Chapter 59: The Underground Railroad rescues more run-aways.

The concept of a formal organization to transport those enslaved in the South to freedom in the North begins in the 1820’s in Indiana with abolitionist Levi Coffin. By 1850 it is operating smoothly using “Agents” to round up and transport potential escapees; “Stations” to house them safely along the way; and “Terminals” where they cross over.

The most famous Agent of the time is Delaware escapee Harriet Tubman, known variously as “Moses” and “The General,” who makes 13 missions saving 70 enslaved including members of her own family.

Noone knows for sure how many souls are saved by the railroad, but estimates go as high as 100,000. Assuming an average “auction price” per person at $250, their value to the South would be $250 million.