'Florida’s Underground Railroad' documentary

Derek Hankerson

Centuries before a secret network was formed to help slaves escape to Northern states and Canada, The Underground Railroad ran South. As early as 1587, Spain’s La Florida was recorded to be a safe haven for freedom seekers resisting enslavement. The documentary “Florida’s Underground Railroad” follows those Southern Routes to Freedom and the unique group of African descendants called Gullah Geechee who are still fighting to preserve their identity in America today.

The community is invited to attend a free showing of “Florida’s Underground Railroad: Southern Route to Freedom” followed by a question and answer session with historian, author, and director, Derek Hankerson. 

Derek's family is native to St. Johns County, and his ancestry here can be traced as far back as the 18th century. Members of his family have proudly served in every American conflict dating back to and including the American Revolution. Several family members fought on both sides of the civil war, including the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment and Stalling’s Battalion.

The event starts at 7 pm on Saturday, March 2 at The Barnacle, 3485 Main Highway.

Use the FreeBee app for a complimentary shuttle or stroll over to the park from one of the nearby lots or garages. Visitors with disabilities may contact the Ranger Station 305-442-6866 for accessibility information. The gate opens an hour before the movie begins. Lawn chairs and picnics are welcome, but no pets, please. Admission is free and donations are appreciated.