How the Underground Railroad worked

Stations- sheltered and fed slaves. The stations were close together so a conductor had time to return home before dawn so his absence would not arose suspicion.

Conductors- moved the slaves from one station to another.

Main Routes- In Ashtabula County, Route 7 (ending in Conneaut), Route 46 (ending in Ashtabula Harbor), Route 45 (ending in Ashtabula Harbor). Route 193.

Branch Routes- Side Routes, were ones such as running from Conneaut to Ashtabula Harbor, or the one that went from the South Ridge on Route 7 over to Girard in Pennsylvania and then on to Erie. They were used when slaves were being closely pursed by slave catchers.

Freight or passengers- Escaped slaves

Messengers- moved information from one place to another, often preceded passengers so the next station to make them aware they were coming. They also took information to conductors

that their service was needed. They also made sure that the way was clear to move passengers from one station to another.

Terminals- Place where slaves were taken to await transportation across to Canada. Ashtabula Harbor and Conneaut Harbor had terminals.

Freight Solicitors- People who would induce the slaves to escape

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                (Fuller, pg.7)