Peterboro
Peterboro is a small hamlet with a big story to tell– where quiet roads and thoughtful people invite you to slow down and look a little closer at this place steeped in history.
In 1848, black abolitionists declared that “there are yet two places where slave holders cannot come, Heaven and Peterboro.”
Visit the National Abolition Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about Peterboro’s role in the abolitionist movement, or experience the Gerrit Smith Estate National Historic Landmark, where foundational ideas that helped shape the nation were championed, and are still advocated for today. These sites offer a meaningful look at the people and principles rooted in this community.
Each October, often during New York State’s Path Through History Weekend, the community hosts the annual Abolition Walk, guiding participants along key locations connected to local antislavery efforts. The walk offers a powerful chance to reflect on Madison County’s long-standing commitment to human rights.
Whether you’re exploring local history, enjoying a quiet afternoon outdoors, or passing through on a scenic drive, Peterboro offers moments of reflection and a strong sense of community.
