Clarke-May Museum Featured on Expanded Ohio Historical Underground Railroad Trail
Pickaway County is now represented on the expanded Ohio Historical Underground Railroad Trail.
The Clarke-May Museum in Circleville is one of 53 primary stops included on the statewide trail developed by TourismOhio. The trail connects visitors with museums, historic homes and other destinations that preserve the stories of freedom seekers, abolitionists and the communities involved in Ohio’s Underground Railroad.
Pickaway County’s Underground Railroad History
Several Underground Railroad conductors and stations were active in Circleville between approximately 1835 and 1860. Local individuals connected to these efforts included clergymen William Hanby and Immanuel Buchwalter, businessman Phillip Doddridge and George Stanhope, a Black worker who assisted freedom seekers.
Jonathon and George Dreisbach also operated as conductors in Saltcreek Township. Following the passage of the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850, Colonel Samuel Moore of Circleville became involved in the Underground Railroad.
Benjamin Hanby, who spent part of his youth in Circleville, later wrote the anti-slavery song “Darling Nelly Gray.” The song was inspired by the story of an enslaved man separated from the woman he loved.
Because much of the Underground Railroad operated in secrecy, not every route, station or individual involved was documented. Preserving the available stories helps visitors better understand Pickaway County’s place within this important chapter of American history.
Visit the Clarke-May Museum
Operated by the Pickaway County Historical Society, the Clarke-May Museum preserves exhibits, artifacts and information connected to Pickaway County’s past. Its inclusion on the Ohio Historical Underground Railroad Trail gives visitors another opportunity to discover the people and events that shaped the community.
The museum is located at 162 W. Union Street in Circleville. It is open Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 4 p.m., with Saturday visits available by appointment. Admission is free, and donations are welcome. Visitors should confirm current hours before traveling.
Explore the Statewide Trail
The Ohio Historical Underground Railroad Trail features destinations that are open to the public and offer tours, exhibits or educational experiences. Travelers can use the trail to plan a history-focused day trip, weekend getaway or journey across Ohio.
September is recognized as International Underground Railroad Month, making fall a meaningful time to begin exploring the trail. The destinations and their stories can be visited throughout the year.
View the complete Ohio Historical Underground Railroad Trail and download the statewide map at Ohio.org/UGRRTrail.
For more attractions, events and travel ideas in Pickaway County, explore Pickaway.com or download the Discover Pickaway app.
