From Captivity to Freedom: Journeying Along the Underground Railroad

Join us as storyteller Christine Lawson brings history to life through the character of Ella Bessie, recounting her harrowing journey from captivity to liberation on the Underground Railroad. Ella Bessie's compelling narrative sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of those who sought liberty during a dark chapter in American history.

Christine Lawson is a native Detroiter who retired from full time employment in the business sector in 2007. She then discovered a passion for speaking and storytelling after joining a local Toastmasters Club in 2003. She became a member of the Detroit Writers Journal at the Hannan Senior Center in 2009 and began to explore writing and storytelling. After completing several acting workshops at Detroit Repertory Theatre and WSU, she created the character Ella Bessie, who she portrays in programs designed to educate and enlighten others on the history of the Underground Railroad.