This one-hour guided walking tour begins at the historic African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church of Yardley (1817 / 1877 / 1956), home of Gather Place—“The Bucks County Community Space.” Located on the historic “Boatyard Lot,” once owned by the Yardley founding family, this site offers a meaningful gateway into the region’s layered past.
Participants will explore documented and speculated Underground Railroad sites, uncovering Yardley’s connections to Bucks County and the broader national network that supported freedom seekers. These stories of courage, resistance, and community remain vital as we reflect on America’s 250th Anniversary.
The tour also highlights the often-overlooked history of Yardley Borough’s African American community, including the legacy of the Derry family, the Borough’s oldest known Black family lineage whose descendants remain part of the community today.
Walking along the Delaware Canal towpath (est. 1831), participants will visit key locations such as the site of the Aaron LaRue General Store and learn about the Yardley Ferry, where records document the use of enslaved labor crossing the Delaware River.
Walking Event Highlights:
- Historic AME Church of Yardley (starting point)
- The “Boatyard Lot” & Yardley founding family history
- Underground Railroad routes (documented & speculated sites)
- Stories of freedom seekers, abolitionists, and local allies
- Delaware Canal history & towpath experience (1831)
- Site of Aaron LaRue General Store
- Yardley Ferry & documented crossings of enslaved individuals
- Legacy of Yardley’s African American community
- The Derry family—multi-generational local history
Participants may enjoy the full festival or register specifically for this guided tour. Space is limited to 25 walkers. Advance RSVP required.
Contact: 215.595.2722 | info@gatherplace.org
