Symbols of the Underground Railroad—

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Abraham Madu

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Dec 21, 2025, 3:35:14 PM (3 days ago) Dec 21

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Symbols of the Underground Railroad—

1. Stars — light and guidance. Meaning: faith and education to secure freedom

2.Lanterns — safe passage and friends. Meaning: Lantern in a Window– Signaled a safe house. Meaning: Sanctuary, welcome, protection.

3. Keys — freedom– Access, release, self-determination.

Meaning: Liberation.

4. Maps or quilts — coded survival knowledge

5. North Star (Polaris)

– The most powerful symbol of freedom, guiding travelers north. Meaning: Hope, orientation, divine guidance.

6. Big Dipper

– Its “pointer” leads directly to the North Star. Meaning: Hidden knowledge, survival wisdom.

7. Moss on Trees (regional)

– Used in some areas to help determine direction. Meaning: Reading the land to survive.

8. Candles– Indicated someone was awake and prepared to help. Meaning: Vigilance, watchfulness.

9. Open Door / Open Gate– Physical and symbolic sign of refuge. Meaning: Moral courage.

10. Quilts—Common patterns include:

Log Cabin – A safe house nearby; Flying Geese – Follow seasonal migration north

11. Spirituals & Songs– Lyrics carried coded instructions. “Wade in the Water” — throw off tracking dogs. “Follow the Drinking Gourd” — follow the Big Dipper

Meaning: Faith as survival strategy.

12. Rivers – Used to mask scent and guide routes. Meaning: Cleansing, rebirth, protection.

13. Caves, Woods, Swamps – Places of concealment. Meaning: Nature as ally.

14. Bridges & Crossroads – Points of danger and decision. Meaning: Choice, risk, transition.

15. Birds (especially geese)– Migration and escape. Meaning: Movement toward freedom.

16. Bible– Used both spiritually and literally (with hidden notes). Meaning: Moral authority over unjust law.

17.Hands Clasped Together – Cooperation between freedom seekers and allies.

Meaning: Collective liberation.

18. Black churches, free Black communities. Meaning: Institution-building.

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