What was the Underground Railroad?

The Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes, safe houses, and individuals who aided enslaved African Americans in escaping from the southern United States to free states and Canada during the 19th century.

When did the Underground Railroad operate?

The Underground Railroad operated primarily from the late 18th century to the Civil War era, reaching its peak between 1830 and 1860.

Who were the key people involved in the Underground Railroad?

The Underground Railroad involved a network of diverse individuals, including escaped slaves, free African Americans, white abolitionists, Quakers, and other sympathetic individuals who risked their lives to help enslaved people escape to freedom. Harriet Tubman is one of the most famous conductors of the Underground Railroad.

How did the Underground Railroad work?

The Underground Railroad worked through a system of `stations` or safe houses where escaping slaves could find food, shelter, and assistance along their journey to freedom. Conductors, like Harriet Tubman, guided them from one station to another, using secret routes and codes to avoid capture.

Were there actual trains involved in the Underground Railroad?

No, the term `Underground Railroad` is a metaphorical one. It does not refer to an actual railroad system or trains but rather to the covert network of routes, safe houses, and assistance used to aid enslaved individuals in their escape.

Where did the Underground Railroad lead to?

The Underground Railroad had routes that led from the southern slave states, such as Maryland, Virginia, and Kentucky, to the northern free states like Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio. Some routes extended to Canada, where slavery was abolished.

How many slaves escaped through the Underground Railroad?

The exact number of enslaved individuals who escaped through the Underground Railroad is difficult to determine, as records were often kept secret to protect those involved. Estimates range from tens of thousands to possibly hundreds of thousands.

What were the dangers of using the Underground Railroad?

The Underground Railroad was a perilous journey for both the escaping slaves and those assisting them. Escaped slaves faced the risk of capture, physical harm, and separation from their families if caught. Those helping them faced legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment, if discovered.

Did the Underground Railroad contribute to the abolition of slavery?

While the Underground Railroad did not directly lead to the abolition of slavery, it played a crucial role in raising awareness about the cruelty and injustice of slavery. The stories of successful escapes and the bravery of those involved helped to fuel the abolitionist movement and promote the idea of emancipation.

Is there a physical Underground Railroad museum or site to visit?

Yes, there are several museums and historical sites dedicated to preserving the history of the Underground Railroad. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, and the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center in Church Creek, Maryland, are notable examples.

Historical Marker

West Elkton Underground Railroad Station

Historical marker location:

101 Camden Ave, West Elkton, Ohio

( Marker is at the intersection of West Elkton Road (Ohio Route 503) and Camden Avenue (County Road 21), on the right when traveling south on West Elkton Road.)

Marker installed: 1976

A brief timeline of the Underground Railroad

Late 18th century: The Underground Railroad begins to emerge as a network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved African Americans seeking freedom in the northern states or Canada.
1793: The Fugitive Slave Act is passed in the United States, which allows slaveholders to pursue escaped slaves even in free states. This leads to an increase in the number of fugitive slaves seeking refuge through the Underground Railroad.
1810s-1830s: The Underground Railroad grows in prominence and expands its reach. Conductors, individuals who guided fugitive slaves on their journeys, play a vital role in organizing and aiding escape routes.
1831: The publication of "The Liberator," an abolitionist newspaper edited by William Lloyd Garrison, further brings attention to the cause of abolishing slavery and helps to increase support for the Underground Railroad.
1850: The Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 is passed, strengthening the legal rights of slaveholders and intensifying efforts to capture and return escaped slaves. This leads to increased activity on the Underground Railroad as a response.
1852: Harriet Beecher Stowe publishes the novel "Uncle Tom's Cabin," which exposes the cruelty of slavery and becomes a powerful catalyst for anti-slavery sentiment in the North and beyond.
1857: The Dred Scott Supreme Court decision rules that enslaved African Americans are not entitled to freedom, regardless of whether they are living in free or slave states. This further fuels the urgency and importance of the Underground Railroad as a means of escape.
1861-1865: The American Civil War takes place, providing a significant opportunity for enslaved individuals to escape to Union lines or areas where slavery has been abolished.
Late 1860s: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, formally abolishing slavery and marking the end of the Underground Railroad.

The Underground Railroad was a clandestine network that operated over several decades, and its history is marked by countless acts of bravery and defiance against the institution of slavery. While this timeline provides a glimpse into its development, it is important to recognize the ongoing efforts of countless individuals who risked their lives to help others attain freedom.

Audiobooks about the history of Ohio.

Ohio is known as the "Mother of Presidents" because of its role in producing so many US presidents. In addition to the seven presidents who were born in Ohio, another president, William Henry Harrison, lived in Ohio for much of his life and is sometimes counted as an honorary Ohioan.

About Preble County

Preble County, OH has a rich and diverse history that dates back to its early settlement. The area that is now Preble County was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Miami, before European settlers arrived. The county was officially established in 1808 and was named after Commodore Edward Preble, a naval officer from the American Revolutionary War.

During the early 19th century, Preble County experienced rapid growth and development. The Miami and Erie Canal, which opened in 1845, played a significant role in the county's economic prosperity, allowing for easy transportation of goods and boosting trade and agriculture. The county became known for its fertile farmland, which attracted many settlers.

Preble County was also active during the Underground Railroad era. Numerous abolitionists and conductors, including Levi Coffin, helped enslaved individuals escape to freedom through the county. Many safe houses and hidden routes were established, making Preble County an important hub in this network of resistance against slavery.

In the 20th century, Preble County faced challenges but continued to evolve. The Great Depression had a significant impact on the county's economy, leading to a decline in population and businesses. However, Preble County rebounded after World War II, and new industries, such as manufacturing and automotive, emerged. Today, Preble County is known for its rural charm, historic downtowns, and agricultural heritage. Its close-knit communities and picturesque landscapes attract both visitors and residents who appreciate its rich history.

Preble County Timeline

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Preble County, Ohio.

1808: Preble County is established and named after Commodore Edward Preble, a naval officer in the American Revolutionary War.
1810: The first courthouse is built in Eaton, the county seat.
1822: The Ohio-Erie Canal is completed, bringing economic growth to the county.
1849: The first railroad line is built in Preble County, connecting Eaton to neighboring counties.
1856: The Preble County Fair is established as an agricultural exhibition.
1861-1865: Preble County residents actively participate in the American Civil War.
1879: The Preble County Historical Society is founded to preserve the county's history.
1896: The Preble County Courthouse is destroyed by fire and later rebuilt.
1942-1945: Preble County contributes to the war effort during World War II.
1961: The West Alexandria Twin Valley School District is formed through the merger of several small rural schools.
1995: The Preble County Pork Festival is established, highlighting the county's agricultural heritage.