The National Park Service lists more than 80 sites across the country connected to the Underground Railroad, including one in Denver.
Zoom in: The three-story Barney L. Ford Building, located at 1514 Blake St., is named after a Black abolitionist, entrepreneur, civic leader and politician born into slavery in 1822.
- After escaping a South Carolina plantation through the Underground Railroad, Ford made his way to Denver, where he established a restaurant, bar, barber shop and hair salon.
- By 1854, the pioneering entrepreneur had become one the highest earners in the state.
Why he matters: As a member of the Republican Party, Ford played a pivotal role in securing Colorado’s statehood and establishing Black voting rights in Colorado. He also holds the honor of becoming the first African American nominated to the state’s territorial legislature .
Of note: Although his namesake building is privately owned and closed to the public, it remains a sought-out destination for visitors amid a rise in Black heritage tourism .