In the years leading up to the Civil War many African-American slaves fled captivity and escaped to the shores of Lake Ontario for passage to Canada.  As a major shipping port on the Great Lakes, Oswego became a large player in the Underground Railroad. 

Many former slaves stayed on in Oswego to rebuild their lives.  Most notable would be Tudor Grant and his wife Mary.  Tudor became an outspoken abolitionist and barber with his shop set in the Buckout-Jones building, which now houses King Arthur's Steakhouse.

The Oswego Public Library was donated to Oswego in 1855 under the stipulation that it be open to both men and woman regardless of color.  It is the oldest public library in continuous use in New York State.

Find out more about these historic landmarks and more as you follow the Freedom Trail through Oswego.  Download the driving tour map to your left.