Black History by Bike: From Canal Side to Jefferson with Terry Alford
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Buffalo’s Black history is rich, layered, and often under-told. On this moving and meaningful ride, we trace the stories of resilience, resistance, and cultural pride—from the canal to Jefferson Avenue.
Led by Terry Alford, Executive Director of the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor, this tour begins at Canalside, where Black workers helped build the canal and Black Buffalonians later used its routes as part of the Underground Railroad. From there, we’ll explore key historic sites, including the Union Block, Michigan Street Baptist Church, and the former Colored Musicians Club, all the way to the Jefferson Business District and Freedom Wall.
Along the way, we’ll uncover the contributions of abolitionists, entrepreneurs, artists, and everyday people who built community under challenging conditions—and fought for justice across generations.
This ride is a tribute to the power of memory, place, and progress—and a chance to see the city through a vital and inspiring lens.
This event is a part of a 12-part series exploring the Erie Canal, and is part of the Erie Canal Turns 200. Tickets are just $15, and included bike rental (guests can also bring their own bikes). For the full schedule, please vist https://buffalobiketours.com/tours-for-locals/
Get Tickets
Led by Terry Alford, Executive Director of the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor, this tour begins at Canalside, where Black workers helped build the canal and Black Buffalonians later used its routes as part of the Underground Railroad. From there, we’ll explore key historic sites, including the Union Block, Michigan Street Baptist Church, and the former Colored Musicians Club, all the way to the Jefferson Business District and Freedom Wall.
Along the way, we’ll uncover the contributions of abolitionists, entrepreneurs, artists, and everyday people who built community under challenging conditions—and fought for justice across generations.
This ride is a tribute to the power of memory, place, and progress—and a chance to see the city through a vital and inspiring lens.
This event is a part of a 12-part series exploring the Erie Canal, and is part of the Erie Canal Turns 200. Tickets are just $15, and included bike rental (guests can also bring their own bikes). For the full schedule, please vist https://buffalobiketours.com/tours-for-locals/
Get Tickets
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