Summary
Organization name
Goodridge Freedom Center and Underground Railroad
Address
123 E. Philadelphia StreetYork, PA 17401
Support the William C Goodridge Freedom Center and Underground Railroad Site on this year's 2025 Give Local York Day of Giving! Our mission this year is to raise "seed money" to modernize the GFC House, ensuring accessibility for all through the installation of wheelchair-accessible elevator to reach the second-floor exhibitions. Our goal is to raise $10,000. Your support is greatly appreciated! THANK YOU
The Goodridge Freedom Center and Underground Railroad welcomes all visitors and wishes to expand access to all areas of the museum. An outside elevator ensures that visitors who use wheelchairs, walkers or have other mobility challenges enjoy the museum fully. This will also highlight GFC’s commitment to inclusivity and equality.
The William C. Goodridge Freedom Center and Underground Railroad Museum at 123 E. Philadelphia St. in York is the former Goodridge family home. It is one of few African American culture sites nationwide.
Goodridge was a African American entrepreneur who rose from slavery to business prominence in 19th Century Pennsylvania. He owned numerous properties and operated multiple businesses, all while secretly transporting the enslaved to freedom via secret compartments he had constructed in his railroad cars.
During renovations in the 1890s, workers found a hideaway (believed to have been hand-dug for freedom seekers) under the kitchen of the home. That hideaway and an intriguing collection of Goodridge-related artifacts are on display at the center and museum.
The Crispus Attucks Association of York has overseen the nonprofit center for about 20 years. In 2003, it became one of the first National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom sites designated by the National Park Service as a National Historic Landmark.
Organization name
Goodridge Freedom Center and Underground Railroad
Address
123 E. Philadelphia Street