Sojourn Noir

06/12/2024

There’s something about a carefree getaway with your best girlfriends - your soul sisters, or a solo self-care excursion that can refresh your spirit like nothing else. If you’re looking for a destination to celebrate the season and re-connect this holiday, or maybe a bit of post-holiday recovery, York County, PA is full of surprising hidden gems for African American travelers seeking culture, connection and a laid-back vibe.

Holiday travel doesn’t have to be stressful. York County is an easy drive - just 45 minutes from Baltimore, MD and about 90 minutes from Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia.

Bring Yourself Here.



Photo Credit: Grace Manor Bed & Breakfast

27/11/2024

Thankful determination. That’s how I’d sum up what I’m feeling in this moment and this time of year, which is always a season of reflection and gratitude for me. I’m grateful to everyone who has come alongside Sojourn Noir this year and invested in helping us to build and advance this crucial initiative to engage and encourage Black tourism in York, PA. That support enabled us to expand our digital footprint and build a community centered around promoting and celebrating positive Black travel experiences. We could not have done it without each of you, so we’re thankful for this community – for your perspectives and voices in this conversation.

Black travelers contributed over 100 billion dollars to continental U.S. travel last year. Yet, travel industry research shows that Black travelers often report feeling unwelcome in destinations they visited. In an October 2024 survey conducted by Group Black for TripAdvisor, 1 in 5 Black travelers said they felt discriminated against while traveling. These are daunting, but not surprising, statistics.

At Sojourn Noir, we believe travel is an alienable right; and Black tourists deserve travel experiences, spaces and destinations that are safe, welcoming and offer a sense of belonging. We believe Black travelers deserve travel industry dollars allocated toward the health and well-being of Black travelers. This includes, but is not limited to, investing targeted marketing dollars that amplify the voices of Black tourists, conducting and compiling continued research to understand the experiences, sentiments and motivations of Black travelers and, most importantly, a commitment to doing the work to help create spaces that are open and welcome to receiving Black travelers.

We recognize there is much work to be done in addressing anti-Blackness – here in my community of York County, Pennsylvania and beyond. Nationally and locally, both historical and present day egregious racial incidents have documented the treatment of Black people that impinged upon their ability to enjoy the benefits of unencumbered leisure, which is a tenant of self-care.

Sojourn Noir is committed to the work of addressing anti-Blackness and partnering with communities, businesses, organizations and the public sector to build a culture that supports a welcoming environment for Black travelers. To that end, we have developed a comprehensive, solutions-oriented learning series, “Bring Yourself Here” Culturally Informed Learning that focuses on diverse segments of tourism including arts, culture and entertainment, history and heritage, outdoor adventure, rest and relaxation, dining and retail. We kicked off a pilot of the series earlier this month (pictured here). We’ll share more with you about the learning series in the coming days.

In this time of reflection and gratitude, I’m thankful for the work we’ve accomplished together and the insights from many of you who have framed our approach. But there’s more work to be done. I’m more determined than ever to ensure that Sojourn Noir amplifies the voices of Black travelers and that we’re persistent in advocating for safe, enriching and welcoming experiences for Black travelers here in York County, PA or wherever they journey.

Happy Thanksgiving and wishing you safe travels!

Sincerely,

Joanne Wilmore,
Founder, Sojourn Noir

14/11/2024

Now feels like the perfect time to hit the reset button and embark on a journey that nurtures our mind, body and soul. Whether on the trails or on the water, nature beckons us to slow down and reconnect with the beautiful landscape around us. Make time for rest, relaxation and self-care. These are the moments that matter.

Bring Yourself Here.

Experience York County, PA your way.

27/10/2024

After many years of efforts to protect and preserve this property, officials recently broke ground on a project that will preserve the Mifflin farmstead — a stop on the Underground Railroad — near the Susquehanna River in eastern York County, PA. The 18th-century farmhouse is where the Mifflin family helped to hide freedom-seekers and ferry them across the Susquehanna River on their way to Philadelphia. It will serve as a place for the public to learn about the region's role in the Underground Railroad.
"This is a landmark moment for the preservation of not only our local history but also for the broader narrative of American history," Mark Platts, president and CEO of the heritage area, said in the release. “We look forward to working with the community to ensure the Mifflin House continues to be a beacon of cultural significance for generations to come.”

Check out this recent article in the York Daily Record/Sunday News to read more about plans for the Susquehanna Discovery Center & Heritage Park — a project that will include a regional visitor center, restoration of the Mifflin House, and recreational trails. https://www.ydr.com/story/news/local/2024/10/07/project-begins-on-mifflin-house-farmstead-an-underground-railroad-stop/75479040007/

Photo credit: Paul Kuehnel, York Daily Record

27/10/2024

It's peak leaf peeping season! While the leaves are starting to fade in the northern parts of PA, they're in peak color in York County. See the PA Fall Foliage Report and get outside to enjoy the splendor of nature's fireworks! 🍂🍁🍂

Friends, we have hit peak leaf-peeping season! 🍁🍂

Cool nights and warm, sunny days have continued to transition the seasonal landscape. Vibrant tones top trees in Visit Lebanon Valley, sugar and red maples are shining across Rothrock State Forest, and Lehigh Valley, PA and Visit Bucks County trees are donning their fall-iest leaves of the season.

As the crisp air sets in, and northern tier trees begin to shed their lovely leaves, this may be your last weekend to experience PA’s colorful fall views. Hop in the car and spend the day in PA

https://www.visitpa.com/sites/default/files/2024-10/foliagerpt_10-24-24_0.pdf

11/10/2024

The leaves are starting to show off, with a vibrant canvas of color in York County, PA. Peak color is expected between now and the first week of November. Did you know, Pennsylvania has a longer and more varied fall foliage season than any other state in the nation -- or anywhere in the world? It's true! Check out the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Fall Foliage Reports to learn why, and plan your outdoor excursion.

The 21-mile stretch of the Heritage Rail Trail is an ideal place to immerse yourself in the changing season. Bonus: You can explore local York County Trail Towns along the way. Check out our latest blog for more fall ideas and inspiration.

https://www.sojournnoir.com/news/discover-tranquility-in-york-county-pa-5-fall-excursions-for-black-travelers-seeking-rest-relaxation-and-self-care

03/10/2024

As the crispness of autumn settles in, and the world around us transforms into a tapestry of golds and reds, it’s the perfect time to hit the reset button and embark on a journey that nurtures your mind, body and spirit. For Black travelers seeking rejuvenation, relaxation and self-care, fall offers a unique opportunity to explore destinations that blend natural beauty with cultural richness.
Little known secret, York County, PA is the perfect backdrop for a restorative and enriching getaway. Check out our latest blog for inspiration: https://www.sojournnoir.com/news/discover-tranquility-in-york-county-pa-5-fall-excursions-for-black-travelers-seeking-rest-relaxation-and-self-care

As the crispness of autumn settles in, and the world around us transforms into a tapestry of golds and reds, it’s the perfect time to hit the reset button and embark on a journey that nurtures your mind, body and soul. For Black travelers seeking rejuvenation, relaxation, and self-care, fall offer...

18/09/2024

Often, we deny ourselves the rest that we deserve. Too busy, too distracted, too exhausted to step away from the hustle and bustle of the day-to-day.

At Sojourn Noir, we believe in the restorative power of self care, that we have historically been denied, and allowing yourself space to breathe, dream, imagine.... Whether you seek to connect with nature, indulge in a spa experience, or explore your creative side and more, York County’s charm and hospitality provide the perfect backdrop for a restorative getaway.

Bring your desire for rest, relaxation and self care.

Bring Yourself Here.

08/09/2024

September’s sunny days with crisp, cooler temps are perfect for outdoor exploration and Downtown York, PA has lots of walkable history in just a few short blocks. With easy access to the Rail Trail, restaurants, shopping, art galleries and more, you can make a day of it or a full weekend adventure! Check out this quick route for inspiration, or discover your own walkable (ridable) history in York, PA.
• We started at the southeast corner of Market and George streets. Just a few steps east on Market Street, near the County Administration Building, you’ll find details on the history of Thomas Morris Chester, integral to the U.S. Colored Troops and a noted Civil War Correspondent.
• Cross Market Street to the northeast corner of Continental Square and read about the significant role of York County as a station in the Underground Railroad, including the life of Osborne Perry Anderson, the sole survivor of John Brown’s 1859 raid of Harpers Ferry, VA in the crusade against slavery. Anderson would later be hidden by William C. Goodridge, a conductor on the Underground Railroad, at his home just a couple blocks away.
• Go west on Market Street to the Colonial Courthouse to learn more about The Articles of Confederation, penned in York, PA. (Bonus: There’s easy access to the tree-lined Rail Trail and views of the Codorus Creek just steps away!)
• Go north on Pershing Avenue to visit the new York County History Center.
• Turn east on Philadelphia Street and walk past the intersections of Beaver and George streets (or stop to enjoy great shopping and dining options.) After Duke Street, on the left at 123 E Philadelphia Street, you’ll find the home of William C. Goodridge, a prominent African American business man and entrepreneur, who risked his life and livelihood to provide refuge and a path to freedom from enslavement through the Underground Railroad. His former family home is now the location of the Goodridge Freedom Center which is marked by his statue in front.

Check out Sojourn Noir’s video.

26/08/2024

That time we were on a fall photo shoot in the Royal Square District and the Temple Guard rolled through!! What an incredible and unexpected bonus to an amazing day! The YWCA York Temple Guard pays homage to the legacy of stepping, which dates back to its origins at HBCU's across the country in the early 1900's. These young people are doing the tradition proud! This summer they were part of the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington. And they're featured in the York County History Center!

Our photographer, Cisco Soto of Washington Winnona Images, LLC, jumped right in to capture the moment while our travelers, Ray and P, who were visiting Downtown York, PA on a girls trip enjoyed the show. Try not to dance when that percussion hits your chest. Aye!!!! 🥁💓

Look for more images from this shoot in our upcoming posts highlighting fall travel.

21/08/2024

This week York County, PA celebrates its 275th anniversary! It's a milestone moment to recognize our past and the contributions of so many who shaped this country into what it is today, including important figures like Julia Johnson who was active in York County’s Underground Railroad.

You can experience local history first-hand with the York County History Passport Program. Through September 1st, students (18 and under) can visit participating history sites throughout York County to learn about York’s rich history. Along the way, collect stamps in your passport and enter to win exciting prizes. The more passport stamps you collect, the higher your chances of winning prizes!

Visit the website for more details: https://www.yorkhistorycenter.org/event/history-passport

14/08/2024

York Arts Week Chalk Walk, August 24-25, celebrates the creativity of artists and promotes the importance of public art. The sidewalks of Downtown York, PA become an artist’s canvas and a place for the audience to watch works of art come to life! Murals will be located in York City, PA on West Market Street between Beaver Street and Pershing Avenue. Visit the website for hours and more information: https://www.york365.com/event/chalk-walk-2024/

Check out our latest blog for more upcoming events to end summer on a high note and ease into autumn! https://www.sojournnoir.com/news/end-summer-on-a-high-note-with-family-friendly-adventures-that-wont-cost-a-penny

12/08/2024

August feels like summer’s last stand, a rousing finale to the long hot days and late sunsets. But, the fun’s not over yet! Whether you’re a local seeking a creative staycation or a road tripper in search of a quick getaway, check out our latest blog and soak in the last days of summer and ease into autumn with these adventures in York County, PA selected with Black travelers in mind. Even better, they’re family-friendly and all free!

https://www.sojournnoir.com/news/end-summer-on-a-high-note-with-family-friendly-adventures-that-wont-cost-a-penny

August feels like summer’s last stand, a rousing finale to the long hot days and late sunsets. But, the fun’s not over yet. Soak in the last days of summer and ease into autumn with these adventures in York County, PA with Black travelers in mind.

25/07/2024

On August 2, the new York County History Center will be unveiled at its new location in the historic Steam Plant. Thoughtful planning, curation, and community contributions have resulted in a magnificent space that documents the stories and contributions of all those who are part of our history, including Black residents who shaped the county's past.

Exhibits include documentation of the lives of Black York Countians Cyrus and Joanna from the late 1800s; Cub Scout Troop 11, the first African American troop in York; Truman Fells, believed to be the first Black dairy farm owner in all of Pennsylvania, and more.

You can download a York County Black History itinerary and other sample itineraries on the History Center website at: https://historical-itineraries.yorkhistorycenter.org/

Admission is free for the Grand Opening Community Celebration, August 2-4! See the website for more details. https://www.yorkhistorycenter.org/event/grand-opening-celebration

Uncover York's rich past with stories of Black residents who shaped the county's past. Explore the legacies of everyday heroes, from the courageous conductors of the Underground Railroad to the pioneering Black farmers who tilled the land.
Here's a glimpse of what awaits you:

➡️ Family heirlooms like the Bible and photos of Cyrus and Joanna Johnson offer a window into their lives in the late 1800s.
➡️ Learn about Cub Scout Troop 11, the first African American troop in York.
➡️ Discover the story of Truman Fells, believed to be the first Black dairy farm owner in all of Pennsylvania.
➡️ Explore the artistic legacy of the Keenheel family in the History Keepers exhibit.

This is just a taste of the incredible resources available at the York County History Center. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with the rich history of Black York County!

Start your historical odyssey today with the York County History Center.
🆓 Download your sample itineraries today. https://historical-itineraries.yorkhistorycenter.org/

20/07/2024

Local artists are infusing culture, community, and their personal perspective into mural artwork on display throughout downtown York, PA.

Many artists of color enrich the narrative and tapestry of the downtown York, PA murals, like Mz. Icar, an anonymous art collective predominantly comprised of Black Women, that stands at the intersection of artistic innovation and societal transformation. The collective's name, “racIzM,” spelled backward, serves as a guiding principle, symbolizing their mission to upend conventional constructs of gender and race.

This mural, titled "Transitions" depicts the transition and transformation the artists witnessed happening in the city of York.

Read more in our recent blog and plan your visit to see these inspiring murals in person!

www.sojournnoir.com/news/york-city-murals-deliver-culture-community-and-creativity-in-view

Murals have been a form of creative expression for thousands of years. Today, local artists are infusing culture, community, and their personal experiences and perspective into custom mural artwork on display throughout downtown York, PA. In the Royal Square district of downtown York, PA there are

18/07/2024

Summer weekends are made for relaxation, exploration and adventure! Whether you have a couple hours for a local excursion or you’re looking for a weekend getaway, explore York County’s Cultural Trails for an inspiring experience celebrating strength, diversity, perseverance, and the entrepreneurial “makers spirit" that defines our area. Self-guided trails include an African-American Focused, Woman Owned and Operated, and Military Appreciation trails, all designed to bring historical accounts of local, legendary heroes to life and to interactively share the stories of powerful black- and women-owned businesses.

The African American Cultural Trail spans the impact and contributions of York County African Americans dating back to the War of 1812 up to current day entrepreneurs, business owners and others shaping our community. Our history runs deep here, there's so much to learn and explore.

Check out the Explore York County Cultural Trails at https://www.yorkpa.org/tours-trails/cultural-trails

Join Explore York as we celebrate diversity, creativity, resiliency, and artisanship. Enjoy an inspiring experience about the pioneers and crafters of York County.

26/06/2024

Sojourn Noir was selected to be a presenter at this year's Pennsylvania Downtown Center 2024 Annual Conference: The Crossroads of Community & Collaboration. We presented a session titled "Every Welcome Sign Is Not A Welcoming Space..." encouraging Main Street managers, downtown development organizations, businesses, tourism marketers and anyone invested in community and economic development to take a closer look at what it means to create a truly welcoming destination and spaces inclusive of the $110 Billion+ U.S. Black leisure tourism segment. It was a thought-provoking session that yielded meaningful engagement, connection and conversation.

Thank you to Pennsylvania Downtown Center for the invitation to be a presenter and to all who attended!

19/06/2024

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION GIVEAWAY!

In honor of the Juneteenth National Independence Day celebration, we invite you to pursue your inalienable right to travel!

Enter to win a two-night stay at Grace Manor Bed & Breakfast in downtown York, PA, plus a $100 gift certificate for dinner at a local restaurant. This travel package is valued at $560. (Prize does not include transportation or gratuities.)

TO ENTER:
Like this post and follow the Sojourn Noir page.

For an additional entry, you can also like the giveaway post on our Instagram page and follow the Sojourn Noir page .

You can only enter once on each platform – Facebook and Instagram. If you have both a Facebook and an Instagram account, you can enter once from both platforms, which will qualify as two separate entries!

Entries will be accepted online starting on Juneteenth - Wednesday, June 19 and ending Sunday June 30, 2024 at 11:59p.m. ET.

One Winner will be randomly selected. The winner will be notified by social media within five (5) days following selection, on/about July 5, 2024.

No purchase necessary to enter. This Sweepstakes is hosted by Sojourn Noir, LLC. and is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Meta (Facebook, Instagram).

For more information, visit the event page at:
https://www.facebook.com/events/770750418579185/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A

Happy Juneteenth! Thanks for participating and good luck!