Introduction: A Treasonous Coalition Led Many to Freedom

 

    

Did you know that the Greater Lafayette area in Indiana had an active Underground Railroad network? There were no trains, tracks, or train whistles, and it wasn’t a railroad at all, so what was it, really? It was a metaphorical network run by courageous men and women, a majority of whom were black. Nameless heroes helped thousands of enslaved freedom seekers find their way to Canada, Mexico, Florida, Louisiana, Cuba, Jamaica, and even Alaska by way of whaling boats. Most fugitives found shelter in homes or outbuildings along the way. Some of those structures were architecturally modified to include hidden spaces. Railroading terms described the people and sites of the Underground Railroad. Homes were called “stations;” those who went south to find freedom-seeking slaves were referred to as “pilots;” those who guided slaves were “conductors;” and the slaves were referred to as “passengers.” 

The network was loosely organized; however, it did serve to unify Black and white citizens, free and enslaved, from both Northern and Southern regions of America. Runaway slaves often took great risks when seeking freedom, because they sometimes had to ask for help along the way from strangers. Varying opinions on race and slavery made it difficult for fugitives to navigate their paths to freedom, because there were individuals who opposed slavery but did not believe African Americans were equal. Indiana law required free Blacks to register in their county and pay a $500 bond assuring they would not be a nuisance. The 1851 Indiana Constitution set aside money to send free black citizens to Africa but did not allow new black individuals to settle in Indiana.

Although records are few due to the secret nature of the Underground Railroad, there is ample evidence that such a coalition existed between the two races in Tippecanoe County. According to 1840 census records, there were 54 free Black citizens living in Tippecanoe County, and by 1850, the number had reached 161. Many African American citizens established businesses, including several barbershops. They organized a church congregation by the early 1840s, which contributed to the unity and progress of the local Black community. It was illegal to assist enslaved persons who sought freedom. Violating the 1850 Fugitive Slave Act could lead to charges of treason. Lafayette’s Underground Railroad system was unique, though, because it included a powerful judge and one daring sheriff who defied the law as they boldly endeavored with the African American community to shuttle freedom seekers to safety.

The Historic Preservation Committee of the General de Lafayette Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, would like to invite you to explore the pages of this blog to learn some of the rich history associated with the local Underground Railroad and to meet local heroes who made freedom possible for many.  Check back for future updates.