The Underground Railroad

The term "Underground Railroad" originated in the 1830s and refers to resistance against slavery and acts of self-liberation, escape, and flight. Determining their own fate, runaways from Maryland's Eastern Shore sought refuge in the nearby Northern states and Canada. Enslaved people, escaping the cruelty of bondage, often made parts of their journey unaided. They were sometimes helped by courageous men and women who provided transportation or directions, shelter, food, clothing, shoes, or money to assist their journey. The route to freedom was fraught with danger, and stealth and the cover of darkness aided escape. Acquiring food and shelter was a challenge, and evading patrols was a constant terror.

Maryland · United States