How to Decode Slave Quilts

A number of American quilt patterns were created or used to convey secret messages to help slaves escape before and during the Civil War. It was illegal for a slave to be taught to read or write, so messages had to be passed along in codes and symbols found in quilt patterns. Quilts were draped over a porch rail, window ledge or hung on a line, activities that wouldn't rouse suspicion.

Instructions

1. Interpret the "monkey wrench" pattern as a message to gather the tools needed for the journey of an escaping slave. Think of tools as the practical, physical tools in addition to the tools of mental readiness and faith.

2. View the "north star" quilt design in one of two ways: prepare for the escape or head north on through to Canada. Consider that the display of the "north star" quilt was often accompanied by song to clarify the intended meaning.

3. Consider the display of the "flying geese" pattern as the initial direction of the escape route. Look to the upper left corner of the displayed quilt and start in the direction of the two "geese" or arrows in that block. Decode the design as agreed to learn more about the planned path.

4. Take a "sailboat" quilt design as a message that water was nearby and that boats are available. Combine the "sailboat" quilt message with the direction indicated by the "flying geese" pattern.

5. Head south when the "drunkard's path" quilt is on display. Divert from the usual path north (to freedom) and move south for a time to throw off slave hunters and their tracking dogs.

6. Make Cleveland, Ohio a destination when the "crossroads" quilt is displayed. Look for the safe house in Cleveland, the main crossroad of several routes to freedom, including Canada, for additional instructions.