "Network to
    Freedom Application".

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-   Complete the 5-step on-line pre-registration form, which captures
    the information included on the cover page of the Network to Freedom
    Application.

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-   At the end of this easy 5-step process you will be asked to print
    out your pre-registration information and you will be able to
    download an application kit.

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-   You will receive an e-mail message confirming that you
    pre-registration information has been received. The entry will not
    appear under the Network to Freedom candidates page until the
    regional coordinator has been able to review the supporting
    material.

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-   The kit will include the section of the application form relevant to
    the element type you selected, and the instructions for completing
    that part of the form.

-   Note you will not need to complete the cover page of the form.

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-   Follow the instructions for completion outlined in the kit and mail
    it, with all necessary supporting materials, to the National Park
    Service Underground Railroad Regional Coordinator identified on your
    printout.

-   You may use the downloaded application form to complete the
    remainder of the form in your word processor.

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-   Use page numbers and a header with the name of the element applying.

-   Use a narrative form. Avoid "See attached." The application itself
    should be self-explanatory without having to look through
    attachments. Do not assume that readers are familiar with your site,
    facility, or program.

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-   While it is not required, you may wish to e-mail the completed
    document to your regional coordinator.

-   Mail a printout of your application, with photographs, owner consent
    letters, and other supporting material

-   Applicants are encouraged to consult with their regional
    coordinators before and during the application process.

**[Applying to the Network without the Internet]{.underline}**

Complete an application form following the instructions in this manual.
**Use a typewriter, word processor, or computer to complete the form;
handwritten forms will not be accepted.** An electronic version of the
form is available from NPS for use with word processors.

Use page numbers and a header with the name of the element applying.

Use a narrative form. Avoid "See attached." The application itself
should be self-explanatory without having to look through attachments.
Do not assume that readers are familiar with your site, facility, or
program.

Mail the completed application form, with photographs, owner consent
letters, and other supporting material to the NPS Underground Railroad
Regional Coordinator who represents your region.

Applicants are encouraged to consult with their regional coordinators
before and during the application process to discuss their application
and the site, facility, or program that they are proposing for
inclusion. (See Appendix A).

**[Attachments]{.underline}**

**Photographs**

Photographs must be unmounted (do not affix photographs to forms by
staples, clips, glue, or any other material), at least 3 ½ by 5 inches
(but 4 by 6 inches is preferred), and labeled in pencil or permanent
audio-visual marking pen on the back of the photo.

Include the name of the property, the location (including State), name
of the photographer, date of the photograph, and description of view
indicating direction of camera.

Copies of historic photographs are encouraged, if available.

By submitting a photograph to the National Park Service with the
Underground Network to Freedom application form, **photographers grant
permission to the National Park Service** to use the photograph for
publication and other purposes, including duplication, display,
distribution, study, publicity, and audio-visual presentations.

For sites, applicants should submit current original photographs (either
black and white or color) which illustrate the significant features of
the nominated building, site, structure, landscape feature, etc.

While not required for programs and facilities, photographs that
illustrate exhibits, collections, students participating in educational
programs, or similar aspects of the nominated element are useful for
evaluation purposes.

**Maps**

While not required, maps are particularly helpful in supporting the
narrative. Maps can illustrate a site's relationship to rivers, roads,
other Underground Railroad sites and towns. They can help readers who
may not know the small towns, counties, or geography of the state
understand in what part of the state a site is located. Copies of
historic maps are encouraged, when available.

The following guidelines are offered to assist you in preparing maps for
submission.

-   Plat books, insurance maps, bird's eye views, highway maps, and hand
    drawn maps may be used. They do not need to be drawn to a precise
    scale, but should illustrate approximate relationships between
    features.

-   Large maps should be folded so that they can fit in a letter sized
    file.

-   Include details such as names of streets, highway numbers, other
    buildings, natural features and an arrow indicating north.

-   Use coding, crosshatching, numbering or other graphic techniques to
    indicate information. Avoid using color as maps may be photocopied.

-   Indicate where the area illustrated on the map fits in relation to
    other commonly known places such as larger cities or towns, or state
    boundaries. Sections of a map that are out of context are much less
    useful.

**Videos**

Videos are encouraged for program submissions because they assist the
reviewers in visualizing presentations. As with other attachments,
however, they are not a substitute for a narrative description of the
program.

Videos should be submitted in a VHS format. They do not need to be
professionally produced, but they should be clear enough to see and hear
the presentation.

Submit copies of videos rather than the originals. Be advised that as an
attachment to an application, videos will become part of the official
file available to the public upon acceptance into the Network to
Freedom.

**Documents, pamphlets, newspaper clippings, and other items**

Information in support of an application's eligibility for the Network
to Freedom should be synthesized and incorporated into the narrative. Do
not rely on copies of chapters of county histories, newspaper articles,
or other documents to demonstrate the Underground Railroad association
of your site, program, or facility.

There is no need to include copies of books, newspaper articles, or
other items that are available from public libraries or archives.
Include a citation for the source in the bibliography; it is helpful to
indicate where a copy of the book or newspaper may be located.

If an important document or source is not readily available to the
public, then DO include a copy with the application.

Applications may be photocopied, so avoid including copies of articles
from microfilm that are difficult to read even before they are copied.
If you submit a copy of an article or document that is illegible, please
provide a transcript of the most pertinent parts.

Avoid submitting oversized documents or pamphlets unless they are
critical to support the application.

Provide a numbered list of all attachments and clearly identify the
attachments by number.

**[Packaging and mailing the application]{.underline}**

For archival and research purposes, please do not staple applications or
place applications in binders, folders, notebooks, or page protectors.

-   Note: Copies of the applications are made during the review process,
    and all binders, page protectors, and staples must be removed.

The application form may be submitted by e-mail, but all application
packages, including any supporting material, must be submitted in hard
copy to the appropriate Regional Coordinator. (See Appendix A) Material
sent by regular mail must be postmarked on or before the application
deadline to be considered for that review round.

**Approved applications and all supporting material will become the
property of the National Park Service and will not be returned to the
applicant. This material becomes part of the public domain and is
accessible to the public.**

**IV. Process**

**[What is the NPS application review process?]{.underline}**

New applications will be reviewed every six months. The deadlines for
receiving applications are **January 15** and **July 15**. Applications
must be postmarked no later than the deadline date to be eligible for
review in that round. Applications postmarked after the deadline will be
included in the next round of review. There are no exceptions.

Within 30 days after the submission deadline, regional coordinators will
review the applications to determine if they include all the required
materials. The regional coordinator may contact the applicant before the
deadline date or shortly afterwards for clarification or amplification
of unclear points in the application. If the application is incomplete
or requires major revisions, it will be deferred to a later round, and
the regional coordinator will provide suggestions to the applicant on
ways to strengthen the application. Revised applications can be
resubmitted for consideration in the next round of review six months
later.

Notices of applications under consideration will appear on the website
and in the Network to Freedom Newsletter. The notice will include the
element's title, city, state, and abstract, and will be on public review
for 30 days. The public is encouraged to provide input during the
application and review process. From the website, readers may e-mail
their comments directly to the regional coordinator.

Regional Coordinators gather in committee approximately 60 days after
the submission deadline to review applications for inclusion in the
Network. Review meetings are open to the public and the public is
encouraged to attend. Locations of review meetings will be posted a
reasonable time in advance on the Network to Freedom Web Page and will
be listed in the Network to Freedom Newsletter. In the review meetings,
the regional coordinator will present an application to the committee
which will vote on whether or not to recommend inclusion.

Committee-approved applications will be included in the Network, and NPS
will then notify the applicant. Following approval for inclusion, the
Network to Freedom Program will notify the applicant's congressional
delegation of the action. Letters of approval, press releases, and
congressional notification will bear the following statement:

> *"The National Park Service has evaluated this \[site, facility, or
> program\] as making a significant contribution to the understanding of
> the Underground Railroad in American history and it meets the
> requirements for inclusion in the Network to Freedom."*

Upon listing in the Network to Freedom, the applicant will receive
permission to use the Network to Freedom logo and guidelines for its
use.

Applicants will be notified if the application is not approved. The
regional coordinator will provide suggestions on ways to strengthen the
application. Applicants are encouraged to resubmit revised applications.

**[When is Network listing status re-evaluated?]{.underline}**

Network status for sites is indefinite, as long as the property owner
supports inclusion and the site is marked with a contextual statement.
For facilities and programs, Network status is reviewed every two years.
Programs and facilities must submit an assessment or update of
activities and explain any changes in goals or missions that have
occurred in the previous two years. Network listing status can be
renewed indefinitely as long as the program or facility continues to
meet Network criteria.

Network elements may be subject to periodic review if there is evidence
that the site, facility, or program no longer meets the criteria for
inclusion, or if the National Park Service receives numerous complaints
about the applicant's activities. Other causes for an unscheduled review
may be if the applicant is found to have misrepresented itself, if
inaccuracies are found in the application, network criteria are
violated, or there is evidence of unethical or offensive activities.

Programs and facilities in the Network to Freedom will be required to
distribute evaluation cards provided by the National Park Service. It is
not possible for regional coordinators to participate in or visit every
element in the Freedom, so these evaluation cards are one of the primary
means in which the National Park Service can follow a Network member's
activities. Evaluation cards also provide Network members with
additional perspectives on the effectiveness, successes, and needs of
their programs.

Historic sites and properties included in the Network are not bound by
any legal requirements to comply with federal historic preservation
laws, based on their inclusion in the Network alone. Nonetheless, if a
property owner is found to be engaging in activities that may cause
damaging impacts to the site inconsistent with approved preservation
practices and contrary to the spirit of the Underground Railroad Network
to Freedom Act, then Network inclusion could be reviewed and possibly
withdrawn.

The Regional Coordinator will review updated submissions and bring
changes of status submissions to the notice of the Regional Coordinator
committee, which can vote for recommending removal. Property owners, or
program or facility managers will be notified by the National Park
Service of removal from the Network.

**Appendix A. Regional Coordinators, National Underground Railroad
Network to Freedom Program, National Park Service**

*The **Northeast Region** includes Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont,
Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey,
Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Applicants in this region should direct all inquiries and completed
applications to:*

## Tara Morrison

Northeast Region Coordinator

National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

National Park Service

200 Chestnut Street

Philadelphia, PA 19106

215/597-9123

tara_morrison@nps.gov

*The **National Capitol Region** includes Washington, D.C. and the
surrounding metropolitan area. Applicants in this region should direct
all inquiries and completed applications to:*

Jenny Masur

National Capitol Regional Coordinator

National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

National Capital Parks East

1900 Anacostia Dr., SE

Washington, D.C. 20020

202/690-5166

jenny_masur@nps.gov

*The **Southeast Region** includes Network to Kentucky, Tennessee, North
Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi,
Louisiana, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Applicants in this
region should direct all inquiries and competed applications to:*

Barbara Tagger

Southeast Region Coordinator

National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

National Park Service

Atlanta Federal Center, 1924 Building

100 Alabama St., SW

Atlanta, GA 30303

404/562-3108, ext. 518

barbara_tagger@nps.gov

*The **Midwest Region** includes Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska,
Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota,
and North Dakota. Applicants in this region should direct all inquiries
and completed applications to:*

James Hill

Midwest Regional Coordinator

National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

National Park Service

601 Riverfront Drive

Omaha, Nebraska 68102

402/661-1590

james_hill@nps.gov

*The **Intermountain Region** includes Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico,
Arizona, Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana. Applicants in this region
should direct all inquiries and completed applications to:*

Guy Washington

Pacific West Regional Coordinator

National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

1111 Jackson Street, Suite 700

Oakland, CA 94607

510/817-1390

guy_washington@nps.gov

*The **Pacific West** Region includes California, Oregon, Nevada,
Washington, Idaho, Hawaii, and U.S. Territories in the Pacific Ocean.
Applicants in this region should direct all inquiries and completed
applications to:*

Guy Washington

Pacific West Regional Coordinator

National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

1111 Jackson Street, Suite 700

Oakland, CA 94607

510/817-1390

guy_washington@nps.gov

*The **Alaskan Region** includes Alaska. Applicants in this region
should direct all inquiries and completed applications to:*

Linda Cook

Alaska Region Coordinator

National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

National Park Service

2525 Gambell St.

Anchorage, Alaska 99503

907/257-2658

linda_cook@nps.gov

*Inquiries concerning sites, facilities, or programs outside the
territorial limits of the U.S. should be directed to the National
Coordinator:*

Diane Miller

National Coordinator

National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

National Park Service

601 Riverfront Drive

Omaha, Nebraska 68102

402/661-1588

diane_miller@nps.gov

**Appendix B. Internet Access To State Historic Preservation Officers
(SHPO)**

Applicants should contact the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO)
for the State in which the property is located, to determine what
information on the property the State can provide. The list of SHPOs can
be found on the Internet at: http://www.sso.org/ncshpo/shpolist.htm. The
SHPO can help the applicant determine if the property is listed in the
National Register of Historic Places or included in a State survey; if
so, the SHPO can provide a copy of the National Register or State survey
forms documenting the property's historic significance. The SHPO can
determine if the property is already protected by a local or State
ordinance and indicate how the property relates to any historic
\"themes\" or \"contexts\" (studies) prepared by the SHPO. NPS regional
coordinators can provide SHPO contact information if an applicant does
not have access to the internet.

**Appendix C. Where To Find Help Documenting Sites And Reconstructing
The Stories Of The Underground Railroad Movement**

Applicants should familiarize themselves with the information available
from the following web sites. For applicants without access to the
internet, most of these publications are available upon request from the
NPS regional coordiantor.

http://www.cr.nps.gov/ugrr/

National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program. This web site
explains the NPS Program, the Network to Freedom, and the National Park
Service\'s mission in commemorating the Underground Railroad.

http://www.cr.nps.gov/history/online_books/ugrr/exuggr1.htm

*Exploring a Common Past: Researching and Interpreting the Underground
Railroad*. Produced by the History Office of the National Park Service,
this publication provides a historic context for the Underground
Railroad, information on using primary sources, a case study that tracks
an escape from Virginia to Canada, and an extensive bibliography.

http://www.cr.nps.gov/nr/travel/underground/thhome.htm

*Underground Railroad Resources in the United States Theme Study*. This
theme study was prepared by the National Historic Landmarks (NHL) Survey
program. It includes a history of the Underground Railroad, identifies
historic property types, establishes registration requirements for
National Register listing and NHL designation, and includes an annotated
bibliography.

Additional assistance may be obtained from publications by the National
Register of Historic Places that deal with listing a property. Of
particular importance are the following National Register Bulletins:

-   How to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation

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-   How to Complete the National Register Registration Form

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-   Researching a Historic Property

While it must be remembered that applications to the Network to Freedom
are separate and distinct from nominations to National Register of
Historic Places, and vice versa, these National Register Bulletins are
indispensable handbooks for the documentation and verification of
historic properties using standard professional methods of historical
research. These bulletins are available on the National Register's Web
site at: http://www.cr.nps.gov/nr/listing.htm, or by writing:

> National Park Service
>
> National Register of Historic Places
>
> 1201 "I" (Eye) Street, NW, 8^th^ Floor
>
> Washington, DC 20005

[Reconstructing the Stories of the Underground Railroad
Movement]{.underline}

Despite the difficulty in uncovering the facts concerning the
clandestine activities of the Underground Railroad Movement, researchers
must resist the temptation to compromise the verification process. The
following outline summarizes various ways, including the use of oral
accounts, through which much of the story of the Underground Railroad
can be substantiated. Additionally, the outline provides guidelines for
synthesizing evidence from oral sources that are often ignored and
written sources that are often accepted without question.

**[Written Sources]{.smallcaps}**

***Strong Evidence***

Primary Evidence

> Examples

-   Original official records and sworn affidavits based on eyewitness
    accounts.

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-   Diaries, journals and autobiographies.

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-   Authenticated narrative accounts by eyewitnesses to the event (oral
    histories).

> Factors impacting the reliability of primary evidence.

-   Credibility of informant (reputation for honesty, probable bias or
    ulterior motives, mental capacity).

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-   Time elapsed before the data was recorded.

Secondary Evidence

> Examples

-   Reminiscences that are written at a point in the informant's life
    when their ability to remember details may be impaired.

-   Uncertified copies of official records and transcripts of testimony.

-   Accounts derived from interviews with eyewitnesses to the event
    (such as a newspaper article).

-   Documented biographies and local histories.

> Factors impacting the reliability of secondary evidence.

-   The credibility of informant

-   The conditions under which copied documents were reproduced.

-   The proportion of direct quotes contained in data gathered through
    interviews.

Direct/Indirect Evidence

> Evidence derived from a primary or secondary source will carry more
> weight when it is direct (complete and presented in a clear
> unambiguous manner). Indirect evidence is inconclusive due to the
> manner in which the evidence is presented or the absence of an
> important detail. For example, the following two statements provide no
> specific direct evidence that John Doe was an UR conductor until they
> are used in combination.

-   John Doe's home at 645 Main Street was used as an Underground
    Railroad site.

-   An Underground Railroad conductor operated a station out of his home
    at 645 Main Street.

## Circumstantial Evidence

> Evidence that establishes a connection between the people, places and
> events that are being researched and people, places and events known
> to be connected to the Underground Railroad story.

## Weak Evidence

-   Evidence that would be considered strong evidence were it not for
    the informant's lack of credibility.

-   Evidence that would be considered strong evidence were it not for
    the fact that it was recorded long after the time of the referenced
    event.

-   Evidence from accounts that cannot be attributed to a particular
    informant (hearsay).

## Contradictory Evidence

> If only a single piece of reliable evidence contradicts established
> presumptions, a researcher must be prepared to question all supportive
> evidence no matter how reliable it may otherwise seem.

**[Local Oral Traditions]{.smallcaps}**[^3]

Underground Railroad research requires careful evaluation and analysis
of the family and community stories that have been passed down by word
of mouth. Oral traditions are often sources of indirect rather than
direct evidence.

***Strong Evidence***

Primary Oral Traditions

> Oral histories that were first told by credible informants near the
> time of the referenced event.

Secondary Oral Traditions

-   Reminiscences that were first told by an eyewitness who may no
    longer possess a clear memory for details.

-   Second-hand accounts that were first repeated by an investigator or
    associates of an eyewitness soon after the referenced event.

***Weak Evidence***

-   Oral traditions that are not supported by any documentation nor a
    preponderance of circumstantial evidence.

-   Underground Railroad lore that does not meet the oral tradition
    criteria listed below.

####### [What constitutes sufficient Underground Railroad verification?]{.smallcaps}

***Sufficient***

-   A written source of direct primary evidence that is not contradicted
    by other strong evidence.

-   At least two written sources of indirect primary evidence that
    corroborate each other and are not contradicted by other strong
    evidence.

-   A local oral tradition supported by a written source of direct
    primary evidence that is not contradicted by other strong evidence.

-   A local oral tradition supported by at least two written sources of
    indirect primary evidence that corroborate each other and are not
    contradicted by other strong evidence.

-   At least two written sources of secondary evidence that corroborate
    each other and are not contradicted by other strong evidence.

-   A preponderance of circumstantial or weak evidence that is not
    contradicted by other strong evidence.

***Insufficient***

-   Underground Railroad lore.

-   Uncorroborated weak evidence.

-   Uncorroborated circumstantial evidence.

-   Uncorroborated oral traditions.

-   Evidence contradicted by equally strong evidence.

## 

## **[Why Are Interpretive Guidelines For The Underground Railroad Just As Important As Verification Guidelines?]{.smallcaps}**

The current effort to verify Underground Railroad accounts will have
little value if, when presenting the findings, the following conditions
are not met:

-   Verified UR accounts are placed in their proper historical,
    geographical and social context.

-   A clear disclaimer is provided when artistic license or
    unsubstantiated claims impact the presentation of a verifiable story
    of the Underground Railroad.

Note the following examples:

-   While talking about punishments for a UGRR conductor operating
    during the first half of the 19^th^ Century, an interpreter should
    be careful to make a distinction with the well known, harsher
    penalties imposed by the 1850 Fugitive Slave Law.

-   While it is true that most fugitives fled to the North, interpreters
    should not generalize by suggesting that all whites encountered by
    fugitives in the South were hostile while all those encountered in
    the North were friendly.

-   While the fact that a site was used as a UGRR safe house is
    verifiable, the interpreter should avoid embellishing the story by
    making unsubstantiated claims about features of the house such as
    trap doors, cellars, or crawl spaces.

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-   While the fact that an individual was a UGRR agent is verifiable,
    interpreters should not make an unsubstantiated claim that his or
    her home was used as a safe house.

**Appendix D. Becoming A Network Partner**

**[What is a Network Partner?]{.underline}**

Partnerships between and among the National Park Service and local,
grass-roots organizations, that have as their goal the preservation,
commemoration, and interpretation of Underground Railroad-related sites
and stories are the foundation of the Underground Railroad Network to
Freedom Program. Everything that the program has become, just like the
historic Underground Railroad itself, emerged out of local efforts
across the United States. One of the principal components of the Network
to Freedom Program is to validate the efforts of these local and
regional organizations, and to make it easier for them to share
expertise and communicate with the National Park Service and each other.
The vehicle through which this can happen is for these local entities to
become Network Partners. Partners of the Network to Freedom Program work
along side, and often in cooperation with, the National Park Service to
fulfil the program's mission. They are closely involved in the entire
process of preserving resources, commemorating, and educating the public
about the Underground Railroad. Many partners have worked cooperatively
with the National Park Service either in formal or informal roles to
accomplish these activities. Most importantly, it is often through the
dedicated efforts of Network Partners that elements are added to the
Network to Freedom.

There is no minimum or maximum limit to a Network Partner's activities.
They can range from a small one-person organization that works
tirelessly to teach schoolchildren about Underground Railroad-related
resources in one town, to an agency such as a State Historic
Preservation Office, which runs multifaceted programs consistent with
the National Park Service's mission. No effort is too small or too
large. Each effort is integral to the success of the Network to Freedom
Program and the collective effort nationwide to enhance our
understanding of the significance of the Underground Railroad.

The Network to Freedom and Network Partners are two closely interrelated
parts of the Network to Freedom Program. Network Partners form part of a
database that exists alongside that of the Network to Freedom, and often
can be cross-referenced with the Network elements. In fact, in certain
cases, Network Partners could even be elements of the Network to
Freedom, if they have met the Network's established criteria. More
commonly, Network Partners are the entities that work to get elements in
the Network to Freedom. There is an important distinction between the
two parts of the Network to Freedom Program. Network Partners are NOT
authorized to use the Network to Freedom logo. That use is a
characteristic of elements included in the Network to Freedom.
Nonetheless, Network Partners are integral components of the entire
program. In addition to their usual activities, Network Partners are
often available for consultation in their areas of expertise, or on
general issues of the Underground Railroad and the Network to Freedom
Program. They are also listed on the Network to Freedom website and
included in Network directories that NPS may publish from time to time.

**[How do I become a Network Partner?]{.underline}**

Becoming a Network Partner is easy. The only requirements are that the
partner have some association to preserving, commemorating, or educating
the public about the Underground Railroad, and that the partner's
actions are consistent with the spirit of the missions and practices of
the Network to Freedom Program and the National Park Service.

If you or your organization would like to become a Network Partner,
first contact the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Regional
Coordinator for your state. He or she will make sure that you have the
most recent literature on the Network to Freedom Program and that you
are on the Network to Freedom mailing list. You may either submit
information by a letter or through the Network's website. The following
information is required:

-   the name and address of the agency, company, or organization;

-   the name, address, and phone, fax, and e-mail information of
    principal contact;

-   an abstract not to exceed 200 words describing the partner's
    activity, or mission statement; and

-   a brief description of the entity's association to the Underground
    Railroad.

Basically, that's all there is to it! Your information will be added to
the Network to Freedom Program database and you will receive
notification from the National Park Service acknowledging you as a
partner in the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program.

**Appendix E: Sample Letter Of Owner Consent**

To be listed in the Network to Freedom, a letter of consent is required
from the owner, manager, or someone authorized to act on their behalf.
The letter must include a direct statement consenting to inclusion in
the Network such as appears below.

[^1]: A primary source is one that derives from participants, direct
    witnesses, or first recorders of events. Ideally, the source will
    have been created close to the time of the event it describes.
    Reminiscences that were recorded decades after an event took place
    are often less accurate than journals that were written
    contemporaneously.

[^2]: Lewis Filler, *The Crusade Against Slavery, 1830-1860* (New York:
    Harper Torchbooks, 1960), 25.

[^3]: ^^ Oral Traditions are those local oral accounts that meet the
    following criteria:

    The oral account has survived the death of its originator by at
    least one generation.

    The surviving oral account is widely known in at least one group
    closely associated with the originator.

    The oral account survives primarily through vertical transmission
    from one generation to the next, rather than horizontal transmission
    among contemporaries.

    The surviving oral account has preserved its integrity as evidenced
    by its accuracy, completeness, and retention of the originator's
    values.

    The details of the surviving oral account are believed by its
    contemporary carriers to be accurate.