MEXICO, NY – The Underground Railroad, an organized network of activists dedicated to freeing enslaved African Americans before the Civil War, was a big presence in the small community of Mexico, New York, primarily during the 1850’s.
The Starr Clark Tin Shop located at 3420 Main Street in Mexico, N.Y. served a dual purpose during this period in U.S. history: by providing necessary tin items to the community, as well as serving as a hiding place for escaped slaves as they made their way to freedom in Canada – just a boatride away across Lake Ontario.
The historic tin shop was open to the public on Saturday, December 3, as part of the annual ‘Christmas in Mexico’ celebration.
Historic interpreters dressed in period costume greeted visitors and shared the story of Mexico resident and abolitionist Starr Clark, and the preservation of the building that played such an important role in the lives of many as they took the perilous journey to freedom.
Tinsmith David MacLean offered demonstrations of the vocation, as well as helping youngsters craft a tin Christmas ornament – patiently demonstrating the tools and materials as the young visitors hammered away.
A steady stream of patrons toured the festively decorated shop, learning of its important role from the costumed historians, while sampling refreshments and warming themselves on a cool, damp day.
Museum volunteer James Hotchkiss helped to oversee the restoration of the building; converting it from a fourteen unit, one-room apartment building, back to its original layout – a process that took four years of construction after gutting the structure.
“The work continues as we keep up with maintenance and add new displays,” Hotchkiss said.
According to Hotchkiss, Christmas in Mexico is a way to bring visitors into the village, with over 200 crafters displaying their wares in the schools and churches.
“We want people to appreciate Mexico and we want people to visit anytime,” Hotchkiss said, also saying that it gives him a great feeling to see people come through the doors of the Tin Shop and learn about the history of the abolitionist movement in Mexico – events shrouded in secrecy so long ago that still bear the weight of history today.
“I am thrilled when they come in and learn something new about Mexico,” Hotchkiss said.
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