September 2026: Underground Railroad Of New Bern Community (URRNBC) Partnership
Dedicated To Researching, Preserving and Sharing The History of the Underground Railroad in New Bern, NC.
The September meeting of the New Bern Woman’s Club was thrilled to welcome Roseanne Wilson and Dana Hall, representing The Underground Railroad of New Bern Coalition.
While this is a new organization, Roseanne and Dana have done extensive amounts of research in to how the waterfront in New Bern served as a maritime faction for the underground railroad. The URR of New Bern will start with stories about “the waterfront” because it was a pathway for escaping enslaved people, now called Freedom Seekers. Research is difficult when exploring the URR primarily because the very existence of those willing to help WAS a secret. Roseanne and Dana showed us newspaper clippings from New Bern of several individuals “escaping” their enslavement–their description, the price on their head and more. Lets hope they were able to find their way to freedom on New Berns Maritime Underground Railroad!
And also very exciting: The Underground Railroad of New Bern Coalition researched the area’s history and submitted its findings to the National Park Service, which recently added the New Bern waterfront to its National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.
October 2026: Caring for Our Community: Riposo Home
The New Bern Woman’s Club was pleased to welcome Kehli Saucier, Director of Operations for Riposo Home, as a guest speaker. Kehli introduced members to Riposo Home and its mission to provide compassionate, dignified support for individuals and families navigating the end-of-life journey.
Riposo Home is being developed as a peaceful, welcoming home where individuals can receive individualized care and personalized attention while remaining surrounded by comfort and dignity. The organization works alongside hospice care to support each guest’s unique needs, wishes, and life story.
Kehli also highlighted Riposo Home’s commitment to family support, creating an environment where loved ones can gather, find support, resolve challenges, and make meaningful memories together. Its holistic approach considers the emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being of both guests and their families.
Through its focus on compassionate care, a comforting environment, and respect for each individual’s wishes, Riposo Home hopes to provide a meaningful resource for families in the New Bern community.