Railroading in Jackson County

Enjoy a historical look at railroads in Jackson County, from the early 19th century through the modern era. Presented at the Summit Branch by local photographer and author Douglas Leffler.

Call 517-783-4030 to register.

Jackson History Escape Room

Put your knowledge of Jackson’s history to the test to solve puzzles in an escape room experience for older teens and adults at the Carnegie Library.

Session Dates and Times

  • Tuesday, August 29: 5 PM, 6 PM, 7 PM
  • Wednesday, August 30: 5 PM, 6 PM, 7 PM
  • Thursday, August 31: 5 PM, 6 PM, 7 PM

Space is limited to 10 participants per session and registration is required. Contact the Adult Services Department at 517-905-1339 or adultservices@myjdl.com to register for a session.

Discover Jackson History

Join local historian Linda Hass at the Carnegie Library to dig into Jackson history – from its founding, to the prison, to Jackson’s role in the underground railroad, with the first abolition newspaper in Michigan.

Living History at JDL

Jackson District Library is proud to present a new, ongoing program series called Living History.

The summer portion of the series will be focusing on Civil War history and the amazing information found at your local cemeteries. Guided Tours of Mt. Evergreen Cemetery, featuring local historian Linda Hass and friends, will be held on Saturday, August 5. Tours will begin at 12:00, 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 and 4:00 PM.

Call the JDL Adult Services Department at 517-905-1339 to register for a tour.

To help you explore your own family history, stop by your local branch to pick up your own, “Library & Clark’s Guide to Cemetery Exploration.” In this guide you will find a list of common cemetery symbols, a map of Jackson County cemeteries, and even materials needed to make your own tombstone rubbing!