Connor Prairie Visits Amos To Talk About Their Unique “Follow The North Star Experience”

It began some fifteen years ago, in 1998.  The first “experience” of its kind in the country where individuals could experience what it was like to journal along the Underground Railroad in the 1830’s in Indiana.  A state that contained several major Underground Railroad routes to freedom for freed slaves. Officials from Connor Prairie, the unique interactive history park in Hamilton County at 134th and Allisonville Road appeared on Afternoons with Amos to talk about the experience.  Connor Prairie Vice President of Experience, Programs, Interpretation and Facilities Cathy Ferree and Program Manager Rosemary “Rosie” Arnold talked with Amos and listeners about the origins, educational underpinnings and intensity of the outdoor experience that uses virtually all of Connor Prairie’s over 200 acres. Mali Jeffers also appeared on the program to talk about her experience, as an African-American, going through the Follow the North Star experience.  Individuals must be at least 16 years of age to participate in the Follow the North Star Experience.  It occurs outdoors and does involve Connor Prairie cast members using verbal intimidation to replicate the experience slaves underwent.  However, Ferree noted that though strong language of those times are used, the N-word is forbidden.  A concession to contemporary sensibilities. Click the Arrow to Hear Amos’ Interview with Connor Prairie’s Follow the North Star Experience.  Runs 31 Minutes ©2013 WTLC/Radio One.