The Underground Railroad in Metamora
- 2025
- |
- Not Rated
Poster by Steve Shanabruch
- Synopsis
The involvement of Metamora and its surrounding community in the Underground Railroad is a significant, yet largely unknown, aspect of Central Illinois history. Prior to assuming the presidency, Abraham Lincoln defended local “conductors” from Metamora. This issue ultimately pitted neighbors versus neighbors, and the potential for financial gain from capturing freedom seekers made Metamora a dangerous place. This documentary aims to preserve the stories of Metamora’s crucial role during this contentious period in American history for future generations. - Directed, Produced and Edited by
- Levi Obery
- Executive Producers
- Jack Weddle
Laure Adams
David Zimmerman III
Mark Obery - Director of Photography
- Zachary Cook
- Aerial Cinematography by
- Treyton Zoss
Logan Armbruster - Release Date
- June 22, 2025
This film was made possible from the support of Illinois Humanities
Illinois Humanities is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the Illinois General Assembly through the Illinois Arts Council Agency, as well as by contributions from individuals, foundations and corporations.
This film was produced in association with
Metamora Association for Historic Preservation
Photos by Jen Micheletti
Screenings
| Date | Location | Showtimes and Tickets |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday, June 22, 2025 | Kenneth H. Maurer Performing Arts Center Metamora Township High School 101 W. Madison St. Metamora, IL 61548 |
3:00 P.M. Admission is free and tickets are not required for admission to the screening. For groups or questions about this screening, please email Ten Thirty-One Pictures Foundation for assistance. |
| There are no screenings scheduled at this time. Please check back soon. | ||
If you'd like to show the film at your organization, school or venue, please email Ten Thirty-One Pictures Foundation for more information.
Press Coverage
At Issue with Mark Welp: The Underground Railroad in Metamora
WTVP-47 (PBS)
Metamora had a role in the Underground Railroad. New film explores the abolitionist past.
The Peoria Journal Star
The Underground Railroad plays in Metamora
Courier Papers
Film uncovers Lincoln’s role in Metamora’s Underground Railroad
WMBD-TV (CBS)
History writes itself with The Underground Railroad in Metamora
WEEK-TV (NBC)
The Underground Railroad in Metamora © Ten Thirty-One Pictures Foundation. All rights reserved. Credits not contractual.