Commemorating Juneteenth: The Legacy of Quilting in the Underground Railroad

At the age of 99, Edith Edmunds stands next to an Underground Railroad Code quilt she has crafted.

Edith Edmunds views quilting as deeply intertwined with African American liberation. This ties into her decision to engage in quilt making on Juneteenth.

"Quilting is my passion," she expressed in a phone conversation with NPR.

Having sewn since age seven with a treadle sewing machine, Edith discovered from a magazine article 50 years ago about quilts carrying encoded messages to aid escaping slaves in finding their way to freedom.

Edith recounted that quilts, hung outside in the warmer months, were more than mere decor. This was often when slaves were most likely to attempt escape, and these quilts became silent guides.

For those unaware of their secret, the quilts seemed ordinary. But for those who needed them, they were message carriers, assisting in escape plans or guiding runaways.

Edith's maternal grandfather was born to enslaved parents, deeply rooting her personal history in this narrative. The stories of her ancestors' experiences during the emancipation are often on her mind as she quilts.

On the anniversary of freedom, Juneteenth, Edith finds solace in quilting, connecting with her family's history and commemorating Major General Gordon Granger's declaration of the abolishment of slavery in Texas.

Exploring Quilting Codes

Edith and her daughter, Amy, have delved into quilt code history, particularly after discovering recurring patterns in oral histories such as those documented in the 1999 book, which reveals ten quilt code patterns.

The 'monkey wrench' pattern is a standout for Edith. It instructed slaves to ready themselves for escape, indicating their opportunity for freedom was imminent.

A Tapestry of Symbols

Edith's mastery of these codes is evident. The 'north star' guided night travelers, while the 'bow tie' urged slaves to blend in by changing their attire. 'Drunken path' advised zigzag walking to elude captors, and differing log cabin blocks instruct on safety.

The 'shoofly' pattern was a symbol of sanctuary, signifying a person who would provide safe passage. These individuals, risking their own freedom, aligned with both Black and white supporters of the Underground Railroad.

The Debate on Quilt Code Validity

Despite the fascinating nature of these codes, there is doubt about their historical accuracy due to lack of documentation, a reality acknowledged by Edith and Amy.

Academic opinions vary on this narrative. Some, like Vaughn-Manley, argue there's no historical proof, while others support the oral traditions, acknowledging the potential absence of evidence due to the risk of exposure.

Legacy and Awareness

As Edith approaches her 100th birthday, she fondly reflects on Juneteenth's significance, a celebration she discovered only after her family ties to Texas deepened.

This national recognition allows her a platform to advocate for understanding the true stories behind the Underground Railroad, crucial amidst societal debates on diversity and historical education.

"Educating the younger generation about the Underground Railroad is vital," she insists, hoping her stories broaden their understanding and appreciation of this pivotal piece of history.