William Still is known in American history as one of the most important African American social workers and activists of the 19th century. He is often called the “Father of the Underground Railroad Records” because he carefully documented the stories of thousands of enslaved people who escaped to freedom. This PDF book summary explains his life, work, struggles, and major contributions in simple and easy Indian English. The aim is to help readers understand why William Still is still remembered today as a hero who shaped the fight for freedom and equality.
Early Life and Family Background
William Still was born on 7 October 1821 in New Jersey, USA. His parents, Levin and Charity Still, had escaped from slavery earlier and wanted their children to grow up free. From a young age, William learned the meaning of courage, sacrifice, and the desire for freedom. These early experiences shaped his values and gave him the strong determination that later helped him guide many enslaved people toward a safer and better life.
Growing up in a family that understood both the pain of slavery and the power of freedom, William developed a deep emotional connection with the struggles of African Americans. He always believed in the importance of helping others and giving support to those who had no voice. This thinking is what later led him to become one of the first and most influential African American social workers in history.
Journey into Social Work and Activism
During the 1850s, slavery was still practiced in many southern states of America. Many enslaved people wanted to escape and reach free states in the North. But such journeys were dangerous and full of challenges. At this time, William Still became a leader in the Underground Railroad, a secret network that helped enslaved people escape safely.
William worked at the Pennsylvania Anti-Slavery Society in Philadelphia. Here, he met many freedom seekers who came to the society for help. Instead of only guiding them, he started documenting their names, backgrounds, family details, and personal stories. His reason for doing this was very emotional—he hoped that these details would help reunite families who were separated because of slavery.
This simple act of record-keeping became one of the most powerful contributions to American history. Through his writing, William created evidence of the struggles and bravery of African Americans during slavery. His records also later became a major historical source used by researchers, historians, and educators.
Work in the Underground Railroad
As a key figure in the Underground Railroad, William Still helped more than 800 enslaved people escape to freedom. He provided shelter, food, guidance, and emotional strength to those who came to him. Many of these people had walked long distances, faced violence, or risked their lives to break free from slavery.
William did not just assist them secretly. He also worked with well-known abolitionists like Harriet Tubman. Together, they created safe routes and support systems so that more people could escape safely. William believed that every person deserved freedom, and he did everything in his power to protect them.
His home in Philadelphia became a major station on the Underground Railroad. Freedom seekers trusted him, and he earned respect in both Black and White communities for his courage and leadership.
