Today, this day in history, the House of Representatives passes the thirteenth amendment.  After much debate, a constitutional amendment is passed, mostly to over ride the Dredd Scott Decision.  If you haven't seen the movie and like the historical aspects of life, it is a must see.  If not just for the way that Lincoln lobbies to get the it passed.  So today, January 31, 1865, the amendment abolishing slavery cleared its first hurdle before moving on to the Senate chamber.  

      This glimpse at racial relations brings us closer to home, where landmarks from the underground railroad are present.  As escaping slaves worked their way up towards Saratoga Springs, they were faced with a few choices.  Even though we might think of Saratoga as great place now, it was a hot bed of pro-slavery political thought during the Civil War.  Highlighted by the kidnapping of freeman, Solomon Northup, who was taken from the location in front of Congress Park and forced into slavery down south. However, the out lining areas were far more sympathetic to the needs of the underground railroad, and the trail worked its way around the city to the east and west.  The route west, was helped by the people at the Stone Church, located on Stone Church road. They often held meetings and not far away the Morey House provided a sanctuary for run away slaves.  As one travels further north from this location they will come upon the house located up on a hill near the four corners in Greenfield, another sympathetic town.  Following the road towards Wilton, you then come across the Wayside Inn, which according to legends and stories passed down hid runaway slaves.  

        Another spot for harboring run away slave is located in Gansevoort, the Gansevoort Mansion.