On a chilly autumn evening in 1849, William Still, a former slave, slipped away from his bondage in Maryland, marking the beginning of his journey as the ‘King of the Underground Railroad’. Still would go on to lead approximately 1,500 enslaved individuals to freedom in the Northern states and Canada over the next decade. Few could have predicted it, but his bravery and determination would leave an indelible mark on American history.
The Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses, was used by enslaved African Americans in the 19th century to escape slavery in the South. Still, who was born into slavery around 1821 in Maryland, became a key figure in this movement. After his own escape, he settled in Philadelphia, where he worked as a clerk and began helping other enslaved individuals escape to freedom.
“I soon found that the slave was not the only one who was in a hopeless condition, for I found that I was also a slave to my own prejudices,” said Still, reflecting on his experiences in his memoir, “The Underground Railroad”.
Still’s work with the Underground Railroad was marked by meticulous record-keeping, as he documented the names, ages, and circumstances of the individuals he helped escape. His ledger, which has been preserved to this day, provides a poignant glimpse into the lives of those who risked everything for freedom. Between 1851 and 1857, Still assisted an average of around 20 people per year, with the highest number, 72, being recorded in 1852.
According to historian Kate Clifford Larson, Still’s efforts were not limited to just helping individuals escape; he also worked to expose the injustices of slavery. “He was a fierce advocate for the abolition of slavery, and his work helped to bring attention to the plight of enslaved individuals,” she noted.
As Still’s reputation grew, so did the risks associated with his work. In 1850, the Fugitive Slave Act was passed, which required Northerners to assist in the capture and return of escaped slaves. This law made Still’s work even more perilous, but he continued to help those seeking freedom.
In the years following the Civil War, Still remained committed to the cause of freedom and equality, continuing to work with formerly enslaved individuals to secure their rights. His legacy extends beyond the number of people he helped escape, as his work helped to galvanize the abolitionist movement. Today, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the bravery and resilience of those who fought against slavery in America. What happens next in the ongoing struggle for racial equality and justice remains an open question, as the nation continues to grapple with the enduring impact of its complex history.