Susie King Taylor’s escape to freedom gains national recognition

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - The story of one of the Southeast’s most groundbreaking historical figures is now receiving long-awaited national recognition.

This month, the National Park Service officially recognized Susie King Taylor through the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom—a program that documents significant escape stories from slavery across the United States.

Along with her story, the agency also recognized the Susie King Taylor Freedom Park at Jones Creek as an authentic site connected to her escape.

Located near her hometown—once known as the Isle of Wight and now Midway—the park sits close to Interstate 95 in Liberty County. Historians say this area played a direct role in Taylor’s journey to freedom as a teenager, when she escaped through local waterways alongside family members.

Taylor didn’t just secure her own freedom, she also helped others escape. She later went on to become the first Black nurse to serve in the Civil War and the first teacher of formerly enslaved Black children in Savannah.

Although her legacy has long been recognized in coastal Georgia, local leaders say this national designation brings overdue attention to her roots in Liberty County.

“She was an unsung hero who gave so much,” said Liberty County Board of Commissioners Chairman Donald Lovette. “She wasn’t seeking recognition or attention.”

For the Liberty County Historical Society, the recognition marks the end of a years-long effort. The group had previously applied twice for inclusion in the Network to Freedom program but was denied.

That changed this month.

Leaders say Taylor’s story is especially powerful because of her escape by water—guiding others through the same route to freedom. Now, her narrative will be preserved and shared on a national level.

“It makes her story accessible in the same way as Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass,” said Hermina Glass-Hill, president of the historical society. “We’re really excited about that.”

The park itself is still closed to the public but is expected to open in April. Once completed, it will feature a playground, walking trail, pavilion, and parking area.

Local leaders envision the space as more than just a park. They hope it will serve as an outdoor classroom where visitors can learn about Taylor’s life, courage, and lasting impact.

Plans are also underway to install a statue of Taylor near the water honoring the very path that led her and others to freedom.

“Our hope is that people will come here, stop, and want to learn more,” Lovette said. “Because education is her legacy.”