Newfane, N.Y.- Murphy's Orchard opens up a passageway to the past with its deep-rooted ties to the Underground Railroad.

It’s a standard 1850’s era farmhouse nestled amongst rows of strawberry patches, peach trees and apple orchards in eastern Niagara County. However, more than 150 years ago Murphy’s Orchard was a beacon to hundreds of fugitive slaves escaping the shackles of slavery and traveling along the Underground Railroad in hopes of reaching Canada.

Tens of thousands succeeded in reaching freedom, possibly a hundred thousand depending on who you ask.

But, the road many of those freedom-seekers traveled is riddled with history, legend and stories of inspiration. And Carol Murphy’s red farmhouse is no different. Just feet below the dirt floor of Murphy’s barn lies a secret passageway, which served as an important stop for those fugitives following the North Star to Canada. So important, it was recognized by the National Parks Service “Underground Railroad Network To Freedom Program.” It is the only sight with such designation in Western New York.

Charles and Anna Maria McClew moved to the property in 1850, building the structures, including a house, barn and outhouses, which still exist today. For 11 years from 1850 to 1861 the McClews were incredibly active in the Underground Railroad network. They stowed slaves away in the secret passage allowing them to rest and recuperate from their often days long travels before they continued on to Canada. Often, these slaves would end up crossing the Suspension Bridge in Niagara Falls. Legend has it that many of the slaves came to the farm from Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia following the Erie Canal and then Hopkins Creek, which ultimately leads to the McClew Property.

Inside the barn, Murphy has created an Underground Railroad Interpretive Center, which highlights Niagara USA’s role in the secret system, but also the history of the McClew family.

Today, Murphy asks guests if given the same circumstances and the same choices if they would have acted the same way. The exhibit here truly brings to life the Underground Railroad and allows visitors to step back to that era and question if they would make the same choices as the McClew family. A 20-minute educational video plays on a constant loop inside of Murphy’s barn.

Aside from the Underground Railroad history, Murphy’s Orchard is a fruit farm, which is known for its jams and jellies that it produces. It has extensive walking trails and offers tractor rides to visiting groups.

For more on Murphy's Orchard: http://murphyorchards.com/

If You Go

What: Murphy's Orchard

Where: 2402 McClew St. Burt, N.Y., 14028

Hours: Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily

Cost: Underground Railroad Site is free

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