Where Knowledge Rules

History:

US History

Get a Widget for this title

Black history: How freedom quilts were used as signals and maps along the Underground Railroad

his freedom song. By following the song, slaves could escape to freedom.

The Secret to Freedom
In this story by Marcia K. Vaughan, Lucy and her brother use quilts to help runaway slaves. After he is beaten, Lucy's brother runs away and she is left wondering if he made it to freedom. Finally, she receives a quilt scrap in the mail telling her that he is alive and well.

Sweet Clara and the Freedom Quilt
Another story this time by Deborah Hopkinson who weaves a tale of Clara, trained as a seamstress, and the map quilt she designs and sews. When she ultimately escapes to freedom, she leaves behind her map quilt, hoping others will use it to escape as well.

It is however difficult to tell whether this is advisable or not, as if the freedom quilts are just a legend then children are not learning facts.

===Conclusion===
Whether or not the story of the freedom quilts is true, it is an appealing story and has touched the hearts of many. They may have played a role in slaves escaping from their owners, but as there is no corroborating evidence I doubt that we will ever know the truth on that. However, many believe it is just a myth, a pretty story passed down through generations, and if this is true then the freedom quilts had no part in the escaping slaves bid for freedom and we are feeding our children lies educating them about it.

Learn more about this author, Secre.
Contact this writer Click here to send this author comments or questions.


Below are the top articles rated and ranked by Helium members on:

Black history: How freedom quilts were used as signals and maps along the Underground Railroad

  • 1 of 7

    by Secre

    The idea of people leaving signs and signals along an underground railroad to help escaping slaves is an interesting and

    read more

  • 2 of 7

    by Joan Schroeder

    The Underground Railway operated between 18:40 and 18:60 and was a support network dedicated to safe passage and freedom

    read more

  • 3 of 7

    by Katrina Murphy

    The story of quilts used as signs and signals along the Underground Railroad is touching and inspirational, yet historical

    read more

  • 4 of 7

    by E.M.Robinson

    Freedom quilts were used as signals and maps along the Underground Railroad
    It was difficult for a slave escaping from the

    read more

  • 5 of 7

    by R. Warner

    When I look at a quilt I see a bed cover. Sometimes they are homemade by stitching two layers of fabric over a soft substance

    read more

View All Articles on:
Black history: How freedom quilts were used as signals and maps along the Underground Railroad

Add your voice

Know something about Black history: How freedom quilts were used as signals and maps along the Underground Railroad?
We want to hear your view. Write_penWrite now!

Helium Debate

Cast your vote!

Was Jefferson Davis a traitor?

Click for your side.

90551

Featured Partner

The Project on Government Oversight (POGO)

The Project On Government Oversight (POGO) is an independent nonprofit that investigates and exposes corruption and o...more

What is Helium? | Buy Web Content | Contact Us | Privacy | User agreement | DMCA | User Tools | Help | Community | Helium’s Official Blog | Link to Helium

Helium, Inc.
200 Brickstone Square Andover, MA 01810 USA