The Underground Railroad

Abolished!

The Civil War began on April 12, 1861, just one month after Abraham Lincoln took office. Lincoln was firmly against slavery, an issue that ultimately divided the states and helped trigger the war. The war was fought for four years, and was one of the bloodiest wars fought in American history. But throughout the war, the Underground Railroad kept running.

On January 1, 1863, President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring all slaves in Confederate states free. But slavery wasn’t officially abolished until 1865, when the United States Congress approved the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude… shall exist within the United States.” Now, the Underground Railroad was no longer needed.

It’s difficult to say how many slaves used the Underground Railroad. Some say perhaps 10,000. With the help of conductors, station masters, and station houses, slaves found their way to freedom. The passengers and workers on the Underground Railroad were some of America’s first freedom fighters, believing freedom was the right of every human being. Although slavery ended shortly after the Civil War, there are still freedom fighters across America and the whole world today, fighting with the belief that all humans deserve the right to be free.

The War Is Over

Addy suddenly jolts awake to hear booms from outside. Poppa (who eventually found his way back to them in Philadelphia) says it’s cannon fire coming from the harbor. Has the war made its way to Philadelphia? But then she hears cheers and whistles. Addy races to the window. Down below, the streets are filled with people. The war must be over!

Momma and Poppa are crying out of joy. They all get dressed quickly and rush downstairs. People are yelling that the North has won the war. People are laughing, crying, hugging, and banging pots and pans. Firecrackers pop around them. It’s like a dream. Banners are waving that say “Lincoln and Liberty! One People, One Country.” Addy’s heart fills with joy. Now, their family can be united again.

Poppa says he’s going to find Sam and Esther and bring them back to Philadelphia. The Walkers will be free, together once again.