freedom park

The slaves as they were being freed by the Union army during the Civil War were called Contraband by the Union officers and soldiers. The freed slaves in Helena, Arkansas in 1863 were settled in tents and rough hewn log cabins and were built on the site of the newly finished Freedom Park of Helena.

Freedom Park is a newly opened park in Helena that tells about the Contraband camp that was located at the site. This is the first location in Arkansas designated as a National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom site. It's also part of Arkansas Civil War Discovery Trail.The park is located about a mile from the visitor center and prior to downtown. Within the small park are information plaques telling about the history of the site, the slaves who escaped for freedom and the men who step up to join the Union forces. This site was also defended by these newly freed soldiers. There are several areas to sit and rest. It will take around 30 minutes to enjoy the park. The site can be enjoyed by all ages. My 9 year nephew enjoyed the site and it also brought forth discussion on showing a view of the Civil War that is now start to receive the proper recognition.