Understanding the Underground Railroad

The National Park Service continues to present a trove of information on the Civil War. I found last night a project the service is undertaking to develop a network of places significant to the Underground Railroad. The program seeks to integrate and preserve Underground Railroad sites and museums throughout the United States. Supported by the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Act of 1998, participants in the program will be able to receive technical assistance, display a uniform logo, and take part in program workshops.

The website for the program, in addition to spelling out its goals, provides a helpful introduction to studying the Underground Railroad, including a glossary of terms, maps, and pages with information ranging from codes and ciphers used on the railroad to stories of escape. A good resource for introduction to the topic and encouraging student interest.