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You Know Uncle Tom, But Do You Know Josiah?

josiah henson
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
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Josiah Henson, the inspiration behind Uncle Tom’s Cabin and the subject of a new documentary, "The Road to Dawn."";

Most every American is familiar with the famous anti-slavery novel "Uncle Tom’s Cabin," but few people know about Josiah Henson, the man whose life story inspired author Harriet Beecher Stowe. Enslaved for more than 40 years, Henson eventually escaped to Canada, building a settlement for fellow escapees called Dawn.

"JOSIAH" is a new film exploring Henson’s life, from his brutal years as a slave in the South to his 3,000-mile escape North, from filmmaker Jared Brock, based on his biography of Henson, "The Road to Dawn." The film is narrated by actor Danny Glover. 

Joining "Cincinnati Edition" to discuss Josiah Henson’s legacy and impact are documentary filmmaker Jared Brock and the Freedom Center’s Manager of Program Initiatives Christopher Miller.

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is hosting a free screening of the film and book signing with Jared Brock this evening at 6 p.m., presented by the Urban League of Southwestern Ohio Guild and Young Professionals, and in partnership with the Harriet Beecher Stowe House. The event is free and open to the public but reservations are requested.

Tune in to "Cincinnati Edition" May 30 starting at 1 p.m. to hear this segment.