Living St. Louis: Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing
The video "Living St. Louis: Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing," part of the "Living In St. Louis" series, explores the historic Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing in St. Louis. Highlighted during Black History Month, this significant site commemorates Mary Meachum's brave efforts on May 21, 1855, to organize the escape of nine enslaved individuals across the Mississippi River to Illinois. Although five were captured, four successfully reached freedom. The site is now part of the National Park Services Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program. The video underscores the relevance of this powerful story in teaching school-aged children about African-American history, the Underground Railroad, and the courage of individuals like Mary Meachum. It serves as an educational tool that fosters understanding and appreciation of U.S. History while promoting values of resilience and the fight for freedom.
Media Details
Runtime: 2 minutes 46 seconds
- Topic: Counseling and Self-Help, History, Social Science
- Subtopic: African-Americans, Civil Rights, Prejudice, U.S. History - 1784-1860
- Grade/Interest Level: 7 - 12
- Release Year: 2023
- Producer/Distributor: Nine PBS
- Series: Living St. Louis
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