William Still

William Still was an abolitionist, writer, and businessman best known for his pivotal role in the Underground Railroad and his meticulously documented book, "The Underground Railroad." Born into slavery as the youngest of eighteen children, Still and his family escaped to freedom, eventually settling in New Jersey. His firsthand experiences with slavery and liberation deeply influenced his later work as an advocate for fugitive slaves.

Still moved to Philadelphia at age 23, where he taught himself to read and became an active member of the Pennsylvania Abolition Society, eventually rising to chairman. His home served as a critical station on the Underground Railroad, where he provided shelter, food, and clothing to hundreds of escaped slaves while maintaining detailed records of their journeys. These records, published in 1872 as "The Underground Railroad," remain a vital historical account of the era. Beyond his abolitionist work, Still founded an orphanage for African-American children and achieved success as a stove and coal merchant, later joining the Philadelphia Board of Trade. His legacy endures as a testament to his dedication to freedom and social justice.