Why Sojourner Truth is significant to Michigan

    

Abolitionist Sojourner Truth’s journey to freedom included many hardships along the way. Her final stop in Battle Creek, MI is a story that is significant to Michigan’s history. 

Sojourner Truth was born Isabella Baumfree in 1797. She later changed her name to Sojourner Truth as an adult, it advocated for her Methodism religion and abolition of slavery. Her full date of birth was never recorded because she was a slave. This extraordinary woman is well known for speaking out about both African-American and women’s rights. She is one of the most powerful advocates for human rights in the 19th century.

Did you know that Truth spoke out against capital punishment? She testified before the Michigan Legislation about her resistance to the law. In addition to that, she was also an advocate for prison reform in the state as well as rest of the country.  

On Nov. 26, 1883, Sojourner Truth died at her home in Battle Creek, Michigan. She is buried near her family at Battle Creek's Oak Hill Cemetery. Truth left a legacy that could be admired and remembered by all people. The difficulties that she faced in life as a slave never stopped her from persevering against all the odds as she continued to fight for the equality of all people.

One of the popular historical landmarks to visit is Truth’s monument in Battle Creek, MI. Sculptor Tina Allen designed the giant statue and it was revealed to the public in 1999. During the tour, you will get a chance to learn about the details of her journey from Battle Creek into the south where she spoke to people about racial inequalities..

On September 6, 2017, Step On Bus Tours will be offering a tour entitled “Of Human Bondage: Quilts, Quakers & Questors of the Underground Railroad.” This tour will explore the depths of these historical landmarks including Truth’s story and allow riders to discover the system that slaves used to navigate their way to freedom. To book your tour call 248-619-6692, visit our website www.steponbustours.com or email us at steponbustours@gmail.com.

Dive Into The History Of The Alamo

By Chasidy Hall

Over the course of 300 years, the Alamo is considered one of the most prominent sites in the United States. This historical landmark stands at the heart of San Antonio and it is also a reminder of how Texas got its independence. In 2018, Step On Bus Tours will get a chance to tour the iconic building in San Antonio, Texas where it all began!     

The 18^th century Mission San Antonio de Valero Complex is now known as The Alamo. It was part of a 13-day battle that was fought between the Republic of Texas and Mexico. It took place from February 23, 1836 to March 6, 1836. The Mexicans won the battle and killed all of the Texan soldiers who were located inside of the fort.

Did you know that the site welcomes up to 2.5 million visitors per year? The complex includes a chapel, barracks, gardens and a small museum. If you are a history buff, this is the tour for you!  Visitors will get a chance to tour the grounds and learn additional details about how Texas gained their freedom.

The Alamo remains open for 364 days per year. The site also has a calendar of events which features free history talks several  times out of the day in the Calvary Courtyard. In addition, it also includes living history presentations that sometimes include period impressions and live demonstrations of fire starting, leatherworking, or textile making. There is also a 17-minute film that tells of the 300 – year Alamo story which is shown at the Long Barracks Theater and the Alamo Arbor.

Starting February 24-March 4, 2018 , Step On Bus Tours will tour the wonders of Texas which includes San Antonio, Padre Island and the Gulf of Mexico. To book a tour, call us at (248) 619- 6692 or email us at steponbustours@gmail.com. Make sure to check our website www.steponbustours.com for upcoming tours.