“A renowned quilt historian . . . present[s] what she considers to be an accurate assessment of slavery, quilts and the Underground Railroad.” —Time

Recall an unforgettable phase of our nation’s history with America’s leading quilt historian. Barbara Brackman presents the most current research on the role of quilts during the time of slavery, emancipation, and the Underground Railroad. Nine quilt projects combine historic blocks with Barbara’s own designs.

Did quilts really lead the way to freedom? What role did quilts play? Barbara explores the stories surrounding the Underground Railroad.Read about the people who were there! First-person accounts, newspaper and military records, and surviving quilts all add clues. YOU decide how to interpret the stories and history, fabrication and facts as you learn about this fascinating time in history. Excellent resource for elementary through high school learners—curriculum included!

“Quilters interested in African American slavery and quilting will find many historically accurate, teachable moments within these pages. The first-personal accounts by slaves of their quilt making, quilt parties, and stolen quilts make emotional reading. A must-have book for your quilting library!” —Kyra Hicks, author of Black Threads

“Brackman skillfully assembles accurate historical evidence along with beautiful quilt examples infused with slave-era symbolism.” —Dr. Carolyn Mazloomi, author of Threads of Faith

“Many of persons featured or quoted are women with a connection to the ‘peculiar institution’: slaves, escaped slaves, freed slaves, plantation owners, abolitionists, and so forth . . . teaches history through quilting and offers fun projects for history-minded quilters . . . the stories offer good starting points for one’s own research and the projects are beautiful.” —Beth’s Bobbins