William Still

William Still (1821–1902) was a prominent Black American abolitionist, writer, and key figure in the Underground Railroad. Often referred to as the "Father of the Underground Railroad," Still helped hundreds of enslaved people escape to freedom while working as chairman of the Vigilance Committee of the Pennsylvania Anti-Slavery Society in Philadelphia. Born to formerly enslaved parents in New Jersey, Still grew up committed to justice and equality. He meticulously recorded the personal stories of those he helped, preserving vital historical records that would later form the basis of his landmark 1872 book, The Underground Railroad. His documentation offered rare first-person narratives of freedom seekers, making his work an invaluable resource for understanding the lived experiences of the enslaved who escaped to freedom. In addition to his abolitionist work, Still was also a successful businessman and a strong advocate for education and civil rights. His legacy remains central to the story of resistance to slavery in America.

The Joy Trip Project celebrates the enduring legacy of Black American History. The Unhidden Minute is part of the Unhidden Podcast Project supported through a National Geographic Explorer Grant from the National Geographic Society, with the cooperation of the National Park Service. This series elevates the untold stories of Black American historical figures, events and cultural contributions.

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