George Kern

George Kern lived south of Metamora and moved “freight” from Deacon Street in Tazewell County. When slaves arrived, he put them in a false bottom wagon covered with grain sacks filled with straw and delivered them to a Magnolia depot. He was arrested in 1845 for harboring slaves. Originally defended by A. Lincoln, his case was dismissed for lack of evidence.

Norman Dutton

Fugitives came to the place of Deacon Norman Dutton, a principal conductor. Mr. Dutton usually brought the “freight” to what was called Morsetown. His brick home had a hole in the basement wall that was camouflaged to appear as a solid wall.

John McCoy

Captain Parker Morse

Tombstone inscription: Born in N.H. July 12, 1771. Was Capt of Militia 1812. In 1831 migrated to Vt. In 1835. Migrated to IL and was a pioneer in good work and a friend of the poor slave. Died Sept 12, 1862.

Deacon Parker Morse

Tombstone inscription: A man of strong convictions and firm will he did not shrink from any sacrifice in defense of the help believed to be right. The needy oppressed Slave found in him a helper and defender and all others of righteousness found in him a friend.

Levi Morse

The Morse family (Deacon Parker, sons Levi, Mark, and Joseph) were some of the first Abolitionists in Woodford County and took great pleasure in helping slaves get to the land of freedom. They were some of the most daring conductors, not being afraid of being arrested and indicted by the Grand Jury.

Joel Ranney, Jr.

Joel A. Ranney came to Cazenovia as a young boy with his father Deacon Joel Ranney. He raised stock on his farm of 200 acres. He was elected to the State Legislature in 1876.

Deacon Joel Ranney Sr.

Tombstone inscription: Meet the perfect man and behold the upright for the end of that man is peace.