Middle school students tour Underground Railroad sites in Camden and Lawnside for a week, capturing photographs of their experiences.

In a notable outreach effort aimed at educating youth about African American history, a group of ten campers recently participated in the Underground Railroad Camp held in Lawnside, New Jersey. The program, which is headed by the Lawnside Historical Society, aimed to immerse sixth through eighth graders in significant historical narratives while also enhancing their photography skills.

During their week-long journey, the participants, among whom were London Artis and her brother Adonis, explored various historical sites that shed light on the rich cultural heritage of this predominantly African American community. The camp notably included a visit to the Mount Peace Cemetery, established in 1902 as a resting place for Black Civil War veterans and formerly enslaved individuals. This site represents a critical aspect of Lawnside’s transformative history, being the first all-Black municipality north of the Mason-Dixon Line.

The campers were encouraged to document their experience through photography, guided by Erik James Montgomery, a self-taught fine art photographer. Each camper was equipped with a digital camera to capture their perspective of the historical sites. Throughout the week, they learned fundamental photography skills such as composition, lighting, and angles.

One poignant visit included a tour of the cemetery’s Soldier’s Row, where veterans from various wars are interred, highlighting the struggles and sacrifices made by African Americans in military service. Among the notable interments is Medal of Honor recipient John H. Lawson, recognized for his bravery during the Civil War. Several markers in the cemetery, however, are becoming increasingly difficult to read, emphasizing a need for preservation and remembrance.

Campers also explored the devastating legacy of slavery by visiting key historical sites, including locations associated with slave auctions in Camden, where it is estimated over 800 individuals were sold. This intense engagement allowed the campers to empathize with the historical plight of their ancestors, fostering both a deeper understanding of their heritage and a sense of responsibility to preserve this knowledge.

In addition to photography, the campers engaged in writing exercises, reflecting on what they had learned. Participants expressed pride and fulfillment in their exploration, acknowledging the importance of understanding and commemorating their ancestry. The camp culminated in a closing ceremony, where campers showcased their photographic work and discussed the meaning of Black joy, ensuring that these crucial narratives of American history are cherished and conveyed to future generations.

Lawnside’s efforts to intertwine historical education with artistic expression not only enrich the participants’ understanding of their heritage but also highlight the community’s ongoing dedication to preserving African American history in America.