Underground Railroad 5K

Information

The 33rd Annual Underground Railroad, held on September 12th, 2026, starts at the Bureau County Metro Center (837 Park Ave West, Princeton, IL). This event is meant to bring together runners, walkers, families, and community members for a day that celebrates both wellness and local heritage.

Register Information: 

Participants can download the PDF, print it out, attach the payment, and send it to the Bureau County Metro Center. 

For any questions, contact the Princeton Park District at (815) 872-0840

History of the Underground Railroad

Located here on the eastern edge of Princeton, IL, the Owen Lovejoy Homestead served as a safe house during the Underground Railroad time frame. The home belonged to reverend Owen Lovejoy, a local minister, abolitionist, and later a U.S. Congressman. Lovejoy lived in the home from 1838 to 1864, and he became widely known for his willingness to help freedom seekers. His openness made the homestead one of the most important Underground Railroad stations in Illinois.

The property remained in the Denham and Lovejoy families for nearly 100 years before becoming a museum in 1972. In 1997, it was designated a National Historic Landmark for its significance. Also on the property is the Colton Schoolhouse, a one-room school moved to the Homestead in 1971 to preserve early educational history.