murpa.org
Our Purpose
Our Commitment
At murpa.org, we aim to preserve and restore historic buildings in Metamora, Illinois.
Preservation
The founding purpose of the Metamora Underground Railroad Preservation Association (MURPA) is to acquire and restore the Ranney house at 605 Mt Vernon St., and potentially other properties in the Metamora area associated with the underground railroad (UGRR). A 501 (c)(3) tax exempt organization, Metamora Underground Railroad Preservation Association (MURPA) was created for this purpose. If we are unable to acquire and restore the Ranney house, donations will be used to support other historical programs and projects focused on the UGRR in central Illinois. These alternative uses of donation funds are listed below.
Planned activities: The renovation priorities for historical homes are, first, the foundation and the roof. Secondary priorities are pipes, windows, walls, insulation and HVAC. Finally, interior renovation will complete historical home restoration.
Restoration
Planned activities: After renovation has been completed, tours, open houses and events will be scheduled. Some events will feature guest lecturers and historians. Historical displays and media will highlight the role of the Ranney family which had 2 conductors in the underground railroad.
Education
Community
Planned activities: Community programs will highlight the history of the underground railroad in Metamora and the Peoria metro. Volunteers who want to help with events are welcome.
Our Initiatives
Our first fundraising initiative is the sale of the Morsetown song. Click the play button to listen to the song. The lyrics are based on the historical testimony of underground railroad conductor Mrs. Mary Ann Morse. Purchase of the song is a direct donation to MURPA. Click on the "Single $5.00" button to purchase the song and simultaneously make a $5 donation to MURPA.
Funds are needed immediately to prepare for acquisition and renovation of underground railroad properties. All potential properties have immediate repair needs, utility bills and property taxes.
​
Stories of Impact
Transformative Journeys
Joel Ranney Sr transported many passengers on the underground railroad (UGRR). He died of pneumonia at age 42 a few days after transporting freedom seekers to the next UGRR station during a cold night. His son, Joel Alden Ranney, was also an UGRR conductor and community leader. Joel Alden Ranney's son Milo owned the home at 605 W. Mt Vernon Street, Metamora (Ranney House).
Restoration of the Ranney house to an underground RR museum will help preserve UGRR history in Illinois and connect the communities involved in the UGRR.
Volunteering
Each stage of restoration will require many volunteers with a diversity of skills
Supporting Education
Central Illinois has a wealth of gifted historical educators who will educate the public on the UGRR legacy in Metamora and the Peoria metro.