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IPFS News Link • American History

Secret Codes and Signs

• https://newswithviews.com by Rolaant McKenzie

 It is estimated that between 1810 and 1860 more than 100,000 slaves made it to freedom using this network.

Codes and hidden messages were essential in providing slaves what they needed to know to make a successful escape from bondage. The railroad in North America was a new and emerging form of transportation in the early 1800s, so those involved in aiding escaping slaves made use of the vernacular of railroad conductors and workers.

Such language could be used as codes in verbal and written communications without revealing their activities to slave masters, bounty hunters, law enforcement, or spies. For example, words such as "agent," "conductor," and "baggage" respectively referred to those who planned escape routes and contacts, the one who personally transported slaves to freedom, and fugitives that were expected. Other words such as "Canaan," "Promised Land," and "Heaven" referred to Canada and freedom.

Constellations played an important role in helping slaves escape without getting lost or captured. "Following the drinking gourd" was code for using the Big Dipper to find the North Star. As long as they followed the North Star, which remains stationary in the night sky, they would successfully make their way north to freedom.


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