Chapter 5, The Liberty Lines Summary

Although the role and scope of the UGRR is unknown and debated, it is an important historically. Few records or information remain about its participants or their activities. Thomas Garrett was one of the famous stationmasters. He lived in Wilmington, Delaware and may have helped Harriet in her escape. He was arrested for helping slaves and fined for his activities. This did not stop him, however, and he continued to provide aid to fugitives. Both whites and blacks were active in the UGRR, although blacks faced greater dangers in doing so. Frederick Douglas helped nearly four hundred fugitives.

It is unknown when the UGRR began. Blacks escaping before the 1840s do not report the existence of the network. Its genesis may have come from increased pressure as southern bounty hunters began pursuing fugitives more aggressively and taking...