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History of the Underground Railroad
When America was founded, slavery was legal throughout the country. Many northern states later abolished slavery, while the southern states maintained slavery as necessary for their rural economy. In the early 1800’s, an informal network of anti-slavery advocates joined together to create the Underground Railroad. These people helped thousands of slaves escape to the free northern states and to Canada (where slavery was also illegal).
The Ohio River, Illinois’ southern border also marked the border between the slave and free territories. Illinois native Abraham Lincoln was elected President of the United States on a platform of keeping the nation unified (slave and free states), but oversaw the Civil War and the abolishment of slavery.
Slaves navigated their way along the long journey using secret messages in encoded songs, as well as basic navigation tools like the stars. You will travel through the towns that housed the slaves on their long journey and learn about the people who helped the slaves.
Slaves traveled through virtually every region of Illinois on the Underground Railroad. The Mileage Challenge Underground Railroad route follows one of the most popular routes for the slaves. It begins in Galesburg, home of Knox College. Anti-slavery advocates founded this preeminent liberal arts college in 1837. Your journey continues through the towns that hid the slaves as they traveled to Chicago and beyond to Canada, with the promise of freedom and economic emancipation.
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