The Writings of Thomas Smallwood

Discover the remarkable story of Thomas Smallwood, a Black abolitionist who, after purchasing his freedom, became a powerful voice against slavery. By day, he was a shoemaker, but by night, he orchestrated escapes from bondage while using his sharp wit to critique and expose the moral depravity of enslavers in newspaper dispatches. Notably, Smallwood was the first to coin the term "underground railroad" in print, contributing vital real-time accounts of the escape efforts. His 1851 memoir offers profound insights into America's complex history with race, providing a unique perspective on the fight for freedom.